The Spartan Blog

A worldview could be compared to a pair of glasses. We may not spend much time thinking about the lenses, but they influence how we interpret everything we see. Our worldview shapes the way we understand identity, relationships, anthropology, suffering, success, money, work, politics, and the future. We all have one, even if we have never tried to name it. This is also not unique to Christian schools. Public schools may not name “transferring a secular worldview” as a key objective in their curriculum, but everything they do works towards that end. No education is neutral when it comes to worldview. The question is, have you recognized and understood yours or are others still shaping it for you? While we will be constantly exposed to many different worldviews as we walk through life, the good news is that we do get to select the lenses that fit in our frames!

A biblical worldview begins with several foundational convictions: God exists; He created all things; He has spoken truthfully through Scripture; every person bears His image; sin has broken our relationship with God and distorted His good creation; Jesus Christ is Lord and Redeemer; and God is making all things new. These truths provide a coherent story in which every part of life finds its meaning.

One helpful way to recognize a worldview is to ask four questions. Who are we? What has gone wrong? What is the remedy? What is our purpose? Our culture offers many answers. It may tell students that identity is self-created, unhappiness comes primarily from external limits, freedom means removing restraint, and fulfillment comes through achievement or self-expression. Scripture offers a different and better account: identity is received from our Creator, sin is our deepest problem, Christ is our only Savior, and our role is to walk faithfully with Jesus.

A biblical worldview is much more than memorizing correct answers on a test. Students must learn to recognize the beliefs beneath everyday messages. An advertisement may say that purchasing a product will make us complete. A social-media trend may imply that likes determine our worth. A movie may portray freedom as doing whatever feels “authentic”. Biblical discernment asks: What is being claimed? What view of people is assumed? What does Scripture teach? What response would be both truthful and loving?

This is why worldview formation belongs in every subject. Students need knowledge, but they also need the ability to interpret knowledge. They should be able to appreciate what is true and beautiful in the culture, identify what is distorted, and respond without fear or contempt. Christian discernment is neither automatic rejection nor uncritical acceptance.

Families can make these conversations natural. At dinner, in the car, or after watching a show, ask one open question: “What did that story say would make someone happy?” Let your child think aloud. Listen before correcting. Then connect the conversation to Scripture’s larger story instead of merely supplying a rule.

A biblical worldview gives students more than opinions about controversial topics. It gives them a foundation for living with wisdom, courage, consistency, and hope. Our desire is that Calvary students learn to see God’s world truthfully and then faithfully take their place within it.

When parents ask whether their child is receiving a good education, they usually begin with questions such as “Are the teachers effective? Is the curriculum challenging? Is my child prepared for college, work, and adult life?” Christian parents should add one more important question to that list… What kind of person is this education helping my child become? Education is more than a simple transfer of knowledge. It shapes what students believe is true, what they learn to love, and how they understand the purpose of their lives.

No education is spiritually neutral. Every curriculum and classroom rests on assumptions about human beings, truth, morality, and meaning. A history lesson communicates something about justice and human nature. A science lesson reflects beliefs about creation, knowledge, and responsibility. Literature invites students to consider what makes a life good or tragic. Even when God is not mentioned, students are still receiving answers to life’s most important questions.

Christian education begins with a different foundation; Abraham Kuyper’s famous quote is applicable here… “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry “Mine!”. We could also point to Psalm 24:1, where we are taught that “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it." Mathematics reveals order. Science explores a world created and sustained by God. Literature gives us opportunities to examine human dignity, sin, longing, sacrifice, and redemption. History shows both the consequences of human brokenness and the ways people can act with courage and faithfulness. Biblical truth is not an accessory added to an otherwise complete education; it is the framework that helps these pieces fit together.

This does not mean Christian schools are perfect or that Christian students never struggle. It means we are honest about the direction of our work. We want students to become knowledgeable, but also wise; capable, but also humble; confident, but also dependent on God. We want them prepared to enter the world, not afraid of it and certainly not absorbed by it. Our work is to encourage and develop thoughtful disciples who can recognize truth, love their neighbors, and use their gifts in service.

