The Niagara Association for Christian Education (NACE) is a group of parents who operate two independent Christian schools in our area: Covenant Christian school in Smithville, and John Knox Christian School in Stoney Creek. It is a unique arrangement that sees schools operated not by the government, or a church, or a union, but more directly by parents. These parents share an idea about what an excellent education would look like for their children. The Christian worldview at work not only shapes what is taught in these schools, but also how things are taught. 
John Knox Christian School opened in 1961. Today, John Knox Christian School is the educational home for students from Grimsby, Beamsville, Stoney Creek and East Hamilton who are busy developing their gifts from Junior Kindergarten to Grade Eight.
More recently, Covenant Christian School opened in Smithville. With bus service reaching from Binbrook to Vineland, to Beamsville and Smithville, Covenant provides a vibrant setting in which students can explore God’s world. In 1999, the schools joined and became the Niagara Association for Christian Education.
The Niagara Association for Christian Education sees real benefits for its students and their families, because there is a consistency between home and school.  The values of the education system echo that of the home and a wide variety of churches.  This helps eliminate tensions created by conflicting ideas, and it allows the students to focus on getting a solid education. 
The Niagara Association of Christian Education introduces their students to important skills in their computer labs. At John Knox and Covenant, music also plays an important role. These schools are one of the few with an instrumental music program offered in grade seven and eight!  Students at both schools enjoy the friendly competition and exercise associated with sports, whether it is at recess, in intramurals, or in games against other schools. A fine arts festival allows students to display their skills and showcase their talents.
The most important characteristic of these schools is their dedicated, accessible teaching staff.
As a non-profit organization, the Niagara Association for Christian Education is always interested in strategic partnerships with businesses and other organizations. They have learned a great deal from businesses over the years, and value these partnerships! With the support of committed parents, and positive relationships with local businesses, NACE sees its schools continuing to help students “Live for Jesus, Learn for Life and Serve with Gladness” for years to come!

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