A School Built with Faith as its Foundation: Ron Hudson’s Yes to Fresno Christian Schools in 1977
Long before Fresno Christian had classrooms, teachers or students, a group of local churches shared a vision for Christian education in Fresno. Ron Hudson was one of the leaders who helped turn that vision into a school built to serve families for generations.
Ron was appointed by the Fresno Christian Board of Trustees to be the first superintendent of the Fresno Christian Education System in 1977. He was a 28-year-old teacher, coach and father. He and his wife Ann had a 3 year-old and a newborn son.
Before becoming superintendent, Ron taught at Clovis High School, Van Nuys First Baptist Junior High School and Immanuel High School in Reedley. It was at Immanuel where he met Silas Bartsch, an educator and leader who was helping bring together several churches in Fresno to create a K-12 Christian school system.
A conversation they had about faith and education helped Ron see the need for a school in Fresno that would offer strong academics through a biblical worldview.
“Quality education to be taught in a Christian environment”
Ron saw that families needed a place where qualified teachers and Christian role models could partner with parents and help students become world changers.
“There was a need in Fresno for quality education to be taught in a Christian environment that was based on the teachings of Jesus, directed by Biblical principles, taught by mature followers of Jesus Christ, and would provide service opportunities to students to enhance growth in their Christian faith,” Ron said.
He hoped Fresno Christian would be “a light in the community, not a place to come and hide from the world.”
Taking a Step of Faith by Saying Yes
Before the opportunity at Fresno Christian was presented to Ron, he had been praying for God to guide his life and work. Scripture shaped the way he made decisions. He points to Colossians 3:23, which calls believers to work wholeheartedly for the Lord.
Through conversations with Silas Bartsch, pastors, and the Board of Trustees, Ron and Ann felt peace about him applying for the superintendent role.
“After lengthy interviews with the senior pastors of the supporting churches, the Board, and Mr. Bartsch, it was peaceful and clear to me that applying was the right thing to do,” Ron said. “If the Board wanted me, I would say ‘YES’.”
United by a Shared Vision
Fresno Christian was started because churches and leaders from different denominations chose to come together around a shared purpose. They brought different backgrounds and perspectives, but all agreed on the importance of providing a Christ-centered education for Fresno families.
Ron remembered Silas Bartsch’s amazement at their willingness to work together. “[Silas Bartsch] was amazed at how churches could come together and agree on such a monumental undertaking,” he said.
That spirit of unity remains an important part of Fresno Christian’s story today.
Starting From a Blank Slate
Fresno Christian began with a vision, committed churches and a lot of work to be done. Ron helped with everything from choosing supplies and developing curriculum to hiring staff, creating financial systems and preparing areas for students to play.
“Literally, it was ‘from nothing.’ It was a blank slate,” he said.
One of his greatest priorities was finding teachers who were qualified, followed Jesus and loved students. That is still one of Fresno Christian’s most important values and a key part of our foundation.
Building a Foundation for Generations
Ron’s goal was to build a foundation that others could continue for years to come. Fifty years later, he is encouraged by Fresno Christian’s continued commitment to faith, excellence and students.
“FCS is truly a light for Jesus and for education in the community,” Ron said. “FCS takes a stand for what is right. FCS wants to excel.”