UMEI Christian High School - Leamington, Ontario

Noah Fleming

When choosing between the new "Super School" with 800 high school students and UMEI's smaller community, we let our daughter decide what she wanted to do. She's always been independent and she saw UMEI as a unique opportunity. Two months in, she tells us daily how glad she is about her choice.

The transformation has been incredible. Our daughter has never loved school so much. She manages her own morning routine, can't wait to share her daily experiences, and has developed strong study habits. Several of her Grade 8 friends made the same choice, and their friendships have grown even stronger in this close-knit environment.

You get what you pay for. The school's organization is exceptional, thanks to Kim and Chani in the office. Weekly communications are clear and comprehensive, making parents' lives easier. My daughter has already immersed herself in robotics, basketball, choir, multiple off-site field trips, agricultural club, and band. The small school size means real opportunities to participate - not just watching from the sidelines.

What about the investment? First and foremost, this is an investment, not an expense. Compared to other private schools in the province charging four or five times more or some in the area charging 2-3X as much, UMEI's tuition is remarkably inexpensive. Their creative fundraising programs like community meals, monthly pie and ground beef orders, and Shop UMEI gift cards also make it even more accessible providing ways to earn tuition credits. You're getting exceptional teachers, small classes, and personalized attention at a fraction of typical private school costs.

I know some families hesitate when they hear 'Christian High School', but with just a brief 15-minute daily chapel focusing on values and character development, UMEI's approach has been perfect for our family. I wouldn't say we're an overly religious family ourselves, but we've found these short daily reflections offer valuable life lessons that have contributed wonderfully to our daughter's personal growth. It's less about doctrine and more about developing strong character and values.

What really speaks volumes is seeing how my younger daughter and her friends react when they hear about UMEI. They see my older daughter's enthusiasm and are already excited about attending themselves.

For parents considering UMEI - or maybe you haven't yet, but wonder if there's a better alternative for your child - the good news is that there is. If you want a place where your child will be challenged academically, supported personally, and given real opportunities to grow, this school delivers in leaps and bounds.

Tara Brown

UMEI provided a safe nurturing environment which allowed my daughter to focus on her education. Never once did we worry about how her day was going to go. UMEI is truly one big family! The support and encouragement the students receive to get involved in all aspects of school life is like no other. The growth she experienced was obvious to her at which time she said in Grade 12 " I know I never would have done this well at another school", she is now attending university. UMEI encouraged my child to try new things, get involved and give back to her community. No matter what your child's path may be UMEI will prepare them. The experiences the students are given at UMEI are like no other. I believe one of the biggest misconceptions is that it is only for students of Mennonite Faith, speaking from experience that is not the case. Having seen my oldest daughter thrive at UMEI, she led the way for her sister who started grade 9 this year. Two very different students, both acutely aware of the many benefits that attending a smaller school has/had for both of them!

Raylene Schartner

As a graduated student, this was the best high school I could have chosen for myself. The smallest class sizes allowed me to ask questions and develop relationships with my teachers and, most importantly, get more academic support than I could have ever needed. Beyond that, the environment of UMEI and those in it, created a real community where I could explore my interests and really learn how I can make an impact in the world as a leader and peace maker. I could not more highly suggest this school to any incoming students. Attending a place of education like UMEI has a lasting impact on both academics and societal role.

Natasha Schartner

UMEI is a place where students can choose how they want to make a difference. Every student has all the tools and resources to get involved. Students have the opportunity to choose where they wish to shine. UMEI teachers help students to find where they best succeed.
Picking UMEI was the best choice I could have made because it gave the experiences I needed to succeed after I graduated. I thank my teachers, parents, friends and UMEI community for that help.

Nettie Ribble

UMEI has been such a great experience for our son. The amount of time and commitment the teachers and staff put into the students here are unlike anything we’ve ever experienced before. The smaller classes - the more one on one time - the student success periods - the feeling of community - the high level of education - faith within the school - the
extracurriculars - the volunteering and experiences these students get on a daily basis are just some of the many reasons we love this school!!

Gina N

The leadership in this school is bar none. Everyone is so so so passionate about Christian education, and working to make this school the absolute best school possible. I know the math teacher personally and know she thinks about UMEI EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. On vacation, on days off, at Christmas, and on school days. She lives and breathes UMEI. I would be honoured to have her teaching my kids.
Having gone through Christian education personally, I know the value of the small community, and spending my formative years with like-minded humans who don't make me feel ostracized for my beliefs. I also value the fact that UMEI prides itself in making every student feel valued and welcome, and is forward thinking. UMEI stands out from the crowd for excellence in education, faith formation, and staff that believe their jobs aren't just "jobs" but absolute callings in life.

Monica Klassen

I am a 2021 graduate of UMEI. Going to UMEI was the best choice I ever made. The learning atmosphere is so unique, intentional, and dynamic. The staff really focuses on educating the whole-person, not only the mind. Close-knit and safe environment.

Helena Wall

This has been an amazing high-school for our kids, definitely worth it you won't regret sending your kids here.