Ohio Christian school reveals master plan for massive expansion, new programs, and partnerships

Source: mcsflames.org

Mansfield Christian School (MCS) recently celebrated 60 years of Christian education with more plans for future growth announced. On October 25th, the institution held a banquet commemorating their widespread success in Christian education. The school’s enrollment is up nearly 30 percent over the last two years, with a current enrollment of around 650 K-12 students. 

During the banquet at the Mid-Ohio Conference Center, Superintendent Cy Smith revealed a new master plan to advance the school’s educational beliefs, strengthen its ministry influence, and meet the needs of its increased student population. The plan centers around a building expansion on land the school currently owns and has recently acquired—some 90 acres in all. 

The expansion is the most ambitious leap forward to date for the school. The building would include a multipurpose auditorium, a gymnasium, a new chapel, and a fine arts center. “We host every daily event including chapels in either the cafeteria or the gym. We do the best we can, but neither venue was designed to achieve all that we’re asking them to do,” Smith said. The plan also includes many renovations such as updated sound systems, lighting, and video equipment to further the school’s reach. 

The superintendent also announced two other aspects of the plan: a new ‘career-focused path’ program for high school students and a plan to eliminate current debt owed by the school. The career program is named “Schools of Distinction” and focuses on preparing students for future careers while also integrating a Christian worldview into the curriculum. The program includes specialized courses, internships, apprenticeships, mentorships, and many other experiential learning opportunities in the areas of STEM, medicine, ministry, and business. 

MCS also hopes to partner with smaller Christian institutions as the school grows and expands its offerings. These partnerships might include planting new schools in deprived areas without access to Christian education. 

The school is meeting with stakeholders and conducting further studies to formalize its ambitious master plan.