Bakersfield, CA — Bakersfield Christian High School (BCHS) is pleased to announce that an agreement has been finalized with the congregation of Bakersfield First Assembly that will place Stockdale Christian School (SCS) under the ongoing leadership and oversight of BCHS.

With this agreement, BCHS formally assumes operational leadership and strategic oversight of Stockdale Christian School, under the newly established governing body, Bakersfield Christian Schools, marking the beginning of a new chapter of stability, strength, and vision for the future of Christ-centered education in Kern County.

As Stockdale Christian approaches its 50th year of ministry, this move builds on a shared legacy of faith, academic excellence and service to the next generation. The transition affirms BCHS’ long-term commitment to Christian education from preschool through high school, while providing SCS with the structure, experience, and leadership to navigate the years ahead with confidence.

“This is a strategic decision that honors what God has already built at Stockdale Christian,” said Matthew Guinn, President of BCHS and SCS. “We are stepping in as stewards—not to change the heart of SCS, but to cast a vision for its future and the future of Christian K-12 education in Kern County. This is about walking forward together in faith.”

The school year themes—Planted in Promise at SCS and Rooted in Christ at BCHS—reflect the shared foundation that unites both campuses. As BCHS and SCS continue to serve students from preschool through high school, the partnership allows both schools to collaborate intentionally and begin looking toward future alignment in ways that will benefit students academically, spiritually, and personally.

Early planning is underway to explore ways the two campuses may align in curriculum, programming and student pathways. These efforts will be approached with thoughtfulness and care, prioritizing what is best for students while building toward a future of unified excellence.

Families can expect the same trusted experience at SCS, with the added benefit of strategic leadership from BCHS, ensuring SCS remains a place where students are seen, known, and loved.

“We believe this is a pivotal moment not just for SCS, but for Christian education in Bakersfield,” said Guinn. “We are honored to steward this opportunity and fully committed to the flourishing of both schools in the years ahead.”

“For the past 50 years, Bakersfield First has been committed to Christ-centered education in Kern County,” said Pastor Jason Kennedy of Bakersfield First Assembly. “We believe through this decision and God’s grace, SCS will continue to achieve that for the next 50 years by entrusting the school to the proven educational expertise of BCHS.”

For more information, visit www.BakersfieldChristian.com

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Press release on behalf of BCHS and SCS.