As Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I invite you to press “pause” so you can reflect on the abundant blessings God continually pours into our lives. In the spirit of I Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances,” I am grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve as part-time head of school and principal at a local PK-8 Christian school. … Read More
Schools that Inspire: Do you Belong?
A Short Review of 2024-25 This year’s Schools that Inspire series showcases an extraordinary array of Christian schools around the world, each deeply rooted in its cultural context yet unified by a common mission to nurture students in faith and learning. From Memphis to Ghana, England to Indonesia, and Guatemala to British Columbia, the featured schools exemplify innovative approaches to … Read More
Standing on Shoulders: Honoring the Good Work of Dan Beerens
In the world of distinctly Reformed Christian education, few individuals I know have left as indelible a mark as my good friend Dan Beerens.
Four Reasons Christian Schools Need Adaptive Leaders
Adaptive Leaders use a particular approach to facilitate significant organizational change. These changes help an organization to adapt and thrive under new circumstances.
Steward Leadership and Christian Schools
As one considers a relationship between Steward leadership and experience within an organization, there seems to be a connection. Steward leadership approaches to decision-making is evidenced in the way school leaders operate with their leadership team and in leadership team meetings.
Celebrate and Imagine #4: Ron Polinder–70 Years of Christian Education
When I think of a Christian education leader who combines the best of prophet, priest, and king leadership, my mind turns to Ron Polinder. Formed by the routine and discipline of farm life and educated in K-18 Christian schools, Ron is someone whose life and career passionately reconciles his deep faith with his vocational practice. Along with many others, I … Read More
Celebrate and Imagine #2: Engaging God’s World
Plantinga shares the lament expressed in Jeremiah but also the hope of shalom. Shalom is “the background vision for Christian education.” He calls Christian educators to be “the kinds of people who want shalom and work every day toward it–that is what a Christian education is all about.”
Is It Worth It? Being a Christian School Educator
Is it worth it? As I meet with Christian school leaders around the country, I continue to hear about the burnout of Christian school leaders and teachers, so the question is legit. Are these good careers or not?
Crisis Mode: 10 Keys to Unlock Thriving in Christian School Leadership – Part 5 of 5
Professional athletes have coaches, so why should professional Christian school leaders be any different? People at the top of their game benefit from coaching; to desire coaching demonstrates a desire to improve from a position of strength.
Crisis Mode: 10 Keys to Unlock Thriving in Christian School Leadership – Part 4 of 5
There are many keys needed in order for a leader to thrive before, during, and after a crisis, but one thing that absolutely can’t go missing is communication.