He has done just that by serving the past 15 years as principal at National Heritage Academies’ first school. All four of his children went to Excel, which has outperformed the district for 14 years.
In addition to leading a school that provides students with a college-prep education, Bartels is proud of Excel’s Moral Focus program that helps students develop the knowledge, skills, and strength they need to succeed in college, work, and life. It’s an environment that has served thousands of children well, along with his own children, and one he hopes will do the same for his grandchildren one day.
“There’s a common goal that parents and staff all have for students, which is for students to soar academically but also to thrive in a positive environment,” he said. “We’re in an age where it’s hard for families to find that.”
Bartels aways knew he wanted to be a teacher, emulating his parents who were teachers and giving him a blueprint on how to care for children. First joining the Excel team as a teacher, the transition to becoming an administrator was a natural one as he realized he could help families problem solve and create a positive culture while taking on leadership responsibilities.
“I love working with kids, I love working in a school, and I love working where God has called me to be,” he said.
Being able to trace Excel’s lineage through former students who enroll their own kids, and some who even return as teachers, is especially gratifying for Bartels. And while he started as a teacher transforming lives in the classroom, the macro effect he now has as a principal is just as satisfying today as it was 15 years ago.
“Being a principal allows me to get to know students while still having a big impact,” he said. “I’m still able to individually touch lives.”
Quick Facts:
- He earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornerstone University and a master’s degree from Grand Valley State University.
- He first taught in Peru while helping the children’s ministry his parents started.
Check out a school near you!
About Excel Charter Academy
Excel Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Grand Rapids, Michigan, serving students in Young 5s through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
Visit Excel Charter Academy's blog to read more stories like this.