Financial Sustainability and Innovation in Christian Private Schools

• In Event: The Sustainability of Private Faith-Based Schools

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify innovative practices in Christian private schools that may help sustain the mission of Christian education into the future. In this Appreciative Inquiry study into Christian schools’ practices with respect to sustainability and innovation, the authors identified 11 schools and networks in diverse settings across the United States that were known by reputation for their excellence in such practices. Between 2020-2021, a team of four researchers interviewed school leaders, teachers, board members, and parents from all 11 sites, coding over 40 hours of interviews into themes, along with analysis of core missional and financial documents collected from the schools. In 2021, the research team conducted site visits to gain insights into emerging themes.
We examined several schools with innovative financial models and practices, including mergers and acquisitions, third source income and entrepreneurship, participation in school choice programs, and special education inclusion. Many participants spoke to the importance of making the model serve the mission, as a financial model incongruous with a school’s stated purpose would not help sustain their mission into the future. Others shared means of taking risks that are financially disciplined while extending a great deal of trust and initiative. Finally, several respondents emphasized the value of maintaining strong relationships with their surrounding community, which may include identifying ways to make the school more accessible to a more diverse student population in terms of race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and ability.

Authors

• Lynn E. Swaner, Association of Christian Schools International
  Presenting Author

• Jonathan Eckert, Baylor University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Erik Ellefsen, Baylor University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Matthew H. Lee, Association of Christian Schools International
  Non-Presenting Author