Ever feel like you’re being called to do something big, but the ‘how’ seems impossible? That’s the story behind Hope Academy, a school started in 2000 to serve low-income, diverse kids in South Minneapolis. On a School Success Podcast episode, we chatted with Michael Bolland, Managing Director of the Spreading Hope Network, the organization that grew from Hope Academy’s incredible success. His journey from teacher to leader of a national network is a powerful testament to what happens when you say ‘yes’ to a bold vision.
Flipping the Script on Tuition
How do you provide a top-tier private education to families who can’t afford it? You flip the traditional model on its head. Bolland explained what founder Russ Greg calls the ‘kingdom flip.’ Instead of relying heavily on tuition, Hope Academy is 90% philanthropically driven, with only 10% coming from sliding-scale tuition. Donors, or ‘partners,’ sponsor students, creating a personal connection and making the mission financially sustainable. It’s a radical shift that proves a school’s accessibility doesn’t have to be limited by its neighborhood’s zip code.
From ‘Side Hustle’ to National Network
Hope Academy’s success didn’t stay a local secret for long. Inquiries poured in from leaders across the country wanting to replicate their model. This demand gave birth to the Spreading Hope Network, which Bolland humorously noted needed to move from a ‘Side Hustle Network’ to a fully staffed organization. They act as ‘midwives’ for aspiring school founders, providing a playbook, coaching, and a supportive founder program to help new schools get off the ground. What started as one school has now helped launch 23 others across the nation.
Joining God in What He’s Already Doing
For any leader feeling that pull to start something new but wrestling with doubt, Bolland’s advice is simple: reframe your perspective. Instead of asking God to approve your plans, consider it ‘joining with God in what he’s already up to.’ He reminded us that God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. You don’t have to have all the answers or reinvent the wheel. The journey isn’t a solo mission. It’s about being part of a team God is building to pursue a purpose in a specific place.
The story of Hope Academy and the Spreading Hope Network is a powerful reminder that monumental change often starts with a single step of faith. Their innovative funding model and supportive network are breaking down barriers to quality education. For all the school leaders out there, let this be an encouragement: you are not alone, and the vision in your heart might be the start of the following great network of hope.
Click here to listen to the full podcast episode.