Schools To Develop New Strategic Plan, Thanks To Gift

by Lon Swartzentruber, executive director, Grand Rapids Christian Schools Foundation

Grand Rapids Christian Schools has received an anonymous financial gift to fund a new, comprehensive strategic plan.

“This is a wonderful gift and I am very honored to be able to accept it on behalf of the entire School community. We now have the opportunity to complete a broad-based, data driven strategic plan,” says Tom DeJonge, superintendent.

“We will be working with a professional consulting firm based in Chicago, Gonzer Gerber, to facilitate the planning process as we develop a new plan that will further position the Schools to strengthen our academics, programming, finances, facilities, and spiritual environment,” says DeJonge.

Grand Rapids Christian Schools’ Board of Trustees has a standing committee on strategic planning, chaired by Tim Wiersma. An important part of any strategic planning process is dialogue with a broad audience. On June 5, the committee will hold a planning retreat for principals, parents, teachers, board members, alumni, and donors to gather input on some of the critical issues facing Grand Rapids Christian Schools and focus on ways to strengthen and sustain opportunities for Christian education for the next generation of children.

In August, the Board of Trustees will review the strategic objectives identified at the retreat. A report will be provided to parents and friends of our schools, and opportunities for involvement and planning will be made available.

“Keeping our Christian school community involved in this process is very important to the Board. We look forward to sharing the strategic plan with the broader community as we continue to make positive progress together,” says Tom.