Founding Day: The Story and Purpose of ODCS

In 1976, Open Door Christian Schools began with a conviction that Christian education should shape not only what students know, but who they become.

Founded as a ministry of Church of the Open Door in Elyria, Ohio, ODCS was co-founded by Pastor Don Engram and Associate Pastor Allen “Al” Ahlgrim alongside members of the church community who believed families were looking for something deeper than just academics. They envisioned a school where faith would not be separated from learning, but woven into every subject, every classroom, and every part of student life.

That vision was made clear in one of the earliest public statements announcing the opening of Open Door Christian Schools:

“We don’t think we can just push academic subjects into a corner and teach Bible… We hold that the knowledge of God is the beginning of wisdom.”

Those words still capture the heart of ODCS nearly fifty years later.

The school opened with humble beginnings: 77 students, two teachers, one administrator, and one secretary. Robert “Bob” Hayes, a member of Church of the Open Door, served as the school’s first superintendent. Though small in size, the school was built on a calling — to provide Christ-centered education for families seeking both academic excellence and spiritual formation.

Demand for Christian education continued to grow, and by 1980 the school expanded its facilities to accommodate increasing enrollment. What began as a small ministry steadily developed into a thriving educational community serving students from preschool through twelfth grade.

Today, ODCS serves 800+ students with the support of 115+ staff members. With decades of growth, the school’s purpose remains consistent with the vision established in 1976. The mission of ODCS — “Equipping disciples through exemplary education” — reflects the same belief that education is not only about preparing students for careers, but preparing them for lives of faith, wisdom, leadership, and service.

That commitment is our DNA, and is evident daily life at ODCS. Bible classes are taught at every grade level, students gather regularly for chapel, and Biblical truth is incorporated in all subjects.

From 77 students in 1976 to a flourishing school community today, the story of ODCS is a story of faith — faith in God’s direction, faith in Christian education, the faithfulness of Christ for the past 50 years, and faith in the next generation of students being equipped to impact the world for Christ.

On this Founding Day, we celebrate not only the history of Open Door Christian Schools, but the enduring mission that continues to shape its future.