At Calvary, that formation happens through thousands of ordinary moments: a teacher connecting content to God’s character, a coach correcting selfishness, a class praying for someone who is hurting, or a student learning to persevere through difficult work. No single moment accomplishes the mission. Together, these experiences establish patterns of thought, affection, and action.

Parents remain the primary human influence in a child’s life. The school is not a replacement for the home or the church; we are your partners. One simple practice is to ask more than, “What did you learn today?” Try asking, “What did today’s lessons show you about God, people, or creation?” That question better helps children connect their learning to their discipleship.

Choosing Christian education is ultimately an intentional decision about formation. It is a commitment to surround academic excellence with biblical truth, meaningful relationships, and a coherent vision of human flourishing. In a culture filled with competing stories about identity, freedom, and success, that partnership matters more than ever. 

Dear Spartan Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! Whether your family has been part of Calvary Christian School for many years or you are joining us for the first time, we are grateful that God has brought you into our school community. A new school year always brings excitement; new teachers, new friendships, new opportunities, and new ways for our students to grow. With that being said, our mission goes far beyond preparing students academically. We desire to help students know God, understand His truth and character, develop a biblical worldview, and become equipped to serve Him faithfully wherever He leads them.

This year brings several exciting additions to our school. We are launching a new entrepreneurship course that will encourage students to think creatively, solve problems, and develop the skills needed to turn ideas into meaningful action. We are also adding a new missions course designed to help students better understand God’s heart for the nations and consider how they can participate in the Great Commission. Students will also benefit from our new computer lab, which will provide additional opportunities to strengthen skills and support learning across multiple subject areas. This fall, we will also install a new flagpole area in front of the school which will include a beautiful walking path that will enhance our campus while providing another visible reminder of our gratitude for the freedoms God has given us. 

We are also excited to welcome our Urbana families that will be joining us through our newest bus route that will meet at Life Net Christian Fellowship in Urbana. Our daily Urbana route extends access to Calvary families and becomes our second in-house route, joining the Marysville route which launched last year.

Another important focus this year will be completing our ACSI accreditation process. The ACSI accreditation team will visit Calvary next spring, marking the culmination of an intensive, multi-year process of self-evaluation, documentation, reflection, and improvement. Accreditation is about much more than earning a designation. It requires our entire team to examine every area of our school; from academics and spiritual formation to governance, student services, safety, and organizational effectiveness. The process helps us identify what we are doing well, recognize areas where we can grow, and establish clear plans for continued improvement. It is demanding work, but it ultimately makes us a stronger school and improves the experience we provide for our students and families. We are also excited to begin our first year as a Colson Fellows Academic Affiliate. We are one of only 30 Christian schools in America that have launched a Colson Fellows Academic Affiliate! Our inaugural class includes 15 dedicated staff and school parents who have committed themselves to significant spiritual formation, biblical worldview development, and personal growth. This investment will strengthen not only those involved but also the students, families, and colleagues they influence. We believe that spiritually healthy and biblically grounded adults are essential to forming spiritually healthy and biblically grounded students.

Over the past year, I have also been blessed with the opportunity to coach and support Christian schools across the country through the Herzog Institute. While I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the work of other schools, one of the greatest benefits has been what I have been able to bring home to CCS. This work has allowed us to build relationships, exchange ideas, and learn alongside some of the strongest Christian schools and leaders in the country. Those experiences challenge us to keep growing while also helping us recognize just how special the CCS community truly is. It can be easy to assume that what we experience at Calvary is normal. The reality is that a school community marked by dedicated teachers, a healthy staff culture, strong enrollment, supportive families, spiritual unity, and a shared commitment to the mission is more the exception than the rule. What God has built here is a tremendous blessing. That does not mean we are perfect or that our work is finished, but it does mean we should be grateful for the flourishing community God has entrusted to us.

We do not take that blessing, or the responsibility that accompanies it, for granted. Christian education is most effective when the home, church, and school work together. Thank you for trusting us to partner with you in the education and spiritual formation of your children. As we begin this year, my prayer is that our students will grow in wisdom, character, courage, and faith. I pray that every lesson, relationship, challenge, and success will help point them toward Christ and prepare them for the purposes God has for their lives.
 

Thank you for being part of the Calvary Christian family. We are excited to see what God will do in and through our students, families, and staff this year.
Welcome back!

