After graduating college and working as a CPA for a large accounting firm, Chrystal Bernard quickly realized accounting wasn’t her calling. She transitioned to teaching high school, where she recognized significant gaps in the educational system. This realization prompted her to consider starting her own school.
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Chrystal's concerns deepened when she had children and decided against placing them in the traditional school system. Instead, she opted for private schooling and later homeschooling. During the pandemic, while many families struggled with virtual learning, Chrystal's children thrived, leading her to offer homeschooling services to others.
In fall 2021, Braveheart Christian Academy opened in Arlington, Texas, with nine students from kindergarten through third grade. The school’s name reflects her husband’s mentoring program, emphasizing strength and faith.
Braveheart Christian Academy differentiates itself through its educational philosophy, focusing on personalized learning rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. The school accommodates students at various academic levels, ensuring that each child receives the support they need.
The school operates five days a week, with mornings dedicated to core subjects and afternoons to enrichment activities, including life skills and gardening. This structure motivates students to engage with their education actively.
Currently, the school has grown to approximately 27 students and plans to expand through high school. Parents contribute by volunteering for tuition credits and maintaining the school’s facilities, fostering a strong community spirit.
The school's approach appears effective, with students expressing enthusiasm for attending. One parent noted a significant change in her children’s attitudes toward school since their enrollment at Braveheart.
Braveheart has also attracted teachers disillusioned with the traditional school system. Many educators appreciate the newfound flexibility and autonomy in their teaching methods, allowing them to tailor their instruction to meet students' needs.
Recently, Braveheart achieved accreditation, enabling it to participate in Texas’s new education savings account (ESA) program, which could alleviate financial barriers for families interested in enrolling their children.
Chrystal emphasized the positive impact this program could have on the community, stating that many families have expressed a desire to attend the school but have been unable to afford it.
Why it matters
- Chrystal Bernard's transition from CPA to educator highlights the need for innovative educational solutions in response to systemic gaps.
- Braveheart Christian Academy's personalized learning approach addresses diverse student needs, fostering a supportive learning environment.
- The school's growth and community involvement demonstrate a successful model for alternative education amid traditional system challenges.
- Accreditation allows Braveheart to access the ESA program, potentially increasing enrollment by reducing financial barriers for families.
What’s next
- Monitor enrollment numbers as Braveheart plans to expand through high school.
- Watch for updates on the impact of the ESA program on school admissions and community engagement.
- Follow developments in educational policy that may affect alternative schooling options in Texas.
