Building on a Firm Foundation

As Head of School, I often reflect on the values and principles that guide us in nurturing young minds. One such principle comes from Matthew 7:24-25, where Jesus says: 

Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, yet it did not fall because it had its foundation on the rock. 

Matthew 7:24-25

This powerful metaphor reminds us of the importance of a solid foundation in all areas of life, including education. Just as a well-built house withstands storms because it rests on a firm foundation, so too does a strong education enable students to weather life’s challenges. The “rock” in education is more than just academic knowledge; it encompasses critical thinking, moral integrity, and developing skills that endure over time. 

We are witnessing a significant contrast in educational outcomes across Minnesota, where private schools consistently report higher academic achievement than public schools. This discrepancy is not simply a matter of test scores, though the difference is striking. Studies have shown that students in most private schools score significantly higher in math, reading, and science than their public-school counterparts. Recent Minnesota Department of Education data highlights that private-school students often perform well above the state average in key areas, while public schools are seeing declining proficiency rates. 

What accounts for this gap? In part, it is the strength of the foundation upon which these schools build their curricula and educational approach. Private schools often benefit from smaller class sizes, individualized attention, and a values-based education that emphasizes intellectual growth and character formation. This aligns closely with the wisdom of building on the “rock” as described in Matthew 7. 

At Maranatha, we strive to build such a foundation. Our commitment to academic excellence is complemented by our dedication to nurturing each student’s moral and spiritual development. We equip our students not only to excel in their studies but also to become resilient, compassionate, and thoughtful individuals who can navigate the world’s complexities. 

The rains will come—life’s inevitable challenges, uncertainties, and tests. The winds will blow—peer pressure, societal expectations, and the fast-changing demands of the workforce. However, students whose education is built on the rock of a well-rounded, values-based curriculum will stand firm and ready to face whatever comes their way. 

In contrast, schools where the foundation is less stable and students are not given the same level of personal attention or moral grounding may struggle to deliver the same outcomes. Just as a house built on sand cannot withstand the storm, an education built upon the same will falter under pressure. 

The disparity in test scores between private and public schools in Minnesota is not just a statistic. It reflects the importance of building wisely—of investing in quality teaching, nurturing environments, and the holistic development of our children. It is a reminder that education, like a well-built house, must be grounded in something enduring if it is to stand the test of time. 

At Maranatha, we are proud to be building on the rock. We believe in providing an education that stands firm against the challenges ahead, preparing our students not just for academic success, but for life. Together, let’s continue to build wisely, ensuring that every   child’s future is as secure as the house built on a firm foundation.