A Word from the Superintendent

Dear BMS Families,
As Belleville Mennonite School begins its 67th school year I am reminded of how God has used the generosity, work ethic, and faithfulness of the Mennonite community to provide a ministry of Christian education to the children of Mennonite and non-Mennonite parents who share a common bond - their evangelical faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. One of the most important things each of us in the BMS community to commit ourselves to in response to what God has done for us is to always conduct ourselves in a manner that reflects the love and obedience of Christ.

In the Student Handbook (p. 15) there is a statement on Resolution of Grievances.There is nothing more important in any organization than to be proactive about conflict. I know that it is somewhat strange to be talking about conflict so soon, but the truth is conflict will happen in any setting. We must be prepared to handle it in an appropriate manner. The plan in the handbook is the same one that Jesus laid out to his disciples. It is based in scripture, specifically Matthew 18:15-17 and Colossians 3:13. In a school context it looks like this. If you have a problem with a teacher, have a conversation with the teacher first. If this conversation does not resolve the issue, have a conversation with their superiors, Mr. Dellape or Mrs. Young. If the problem is still unresolved you have the right to address the issue to the board. Simply place your concerns in writing and direct them to the board chairman, Mr. Dale Yoder. The teachers, myself, and the board are committed to following this process. It is a process rooted in scripture and the only real way to appropriately bring resolution to grievances. I encourage you to participate in this process. I believe that this will allow God's Spirit to help us establish healthy, Godly lines of communication, even when we disagree. Blessings to all of you as you join with me in participating in the great work of Christian education that God continues to do here at BMS.

Sincerely in Christ,
Kevin J. Dellape
Superintendent