By Rachel Scofield

Madison Christian School has been recognized as the Top Christian School in Ohio 2025 by Education Insider, earning statewide distinction for its academic excellence, faith-centered learning, and commitment to student success.

Serving 546 students from preschool through 12th grade, Madison Christian School combines rigorous academics with a Christ-centered foundation. The school exists to assist parents in biblically training their children by offering succinct and consistent Christ-centered and classical academic instruction and virtue formation.

“We’re seeking to transfer a gospel-centered way of life through timeless content for eternal purposes,” said Dr. Timothy Houston, Head of Madison Christian School.

The panel at Education Insider based its decision on a range of factors, including graduation rate, college placement, demographics, affordability, staff retention, student and family experience, extracurricular activities, curriculum, and long-term viability.

According to the publication, “Madison Christian School emerged as the Top Christian School in Ohio 2025 after an exhaustive evaluation by an expert panel of C-level executives, industry thought leaders, and our editorial board.”

Phil Slonaker, Academic Dean at Madison Christian School, stated that the recognition was unexpected.

“We did not seek this honor, but instead, Education Insider notified us to let us know that we had won the award and when it would be announced,” Slonaker said.

Dr. Houston also highlighted the dedication of faculty and staff:

“The Lord continues to bless Madison Christian School in many ways. The daily devotion of our faculty and staff to the work the Lord has called them to is evident throughout our campus. This is a recognition for those who have dedicated themselves to serving our students and families.”

That recognition reflects what many in the MCS community already know to be true. For students, staff, alumni, and parents alike, MCS is more than a school — it is a family.

“Looking back at my 12 years at MCS, I can say nothing but amazing things!” shared Chris, an alumnus from the Class of 2025. “The care, attention, and discipleship that every teacher, administrator, assistant pours into students is beyond measure… I walk away being thankful for the amazing conversations, prayers, and encouragements from each teacher who truly devoted their time, knowledge, and energy into shaping my perspective of life, morality, and relationship with God.”

Ellen, a Class of 2010 graduate who is now both a teacher and parent at MCS, echoed that sentiment:

“MCS has been a part of my life since I was a preschool student. It was a home to me and a place I not only learned, but I gained confidence in my relationship with Christ. I now have the great honor of teaching here and giving back to the school that gave so much to me… In the words of my 2nd grader, ‘I love everything.’”

Teachers emphasize the school’s mission to shape both minds and hearts.

“The staff culture of MCS is so supportive and warm,” said Callyn, an MCS teacher. “I love how MCS educates children not just as students of academia, but as human beings made in the image of God.”

Students themselves describe the school in simple but powerful ways. “I love that we learn about Jesus,” said Nora, a kindergartener. “I love MCS because I love my teachers and I get to learn about Jesus,” added Lucy, a second grader.

For alumni-turned-educators, the school’s impact is lasting.

“As an alumni, teacher, and parent of children at MCS, I can say that it’s home!” said Julia, Class of 2009. “I fully believe that our teaching practices and content are making eternal differences here in forming the next generation.”

Parents, too, affirm the school’s supportive environment. In recent surveys, families praised MCS for its faith-based education, high academic standards, and dedicated teachers. “We have been blessed with great teachers,” wrote one parent. Another added, “We do truly love Madison Christian School… I made the best decision of transferring my son here.”

The Top Christian School award is a public recognition of the deep impact Madison Christian School has on lives every day — preparing students not only for academic success, but also for faith, service, and eternity.

Read the full Education Insider feature at: educationinsidermagazine.com/madison-christian-school

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