Student Life
Spiritual Life / Chapel

ESM

Every year, Troy Christian Junior High and High School students participate in ESM, a transformative week of enrichment, service, and missions. This week, fondly known as ESM, is truly amazing. It's a testament to God's work as we witness the growth and transformation in our students and staff. ESM plays a vital role in fulfilling TC's mission and vision.
ESM week offers TC students unique opportunities for non-traditional courses and trips, allowing them to explore subjects beyond the regular curriculum. Students are encouraged to choose experiences that match their interests and budget. Many of these courses involve off-campus trips, providing valuable firsthand experiences. These immersive experiences help TCHS students make crucial decisions about their college and career paths.
Troy Christian Schools annually offers a wide range of topics, with course and trip fees ranging from $100 to $2,500 to accommodate everyone. Explore the ESM descriptions below to discover these opportunities and make an informed decision that aligns with your child's interests, family schedule, and finances.
Sign-ups for ESM 2025 will occur from September 17 to 24. Students must be ready to sign up on their designated day. Seniors get the first selection day on September 17, followed by juniors on September 20, sophomores on September 23, and freshmen on September 24. Students need to come prepared with three choices, giving them a backup option in case their top choice is full. Families must pay a $50 deposit within 48 hours of sign-ups to secure their spot. Students in junior high will have a $25 deposit due by September 25.

International Mission Trips

Bahamas Mission Trip

It’s all about being S.A.L.T. in our world now and growing in deeper relation with our Lord & Savior. TCS has experienced the Lord’s hand draw us into a partnership with a Christian school in the Bahamas. As this relationship has developed, our desire is to involve our whole school in this partnership. We are excited to invite our high school students to actually go and serve at the Chapel on the Hill Campus in Nassau, Bahamas. There will be plenty of mission and service opportunities on this beautiful 11 acre campus that houses their Christian school, retreat center, and church. Students will spend the warm days working with children, providing assistance around their facilities, and even taking some time to enjoy the culture and sights. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to develop spiritually and as a leader.
$1,800

Coahuila, Mexico

Embarking on a mission trip to Piedras Negras, Mexico, a border city neighboring Eagle Pass, Texas, promises a transformative experience. We will stay at the Lighthouse Mission, serving alongside Renovacion De Vida, a dedicated partner church with a longstanding relationship of over 14 years in the community. Your mission will involve diverse opportunities, such as working with underprivileged children, improving mission facilities, offering support to immigrants, comforting hospital patients, and ministering to incarcerated juveniles. The journey also includes special youth and worship services and the potential to join the local congregation for Sunday worship, fostering cross-border connections. Travel will begin with a flight to San Antonio and a 3-hour drive to Piedras Negras. The church will provide interpreters, facilitating meaningful communication throughout your mission. This journey promises to be a remarkable opportunity to make a positive impact while fostering deep connections with the community of Piedras Negras.
$1,450

Dominican Republic Mission Trip

Students will travel to the Dominican Republic to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. Our host ministry will be SCORE International. While in the Dominican Republic, we will focus our evangelism work on several projects. The goal is to partner with Emanuel House to support the families of the school's students. We will be sharing the Gospel, supporting a medical team & working on building projects.
$1,950

Jamaica Mission Trip

Students will travel to St. Mary, Jamaica to partner with ACE, the American Caribbean Experience, Christ-based outreach ministry dedicated to community transformation through strategic initiatives in education, enterprise, healthcare, and discipleship. ACE has been ministering on the island for over 20 years and welcomes you to join them to be the hands and feet of Christ to the people of Jamaica! The trip would include a building project, serving at a local school, and caring for patients at an infirmary. While in Jamaica, you will spend some time learning about the culture and meet some of the locals who have been able to start business through the help of ACE. Visit www.acexperience.org for information about ACE.
$2,500

Domestic Trips

Defending A Biblical Worldview Trip

Take a tour of a replica of Noah’s ark and the Creation Museum; search for fossils at Caesar’s Creek Park; learn how to defend the authority of scripture and how the evidence of a worldwide flood supports the biblical view of the age of the earth. Learn how to present information to others as you defend your faith against the so called “science” the world presents as truth. The week will conclude with students presenting information learned to elementary age children.
This trip involves one overnight stay. All other nights will be spent at home.
$400

