Rowing, Not Drifting 2025 by Northwest Christian School

ROWING NOT DRIFTING

FEATURED ARTICLES

Cultivating a Christ-Centered Compass at Northwest Christian

Thriving in Mind, Body, & Spirit

Building a Legacy of Resource Management at NCS

ROWING NOT DRIFTING

GEOFF BROWN

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SUPERINTENDENT

I love the great outdoors. Specifically, I love kayaking at the lake.

Every time I’m at Lake Pleasant, I’m reminded of a time several years ago that very nearly ended in catastrophe. I was out kayaking with my youngest daughter. We were on the water, being carried to and fro by the wind and waves. I became distracted, pointing out different elements on the shore— cacti, rock formations, and whatnot. I had stopped rowing against the current and allowed the water to carry us alongside the shore. Be-

fore I knew it, I heard it— the unmistakable rattle of a rattlesnake.

There it was, less than six feet away, coiled up on the shore, ready to spring. By not paying attention to where we were going or what we were doing, I had coasted us right into danger. Let me tell you, I very quickly got us out of

that danger and moved us away from the area. It was then that I remembered a powerful lesson from a pastor friend of mine: rowing, not drifting. His point was that when we’re in pursuit of Christ, we need to make sure we’re rowing—not drifting, carried to and fro by the cares of this world.

It’s a powerful image for an individual. But in the years since then, it struck me how applicable it is to organizations, especially schools.

In schools, it’s very much the same. There’s always the opportunity to become distracted amidst the pressing busyness of the day-to-day. The education industry is rife with new initiatives and possibilities. If you’re not careful, you can set aside your paddle and begin drifting into danger. That’s why it’s important to use the passions, abilities, and talents that God has

given us—our paddles— to keep rowing in the direction of Christ.

For the last 12 years, on behalf of the school, I’ve collected a lot of data.

I’ve gathered data from student, faculty, and family surveys. I’ve collected it from our student information system, standardized tests, and research. I’ve assembled all that data, and we’re using it to set our course

and to row.

I’ve divided this data into what I call the four pillars of mission fulfillment.

The four pillars are:

1. Christian Worldview

2. Student Performance

3. Demonstrable Excellence

4. Stewardship

Through Rowing, Not Drifting, I want to show you how serious we are

about our partnership with parents, the academic and spiritual growth of our students, and continuous improvement.

We are serious about rowing hard in the direction of Christ.

And now, I invite you to turn the page and enjoy the presentation: Rowing, Not Drifting

CULTIVATING A CHRIST-CENTERED

COMPASS AT NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

In an era where the clamor of societal shifts can often drown out core values, Northwest Christian School (NCS) has steadfastly remained anchored to its mission: to provide a Bible-based program of education that enables students to develop a Christian worldview. At the heart of this commitment lies an intentional approach that integrates faith with every facet of education, ensuring that students are not merely prepared for academic success but also for lives deeply

rooted in Christ. A Mission Beyond Academics

“To provide a Bible-based program education that enables students to develop a Christian worldview.” This succinct yet powerful mission statement serves as the North Star for NCS, guiding every classroom discussion, extracurricular activity, and community initiative. But how does one measure success in something as profound as shaping a worldview? For NCS, the answer lies in a holistic evaluation of

both data and lived experiences.

Navigating by Data: Insights into the NCS Impact

Parents consistently affirm the transformative role of a Christian education at NCS. Comparing survey data from 2014 to 2023 reveals a remarkable trend: parental satisfaction has grown in alignment with the school’s ability to meet its Christ-centered goals. Families identify “Christian character development” as a top priority, and the school’s efforts to embed faith in ac-

ademics have resulted in over 90% satisfaction rates among parents.

Further, the integration of spiritual disciplines into the daily lives of students has birthed measurable fruit. A recent survey of high school students revealed a significant increase in regular prayer and Bible study habits. For instance, over 75% of students reported engaging in daily or weekly Bible reading, a testament to how NCS fosters a personal relationship with Christ beyond the classroom.

Where Faith Meets Diversity

NCS’ commitment to a Christian worldview transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. With a student body that is 20% non-European descent and representation from over 227 churches, the school celebrates diversity while uniting families under the banner of shared faith. This broad-

porting underserved communities in Costa Rica to engaging with local missions, these experiences encourage students to live out their faith in practical, impactful ways. These programs aren’t mere excursions—they’re life-changing opportunities for students to see the world through Christ’s eyes. Northwest Christian

ness not only enriches the student experience but also underscores the universal relevance of a Christ-centered education.

Transforming Lives Through Service Mission trips are another cornerstone of NCS’ strategy to cultivate a Christian worldview. In the 2022-2023 school year alone, over 229 students participated in local and international outreach initiatives. From sup-

School is more than an academic institution. It is a place where faith finds expression in every lesson, every interaction, and every heart transformed. Together, faculty, families, and students are rowing— not drifting—toward a future illuminated by the light of Christ.

WHY DO YOU SEND YOUR STUDENTS TO NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL?

Monitoring parental priorities and levels of satisfaction within those levels has remained a primary area of focus in every anonymous Parent Partnership Survey administered since 2010. In that Northwest Christian School’s mission statement gives clear emphasis to Biblical worldview formation, the school considers it critically important to partner with like-minded families.

On the next page, in a comparison that draws together parent responses from nearly a decade apart–Spring 2014 and Spring 2023–we observe that Christian worldview remains a primary determining factor in parental decision-making. As well, we see that the level of parental satisfaction within that choice remains very consistent.

SPRING 2014

SPRING 2023

BASED ON YOUR EXPRESSED PRIORITIES, HOW SATISFIED ARE YOU WITH YOUR CHOICE TO SEND YOUR STUDENTS TO NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL?

SPRING 2014

SPRING 2023

PICTURED ABOVE: MR. ETHAN BURSON & CLASS - MIDDLE SCHOOL BIBLE

NCS ETHNICITY DEMOGRAPHICS

THRIVING IN MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT: THE STUDENT PERFORMANCE PILLAT AT NCS

At Northwest Christian School (NCS), student performance isn’t merely measured by test scores or report cards; it’s reflected in the growth of each student—academically, personally, and spiritually. With a steadfast commitment to biblical principles and academic rigor, NCS ensures that students thrive in every area of life, fully prepared for the challenges of the modern world and grounded in their faith. For over 40 years, NCS has discovered a profound truth: aligning education with biblical principles produces not just scholars but leaders of character and conviction. The school’s mission is clear: God desires for students to thrive, and NCS sees its role as nurturing that potential through a combination of academic excellence and spiritual guidance. This belief is woven into every classroom, club, and activity, making it the bedrock of the

school’s approach to student performance. Academic performance at NCS reflects the school’s dedication to cultivating both knowledge and critical thinking. In the 2022-2023 school year, students achieved remarkable success across various benchmarks. Dual-enrollment opportunities—15 classes available through esteemed institutions— ensure that students graduate with college credit, giving them a head start in higher education. Additionally, standardized testing consistently places NCS students above national averages, a testament to the school’s rigorous curriculum and exceptional faculty. Graduates from NCS not only excel academically but also stand out for their values and integrity. Over the past five years, a significant percentage of graduates have gone on to attend Christian

universities, reflecting the alignment of their academic choices with their faith. Student performance at NCS isn’t confined to academics. From athletics to fine arts, the school fosters an environment where students can explore their passions and develop their God-given talents. In the past year, students have demonstrated excellence on the

field, in the choir, and on the stage, achieving state and regional accolades that highlight their dedication and teamwork. Spiritual growth is another cornerstone of NCS’ approach. Weekly chapels, Bible classes, and mission trips are integral to the student experience providing opportunities to deepen their faith and put it into action.

In 2023, over 229 students participated in mission trips, serving communities both locally and globally. These experiences not only build character but also reinforce the school’s commitment to nurturing compassionate, service-minded individuals. At NCS, parents entrust the school with their children’s most formative hours—five days a

week, 180 days a year. The school’s focus on student performance ensures that this investment yields lifelong dividends. By fostering a love for learning, a commitment to Christ, and a spirit of excellence, NCS prepares students to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. NCS’ approach to student performance is

not just about achieving high grades or awards; it’s about transformation. It’s about guiding students to become leaders who reflect the qualities of Christ: wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man. For parents, educators, and administrators seeking a place where students can flourish in mind, body, and spirit, Northwest Christian School

offers an unparalleled opportunity.

Together, the NCS community—students, families, and faculty—continues to row, not drift, toward a future of demonstrable excellence, all to the glory of God.

CAMPUS-WIDE ENROLLMENT BY CHURCH AFFILIATION, ALL PROGRAMS

NCS GIVES BACK

At Northwest Christian School (NCS), stewardship goes beyond financial responsibility—it’s about using every resource, opportunity, and talent to serve God’s Kingdom. This commitment is evident in the school’s dedication to service and community impact.

In the 2022-2023 school year, 229 students participated in school-sponsored mission trips, including six transformative experiences with Kids Kingdom, City of Joy, and Hope Partners in Costa Rica, as well as “MS Serve the City,” a local outreach initiative. These trips allowed students to live out their faith through hands-on service while fostering a global perspective. In 2023-2024, NCS has expanded its mission efforts, planning an impressive nine mission trips, reinforcing its dedication to shaping servant-hearted leaders.

The school’s financial stewardship underscores its commitment to equipping students for God’s work. In 2022-2023, NCS raised $128,791 in grants, demonstrating resourcefulness and alignment with its Christ-centered mission. Addi-

tionally, giving and tax credits further amplified the school’s financial support for programs that nurture students’ spiritual and academic growth. The benevolence fund, which currently holds $4,155.04, reflects the school community’s generosity, ensuring that financial aid is available to meet the needs of families and students alike.

Equally vital to the school’s mission is fostering meaningful relationships. NCS’s 40 Impact Groups and 57 Community Groups connect students in tight-knit settings, with 10-12 students per Impact Group and 7-10 students per Community Group. These environments allow students to develop spiritually, socially, and emotionally within a Christ-centered community.

For families searching for a school that exemplifies faith through action and stewardship, Northwest Christian School offers a compelling choice. Whether through missions, financial stewardship, or fostering community, NCS equips students to lead lives that glorify God and serve others.

2022/2023 SUMMATIVE ACHIEVEMENT DATA

FIVE-YEAR AVERAGE OF PERCENTAGE OF GRADUATIONS THAT ATTEND GCU, UNIVERSITY, CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY VS SECULAR UNIVERSITY

With many school choices for our kids, we knew we definitely wanted our children to be exposed to a Christian Education. The influence of the world on our children is a delicate balance of worldly wisdom and our core Christian values. We felt Northwest gave our children the greatest chance for success , spiritually, and education wise. With both academics and social activities driven by a strong Christian influence.

NUMBER OF STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN EACH PARTICULAR OFFER

KAREN JEFFERY, NCS ALUMNI PARENT

NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (NCS) IS A CHRIST-CENTERED COMMUNITY DEDICATED TO ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, SPIRITUAL GROWTH, AND SERVANT LEADERSHIP. WITH A MISSION TO INTEGRATE FAITH INTO EVERY ASPECT OF EDUCATION, NCS FOSTERS STRONG RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH IMPACT AND COMMUNITY GROUPS, OFFERS TRANSFORMATIVE MISSION TRIPS, AND EXCELS IN FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP. STUDENTS THRIVE ACADEMICALLY AND SPIRITUALLY, PREPARING TO LEAD LIVES THAT GLORIFY GOD AND MAKE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT IN THE WORLD.

“We’ve been recommending NCS to all of our friends. We always tell people, if you have the opportunity, enroll them into NCS because it’s life-changing

MIGUEL ÁLVAREZ, NCS PARENT

STEWARDSHIP IN ACTION: BUILDING A LEGACY OF FAITHFUL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Stewardship at Northwest Christian School extends beyond financial responsibility. It encompasses the thoughtful and prayerful management of every resource—financial, human, and physical—to advance the school’s mission of shaping students for Christ-centered lives.

As NCS continues to grow, its commitment to stewardship reflects a broader vision: fostering a community where students and families experience God’s provision and purpose in profound ways.

Central to the school’s philosophy is the belief that every resource is a gift from God, entrusted to the NCS community for His purposes. From maintaining state-of-the-art facilities to investing in top-tier faculty, every decision is made with a focus on maximizing Kingdom impact. By cultivating a culture of stewardship, NCS not only models

this value for students but also prepares them to be wise and faithful stewards in their own lives. The stewardship pillar at NCS directly supports the academic, spiritual, and extracurricular growth of students. In the 2023-2024 school year, the school allocated $108,000 for off-duty officer security, ensuring a safe learning environment for all. Similarly, advancements in technology, including the deployment of over 1,400 iPads, have enhanced classroom engagement and learning outcomes, equipping students for success in a digital world. Facilities management also reflects NCS’ commitment to stewardship. The average age of school buildings, adjusted with ongoing updates, is just 22 years, demonstrating a proactive approach to maintenance and modernization. Such efforts not only provide a conducive learning

environment but also exemplify the school’s dedication to long-term planning and sustainability.

One of the most significant aspects of stewardship at NCS is its investment in people. Teachers and staff are central to the school’s mission, and NCS ensures they are equipped and supported to thrive. Competitive payroll increases for the

2023-2024 school year underscore this priority, reflecting the school’s understanding that high-quality educators are essential to student success.

Mission trips, a hallmark of NCS’ spiritual development program, are another area where stewardship shines. In 2022-2023, the school organized nine trips, allowing students to

engage in service opportunities that transform lives—both their own and those they serve. These trips are made possible through the careful allocation of resources, reinforcing the school’s commitment to faith in action. NCS prioritizes transparency, offering families and stakeholders clear insights into how resources are managed.

From detailed tuition comparisons to data on fundraising initiatives, the school ensures that every dollar is accounted for and used to further its mission. For example, the benevolence fund raised approximately $75,000 in 2022-2023, directly supporting families in need and reflecting the community’s heart for generosity. For prospective families,

educators, and administrators, NCS offers an invitation to join a community committed to excellence in stewardship. By partnering with NCS, you become part of a legacy that honors God through careful resource management, visionary planning, and a focus on student success.

Northwest Christian School’s stewardship

is not just about sustaining operations—it’s about building a future where students are prepared to lead with faith and integrity. Together, the NCS community is rowing, not drifting, guided by the unwavering principles of stewardship and the promise of God’s provision.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

Student engagement and perceptions of inclusive community are hugely important in the spiritual formation process. Studies show that a student’s perception of their own connectedness has a direct correlation with their self-perceived capacity for spiritual growth and the trajectory of their learning.

At Northwest Christian, we call this “stitching”. Biblical worldview tells us that we are “Imago Dei”--created in the image and likeness of God. According to Psalm 37:4, if we delight ourselves in the Lord, He shapes our heart’s desires so that we crave the things that He desires for ourselves and the world around us. Believing that, we must recognize that the interests, hobbies, and passions that our students possess are uniquely vested within them by their Creator. “Stitching” recognizes that these interests are, in a form, “threads” that we can use to weave our students into the fabric of the school. This is what motivates our schools to offer a plethora of clubs, events, teams, and

offerings like you might find in our Fine Arts department. Each of these opportunities is a piece of the quilt of community wherein students are more apt to feel that they are vested within our community–thereby, catalytically, allowing for growth

Comparing parental perceptions of student engagement and connectedness between 2014 and 2023, we observe that there is a slight trend towards disconnectedness. On the one hand, given the school’s growing palette of offerings and the faculty commitment to engagement opportunities, this might be discouraging. On the other hand, given the overall culture’s shift towards impersonal technological communication, social media, and our post-COVID environment, we also believe that matters could be worse if not for the concerted efforts of the school to engage our students. Either way, it is clear that this must remain an area of focus in the years ahead.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE ‘CONNECTEDNESS’ (I.E. FRIENDS, TEAMS, CLUBS, ETC.) THAT YOUR CHILD FEELS TOWARDS THE SCHOOL.

