When people ask me how I started a Christian school, I usually smile and remind them—every journey will look different. My path isn’t a step-by-step formula, but rather a testimony of God’s faithfulness, His perfect timing, and the simple act of obedience.
In 2018, we opened the doors of Grace Bible Academy with a summer childcare program and just 13 children. By the fall, our elementary program began with four students. Over the years, that number grew far beyond anything I could have planned. Today, by God’s grace, we serve nearly 200 students K–12.
Was it marketing genius? A perfect business plan? No. The truth is far simpler: I prayed, listened, and followed where God led—even when it didn’t make sense.
Diligence in Prayer
The very first step was prayer. Long before the school opened, my wife and I prayed and waited. For years, I had no peace about moving forward. But when God finally stirred my heart, there was no denying His voice. As I walked laps in my old job’s parking lot, He spoke: “What about an elementary school?”
That moment changed everything. Just as we see in living to serve the Lord, obedience often requires surrendering our own timelines. God’s plan was bigger than mine, but His timing was perfect.
Trusting His Provision
Early on, God pushed me to make bold decisions—like cutting tuition nearly in half. From a human standpoint, that didn’t add up. But obedience did. Within weeks, enrollment grew. Over time, He brought the right teachers, families, and resources.
This reminded me daily of Paul’s words: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:6). The growth wasn’t mine to manufacture. It was God’s.
Building Community Like One Body
We didn’t want just a school—we wanted a ministry. Smaller class sizes, scholarships, and intentional family relationships allowed us to cultivate what many describe as a “family atmosphere.” Every decision was rooted in the belief that we are one body in Christ, serving together for His glory.
Even when we had only four children, we saw those families as opportunities to minister, not just enrollments on a roster. That heart posture hasn’t changed—even as we’ve grown.
Listening Before Acting
Not every decision came easy. At one point, I ignored the Spirit’s prompting in a hiring choice—and it backfired quickly. That humbling moment taught me the importance of slowing down, seeking God, and truly listening before acting. As James reminds us, we must be slow to speak and quick to listen, even in leadership decisions.
A Long-Term Mindset
Starting small meant wearing many hats—principal, janitor, cook, and IT guy all at once. But as we grew, we focused on building for the long-term. Our goal has always been to create a ministry that lasts for generations, not just a school that survives from month to month.
Every challenge has reinforced the same truth: this work is for the Lord. Colossians 3:23 says it best—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Final Encouragement
If God is stirring your heart to start a Christian school, know this: the process will stretch you. It will require patience, faith, and sacrifice. But if He is calling you, He will also equip you.
Pray diligently. Trust His timing. Serve faithfully. And remember—you’re not just building a school. You’re building ambassadors for Christ who will impact the world.
Download a FREE “resource “Getting Started” packet from Teach Christian to help you get started!