Stephanie Villegas: A Door Opened by Faith

A Student-Led Step Toward Something New

For Stephanie Villegas, the journey to Valley Christian (VCS) began with an unexpected request from her son, Michael Villegas (’25). After years in public school and months of pandemic-related online learning, Michael returned to campus only briefly before realizing he wanted something different.

“He was only back in school for three weeks,” Stephanie recalls, “and in that time, he said, ‘Mom, I want to go to a Christian school.’”

What followed felt, to Stephanie, like God making a way. Michael’s acceptance into VCS became more than a school decision. It became the beginning of a new chapter marked by growth, purpose, and faith.

Finding Strength and Support

When Michael arrived at the school, his grades still reflected the challenges of pandemic learning. Stephanie wondered how he would adjust to a more rigorous academic environment, but with the support of teachers, counselors, and mentors, Michael began to thrive.

“I thought Valley would be difficult for him in terms of academics,” Stephanie says. “His grades have improved each semester while at Valley. He even received an academic scholarship in college!”

For Stephanie, the difference was not only academic structure. It was the way adults on campus saw Michael, believed in him, and helped him grow into the student and leader he was becoming. “A staff that truly wants their students to succeed is so refreshing,” Stephanie says. “Michael’s teachers, counselors, and pastoral team have been incredible. They have lifted him up, challenged him, encouraged him.”

Gifts Nurtured with Purpose

At VCS, Michael found room to explore the passions that had already begun stirring in him. He became the Associated Student Body (ASB) chaplain, joined the Conservatory’s honors hip-hop dance program, and stepped into lead roles in school theatre productions.

Those opportunities helped Michael grow in confidence and leadership while also deepening his sense of calling. “Michael is going to pursue a Biblical Studies degree at a Christian university,” Stephanie says. “Valley has had an impact on that decision.”

Michael was also invited to all five spiritual formation retreats, an experience Stephanie saw as a meaningful affirmation of his faith journey. Surrounded by a community of Christian believers, he found encouragement not only to perform, lead, and study, but also to live out his faith with sincerity.

A Community That Shaped the Future

As graduation approached, Stephanie could see how much Michael had changed. The boy who once asked to attend a Christian school had become a young man preparing to double major in Pastoral Ministry and Theatre at a Christian university.

“Michael is a better person because of Valley,” Stephanie says. “I’m confident he’s going to do well in college.”

For Stephanie, the sacrifices were real, but so was the reward. After Michael’s final VCS performance, her father put into words what she had come to feel deeply. “Being around a community of Christian believers, doing life together has been great,” Stephanie says. “After Michael’s final performance, my dad said, ‘I know it’s been a sacrifice, but putting Michael in Valley has been the greatest decision you’ve ever made.’ I absolutely agree.”

A Legacy of Faith and Growth

Looking back, Stephanie sees Michael’s VCS story as one of answered prayer, faithful support, and transformation. He arrived needing a new environment and found a community that helped him grow academically, spiritually, and creatively.

At VCS, Michael discovered that his gifts in ministry and theatre did not have to compete. They could grow side by side, shaping a future filled with purpose, service, and hope.