Five Starting Points
In my last post, I asked the question: why don’t churches start schools? I am encouraged to see such passion and interest in this topic. After a lot of discussion and some great questions, let me clarify one thing. In addition to the leading question, I made the statement that “there is not one narrow path to pursue.”
This is important because I am not intending to convey that every church can or should follow a linear direction. Of course, not every church is going to start a school the traditional way. However, there are many ways, especially in the current market, for churches to be meaningfully involved. Here are five ways churches can be engaged in advancing Christian (and hopefully, classical) education:
1. Vision
Make a prayerful, intentional, strategic, decisive plan for how your church will be engaged in advancing Christian education.
2. Startup
Some churches will start a traditional school the traditional way. Many churches will want to do this to retain their doctrinal/liturgical distinctives. That is good and right. Know that churches tend to get governance issues confused between the church and school. Church schools can appeal to a smaller market of families and often see themselves as removed from legitimate market factors that influence their growth and success. Be informed and get the help you need to launch with strength!
3. Infrastructure
Since I have transitioned to my role as President at SCL, I have observed the most significant barrier to starting schools is facilities and infrastructure – the two things churches have readily available. Offer schools that fit your vision the facilities they need as part of your ministry. If they are successful, they will eventually launch out on their own and you can incubate another new school. Extend yourself to support the work!
4. Money
Provide funds for families (decide the criteria), pastors, or others from the community to attend Christian school. Create a fund for schools that fit your vision. Give to school leaders in your church and/or community who are willing to step out and launch great Christian schools.
5. Leadership
Churches may not want to start the school themselves, but they have some capable leaders in their congregations who can. Too often these folks are left to themselves. Find them and resource them!
Every school model has its challenges and tradeoffs. Church schools can get complicated, political, and fussy over governance and shared resources. All those details can be worked out.
There are many ways for churches to get involved, but make no mistake, as Luther said, “If ever there were a need to labor at anything in earnest, it is at the maintenance of schools. If we are to have good and able persons, both for civil and ecclesiastical leadership, we must spare no effort, time, and expense in teaching and educating our children.”
For further reading: Melanchthon: Orations on Philosophy and Education (Cambridge Texts in the History of Philosophy)
Society for Classical Learning
If you’re passionate about advancing Christian education and looking for ways to get involved, consider joining the Society for Classical Learning (SCL). As a member, you’ll gain access to valuable resources, expert guidance, and a supportive community dedicated to fostering excellence in classical education. Whether you’re a church leader, educator, or simply someone who values quality education, SCL offers tools and insights to help you make a meaningful impact. Don’t wait—become a member today and join a network committed to shaping the future of classical learning.
