Calvary Christian School has been named the 2025 School of the Year by the Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN), a ministry of the Center for Christian Virtue (CCV), in recognition of its outstanding leadership in promoting a culture of life through intentional pro-life education and student engagement.
The school also received the Silver Level Mike and Peggy Hartshorn Dignity of Life Award, an honor established this year to celebrate K–12 schools that actively integrate pro-life values into their curriculum and school community.
Named for longtime pro-life advocates Mike and Peggy Hartshorn, the award recognizes exemplary efforts to uphold the sanctity of life in alignment with biblical principles.
“We’re honored to receive this award from the Ohio Christian Education Network,” said Ryan Hyde, Head of School at Calvary Christian. “The sanctity of human life isn’t a political issue for us—it’s a matter of obedience to God’s Word. We’re thankful for the efforts of our staff, students, and local organizations like New Path in this important work.”
The school earned the distinction through a series of impactful, student-led initiatives, including:
- Organizing a group to attend the 2024 Ohio March for Life in Columbus
- Hosting a chapel service focused on a biblical understanding of the pro-life ethic
- Coordinating a student-led service day at a local pregnancy resource center
- Co-hosting a fundraising gala with that center
- Adopting a new pro-life curriculum to launch in the 2025–26 academic year
“This award reflects the mission-driven leadership Calvary Christian has demonstrated,” said OCEN Executive Director Troy McIntosh. “They’ve set a powerful example for what it means to make the dignity of life central to Christian education.”
The school’s application was reviewed by the Hartshorn Award committee, which evaluates eligible Christian schools across Ohio and awards Bronze, Silver, or Gold distinctions before selecting one overall School of the Year.
In addition to a $1,000 grant to support future pro-life projects, Calvary Christian will receive a commemorative plaque and a digital award seal.
A formal presentation will take place this fall at the OCEN Essential Summit in Columbus, where the school will be recognized alongside other faith and education leaders from across the state.
When asked whether the award will be physically displayed on campus, Hyde confirmed, “Yes—something tangible will definitely be hung in the school to commemorate this special honor.”
Aaron Baer, President of CCV, praised the school’s commitment: “Mike and Peggy Hartshorn have shown the impact you can have when you stand up for the vulnerable. Calvary Christian School and its students are carrying that legacy forward with passion and purpose. The future of the pro-life movement is in strong hands.”
The Hartshorn Dignity of Life Awards will continue to be presented annually to Christian schools demonstrating outstanding dedication to cultivating a biblical worldview of life and human dignity.