Life Purpose

This retreat allows students to explore how God has uniquely created and wired each student for a life of purpose. Students will explore their unique personalities and strengths, as well as the different experiences God has used to shape who they are becoming. Students gain a deeper understanding of who God has designed them to be and are better equipped to partner with God in what He is doing in the world. This is a four-day overnight retreat at the Wilber/Ward house at Norris Lake in Tennessee, using the curriculum we have developed for our juniors and seniors.
$250

Florida Mission Trip

Students will travel by plane to take part in a mission near Tampa, Florida. Our tasks include daycare for the children of Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban migrants. Building projects may also be a part of the trip, as well as general maintenance, painting, inventory, and food service. Students also have an opportunity to come into contact with the migrants through the food pantry, clothing distribution, and home visits. Students are stretched as they share Christ with others who speak little or no English.
$1,250

Nashville

Students will travel to Nashville and stay in the city for five nights. The team will work alongside YWAM’s Fire & Fragrance ministry to serve the Nashville community. Students will participate in their weekly worship session for local students and young people to encounter Jesus. Fire & Fragrance is passionate about training up and sending out the next generation of missionaries. Their staff will hand-select projects for our team according to the needs of their Nashville partnership organizations. This trip will focus on developing your relationship with God, empowering you to share the Gospel, and providing opportunities for you to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
$800

Washington, D.C. Trip

Faith, history, and education come together in Washington, DC! Our nation’s capital will inspire you. Arlington National Cemetery will move you. And you will contemplate God’s hand in America’s history and the role of people of faith in our country. On this unique trip, you will see the White House, the Washington Monument, the National Archives, and the National Zoo. We will tour the grounds of Capitol Hill. We will explore Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian Museum, the Holocaust Museum, and the Museum of the Bible. We will visit thought-provoking memorials and learn from the sacrifices of others. Finally, this trip will challenge you to consider what part you will play in God’s plan for our nation’s future.
$1,700

Wilderness Retreat Zion

Do you need a break from the daily pressures of life to hear from God? He says, “Come away with me, and I will give you rest” (Mark 6:31). Retreat is good. Retreat allows us to use the gifts of time, quiet, and fellowship to know God more intimately so we can serve him more joyfully. If Jesus, the Savior of the World, went into the wilderness often to find rest and hear His father’s voice, how much more so do those who love Him need to seek the quiet places of nature? The Wilderness Retreat in Zion National Park offers the tranquility of placid lakes, desert places, and mountaintop experiences, as well as the adventure of wild rivers, narrow canyons, and exposed summits, all of which God will use to rejuvenate your spirit. Plan on a physical and spiritual adventure. Some personal hiking and camping equipment will need to be purchased for this trip.
$1,500

Local Opportunities

Culinary Arts Cares Experience

This opportunity will be the perfect blend of service and cooking. You’ll have the opportunity to learn some basic-and-beyond cooking skills as you create delicious fare. You will choose menus, cook, experience others’ cooking, and serve others through the gift of meals. After eating that delectable cuisine, you will serve those who are experiencing food insecurity at different area food pantries.
$225

Custom Kicks: Designing Your Own Pair of Air Force Ones

In this hands-on course, students will explore the world of sneaker design and customization by creating their own unique pair of Nike Air Force Ones. Students will learn various techniques for designing and painting sneakers. Alongside the creative process, the class will take a trip to the Cincinnati Art Museum for artistic inspiration. Additionally, students will participate in a service project, collecting and filling food boxes for the Community Food Truck.
Please note that shoes are included in the price of the class. 
$325

Project Dayton Service Project

Calling students with a servant’s heart! Do you desire an opportunity to minister to the “least of these” in your community? This year, we will be working with various local organizations, such as the Dayton Dream Center and Dear Dinah, to serve right in our own backyards. Projects may include minor construction, painting, cleaning, yard work, packing, sorting, etc. There may also be a wrap-up worship and bonfire night at the end of the week. This is a wonderful opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a very practical way!
$150