1 Tim 4.12
Ryan Hyde
Head of School

I have prayed for Revival a lot over the years. And yet, I am often the cynic.

Has Charlie Kirk's death/assassination started what could be a national revival?

His funeral/memorial was amazing! So many national figures, politically powerful people talking about Jesus, salvation, the Bible, and truth. My goodness, was this for real???

And then the message from Erica Kirk (Charlie’s wife) was incredible! And after losing her husband to a ridiculous killing only two weeks ago, to publicly say she forgives the assassin…are you kidding!! Am I hearing this right!?

I had the privilege of being invited to an event sponsored by a Christian Lobbyist group representing Christian Schools in Ohio. Our little town hall meeting was with Senator Bernie Moreno and Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, who works for President Donald Trump with the assignment of closing down the Department of Education and giving education back to the States (a tremendous blessing for us in Ohio – a leader Choice State). And to hear these politicians sounding like Biblical believers with a goal to bring faith, character, and Truth back to the way we govern… Incredible. What is going on?

And not that “Red” means Christian, but “Red” seems to give more room for Christian thinking. So, the perfect storm in the winds of change, and Charlie Kirk's goals as a leader, with apologetic skills, making us all more enthusiastic and bolder in debating and standing for Biblical Truth bringing us to “Such a Time as this.” Is this a time where we Christians can really be a part of making and building a kingdom focused culture where morals, character, and values are normal and meaningful?

We Christians (the Body of Christ) must steward this time and the opportunities before us well!

Yeah, for some good signs in what is otherwise a very scary time (Wars, rumors of wars and much disunity and liberal thinking all over our planet).

Pause – to the hopeful world changer, or the cynic!

Did you hear about the revival at Calvary?

A few weeks ago, we had a special guest (Adrian Despres) speak to our kids. He spoke in Chapel 7 times, plus Bible classes, Leadership kids, teacher devotions, and a donor event. He is an evangelist, Biblical apologist, that really gets kids (He got us teachers too). He delivered several powerful messages. The one that cleared the gym bleachers and sent kids to the gym floor, faces to the ground, tears in eyes with sincere hearts to repent and get in communion with our Savior Jesus was called Four Chairs (get the t-shirt!).

Adrian has developed this message over the years, and it explains our situation so well. We want to be, we need to be, in the 1st chair – a life devoted to the Lord. He describes what a John 10:10 Christian looks like, not perfect, but a love of Jesus that is real and genuine. I could never reproduce his humor and embellishments here (although Adrian does have a book on the subject you can get). The 2nd Chair is a Christian – represents many of us, who get used to Jesus, and grow luke-warm. We might be headed to heaven, but not joyful, not purposeful, and just getting by. The fourth chair is the unsaved, the agnostic, the atheist, the bad-boy – yep – they are going to hell. Then he describes the third chair, much like the 2nd chair – but not saved. They have taken the wide road, not the narrow and think they are saved, but they are not. It is a game to them, and they thought they picked up the life insurance against hell by a child’s prayer or on the coattails of parents and grandparents – “hey I am an American!!” But the salvation they thought they picked up is not real.

Wow – chair 2 and 3 are not impressing chair 4! Chair 4 wants nothing to do with it – it looks fake. And Chairs 2 and 3 make fun of Chair 1 for being some “goody to shoe!”

It is a mess! And the only remedy is to see where you are, consider your sin, confess, and jump into Chair 1! Fall in love with the Jesus who died for our sins and wants us to live that Good Life described in John 10:10 and the message that is all over the Bible.

As I said, a few lines do not do it justice, but while Clay Cross is singing “I Surrender All”, the floor flooded with our students (6th through 12th), your sons and daughters, repenting and proclaiming that “I want to be a Chair 1 Christian!”

It was beautiful! Kids are crying, teachers are crying, and I am crying!! III John 4 tells us there is no greater joy than to see our kids walking with God in Truth!!

Revival!! It is the beginning of a transformed mind, and it changes everything! We use our Holy Spirit power to be the pieces and parts described in our Portrait of a Graduate as we become the next part of the fearfully and wonderfully made person described in Psalms 119 to the handiwork that God created to do the good works and fulfill the assignments He has for us (Eph 2:10). It makes us obedient, hardworking, curious, kind, problem-solving, good teammates, testimony for Jesus-kind of life that was intended (that the devil and world hates).

And – as good as that sounds — you guessed it, we all do it, we leak, we slip, and we forget. Again — Get the t-shirt!! Remember what you are fighting for! Participate in the Bible Study, the activities at Church, the family worship and prayer at home and pursue, over and over, the First Chair!!

I am hopeful and excited about the revival or resurgence I see in our county! But I get more excited about the things I see right here in our school and in our community. These things will have a huge impact on you and your family. And then push this out over the next 10, 20, and 30 years, and we will see these kids having a huge impact wherever they go. Nope – not proclaiming “easy street,” but excited about what God is doing right here, right now!!

The Body of Christ is an awesome organism! Let’s all join forces to contribute to what God is doing to bring His Kingdom about!! No reason to be cynical. This life-changing transformation is what all of us at Calvary are fighting for (Portrait of a Graduate: Equipped, Grit, Humble and Grateful, Leader, Authentic, and having a Biblical Worldview).

Praise God for REVIVAL!!

Scripture is clear, God has called fathers and guardians to be the first defenders of truth in their homes. The words of Deuteronomy 6: 6-7 remind us of this weighty responsibility:

“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”

Likewise, Proverbs 22:6 gives us both direction and encouragement:

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

These verses tell us what it means to lead our families spiritually. But here’s the question: How are we doing in living them out?

Why Fathers Matter on the Frontline

When it comes to the spiritual development of our children, the home is obviously the key ingredient. Research and experience alike tell us that the hours children spend in different environments shape who they are becoming. Consider this stat on waking hours from birth until age 18… 

• Hours at church: 2,500
• Hours at school: 17,000
• Hours at home: 84,620

The message is clear — home is the frontline. Fathers and guardians are called to lead, to disciple, and to defend truth in their homes every single day.

Yet, it can be hard to pass on or defend what we don’t fully understand ourselves. That’s why we’re launching a new group called The Frontline, a place for CCS dads and guardians to grow in faith, strengthen their understanding, and step boldly into spiritual leadership.

What is The Frontline?

The Frontline is not a group for experts or professional apologists (though they’re welcome too). It’s a community of ordinary CCS dads who want to be intentional about raising kids who love and follow Jesus.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Led by: Ryan Hyde, CCS Head of School
• Meeting Dates (2025-26): November 18, January 20, February 17, and March 17
• Time & Place: 7:00–8:00 PM @ Calvary
• Commitment: You don’t have to attend every session, but we encourage you to prioritize them.
• Reading: We’ll be working through Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. (Free on library apps like Libby and Hoopla, or available for purchase on Amazon.)
• Format: Each meeting will include guided discussion, prayer, and practical encouragement. We’ll share what’s working in our homes, celebrate victories, and learn from one another.

Why Join?

Our goal isn’t only to learn from C.S. Lewis, but also from one another. Together we will:

• Strengthen our faith.
• Grow in confidence to defend truth.
• Build routines that help shape our children’s walk with Christ.
• Encourage one another in the unique challenges of fatherhood.

This is about taking our place on the frontline of our children’s spiritual formation. The church and the school play important roles, but God has entrusted the greatest influence to the home. Let’s rise to the challenge, together. Fathers/Guardians can register in the school app by clicking the tile “Spiritual Formation>The Frontline". Sign up before 11/15!
 

What if Christian Education Was Within Reach?

Every parent desires the best for their child, not just academically but also spiritually. You want your child in a school where they are known, loved, and where truth is both taught and lived.

For many families, the greatest challenge in choosing a Christian school has been affordability. At Calvary Christian School, we understand that concern, and we want you to know that there is real help available.

That help is called Ed Choice, and it is opening doors for families across Ohio.

A Life-Changing Opportunity for Ohio Families

Thanks to the Ohio Ed Choice Expansion Program, every family in the state is now eligible to receive scholarship assistance to attend Calvary Christian School. This program is one of the most important tools available for families who desire a faith-based education without carrying the full financial burden. 

More than a financial benefit, Ed Choice allows families to choose schools that reflect their values and shape their children for lives of purpose and truth.

