This blog post was generated from the following episode of the WISE and Otherwise Podcast with Dalena Wallace. Find more at: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wiseandotherwise
Freedom Learning Academy, founded by Josiah Enyart, is a beacon of hope for families in the Kansas City area seeking quality education within a supportive community. Josiah's journey from public school teacher to the founder of a thriving educational environment is a testament to the power of faith, community, and a commitment to doing what is right for children. This article delves into the inspiring origins of Freedom Learning Academy, its mission, and the vital role that faith and community play in its operation.
A Teacher's Journey to Founding a School
Josiah Enyart's path to founding Freedom Learning Academy began after a dozen years of teaching in the Shawnee Mission public school district. His diverse experience included roles as a third-grade, fourth-grade, and sixth-grade teacher, as well as coaching baseball at both public and private schools. However, a series of disheartening changes in the public education system, coupled with personal convictions about the best way to educate his own children, led Josiah to take a bold step in 2021.
Challenges in the Public School System
Josiah's dissatisfaction with the public school system stemmed from various issues, including excessive spending on technology without adequate planning, detrimental changes in teaching practices, and an overemphasis on standardized testing. These changes, combined with the mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, left Josiah feeling that the needs of students were being overlooked in favor of administrative and political agendas.
A Leap of Faith
The tipping point came when COVID-19 health mandates and other bureaucratic measures made it clear that the public school environment was no longer suitable for his children. After prayerful consideration, Josiah and his wife decided to pull their children out of the public school system and explore alternative educational options. This decision marked the birth of Freedom Learning Academy.
Building a New Educational Model
Starting with a small group of 15 students in his basement, Josiah quickly realized the demand for a different kind of educational environment. His approach emphasized strong academics, character development, and the virtues of integrity, self-control, and perseverance. Within months, the academy grew, necessitating a move to a larger facility to accommodate the increasing number of students.
The Role of Faith and Community
Faith and community are at the heart of Freedom Learning Academy. Josiah's belief in providing a constitutionally guided education, coupled with strong moral principles, has shaped the school's mission. While the academy does not explicitly offer faith-based education, it operates within a framework that respects and upholds family values, allowing parents to impart their religious beliefs to their children.
Partnership with Local Churches
Freedom Learning Academy's partnership with local churches has been instrumental in its success. The academy meets in a church facility, benefiting from the ample space, safety, and community support that a church environment offers. This partnership is mutually beneficial, providing the church with an opportunity to support educational initiatives while giving the academy a secure and nurturing space to operate.
Support from the Faith Community
The support from the faith community has been overwhelming. Members of Josiah's church, including his small group, have been actively involved in the academy, offering their skills and resources. This community involvement has not only enhanced the educational experience for the students but has also fostered a sense of belonging and purpose among the families involved.
Challenges and Aspirations
Despite its success, Freedom Learning Academy faces challenges, particularly in terms of financial sustainability. Leasing space, paying for storage, and covering payroll and taxes are significant burdens. Josiah highlights the need for more churches to open their doors to educational initiatives, providing space and support to help alleviate some of these financial pressures.
Ways the Church Can Support
Josiah identifies three key ways in which the church can support educational initiatives like Freedom Learning Academy:
1. Provide Space: Churches with unused space during the week can offer it for educational purposes, creating a safe and affordable environment for students.
2. Offer Storage: Allowing schools to use storage facilities can significantly reduce operational costs.
3. Financial Support: Providing donations or scholarships can help make quality education accessible to more families.
Conclusion
Freedom Learning Academy exemplifies how faith and community can come together to create a positive impact on education. Josiah Enyart's dedication to providing a nurturing and effective learning environment, coupled with the support of local churches and the broader faith community, has given families in the Kansas City area a valuable educational alternative. As more people become aware of such options, the hope is that more churches will recognize the vital role they can play in supporting educational initiatives and fostering a brighter future for children.
For more information about Freedom Learning Academy and how you can support their mission, visit Freedom Learning Academy's Website. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive educational community for all children.
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