Characteristics and Practices of Highly Effective Christian Schools in the 21st Century. |
In our November newsletter, we stated that in our December and year end newsletter we would take a look at the best practices and characteristics of highly effective Christian Schools in the 21st Century.
While our list is by no means exhaustive, we thought it to be a starting point as to what are the features of thriving Christian schools that seek after the heart and mind of God.
To begin with, if a Christian school is to be effective, it must first be a Christian school in much more than name. Specifically, a truly Christian school is rooted in obedience to the will of God. The Lordship of Christ will permeate the campus and school community.
Whereas, many Christian schools that struggle may question if they are operating under a vision and mission that is truly God-ordained. Or is the school merely existing as a result of the efforts and plans of men. While such leadership may be very well intentioned - it still lacks obedience to the good, perfect and pleasing will of God.
Secondly, once a Christian school believes that it has defined its vision and mission in accordance to God - does the school effectively carry out this vision and mission. On the contrary, many Christian schools despite having a vision and mission do not really know why they exist or have a quite confused sense of purpose. with poor results.
In an effective Christian school, not only are the vision and mission defined, but they are also carried out daily. Furthermore, the board, leadership, faculty and staff comprehend and can clearly articulate the vision and mission in light of the Great Commission. Highly effective Christian schools do not compromise their stated vision or mission and never compromise the authority of Biblical truth.
Changing now to characteristics and trends in light of a rapidly changing socio-economic society, highly effective Christian schools are engaging in cutting edge solutions that received little attention in just a decade ago.
Specifically, we now see Christian schools employing many of the following practices:
Multi-Campus facilities to serve a larger community while maintaining economies of scale through a centralized office, administration and board.
Merging and forming partnerships with other local Christian schools. Rather than compete - why not combine for financial stability and long-term sustainability? (It worked for Delta Airlines and Northwest Airlines as they both filed for bankruptcy on the same day and now have merged to form the world's largest airline with increased viability and a much brighter future.) Too many Christian schools are closing when our nation needs more Christ-honoring schools.
Increasing partnership with homeschooling parents. Many Christian schools are now recognizing the partnership and revenue potential of offering curriculum design and elective extra curricular opportunities to homeschooling families.
Hybridization of traditional and homeschooling models to a university style of scheduling which incorporates attendance at school and at home. (Such Christian school options not only reach and serve more families - but allow for many families to engage in Christian schooling while seeking more affordable methods of Christian schooling but would otherwise be priced out of a 5 day a week Christian school.)
Design of curriculum in-house so as to maximize curriculum effectiveness and methodology without incurring the high costs of published curriculum.
Sound Christian schools have developed a strategic financial plan so that expenditures do not exceed revenue. (There always remains fiscal responsibility and stewardship that stays ahead of difficult economic times.)
A highly effective Christian school community will be characterized by love and grace.
The vision of a successful Christian school will always find its foundation in the Great Commission in that minds and souls are being transformed to be passionate about Christ's love and revealed truths found in the Scriptures and Creation.
Highly effective Christian schools never compromise absolute Biblical truth, academic excellence or Christian character at the expense of being relevant to the times.
Christian schools that thrive - humbly, daily and expectantly pray for God's will and favor to lead the school.
By God's grace, the Imago Dei Group is humbly called to serve Christian schools in cost effective excellence. It is our vision to see schools thrive in the wisdom, favor and ways of God. We encourage you to also seek ways to strategically plan your vision and mission for the long term and the glory of God.
In appreciation to our newsletter subscribers, we would like to give you up to 1 free hour of phone consultation and/or 20% off any of our consulting services scheduled/initiated between now and January 31, 2010.
For more information - contact the Imago Dei Group at: info@ImagoDeiGroup. com or 912-656-7567.