How the Ed Choice Scholarship Works

Ed Choice scholarships are based on your household income. If your income is under the threshold of 450% of the Federal Poverty Level, then you will receive the maximum scholarship amounts available for the 2025 to 2026 school year. This chart can help you determine where you fall on the FPL (Federal Poverty Levels).

• Kindergarten through 8th grade: up to $6,166 per student
• 9th through 12th grade: up to $8,408 per student

Even families earning well above average can qualify for partial scholarships. You can view the full income eligibility chart on the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce website.

Calvary Christian School is a registered Ed Choice provider. Our team will help you understand your eligibility, walk you through the paperwork, and make sure your questions are answered.

The Numbers at Calvary Tell the Story

• More than 96 percent of Calvary families receive financial assistance
• Every single family at Calvary is eligible under EdChoice
• After scholarships are applied, the average out-of-pocket tuition is $1,380 per student per year

This program is not just helping a few families. It is transforming what is possible for nearly everyone who desires a Christian education.

The Impact Is More Than Financial

The real value of Ed Choice is not just in the dollars it saves. It is in the freedom it gives families to pursue an education grounded in biblical truth. It is the confidence parents feel when their children start the school day in prayer, hear Scripture woven into each subject, and are mentored by teachers who love Christ and care deeply for their students.

The impact of a Christian education reaches far beyond the classroom. It shapes worldview, builds character, and prepares students to live boldly and faithfully in the world.

“We love that the boys' learning revolves around the LORD. We love that the staff leads with Love, all of them! When people say ‘It takes a village!’ CCS is just that! The village that you never knew you needed! Every teacher proves to our kids and us that the boys are capable of so much more than we ever knew!” -Chris and Pam Stout

<< Read their full story here >>

How to Begin Your Ed Choice Journey

Getting started is simple, and our team is here to help. Here are three ways you can take the next step:

1. Request more information about Calvary and the scholarship process
2. Schedule a family visit to meet our staff and tour the school
3. Let our admissions team walk you through your EdChoice application and calculate your family’s tuition estimate

A Christ-Centered Education Is Within Reach

You no longer have to choose between faith and affordability. You can give your child a place to grow academically, spiritually, and personally — and Ed Choice makes that possible.

You still lead as a parent. At Calvary, we simply walk with you.

A School That Walks With Your Family

When a parent chooses a school, they’re not just choosing a building or a curriculum. They’re choosing the people who will shape their child’s heart, mind, and future. Here at Calvary Christian, we don’t start with programs, we start with people.

We believe the most powerful force in a child’s education is a Christ-centered partnership between school and home. That’s why families often say they don’t just feel welcomed at Calvary, they feel seen, supported, and surrounded by people who share their values.

“We chose Calvary Christian School because we wanted our boys to grow up in a Christ-centered atmosphere that touches every aspect of their lives.”
— Phil and Heather Wright

Rooted in Truth. Preparing Disciples.

Our school’s tagline, Teaching Truth: Preparing Disciples, isn’t just something we print on t-shirts. It’s our mission in motion. 

At every grade level, from K4 through 12th, students are taught from a biblical worldview. This means science, literature, history, and math are not detached from God’s truth but illuminated by it. Students are encouraged to see every subject through the lens of Scripture and apply truth to real life. 

Our educators take seriously their calling to mentor, model, and disciple the next generation. 

“We love that the boys’ learning revolves around the LORD. We love that the staff leads with Love…all of them!”
— Chris and Pam Stout

What Makes Calvary Distinct?

Here’s how we intentionally come alongside your family to support academic, spiritual, and personal growth: 

Biblical Worldview Integration

Students are trained to filter cultural messages through Scripture and live as discerning disciples in a complex world.

Christ-Centered Faculty

Our teachers are not only credentialed professionals but also mature believers who care deeply about students’ spiritual formation.

“To simply call it a family ‘atmosphere’ would be a gross understatement.”
— Adam and Katie Palmer

Strong Academics


Calvary offers a comprehensive academic program designed to challenge and prepare students for college, career, and calling, without compromising faith. From phonics and hands-on learning in elementary to high school dual credit and AP offerings, we equip students for the real world and eternity.

