Strategic Plan
Over a seven-month period, 30+ members of the ECS community prayed over, processed, and prepared a plan to guide ECS through the next season of growth.
The Strategic Plan includes four specific initiatives, each with tactical action steps that sub-committees will be focusing on to propel ECS forward over the next 5 years as we SOAR TO NEW HEIGHTS.
Strategic Plan Overview
Commitment to a Flourishing School Culture.
Cling to Biblical truth while clearly defining the school’s identity and direction.
Communicate the school’s purpose to staff, students, and families to build unity across the ECS community
Implement structures and systems that empower staff, students, & families to flourish.
Evaluate culture & support accountability for continuous improvement.
(as of June 2024) Strengthened hiring practices for 2026–2027 have resulted in a strong alignment between applicants and the ECS mission, as we continue prioritizing educators who are called to invest in both the spiritual and academic formation of our students. These improved practices created a more intentional and effective interview process, leading to the hiring of a new High School Assistant Principal along with several other key roles. In addition, the Flourishing School Culture Committee will be led by Mark Wickersham, Spiritual Formation Director, helping further cultivate a Christ-centered culture that supports both staff and students.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2
Want to learn more about our Flourishing School Culture Initiative? Contact Mike Allen, ECS Superintendent
Commitment to Instructional Excellence.
Deliver academic excellence from a Biblical worldview through instructional practices that empower students to love God with their minds.
Determine a common school-wide instructional framework.
Deliver comprehensive professional development for staff, faculty, and administration.
Challenge high-achieving students at all grade levels.
Implement a system to find, develop, and retain highly effective teachers.
(as of June 2024) ECS received full accreditation status through 2032, affirming the strength and integrity of our academic program. Continued work around academic coaching, Biblical integration, graduation plans, and responsible artificial intelligence use in the new school year will further strengthen student academic experiences. Specific areas of growth include a new phonics-based curriculum for PS-2nd grade, an advanced 6th grade math course, improved graduation plan processes for 7th-12th grade students, increased AP and dual credit opportunities for students, and work-based learning opportunities.
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9
Want to learn more about our Commitment to Instructional Excellence? Contact Initiative Leader, Tyra Harnishfeger, Chief Academic Officer.
Commitment to Comprehensive Facilities Planning.
Accommodate future growth and serve existing students through organizational space management.
Ensure adequate space for maximum capacity enrollment for all grades Preschool-12.
Ensure adequate space for administrative and professional development needs.
Identify property for a potential new high school development, allowing the middle school to occupy the current high school facility.
Explore plans for dedicated Athletics and Fine Arts facilities for all grades Preschool-12.
(as of June 2024) The partnership with Goebel Sports Park and various church partners continues to strengthen the athletic and fine arts opportunities for ECS students. Additionally, the ECS advancement team has launched a planning study in partnership with our fundraising partner, Mission Advancement, to discern capacity and timing in further facilities development.
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. Proverbs 16:3
Want to learn more about our Comprehensive Facilities Planning? Contact Initiative Leader, Andy Peter, ECS Board Secretary & Parent.
Commitment to Financial Strength & Stewardship.
Steward God-given resources to provide for the needs of a growing and thriving school.
Foster a culture of sacrificial generosity through a community of giving partners
Create a 3-5 year financial sustainability plan
Prioritize competitive levels of staff compensation
(as of June 2024) At ECS, we believe every family should have the opportunity to experience a Christ-centered education in a community where their child is known, loved, and encouraged to grow. We are committed to walking alongside families as they navigate tuition assistance options, including our partner SGO (Scholarship Granting Organization), the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, and ECS Tuition Assistance, so that finances aren’t an insurmountable barrier to exploring what God may have for their child at ECS. With Indiana’s new Universal Choice Scholarship now available, every Indiana family is eligible to receive tuition support, and we are honored to help families understand and access those opportunities.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful servants of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10
Want to learn more about our Financial Strength & Stewardship? Contact Initiative Leader, John Alvey, ECS Board Treasurer & Parent of Alumni.