Behind Closed Doors
The Heart of WC Seen Through the Eyes of the Board of Directors
Pictured back-to-front, left-to-right: Dr. Mike Hayes, John Barron, Gene Brooks, Steve Reale, Pastor Zac Hess, Tammi Spayde, Taylor McGowen, and Scott Dissinger. Picture provided by Brian Shindle of Creative Moments.
To the average person, the concept of an organization’s Board of Directors may carry an air of mystery. In the board room, a broad range of far-reaching decisions are made, those which guide the direction in the day-to-day, as well as in the long-term, for the organization. The Worthington Christian School Board of Directors is comprised of seven members and “is charged with the school’s governance. The head of school serves as a non-voting member of the board.
The Board of Directors serves several roles, including supervising the head of school; setting policy, determining the long-term vision, approving the annual budget, and overseeing the physical development of the school. Last year’s celebration of the school’s 50th Anniversary is a testament to God’s hand of faithfulness and to the wisdom and insights that the Board of Directors has contributed over the years. This, too, is evident in the growth of WC’s academics, co-curriculum, facilities, and student body over the past five decades.
In conversation with Head of School Dr. Mike Hayes, and Board President John Barron, it quickly became evident that the operations of the Board of Directors bear little resemblance to the stereotypical image of the “cold” boardroom that the term might conjure. Indeed, the WC Board communicates a great heart and concern for the well-being and success of the school’s students.
When asked about their perspective on the goal and mission of WC, Hayes and Barron were quick to refer to the stated mission:
“Worthington Christian School develops the mind of Christ in students through rigorous intellectual, creative, and physical pursuits.”
This united response is evidence of a cohesive focus and purpose that guides the multifaceted and ongoing decision-making process. Hayes elaborates, “Ultimately, the school’s goal is to disciple our students, in partnership with parents, to be transformative agents in our culture.” Barron affirms that “We are always focused on the experience that our students have, from the playground to the classroom, to athletics, to the arts; [we are] passionate about Christian education to prepare the whole person to be well-rounded, with an education that is focused on Christ and the Bible.”
The Board of Directors represents the interests of students, parents, administrators, teachers, and staff, ensuring that WC “[remains] committed to its biblical core.” The board members bring their professional expertise to the table and that of parents, alumni parents, and grandparents. They focus on students and their overall experience inside and outside the classroom. Additionally, the Board of Directors seeks to listen to parents’ concerns as they oversee the school. The Board of Directors also supports the staff “by providing compensation, benefits, and a growth-oriented work environment.” In addition, board members value the opportunity to connect with faculty and staff at various events and have been seen volunteering and coaching in various capacities over the years. Some current priorities of the Board entail strategic planning, growth management, and working through the ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) accreditation process, which represents a “vigorous, holistic process of organizational appraisal and improvement that engages every school constituent.”
Barron expressed his appreciation and support for his fellow board members and their diverse talents and expertise. Barron also expressed incredible respect for Hayes, who has begun his second year at the school’s helm, having come to the position after a national search. He describes Hayes as “a great listener, very smart and caring, with great vision and ability to interact with people.”
While the work of the board may occur mainly behind closed doors, their respective and collective heart(s) for both day-to-day matters, as well as the long-term impact of the school in the lives of their students is evident, as they undertake decision-making that continues to be unmistakably guided by prayer and the stated vision of the school:
“Worthington Christian School will pursue excellence in teaching and learning out of love for God and the world He has made. Our students will develop a curiosity about creation, cultivate a love for truth, beauty, and great ideas, and exhibit wisdom that reveals God’s kingdom.”
The fruit of this faithful, ongoing, and collaborative effort is unmistakably seen in students’ lives—past, present, and, LORD willing, future.
Picture provided by Brian Shindle of Creative Moments Photography.