Does Phoenix Christian enroll International Students?

Phoenix Christian has welcomed international students almost from its inception.  Students from many different countries have attended P.C. for over 40 years. A little over three years ago the Board made the decision to have a program especially for international students that would include a lot of personal attention for them as well as an ESL program.

Why did PC start an International Program and what was the original goal/intent for having an International presence on campus?

Phoenix Christian’s Mission Statement includes the goal of having our students “impact the world for Christ”.  By accepting international students we have an impact on those outside of our country.  Having international students also adds interest to our campus. 

How has God blessed this program over the years?

The Lord has brought rapid growth to our program and has been faithful in providing wonderful host families.

An international student must submit a lengthy application including a Statement of Faith, various recommendations and proof of financial ability.  Once they are accepted by P.C., they must go to the U.S. Consulate or Embassy in their home country and have an interview.  This is a little intimidating for the students.  If they are granted their student visa, they come to the U.S. and are met by their “new family.”  Their first day of school they meet with Mrs. Stines to go over classes, health insurance and a variety of details.  It is overwhelming for them at first.  They are with new people, in a new place, experiencing a new culture and using a second language. The P.C. teachers and their host families try to make the transition as easy as possible for them.

From a host family perspective, what can a PC family experience from having an international student living in their home?

The family must understand that the student is nervous and also lacks confidence in his or her English ability.  The family needs to make the student feel comfortable.  A tendency is for the student to hang out in his room at first.  Also, the family may want to go to a grocery store that has the food the student is accustomed to once in a while.  The responsibilities are to provide meals, the room and care for the students, but being loving is the most important responsibility.

How many International Students do we have and what countries do they represent?

We currently have 27 international students.  They are from South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan.  The majority are from South Korea.  Our current students are in grades 4, 7, 8 and high school.

Are there any things that you wish everyone knew about the International program?

1. We do not have an exchange program, which is a one year program  The students that come to us intend to stay until they graduate from high school and 99% of them go on to college and even graduate from a school in the U.S.

2.   Our elementary school is also approved to enroll International students.

3.  We are always looking for more host families.  Most students and host families really get attached to each other and consider the experience a real blessing.

Please contact Carol Stines directly if you are interested in becoming a host family for an international student.  The benefits are far reaching for your family as well as a $700 per month stipend.  Carol can be reached at 602-265-4707 ext 266 or  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .