Horseshoe Bay Christian School
1993-2008
Horseshoe Bay Christian School started much like most Christian Independent Schools. There was a Christian Fellowship lead by Bill and Maureen Cameron in Horseshoe Bay. A group of home schooling parents decided to have their children together in the church space. They wished to have a qualified teacher working with their children and Maureen found one. I am not sure if she actually wanted to have a school, but she certainly wanted to serve God in some way. Over the years the school grew and shrank and grew again. As Bill was extremely meticulous and organized, he researched all the Ministry mandates and created the Society by-laws and protocols for the school. With the help of parents and church members, the school received its accreditation in 1993. As family members passed on, Maureen and Bill utilized their inheritances to provide educational services for children and their families.
Having had the privilege to work closely with Maureen I witnessed her unbelievable graciousness towards others. I saw many take advantage of her kindnesses and support, but it never discouraged her incredible generosity. Many thought her position at the school was a glamorous one; let me assure you the stress from keeping such a huge financially draining Ministry took its toll on her; she never let anyone know. She always greeted everyone with a smile and open arms. She accepted many children who could not pay tuition and purchased their uniforms, books, and field trips. She would even pay family bills and often arranged accommodations for those in need. It was truly her pleasure to offer everything she had, even at the risk of being taken advantage of, because her purpose had nothing to do with recognition or self gratification. She never talked about what she was doing.
She provided jobs for many and often the school was overstaffed. The cost of running the school with 20 students was close to $30,000.00 per month, mostly going to salaries. From a business perspective it was completely illogical, but from a Kingdom perspective it made perfect sense. Over the years many people were blessed and families saved, although many others chose not to understand the mandate of the school. She provided the most current text books, incredible outings and an environment that accepted each child and offered every opportunity to excel. Subsequently, teachers cared, administrative staff cared and a family atmosphere was created.
With Maureens' sudden death in 2006, the school was forced to drastically downsize. It was an extremely difficult time, and many staff members were let go. The school had to relocate and limped forward based on faith and the hope that somehow it would continue to provide what Maureen had envisioned. Unfortunately, it became evident that some of society had become more concerned with appearances, money and power, loosing sight of that which is most important, our children.
Due to an extreme lack of finances and a series of unexpected events the school was closed in late December 2008.
Most of the former HBCS students are happy with their new school environments. Over the years I noticed that many came from larger schools, both private and public. Often they had experienced some sort of typical difficulty, but after a time with us they were able to return to the regular system with confidence. Maureen also assisted numerous employees financially (i.e. paying for Independent School Teaching accreditation), and provided jobs with flexible hours that facilitated family time. She paid well above what many should have been remunerated for their skill sets or efforts. Many employees moved on to careers and better positions after the gracious opportunity provided by Maureen at HBCS.
I pray that everyone has fond memories of the Camerons, as they were two of the most faithful, humble and loving Christians that I have ever had the honour of knowing. I recognize that my life and those of many others were touched and forever blessed by knowing them. Words cannot express my gratitude to them and to God for the opportunity to be a part of the HBCS family. I understand that the parents did not wish to see the school close, but as Maureen always said, "God has a plan"…
I know when Maureen met Jesus His words to her were "Well done, good and faithful servant"….
School records can be found at Lionsgate Christian Academy 604-984-8226.
Thank you Maureen and Bill and all those who made the school possible over the years.
For those of you who found God's love there…Hallelujah and Amen!
And, as Maureen would always say, "May the Lord richly bless you"….
In loving memory of Bill and Maureen Cameron….