SPRING 2014

SPRING 2023

WITHDRAWAL RETENTION RATES

Note: We had only 11 online students from 21-22 for re-enrollment into 22-23 and 5 of those returned in 22-23 (appx. 45% retention in the online program). The other 6 were enrolled on ground. The 22-23 school year started with 69 students and grew to 77 students in Jan. of 2022 with the vast majority, 93.5%, being new online students in 22-23.

4. PJ SPARKS, NCS ALUMNI & PARENT

NCS ONLINE

Northwest Christian School has expanded its educational offerings with NCS Online, a fully accredited, asynchronous program serving students from kindergarten through 11th grade.

NCS Online’s asynchronous format allows students to engage with coursework on their own schedules, providing flexibility within daily and weekly deadlines. This structure accommodates diverse family needs without compromising academic rigor.

Developed in-house by experienced Christian educators, the curriculum aligns with state standards and mirrors the on-campus program, ensuring consistency in educational quality. It emphasizes a Biblical worldview, integrating faith into every subject area.

The program offers a wide range of courses across all grade levels, including core subjects and electives such as Creative Writing, Music Theory, Nutrition, and Personal Finance. High school students have access to advanced courses like Honors Algebra and Honors Biology, providing opportunities for academic acceleration.

Each student is paired with a course facilitator who guides them through the curriculum, sets due dates, grades assignments, and provides feedback. Additionally, learning coaches—typically parents or guardians—offer accountability and support, ensuring a collaborative approach to online education.

Through the NCS Flex program, online students can participate in on-campus activities, including athletics, fine arts, and various clubs. This hybrid model fosters a sense of community and allows students to benefit from the vibrant on-ground culture of NCS.

NCS Online is committed to making Christian education accessible. The Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program covers 100% of tuition for eligible families, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to quality education.

NCS Online holds dual accreditation from the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Cognia, underscoring its commitment to maintaining high educational standards. NCS is also recognized as the only “Exemplary Accredited” ACSI school in Arizona, reflecting its dedication to excellence in Christian education.

Prospective families interested in NCS Online can find more information, including the course catalog, curriculum samples, and frequently asked questions, on the official website. The admissions team is available to assist with inquiries and the application process.

NCS Online represents Northwest Christian School’s commitment to providing flexible, high-quality, faith-based education, meeting the diverse needs of students and families in today’s dynamic learning environment.

DEMONSTRABLE EXCELLENCE: A REFLECTION OF CHRIST AT NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

At Northwest Christian School, excellence is more than a benchmark—it’s a reflection of Christ in the lives of students. As the final pillar of the “Rowing Not Drifting” mission, “Demonstrable Excellence” embodies the commitment to cultivating Christlike qualities in every student. Guided by faith and intentionality, NCS ensures that excellence is not just pursued but achieved in ways that glorify God. Vince Lombardi famously

stated, “If you pursue perfection, you might catch excellence.” However, NCS turns to the words of Jesus for its guiding principle: “A good tree bears good fruit” (Matthew 7:17).

At NCS, the aim is not superficial success or mere behavior modification but genuine transformation of the heart and mind in accordance with Scripture. This transformation reflects Luke 2:52, where Jesus “grew in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with

God and man.”

