The Race to Equity report paints a stark reality of educational disparities among ethnic groups in greater Madison. This report has generated much problem-solving discussion among a cross section of leadership within the city. Madison Christian Schools (West and East Campuses) is in a unique position to respond to this real crisis. The Madison Christian Giving Fund has partnered with MCS in helping solve this problem by granting $5000 to support scholarships for local underprivileged students.
MCS has a proven track record of academic excellence with a strong biblical foundation. While other schools focus increasing amounts of time, talent, and real money trying to solve student behavioral issues, MCS focuses on values formation and solid academics. MCS also has a strong vision for providing quality, Gospel-focused, Christian education for all students, regardless of ethnicity or economic ability.
While both campuses have always served people from all ethnicities, historically some minority students have not been able to enroll because of private education tuition and fees. “The grant will help provide access for minority students” says Diann Cook, Superintendent of Madison Christian Schools.
Diann continues, “As a result of the education crises in Madison, the leaders of MCS have launched a strategic initiative called “You Have a Choice,” whereby both East and West MCS Campuses will offer four new seats to students of color at or below the poverty line in each of the following classrooms for the 2016-2017 school year: kindergarten and first grade at both campuses, and ninth grade at the East Campus.”
The goal for this initiative is to offer four seats in each of the following classrooms for the 2016/17 school year – Kindergarten and first at both campuses, 9th grade at east campus. This means offering a potential of 20 students who live at or below the poverty line full-scholarships to receive a quality education based on Christian values.
In addition,
1. MCS will provide access to transportation.
2. MCS will provide free or low cost breakfast and lunch to those students who qualify.
3. MCS will provide mentors to the students and their parents and additional after school tutoring support for kindergarten and first grade students.
4. MCS will partner with a local daycare provider, parents from the school, or community center for after school care as necessary.
“One of the key features of the “You Have a Choice” initiative is the partnership between students, parents, churches, and Christians in the community,” according to Diann. This kind of partnership is highly valued by the Madison Christian Giving Fund.
Diann concludes, “Christians in Madison who are people of means can help solve the educational crises we are now facing. A relatively modest investment will go a long way toward empowering students of color to be successful in school and in life, and some will become Christ-followers and go on to make a Kingdom difference in the world.”
To donate, volunteer, or for more information about the “You Have a Choice” initiative, contact:
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Doug Butler, Principal, Abundant Life Christian School (MCS East Campus): dbutler@mcs-wi.com, 608) 221-1520.
- Chuck Moore, Principal, High Point Christian School (MCS West Campus): cmoore@mcs-wi.com, 608) 836-7170.