Launch the School Year Off Right!

Launch the School Year Right: Marketing What Matters Most 

Written by Lara Gopp
Marketing Manager / Fortify Foundation

Launching a new school year is the perfect time for Christian schools to showcase their unique qualities and attract prospective families. A simple yet effective marketing plan can help highlight what sets these schools apart from others in the education landscape. In this article, we will explore key steps to prepare for the school year launch with a marketing plan that reinforces the distinctive aspects of private Christian schools. 

Step 1: Define Your Unique Value Proposition
The first step in creating a marketing plan that sets your school apart is identifying and articulating your unique value proposition. Consider the following aspects that make your school distinctive: 

  1. Faith-Based Education:
    Emphasize the integration of faith and learning, highlighting how your school creates an environment where students grow spiritually while receiving a quality education. Highlight how biblical principles guide the curriculum, character development, and daily activities.     
  2. Nurturing Community:
    Highlight the supportive community that exists within your school. Emphasize the caring relationships between students, teachers, and parents, and how this fosters a safe and welcoming environment for students to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.     
  3. Character Formation:
    Highlight the intentional focus on character development, emphasizing the values and virtues your school instills in students. Emphasize how your school prepares students to be ethical, responsible, and compassionate individuals who make a positive impact on society.     
  4. Holistic Approach:
    Highlight the holistic education your school provides, nurturing the intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions of each student. Highlight extracurricular activities, sports, fine arts programs, and service opportunities that contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.     


Step 2: Engage in Targeted Outreach
To effectively reach prospective families, it is important to engage in targeted outreach that communicates your unique value proposition. Consider the following strategies: 

  1. Digital Marketing:
    Leverage digital platforms, such as your school website, social media channels, and email newsletters, to highlight what makes your school special. Share success stories, testimonials, and engaging content that reflect the unique aspects of your school. Utilize search engine optimization techniques to improve visibility in online searches.     
  2. Open House Events:
    Organize open house events that allow families to experience your school firsthand. Create a welcoming and informative atmosphere, providing opportunities for prospective families to interact with teachers, students, and administrators. Offer guided tours, highlight student work, and share information about your unique programs and offerings.     
  3. Parent Ambassadors:
    Enlist current parents who are passionate about your school to serve as ambassadors. Encourage them to share their positive experiences with prospective families, both through word-of-mouth and online reviews. Their authentic testimonials can have a powerful impact on parents considering your school.
     

Step 3: Leverage Word-of-Mouth Marketing
Word-of-mouth marketing is invaluable for private Christian schools. Encourage your existing parents, students, and alumni to be ambassadors for your school within their circles. Consider the following strategies: 

  1. Referral Programs:
    Implement a referral program that rewards current families for referring new students. Offer incentives such as tuition credits, school merchandise, or special recognition.     
  2. Alumni Engagement:
    Cultivate relationships with alumni and involve them in school activities and events. Alumni who had a positive experience are more likely to recommend your school to others.     
  3. Parent Testimonials:
    Collect testimonials from satisfied parents, highlighting their experiences with your school. Share these testimonials on your website, social media channels, and marketing materials to reinforce the unique aspects of your school.


Launching the school year with a simple marketing plan that highlights what sets your private Christian school apart is crucial for attracting prospective families that align with your beliefs. By defining your unique value proposition, engaging in targeted outreach, and leveraging the power of word-of-mouth marketing, you can effectively communicate the distinctive qualities of your school. As you prepare to launch the new school year, remember the words of Jesus: 

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds
and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

By highlighting what sets your school apart, you illuminate the path for prospective families to find a Christ-centered, nurturing, and holistic education for their children.