By integrating Biblical truth into academics, arts, athletics, and community life, NCS nurtures “good trees”—students whose lives bear the fruit of faith, knowledge, and virtue. This commitment to spiritual and personal growth underscores the school’s approach to excellence. At NCS, the goal is not to “pin fruit to dead branches,” as behavior modification might suggest. Instead, the school seeks to

inspire students to grow naturally and authentically in their relationship with Christ. By fostering an environment rooted in love, discipline, and grace, NCS empowers students to align their lives with Biblical values. This approach ensures that excellence flows from within, reflecting transformed hearts and minds rather than external compulsion. Demonstrable excellence at NCS holds the community accountable to its

mission. The school’s success is seen in the “fruit” of its students: their academic achievements, their leadership in the community, and their unwavering faith. From achieving high academic standards to excelling in fine arts and athletics, NCS students consistently reflect qualities

their faith daily. For families and educators seeking a school where excellence is rooted in faith, Northwest Christian School offers a compelling choice. Demonstrable excellence is not an abstract ideal but a visible reality, evident in the lives of students who are equipped to

that honor Christ. Yet, excellence at NCS is not limited to tangible metrics. It is found in the character of students who embody kindness, wisdom, and servant leadership—qualities that resonate far beyond the classroom. By cultivating students who thrive in wisdom and stature, NCS fulfills its commitment to growing disciples who live out

lead, serve, and glorify God. At NCS, the pursuit of excellence is a journey guided by Scripture, enriched by community, and empowered by faith—an unwavering commitment to bearing good fruit for God’s Kingdom.

ADDITIONAL DATA POINTS

TOURS, 23-24 ADMISSIONS SEASON

SHADOW DAY VISITS, 23-24 ADMISSIONS SEASON

IPADS ASSIGNED TO STUDENTS (23-24)

IPADS ON CAMPUS (23-24)

NCS’ Wireless Access Points (WAP) are NOT enterprise levle. The network is now handling 1700 clients on WiFi maily due to triple the amount of iPads on WiFi since 2122.

Solutions: Transition to direct Fiber-Optic between switches on Network Backbone Move Network to Enterprise Level Upgraded Network Switches

4. PJ SPARKS, NCS ALUMNI & PARENT

401K

FUNDRAISING

What all of these dollars go towards is just what our kids and what our kids’ kids someday will really see. This school speaks volumes for what Christian education can do, and really what these families really care about being a part of and contributing towards. It’s more than just paying tuition, it really pays dividends for the future.

ADAM COX, NCS ALUMNI, NCS PARENT

401K

FUNDRAISING

ADAM COX, NCS ALUMNI, NCS PARENT

1

2

3

I am so grateful for NCS, it gave me so many opportunities and impacted my relationship with God!

NCS has incredible teachers who not only taught me, but also prepared me to be successful in school, jobs, and life.

We enrolled our son at NCS because we wanted him immersed in culture that promoted Godly values and worldview. A place where the teachers would strive to be both academically rigorous and still modeling God’s love and forgiveness to our young and growing son. A school that would demonstrate and inspire him towards a perfect Savior in his life.

2. CAMRYN KOHNER, CLASS OF 2023

1. KADEN BLANCHETTE, CLASS OF 2024

3. GARY ZIMMERMAN, NCS PARENT

4. PJ SPARKS, NCS ALUMNI & PARENT

I love that Northwest Christian teaches with the foundation of a Biblical worldview. It is something no needed in today’s world and for our future generations.

My favorite part of NCS was the teachers. Each teacher truly cared about and loved my children but more importantly they also loved and were very passionate about their love for the Lord.

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LISA LAIRD, NCS PARENT

Northwest is an amazing community of teachers staff and coaches that point our children to Christ. We are so grateful for a Christ centered and Biblical worldview education.

5. ELISE EVANS, NCS PARENT

ROWING NOT DRIFTING

ROWING TOGETHER TOWARD CHRIST: NAVIGATING WITH PURPOSE, EXCELLENCE, AND FAITH

ROWING NOT DRIFTING

SCAN TO WATCH

INTRODUCTION

CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW

STUDENT PERFORMANCE

STEWARDSHIP

DEMONSTRABLE EXCELLENCE