July 2024 Newsletter
Spreading remarkable God-centered education in the city
Dear Friends,
Spreading Hope Network exists to spread remarkable, God-centered education in our nation’s cities, as we come alongside current and future kingdom entrepreneurs to launch and scale pioneering Christian schools, focused on underserved communities.
We’re building a team to take us places we haven’t been before in our next chapter, and we have some updates for you and ways you could help.
Also, enjoy an update on how we’ve been building community this summer and an opportunity for you to grow in the ability to create “calm” at your schools.
In Christ,
Michael Bolland
Managing Director
Building our Team
To start, let’s celebrate Dan Olson, our co-Founder, who as of the end of May has transitioned off of staff, while maintaining a seat on our Board of Directors.
Under Dan’s leadership Spreading Hope Network came to fruition and our organization has become a force in the Urban Christian Ed landscape. Under his leadership, we’ve helped to start 20 schools & campuses in under-resourced neighborhoods across the country, an incredible feat considering the original 10-year goal was 10 schools. Here we are only seven years later, surpassing double that original intended mark. Praise the Lord for Dan’s faithful work over these years. He’s now become the Vice President of Presbyterian Homes Foundation. Join us in giving thanks for Dan’s faithful 7 years with SHN.
Next, we get to report exciting news of a brand-new team member.
Tom Jones, is joining our team in the seat of School Launching Director!
He’ll be focusing on recruiting new Founders as well as being the main facilitator of our School Launching process. We’re thrilled the Lord provided someone with a great passion to see the gospel of Jesus Christ advanced via education. Tom has immense experience – over 20 years – in educational development regionally for the Horn of Africa, where he helped to get the International School of Djibouti get off the ground. He embodies the entrepreneurial grit and sacrifice all of our school leaders showcase year after year, and we’re excited for all the ways he’ll enable us to scale the number of urban Christian classical schools we’re launching in a given year. He’ll start his new role with Spreading Hope on August 1st, so join us in giving thanks to the Lord for the provision of added leadership capacity.
Finally, how can you help us build our team?
We’re looking for the right fit for our Advancement Director position. We’d love someone who’s well-networked, a great storyteller, and wants to implement a ministry-hearted approach with those who generously engage with our mission.
Click on the link below to see more about the great work this position will do.
Advancement Director Job Posting
Consider applying or sharing this opportunity with people you know.
Pass along leads to michael.bolland@spreading-hope.org.
Building Community
June Events Recap
Earlier last month, we were able to both convene a group of Urban School Leaders in Washington DC as well as host a group of leaders at Hope Academy for another great Plunge. The highlight for me in these events is the joy of reminding leaders that the work of this movement – building access to God-centered education – is close to the heart of God and we get the joy of partnering with Him in it all. May God continue to enable greater connection in this movement of Urban Christian education.
Building Calm
Registration is Open!
The next “Flourishing the City” event is on Friday, August 2nd.
Join us from 1:00-2:30pm CT!
Cultivating Calm: Strategies for Managing Stress and Promoting Resilience in Christian Schools
In this interactive and reflective webinar, educators in Christian schools will explore effective strategies and habits for handling stress and feeling overwhelmed. Dr. Justina Jenkins and Darrell Gillespie, Head of Family Ministry for Hope Academy, will lead us through meaningful discussions as we generate practical ideas on how to reach our goal of shaping an environment that promotes peace and resilience in the face of difficult and stressful situations. This session will also delve into how teachers can support students in managing their stress and developing the skills to respond to and recover from challenges effectively. Participants will leave with actionable insights and a strengthened sense of community support.
For more info & previous session recordings, visit acsi.org/city
Click here to register today!
[We had a great event on Aug 2nd – Recording Link]
Visit Hope Academy
Spreading Hope Network hosts current and emerging school leaders for immersive experiences at Hope Academy to showcase our successful school model. We call these Plunges – a 1.5 day behind-the-scenes look at our flagship remarkable, God-centered classical school for the children of the city.
The next Plunge will be September 26th-27th.
Email michael.bolland@spreading-hope.org to register.
Spread Hope through Generous Giving
Spreading Hope Network is sustained by individuals, foundations, and businesses who are passionate about spreading a banquet of remarkable, God-centered education for children of the city.
Learn more here
Our Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Unlocking the financial resources so every single child in America can have access to a Christ-centered education.
Bronze Sponsors
Coming alongside Christian organizations like yours to implement best practice fundraising and capacity building strategies.
Producing classical curricula and media with a clear design, all with a touch of delight, creativity, and flair.
