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413: How Core Values and Leadership Development Strengthen Teams in Christian Schools

Best Christian Workplaces : October, 28 2024

Fantastic Teams Educators Culture Inspirational Leadership

413: How Core Values and Leadership Development Strengthen Teams in Christian Schools

In this episode, Dr. Jason Rachels, president of Calvary Christian Academy, shares his insights on leading a thriving Christian educational institution while staying true to core values. From leadership development to fostering a vibrant spiritual life, Jason offers practical wisdom for leaders looking to make a lasting impact in their organizations.

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In this episode:

Energizing School Growth and Smooth Operations:

Each of Calvary Christian Academy’s four campuses experienced growth in student enrollment. (03:56)
Smooth start to the school year with positive feedback from principals. (04:02)
National growth in Christian education supported by state vouchers and parents seeking alternatives post-COVID. (04:35)

Core Values and Leadership:

Jason emphasizes the importance of core values in organizational health. (05:42)
Laminated cards with core values are used as reminders for staff. (06:05)
Hiring is guided by core values, and leaders are encouraged to make hiring decisions aligned with these values. (07:17)

Challenges in Hiring and Maintaining Christian Culture:

The challenge of finding qualified candidates who fit the Christian mission and values. (08:06)
Importance of being willing to part ways with those who don't align with the school’s core values. (08:16)
Partnership with the Colson Center for biblical worldview training for staff. (08:37)

Leadership Qualities and Development:

Foundational character traits include integrity, humility, collaboration, and a heart for excellence. (10:10)
Leadership competencies include communication, confidence, and the ability to delegate. (10:58)
Jason participates in a peer advisory group for ongoing leadership development and growth. (13:14)

Soul-Keeping and Spiritual Growth

Core Values: Emphasis on the organization’s core value of soul-keeping. (16:15)
Soul-Keeping Practices:
- Shared the book Soul Keeping by John Ortberg. (17:38)
- Importance of personal responsibility in spiritual growth; God supports but does not force. (17:48)
- Encouragement to engage in prayer, reading Scripture, fellowship, and worship. (17:59)

Challenges Faced by Christian Leaders

Persistent Challenges: Issues like wrong doctrines and distractions that hinder effective leadership are not new. (18:38)
Focus on Truth:
- Importance of standing firm in faith and following God’s commandments. (18:42)
- Need for leaders to prioritize seeking God's Kingdom over personal agendas. (18:48)
Inspirational Leadership Barriers:
- Failure to build a solid team and wise systems leads to being overwhelmed by urgent tasks. (19:26)
- Personal shortcomings in faith can prevent leaders from fulfilling their roles effectively. (19:50)
- Reference to 2 Peter: cultivating virtues to avoid ineffectiveness. (20:01)

Navigating Change in Education

Confidence in Change: Leaders must be bold and wise when implementing changes, regardless of pushback. (21:09)
Communication and Patience: Emphasis on clear communication and a phased approach to avoid overwhelming stakeholders. (21:27)
Long-Term Planning: Balancing the need for change with a strategic, gradual implementation. (21:33)

Discernment and Leadership

Understanding the Times: A biblical reference to the sons of Issachar highlights the importance of understanding current trends and making informed decisions. (22:01)
Alignment with Mission: Ensuring that changes benefit students, faculty, and God’s Kingdom, even if they require significant effort from staff. (22:28)
Focus on Development: Creating a culture that emphasizes spiritual and personal growth among faculty and students. (23:02)

Empowering Leaders and Teams

Commitment to Growth: Appreciation for organizations like Best Christian Workplace that provide valuable insights into staff engagement and culture. (24:31)

Risk-Taking: Encouragement for Christian leaders to take thoughtful risks to further God’s Kingdom. (24:53)
Team Empowerment: Emphasis on building a strong team and delegating authority to empower others in their roles. (25:07)