Okinawa Christian School was established in 1957 as a school for the children of missionaries living in Okinawa. During the first year, Mrs. Esther Austin taught a class of 11 students in Mashiki, in Ginowan.
The school eventually moved into a more permanent facility on present-day Camp Lester (then called Camp Kuwae) consisting of two Quonset huts. Missionary parents who started the school were aware that many other parents desired a Christian, English-language education at an affordable price. Believing that every child deserved an opportunity to receive an education taught from a Biblical perspective, the missionaries decided to open the doors of the school to any child, regardless of religious affiliation.
Looking forward to the future, OCS purchased land on Hacksaw Ridge in Urasoe City, a site of fierce fighting during the Battle of Okinawa in WWII. By 1965 students moved into a new, larger school facility. This expansion led to OCS celebrating its first commencement when the graduating Class of 1969 received their diplomas.
By 1986, OCSI was looking to expand again. OCSI purchased the current Yomitan campus in 1996 and began classes in this new facility during the 1996-1997 school year.
Campus Development Update
Multi-Purpose Center (MPC) & Long-Term Planning
The new elementary playground has been completed, and the former playground site has been fully prepared for the construction of the Multi-Purpose Center (MPC). The MPC design is finished, permits have been submitted, financing has been secured through a local Okinawan bank, and construction will begin soon on a facility that includes a larger cafeteria, chapel space, a K–12 library, and a secure entrance.
This project reflects OCSI’s commitment to responsible long-term stewardship, with plans over the next 20–30 years that include a new gym, improved athletic fields, and a rebuilt main academic building. To support this vision, a Building Development Fee will apply only to newly enrolling families, while current families may choose to contribute through an optional, voluntary donation during re-enrollment.
Together, We Can Build a Bright Future for Our Children
OCSI makes every effort to keep tuition affordable for our families, and like other independent schools, tuition does not cover all of our operating expenses. Fundraising is key to the fiscal health and future growth of OCSI. We encourage 100% of our families to partner with us in providing our students with an exceptional experience here at OCSI.
who can give?
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Explore giving
You can view a menu of donation opportunities currently available as part of the OCSI Fund for the Future.
We appreciate your generosity; the following funds are available:
There are many ways to give to OCSI
OCSI is certified as a Tokutei Koueki Zoushin Houjin 特定公益増進法人 (Special Public Interest Promotion Organization), and your donation may be deducted from your taxable income in Japan. Businesses, as well as individuals, are able to take advantage of this tax benefit. Upon request, OCSI will provide necessary documentation, and we encourage donors in Japan to consult with their tax advisor. Gifts given through Resourcing Christian Education International (a Christian mission located in the US) are 100% tax-deductible in the USA.
We’re also pleased to announce that you can make cash donations in person at the school office.
