Strategic Plan 2008-2013 Approved

by Thomas DeJonge, Superintendent, Grand Rapids Christian Schools

Elementary consolidation is part of the plan to strengthen and sustain Christian education for new generations

The Board of Trustees approved the 2008-2013 Strategic Plan as presented at the June 16, 2008 meeting. The plan includes strategies supporting four strategic initiatives:

     1. Consolidation of the Creston, Evergreen, Millbrook, and Oakdale Christian School campuses
     2. Advancement
     3. Tuition assistance and financial aid
     4. School program

Site Evaluations
Grand Rapids Christian Schools (GRCS) submitted a bid on June 12, 2008 to purchase Iroquois Middle School from Grand Rapids Public Schools as a potential site for the consolidated elementary school. This bid was contingent upon several factors, including the approval of the purchase by the Grand Rapids Christian Schools Board of Trustees and firm commitments for the funding necessary to acquire and redevelop the property.

On August 18, 2008, Grand Rapids Public School Board of Education members voted to approve our offer of $1.95 million. The Board of Trustees will now complete a comprehensive study of the Iroquois property and the Grand Rapids Christian Middle School property to determine which of these two sites is best suited for the consolidated elementary school. A final site determination is not anticipated until December 15, 2008.

About the Strategic Planning Committee

  • Originally convened by the GRCS Board of Trustees in the fall of 2003 to develop a four-year strategic plan, the GRCS Strategic Planning Committee was reconvened by the Board in January 2007 to develop a strategic plan for 2008-2013. The committee consists of members of the GRCS Board of Trustees, administrative staff, and superintendent.
  • In August 2007, the Strategic Planning Committee presented the Board of Trustees with strategic goals and initiatives reflecting the organizational vision as well as accomplishments recommended to advance the vision. Following approval of the strategic goals in September 2007, the Board of Trustees directed the Strategic Planning Committee to form community task forces to study each initiative and prepare reports and recommendations by early 2008.
  • In June 2008, the Board of Trustees voted and approved the 2008-2013 Strategic Plan, which includes a call for a single-campus consolidation of Creston, Evergreen, Millbrook, and Oakdale Christian School campuses. The consolidation plan was one of four major strategic initiatives, as noted above, approved as part of the 2008-2013 Strategic Plan, and is aimed at strengthening core programs, accessibility and funding.