Family Discipleship Culture


We view parents as the primary educators. Our role is to come alongside you, reinforcing what’s taught at home and in church. Whether it’s through prayer groups, campus worship, or shared service projects, the Calvary experience is built on true partnership.

You’re Not Alone in This Journey

We know that raising children in today’s culture can feel overwhelming. At Calvary, you're not alone. From your first tour to your child’s graduation, we walk with your family, encouraging, equipping, and praying alongside you.

Our students graduate not just with strong transcripts, but with strong testimonies.

Start the Conversation

If you’ve been praying about where your child belongs, if you’re seeking a place where truth is taught boldly and your child’s heart is nurtured, we’d love to meet you.

Schedule a family visit.

Request more information.

We’re ready to walk with you.

The Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN), a ministry of Center for Christian Virtue (CCV), has honored Calvary Christian School as the 2025 School of the Year and Silver Level recipient of the Mike and Peggy Hartshorn Dignity of Life Award, recognizing the school’s outstanding efforts to promote a culture of life through intentional pro-life education and student engagement.

Established in 2025, the Hartshorn Award honors K–12 schools that intentionally integrate pro-life values into their curriculum. The award is named in tribute to Mike and Peggy Hartshorn, who have been faithful leaders in the pro-life movement in Ohio and beyond.

“We cannot assume that young people growing up in a Christian community will form a pro-life ethic on their own,” said OCEN Executive Director Troy McIntosh. “Calvary Christian School has made the dignity of human life a central part of its mission, and their efforts this past year have set an example for schools across Ohio.”

Calvary Christian School earned this distinction by leading a series of impactful, student-driven initiatives, including:

• Organizing a group to attend the 2024 Ohio March for Life in Columbus
• Hosting a chapel service focused on a biblical understanding of the pro-life ethic
• Coordinating a student-led service day at a local pregnancy resource center
• Partnering with that center to co-host a fundraising gala
• Adopting a pro-life curriculum to be implemented in the 2025–26 school year

In recognition of these efforts, Calvary Christian School will receive a plaque, a digital award seal, and a $1,000 cash award to support future pro-life projects. The award will be presented at CCV’s Essential Summit this fall, where the school will be honored among other leading voices in Ohio's faith and education communities.

“Mike and Peggy Hartshorn have shown the impact you can have when you stand up for the vulnerable,” said CCV President Aaron Baer. "Calvary Christian School and its students are carrying that legacy forward with passion and purpose. The future of the pro-life movement is in strong hands.”

The Hartshorn Dignity of Life Awards will be presented annually to schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to cultivating a biblical worldview of life and dignity.

For more information, visit hartshorn.ocen.org or contact OCEN at ocen@ccv.org.
 

As the school year draws to a close, it's easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of final tests, field days, and end-of-year ceremonies. But in the midst of the chaos, we want to offer you a simple but meaningful challenge: take time to notice how your child has grown this year… and tell them!

From the first day of school last August to now, your child has changed. Not just in shoe size or reading level, but in heart, character, and resilience. These changes are worth discussing and celebrating!

We encourage every parent in the Calvary Christian School family to set aside intentional time this week to have a one-on-one conversation with your child about the growth you've seen in them. If you aren't sure where to start on an intentional conversation like that, you can use the prompts below to help:

• Academic Growth - Have they taken more ownership of their learning? Improved in a difficult subject? Learned how to ask better questions or manage their time more effectively?
• Spiritual Maturity – Have they shown a deeper understanding of God’s Word? Asked hard questions? Made a decision to live more obediently or love more sacrificially?
• Character Development - Have you seen new levels of responsibility, kindness, perseverance, or humility? Have they handled a tough situation better than they might have a year ago?
• Relational Strengths - Have they become a better friend, peacemaker, or teammate? Have they navigated conflict in a more Christlike way?
• Resilience and Grit - Have they pushed through something hard without giving up? Faced failure and gotten back up? Trusted God when it wasn’t easy?

As parents, it’s tempting to always look ahead; what’s next, what’s not yet done, what still needs work. But the gospel reminds us to be people who give thanks, who mark the moments of God’s faithfulness. Your child is not the same person they were nine months ago and that’s a testimony of God's sanctifying work in them.

