Description

Balancing the budget for private Christian education isn’t as simple as charging tuition. Unlike public schools with reliable tax funding, these schools depend on a mix of tuition, fundraising, and sometimes limited government support. Why doesn’t tuition cover everything? How do schools fund essential programs and improvements? And why should the entire community care about investing in these institutions?

In this episode of Clearly Christian, Dr. Cy Smith, longtime leader and Superintendent of Mansfield Christian School and trusted advisor to schools across Ohio, sits down with producer Bryan Lefelhoc to unpack these questions. Cy explains how private Christian schools wear three hats at once: educational institutions, ministries, and businesses. He talks about the critical role of fundraising, not just to keep the lights on but to create opportunities that transform students’ lives, from building new programs to offering better pay for teachers.

Cy also shares the emotional and strategic challenges of asking for donations in a way that respects families already paying tuition while inspiring them to see the eternal impact of their gifts. He discusses the art of building genuine donor relationships, the importance of showing clear value and outcomes, and even recounts personal stories of supporters whose giving journey evolved from small annual gifts to million-dollar commitments. His candid advice to other school leaders emphasizes planning carefully, dedicating staff, securing buy-in from the board, and resisting the temptation to over-leverage growth projections.

If you are relied upon for fundraising, or if you want to know more about what makes Christian schools sustainable and impactful, this episode is worth a listen. Be sure to follow Clearly Christian so you don’t miss future episodes exploring how to see the world from God’s perspective and help train the next generation to do the same.

Key Takeaways

• Christian schools must think like educational institutions, ministries, and businesses all at once.
• Tuition typically covers only 65–90% of budget needs; almost all schools rely on outside fundraising.
• Good budgeting avoids counting volatile fundraising dollars as core revenue, instead using them for extras.
• Asking for donations can feel awkward, but mission clarity helps communicate real value to supporters.
• Fundraising isn't just “begging”, it’s inviting investment in transforming students’ lives and communities.
• Strong community support makes Christian schools viable options, attracting families to the region.
• Successful campaigns require dedicated staff and complete buy-in from the school board.
• Non-profits need a “profit mindset,” planning for surplus that can be reinvested immediately.
• Moving donors from head knowledge to heart connection is key to securing transformational gifts.
• Avoid risky assumptions about future enrollment growth covering borrowed capital campaign funds.

Chapters

00:17 Introduction to Clearly Christian Podcast

02:22 The Private Christian School Framework

05:43 The Role of Fundraising in Budgeting

09:41 Growing Comfortable Fundraising

13:26 Raising Funds from the Wider Community

16:50 “We Need More Christians”

22:23 Profitable Non-Profit Organizations

25:22 Fundraising That Makes A Difference

29:48 Fundraising Mistakes to Avoid

32:57 Connect with Dr. Cy Smith

35:46 Fundraising at Mansfield Christian School

11:55 Closing Thoughts

Helpful Links:  

Mansfield Christian School Capital Campaign: https://www.mcsflames.org/give

Dr. Cy Smith, Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/