Santa Fe Christian Schools: Comprehensive Company Profile

Background

Mission and Vision

Santa Fe Christian Schools (SFC) is a private, co-educational Christian institution located in Solana Beach, California. Established in 1977, SFC's mission is to partner with Christian parents within a Bible-based community to disciple students to embrace biblical truth, strive for academic excellence, and model Christ-like leadership to influence their homes, churches, and communities for Christ.

Educational Offerings

SFC provides a comprehensive K-12 education, emphasizing a Christ-centered curriculum that integrates biblical principles across all subjects. The school offers a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with 19 AP classes available to upper school students. Additionally, SFC boasts a robust athletics program, offering 18 interscholastic sports, including baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.

Accolades

SFC has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education in 2011, 2015, and 2017, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

SFC's strategic focus is encapsulated in its commitment to providing a dynamic, flourishing educational program that advances Christian education from a biblical worldview. The school aims to develop humble Christian leaders prepared for a fast-paced world.

Areas of Specialization

Academic Excellence: Offering a rigorous curriculum with a variety of AP courses to prepare students for higher education.

Spiritual Development: Integrating biblical teachings into all aspects of education to foster spiritual growth.

Athletics and Extracurriculars: Providing a wide range of sports and extracurricular activities to promote physical health and teamwork.

Primary Markets

SFC primarily serves Christian families seeking a faith-based education in the San Diego County area.

Financials and Funding

Revenue and Expenses

For the fiscal year ending June 2023, SFC reported:

Revenue: $27.8 million

Expenses: $28.4 million

Net Assets: $47 million

Funding Sources

The school's revenue is primarily derived from program services, accounting for 90.5% of total revenue, with contributions making up 7.8%.

Leadership Team

Rod Gilbert: Head of Schools

Kurt de Pfyffer: Chief Financial & Operations Officer

Rob Honma: Chief Technology Officer

Mike Siciliano: High School Principal

Todd Deveau: Middle School Principal

Amanda Walker: Elementary School Principal

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private Christian education sector in San Diego County is competitive, with several institutions offering similar programs. SFC distinguishes itself through its comprehensive K-12 curriculum, integration of faith and learning, and a strong emphasis on developing Christian leaders.

Competitor Analysis

Cathedral Catholic High School: A Catholic co-educational high school in San Diego, offering a rigorous academic program and a variety of extracurricular activities.

The Grauer School: An independent, co-educational college preparatory school in Encinitas, focusing on experiential learning and small class sizes.

Maranatha Christian Schools: A private Christian school in San Diego, providing education from preschool through 12th grade with a focus on biblical integration.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In February 2024, SFC engaged Connor Associates to conduct an Enrollment Feasibility and 2028 Enrollment Forecast Study. This collaboration aims to enhance the school's enrollment strategies and long-term planning.

Operational Insights

Campus and Facilities

SFC operates on a 17-acre campus designed to support a flourishing educational program. The facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, athletic fields, and spaces dedicated to arts and sciences.

Enrollment

As of the 2022/23 school year, SFC had an enrollment of 1,072 students across elementary, middle, and upper school divisions.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Growth and Development

SFC's strategic plan focuses on advancing the "Santa Fe Way," which includes:

Worship: Integrating faith into all aspects of school life.

Scholarship: Pursuing academic excellence.

Mentorship: Fostering relationships that guide and support students.

Companionship: Building a strong, Christ-centered community.

Stewardship: Managing resources responsibly to support the school's mission.

Future Initiatives

The school plans to continue enhancing its educational offerings, expanding facilities, and strengthening community partnerships to further its mission of preparing Christian leaders.