“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 1:6

Why It Matters
When you name the good you see in your child, you’re not just building their confidence, you’re reminding them that their growth matters more than grades or achievements. You’re showing them what it means to “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
And as you speak these truths over your child, you model the love of our Heavenly Father, who delights in our growth and rejoices over every step we take toward maturity in Christ.

How can I start that conversation?
If you’re not sure how to take that first step, here’s a conversation starter!

“I’ve been thinking about how much you’ve grown since school started in August. Can I share a few things I’ve noticed and appreciated about you this year?” Bring a journal. Grab ice cream. Take a walk. Let it be natural, but make it meaningful.

It’s a joy to play a role in our students' growth, and we’re thankful God has called us to this work, and we’re grateful for parents like you!

So pause. Look back. And thank God for the good work He’s doing. We have much to be thankful for!
 

Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

The Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) recently released a new report called the "2025 Hope and A Future" report. This report (authored by Brad Wilcox, Professor of Sociology and Director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia) examines the current state of the American dream, particularly in Ohio. It’s an interesting read and one we wanted to share with you all (link below). The report reveals the negative effects the collapse of the family unit and a decline in marriage have had in Ohio and across America. There’s also an interesting “Family Structure Index” which gives a ranking to all 50 states according to the health of their family culture.

A summary of Wilcox’s report is that he highlights a decline in belief in the American dream, with only one in three U.S. adults feeling it still holds true, (a decrease from half in 2012). This decline is attributed not only to economic factors but also to the deteriorating state of the American family.
In Ohio, the report notes significant challenges: the state ranks third in deaths of despair (suicide, drug overdoses, alcohol poisoning), 15th in child poverty with 17% of children living below the poverty line, and falls in the bottom quintile for hope. Additionally, Ohio stands 29th on the Family Structure Index, which assesses marriage rates, family stability, and fertility.

The report emphasizes the strong correlation between family stability and positive outcomes in education, poverty reduction, child well-being, public safety, and economic mobility. It also raises concerns about declining fertility rates and their potential impact on Ohio's demographic future.
To address these issues, the report suggests a series of public policies and civic measures aimed at strengthening marriage and family life across Ohio. These recommendations are directed towards the legislature, businesses, churches, and families, with the goal of ensuring that every Ohioan has the opportunity to achieve a "better, richer, and happier life" as envisioned in the American dream.

This is another interesting data set which reinforces something we already know…the family unit is very important! While it’s not a surprise to see data supporting the fact that a life aligned with God’s word is good (and leads to more desirable outcomes!), it’s a stark reminder of the consequences of a life that isn’t. Our mission here is to support that key role our families have, so we want to leave you with some practical steps to keep leading intentionally in your home!

1.    Family Devotions: Set aside time each day to read Scripture together, discuss its meaning, and pray as a family. This could be a morning ritual, during dinner, or before bedtime. Our staff have added monthly devotional plans your family can use in the Calvary app if you aren’t sure where to start. You’ll be able to find annual plans and monthly devotional plans that we recommend.
2.    Model Prayer: Pray regularly with your children! Not just in times of need, but in moments of gratitude and joy. Let them hear you pray for them, their futures, and God’s guidance in their lives.
3.    Intentional Conversations: Use everyday moments to point back to God’s truth. Whether it’s discussing a challenge at school or talking about current events, lead the conversation towards a biblical perspective.
4.    Church Involvement: Regular church attendance as a family is crucial. Show your children the importance of being part of a community of believers and serve together in your church. From time to time, we’ll hear frustrations about church, which may include serving with challenging people, disagreements over a church policy, or differences in preferred style of worship. The main point here is that the church has been established by God as His way for us to be connected and further our walk with Him. It’s simply our job to be obedient to scripture!
5.    Personal Growth: The most powerful way to disciple your children is to live out your own faith authentically. Children will see this!
  
View the CCV “Hope & A Future” report here → Family Structure Index | CCV
 

Like most of America, our family watched the recent Super Bowl (even though we don’t like either of the teams in it…Go Browns). Winning that game, of course, is the pinnacle of success in the football world, the ultimate dream realized. But time and again, the quarterbacks who reach that mountaintop have admitted that the victory, fame, and the championship ring didn’t bring them the fulfillment they thought it would.

