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TRANSFORMING KANSAS COMMUNITIES THROUGH FAITH-BASED EDUCATION

Become a HERO Today

Join Our Network of Kansas Faith Leaders and Educators Making a Difference

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” โ€‹

 

Matthew 9:37-38

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About HERO

The Heartland Education Reformation Organization (HERO) is a nonprofit group that helps connect Kansas churches and educators who want to start or support creative Christian learning environments (CCLEs).

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Many Kansas families are looking for more options when it comes to education. They want school choice that aligns with their religious beliefs. HERO works to meet this need by making it easier for CCLEs to get started and succeed with help from local churches.

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By partnering Kansas churches and Christian educators, HERO aims to increase access to quality, values-centered education opportunities in the heartland and across the nation. We provide resources, connections, and guidance to empower these community-driven efforts.

Our Goals

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1

Encourage Kansas churches to get involved with creative Christian learning environments by providing spiritual, financial, or material support, which can include hosting a microschool.

A picture of Courage Academy founders smiling next to a lawn sign stating that they are enrolling now

2

Assist Kansas educators and founders who are interested in starting new faith-based microschools in their communities.

A picture of a wooden bridge - HERO will work to link churches and Christian educators to form strong partnerships that will bring high-quality Christian education to their communities

3

Act as a bridge linking churches that want to help with the educators and creative Christian learning environments that need support.

How It Works

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There are several ways for churches to get involved in supporting high-quality Christian education in Kansas. 

Kansas Educators can join the HERO network to get listed in our directory and get connected with donors and supporters. 

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News & Updates

What Your Church Is Missing in Its Mission
45:47

What Your Church Is Missing in Its Mission

In this insightful episode of WISE and Otherwise, host Dalena Wallace is joined by Kristie Flohra, the implementation lead at Soaring Education Services. With over 28 years of experience in Christian education, Kristie shares her journey from a principal to spearheading initiatives that help churches and individuals launch Christian schools. Together, they discuss the vision behind Soaring Education Services, a branch of OpenSky Education, and how their mission is making Christian education accessible and affordable. Kristie dives into the step-by-step process of launching a Christian school, addressing common questions like "Where do I start?" and "How do I create a mission and vision?" She also reveals the importance of feasibility studies, curriculum choices, and community engagement, helping aspiring school founders navigate their path with clarity and faith. Whether you're a pastor, homeschool parent, or educator with a calling to build a Christ-centered school, this episode offers practical guidance and encouragement to pursue your God-given mission. Donโ€™t miss out on learning how to turn your vision into a thriving Christian school! Tune in for valuable insights, tools, and resources to start your own Christian microschool or innovative educational ministry. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about Soaring Education Services, please visit their website: https://www.soaringeducation.org/
Changing Lives Through Faith and Innovation: Meet Kidvation Global
36:38

Changing Lives Through Faith and Innovation: Meet Kidvation Global

In this inspiring episode of the "WISE and Otherwise" podcast, host Dalena Wallace sits down with Harold and Brent, co-founders of Kidvation, an organization dedicated to empowering youth through entrepreneurship and life skills rooted in faith. Discover how Kidvation combines innovative thinking with project-based learning to create a transformative educational experience for students aged 8 to 15. Harold and Brent share their journey, from the inception of Kidvation to their impactful partnerships with churches and schools. Listen as they discuss the importance of integrating faith into their curriculum, providing real-world pathways for youth entrepreneurship, social activism, and global collaboration. Learn about their unique projects, like the inspiring story of Holy Hydration water bottles and the creation of Hope Apparel, a clothing brand started by a young student. This episode delves into the significance of involving young people in meaningful, faith-driven projects and how Kidvation's programs are making a tangible difference in the lives of students and educators alike. Harold and Brent also highlight their partnerships with faith-based organizations and the importance of equipping the next generation to face today's challenges with a Christ-centered mindset. Tune in to explore the dynamic ways Kidvation is shaping future leaders, empowering them to speak into Godโ€™s economy, and fostering a sense of purpose and innovation in todayโ€™s youth. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about Kidvation Global, please visit their website: https://kidvationglobal.com/
Building a Better School: A Teacher's Bold Move from Public to Private
40:06

Building a Better School: A Teacher's Bold Move from Public to Private

Join us in this episode of WISE and Otherwise as we delve into the transformative journey of Josiah Enyart, the founder of Freedom Learning Academy in the Kansas City area. Discover how Josiah transitioned from a disillusioned public school teacher to a pioneering educational entrepreneur, creating a unique and effective learning environment for children. Josiah shares pivotal moments that led him to start his own school, discusses systemic issues in public education, and describes how he transformed his basement into a thriving educational space. Hear about the overwhelming community support, Josiah's philosophy of balancing strong academics with parental rights to teach religious and political beliefs, and gain practical insights into starting a micro school and fostering church-school partnerships. This episode is a must-listen for homeschool parents, parents of students, educational entrepreneurs, Christian educators, and anyone interested in innovative education models. Whether you're considering starting your own school, looking for alternatives to public education, or seeking inspiration from a passionate educator's journey, this episode offers valuable insights and motivation. Tune in to WISE and Otherwise and explore how one teacher's frustration with the public school system led to the creation of a revolutionary learning academy that is making a significant difference in the lives of many children. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about Freedom Learning Academy, please visit their website: https://freedomlearningacademy.com/
Can Faith and Learning Coexist in Innovative School Models?
31:50

Can Faith and Learning Coexist in Innovative School Models?

