"By preserving what makes Heartland unique while expanding access to CACE's professional development initiatives, research, leadership resources, and Dordt University's educational expertise, we believe we can accomplish more together than either organization could accomplish alone."
Heartland Christian Schools is entering a new chapter through a new partnership with Dordt University's Center for the Advancement of Christian Education (CACE), ensuring continued support for Christian schools across the Midwest while preserving Heartland's longstanding mission and identity. Heartland Christian Schools will now function under CACE.
The transition follows the resignation of Heartland Coordinator Nicki Kuiper, who stepped down after much prayer and consideration to focus on her health and recovery. The Heartland Executive Board expressed deep gratitude for Kuiper's years of faithful leadership and the lasting impact she has had on Christian schools throughout the region.
Following Kuiper's decision, the Heartland Executive Board prayerfully considered the organization's future with one primary goal: ensuring continuity for member schools while honoring Heartland's legacy and mission. Those discussions led to a partnership with Dordt University's Center for the Advancement of Christian Education.
Under the new structure, CACE will provide administrative leadership and support for Heartland Christian Schools. Josh Bowar and Lindsay Laurich will serve as co-directors of Heartland Christian Schools under the CACE umbrella.
"This transition is a natural extension of CACE's mission to develop school leaders, promote innovative practices, and strengthen networks of faith-based schools," said Dr. Tim Van Soelen, director of Dordt University's Center for the Advancement of Christian Education. "Heartland has faithfully served Christian schools across the Midwest for many years. Rather than changing Heartland's identity, this partnership allows its mission to continue and grow by connecting member schools to the broader resources of CACE and Dordt University."
While administrative structures will shift over the coming months, Heartland Christian Schools will continue operating with its own distinct mission, identity, and regional network. Member schools can expect the same commitment to professional learning, collaboration, leadership development, and encouragement that has characterized the organization for years.
"This is an advancement of Heartland's mission, not a merger that diminishes its identity," Van Soelen said. "By preserving what makes Heartland unique while expanding access to CACE's professional development initiatives, research, leadership resources, and Dordt University's educational expertise, we believe we can accomplish more together than either organization could accomplish alone."
The partnership also positions Heartland to expand future opportunities for member schools through enhanced leadership development, additional professional learning opportunities, and deeper collaboration among Christian educators throughout the Midwest.
Heartland Christian Schools will continue offering its annual convention, Future Leader Cohort, board workshops, administrator team meetings, and other professional learning opportunities while seeking ongoing feedback from member schools as the transition progresses. The organization expects the transition to be complete by November 2026.
About the Center for the Advancement of Christian Education
The Center for the Advancement of Christian Education (CACE) equips Christian schools through leadership development, professional learning, research, and strategic support. By partnering with educators and schools, CACE seeks to strengthen Christian education and help schools flourish in their unique communities.
About Dordt University
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, alumni, and the broader community to work effectively toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life.
Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt offers undergraduate and graduate programs that help students live their faith in every area of life. Through rigorous learning, meaningful relationships, and whole-person formation, students gain the practical wisdom to serve God and neighbor through their work and in their communities. Dordt has been named among the nation's leading Christian universities by U.S. News & World Report, Niche, and other national publications.
Dordt University has added four faculty members whose expertise will help meet the needs of students across its Core program while maintaining the personalized, Christ-centered education that defines the Dordt experience.
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