It's interesting to hear people like Tom Brady from years past, after winning multiple Super Bowls, who famously said in a 60 Minutes interview:

"Why do I have three Super Bowl rings and still think there’s something greater out there for me? I mean, maybe a lot of people would say, ‘Hey man, this is what it is. I reached my goal, my dream, my life.’ Me, I think, ‘God, it’s gotta be more than this.’"

Kurt Warner, another Super Bowl champion, shared a similar sentiment:

"You think that if you accomplish something, if you reach a certain status, then you will finally be fulfilled. But I realized that success on the field wasn’t going to bring me the purpose and meaning I was looking for—that only came through my relationship with Jesus."

These words from the best in the game remind us of a powerful truth: earthly achievements, no matter how great, can never fill the God-shaped void in our hearts.

It’s a good reminder to make sure we are budgeting our time towards priorities that have an eternal impact. We’re blessed to have that very privilege as we help students cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The world constantly tells us that success, trophies, and accolades will bring us lasting joy. But we know that true fulfillment comes only from knowing Christ.

Paul put it this way in Philippians 3:8:

"Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ."

We love academics, athletics, clubs, art, and achievements from any endeavor. They are gifts from God. But the achievements themselves cannot be the primary goal. Our co-mission between our school and your family is to shape these students into young men and women who see their worth not in what they accomplish, but in who they are in Christ.  

My encouragement is to use this example as a conversation starter with your child this week. Ask them about their goals. Maybe they’ve never thought about setting goals before! What do they want to achieve this year? Maybe a few years from now? Maybe by the end of their high school career? Is it something academic focused? Club focused? A goal towards a certain spiritual discipline? What do they hope that achievement brings them? That can be a great conversation and an important reminder for these students that Jesus wants our hearts. He wants us to be a light for Him in our sphere of influence (whatever it is we are doing), and He cares about our journey as we follow Him; not just the achievements that may come as a result of our work!  

As parents, educators, and leaders, we get to invest in something far greater than trophies. We are shaping hearts and minds for eternity. And that’s worth far more than any Super Bowl ring.

So as we watch the big games and celebrate the incredible athletic achievements on display, let’s remember: the greatest victory has already been won, not on a field, but on the cross.

And that victory in Christ is the only one that truly satisfies. 

Parenting is both a privilege and a responsibility, especially when it comes to the spiritual formation of children. At Calvary, we believe the home is the primary place where a child’s faith is nurtured and developed. Yet, recent research highlights the challenges parents face in successfully passing down their beliefs to the next generation.

A study by Francis, Fawcett, and McKenna found that only half of a parent's religiosity is successfully transmitted to their children. Even more sobering is the statistic that when only one parent is a believer, the likelihood of passing down their faith drops to just 22%. These numbers remind us of the importance of an intentional and unified effort in nurturing faith at home.

Unfortunately, family devotion time has become less common than in previous generations. This decline has significant implications for the relational and spiritual dynamics of the family. Research conducted by ACSI reveals that families who prioritize devotion time together experience notable benefits:

• A 15% increase in children feeling comfortable talking to their parents about faith.
• A 20% increase in families spending quality time together.
• A 12% increase in parents being willing to discuss anything with their children.

These findings reinforce what Scripture teaches about the importance of intentional time spent in worship, prayer, and conversation within the family unit. Significantly, studies show that the specific materials used during family devotion time are less important than the habits themselves. Simply reading the Bible together and praying as a family have the most enduring impact on children’s spiritual growth.

As parents, your role in shaping your children’s biblical worldview cannot be overstated. More than anyone else, you have the opportunity and responsibility to model and instill faith in your children. We exist to partner with you in this eternally significant work! While our programs and teaching aim to reinforce a biblical worldview and truth, the home is where these values must be cultivated and lived out daily.

We encourage you to prioritize family devotion time, no matter how simple it might be. If you need a starting point, head over to the CCS app and click on the family devotion tile. There you’ll find monthly and annual devotionals to support your family devotion routine. Your intentionality will not only shape your children’s faith but also strengthen your family relationships in profound ways. Let’s continue the work to teach truth and prepare disciples!