Welcome back to another insightful episode of WISE and Otherwise! ๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Today, we're delving into a compelling question: Can faith and learning coexist in modern education? Join Dalena Wallace as she sits down with David Pierce, the pastor at Sherwood Bible Church in Kansas City, to explore this intriguing topic. In this episode, Pastor David shares the incredible journey of how Sherwood Bible Church has become a beacon for faith-based learning in their community. Discover how their unique approach to education integrates biblical principles with academic excellence, creating a nurturing environment for students and families alike. Learn about the story behind Sherwood Bible Church's partnership with Refine KC, the challenges and triumphs of transforming church spaces into educational hubs, the role of prayer and community support in fostering successful educational initiatives, and Pastor David's insights on the importance of faith-based education in today's world. Whether you're a parent, educator, pastor, or simply curious about innovative education models, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. ๐Ÿ‘ If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring content. Share this video with friends and family to spread the word about the transformative power of faith-based education. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about Sherwood Bible Church, please visit their website: https://sherwood.org/ For more information about Refine KC, please visit their website: https://www.refinekcschool.com/
Reviving Education Through Biblical Principles
29:01

Reviving Education Through Biblical Principles

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Wise and Otherwise! ๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to two remarkable individuals transforming the landscape of Christian education. Join Dalena Wallace as she sits down with Pastor Kyle Lammott of Exodus Church and Kyle Waters, the head of St. Boniface Academy, a groundbreaking hybrid classical Christian school in Wichita. Discover the inspiring story behind St. Boniface Academy and learn about their mission to integrate faith and learning in a unique educational model. In this episode, you'll hear about the vision and journey of founding St. Boniface Academy, the importance of hybrid Christian schooling and the three-day model, how education and discipleship go hand in hand, the role of the church in supporting and partnering with parents, and the long-term goals and generational impact of St. Boniface Academy. Pastor Kyle and Kyle Waters share their passion for providing a robust biblical education that prepares children to advance God's kingdom in all aspects of life. Whether you're a parent, educator, or church leader, this conversation is sure to inspire and encourage you. ๐Ÿ‘ If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring content. Share this video with friends and family to spread the word about the transformative power of faith-based education. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about St. Boniface Academy, please visit their website: https://saintbonifaceacademy.org/
Radiant Partnerships Building Faith-Based Schools
38:07

Radiant Partnerships Building Faith-Based Schools

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Wise and Otherwise! ๐ŸŒŸ Are you passionate about innovative education and the role of faith in learning? Join us as we dive into the story of The Plug Academy with its visionary founder, Olivia Tickles. In this episode, Olivia shares her journey from mentoring students to establishing a faith-based school that blends education with emotional and mental support. Discover how The Plug Academy is transforming lives through its unique partnership with Radiant Church, providing a safe and nurturing environment for students with diverse needs. Olivia's dedication to individualized, relationship-based education shines through as she discusses the challenges and triumphs of starting a school from the ground up. ๐ŸŒฟ Topics Covered: The origin and mission of The Plug Academy The impact of COVID-19 on educational models Building strong community and church partnerships Addressing mental health and behavioral challenges in students The importance of faith-based principles in modern education Don't miss this uplifting conversation that highlights the power of mentorship, faith, and innovative education models. Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply interested in the future of learning, this episode is for you! ๐Ÿ‘ If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring content. Share this video with friends and family to spread the word about the transformative power of faith-based education. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about The Plug Academy, please visit their website: https://theplugacademy.org/
How Churches and Schools Can Partner to Transform Christian Education
34:45

How Churches and Schools Can Partner to Transform Christian Education

In this inspiring episode of WISE and Otherwise, host Dalena Wallace sits down with Shalin Klein, founder of Rise Academy in Manhattan, Kansas. Shalin shares her remarkable journey from being a homeschooled student to founding a unique hybrid school model that partners with a local church. Discover how Shalin's faith and obedience to God's calling led her to establish a school that blends the best of homeschooling and traditional education, providing a strong foundation for children in a nurturing, faith-based environment. Shalin and Dalena discuss the challenges and blessings of starting a school, the importance of community and church support, and the incredible impact a Christian education can have on students and families. Learn about the innovative ways Rise Academy integrates faith into the curriculum, fosters a sense of community among students, and equips them to stand firm in their beliefs in today's world. If you're a Christian parent, educator, school founder, or church leader, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice on how to create and support faith-based educational initiatives. Tune in to hear Shalin's inspiring story and discover how you can play a part in this exciting movement to transform Christian education. Don't miss out on this uplifting conversation that highlights the power of faith, community, and education! Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about Rise Academy, please visit their website: https://www.riseacademymhk.com/
Reclaiming the Classroom through Faith-Based Support
19:28

Reclaiming the Classroom through Faith-Based Support

Welcome to another enlightening episode of WISE and Otherwise! ๐ŸŒŸ Join host Dalena Wallace as she dives into an inspiring conversation with Jesica Glover from Kingdom Educators. Discover the driving force behind this unique initiative aimed at empowering teachers through faith and purpose. Jesica shares her journey from a reluctant educator to a passionate advocate for calling out the gold in students and teachers alike. Explore the transformative power of faith-based teaching, the challenges educators face, and how Kingdom Educators is making a difference. Whether you're a public school teacher, private school educator, or homeschool parent, Jesica's insights on finding purpose and reigniting your passion for teaching will resonate deeply. Learn about the story behind Kingdom Educators and its mission, how to find and embrace your calling as an educator, practical strategies to maintain motivation and purpose in teaching, the importance of community and support for teachers, and insights on innovative faith-based educational practices. Don't miss this episode filled with encouragement, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on the role of faith in education. Perfect for Christian educators looking to reignite their passion and purpose. Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education! HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/ For more information about Kingdom Educators, please visit their website: https://kingdomeducators.com/
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