Teacher Practicum Experience

Are you considering a career as a teacher or enjoy working with children? Then sign up to work alongside one of our elementary teachers so you can change perspective and view school through the eyes of a teacher. You will have the opportunity to help tutor students, grade papers, teach a short lesson, and create a bulletin board. When you sign up, please let us know what grade most interests you, and we will do our best to place you in that grade range.
$100

Women's Ministry

Join us for a fun and meaningful trip where you’ll explore ministry in action! On this all-ladies trip, we’ll connect with the women’s ministry leader at Salem Church of God, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how ministry works in a church setting.  Next, we’ll team up with Dayton Women in the Word, a local ministry that equips women to study the Word of God and grow in their faith. You’ll meet their leaders, hear their stories, and even help out with a Bible study at a local homeless shelter.  From there, we’ll be visiting Cedarville University, where you'll meet awesome women’s ministry professors and tour the campus. To wrap it up, we’ll partner with a local nonprofit that helps new moms in need, showing the love of God to moms and babies in the Dayton area.
$150

Junior High ESM Week

Junior High Retreat at Skyview Ranch

From Monday through Thursday, our junior high students will travel to Scioto Hills for an awesome outdoor experience! More information on the Jr High service project to come.
$275

ESM Resources

ESM FAQ

List of 4 items.

  • How do I assist my student in selecting an ESM experience?

    To assist your student in selecting an ESM experience, follow these steps:
    1. Discuss the Importance of the Trip: Sit down with your son or daughter and have a heartfelt conversation about the significance of the ESM trip. Emphasize that these experiences are not just about having fun, but about personal growth and serving others. Explain that the trips will challenge them mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, providing opportunities to discover passions, develop abilities, and foster leadership skills while embodying Jesus' love for those in need.

    2. Consider Your Family's Schedule: Carefully examine your family's calendar and commitments to choose the trip that best aligns with your schedule. Keep in mind that deposits for the trips are non-refundable, and once airline tickets are purchased or other costs are incurred, your family is responsible for all fees involved, regardless of whether the student ultimately participates.

    3. Pray Together: Encourage your student to seek guidance through prayer in selecting the right trip for them. Acknowledge that not all trips may be suitable for every student, and that's perfectly okay. Allow them the space to discern and listen to their inner calling, whether it leads them to a local, national, or global mission.

    By following these steps, you can help your student make a thoughtful and meaningful decision, ensuring that their chosen ESM experience aligns with their interests, abilities, and schedule while fostering personal growth and enriching their faith journey.

  • How do I sign-up for a class or a trip?

    Signing up for an ESM trip will be different this year. Please read the following steps carefully to ensure you understand how to reserve your spot.
    1. Explore ESM Options:
      Visit the ESM page on the Troy Christian School website: https://www.troychristianschools.org/student-life/spiritual-life-chapel/esm
      Navigate to Student Life > Spiritual Life > ESM for detailed information.
    2. On-Campus Sign-Ups:
      Sign-ups will take place during the first period on the following dates:
      • Seniors: September 17
      • Juniors: September 20
      • Sophomores: September 23
      • Freshmen: September 24
        Students should be prepared with three choices in case their top option is full.
    3. Blackbaud Registration and Payment:
      On the evening of your student's on-campus sign-up:
      • Log in to Blackbaud.
      • Go to Resource Board > Tuition Management.
      • At the top of the Tuition Management homepage, click on Purchase Optional Items.
      • Select your student, choose their ESM trip or class, and proceed with the $50 deposit payment.
        Note: Families must pay the deposit within 48 hours of signing up to secure their spot.
    4. Junior High Registration:
      Junior high families should also log in to Blackbaud and navigate to Resource Board > Tuition Management.
      • Select Purchase Optional Items, choose the Junior High Retreat at Skyview, and pay the $25 deposit.
        This can be completed anytime between September 17 and September 25.

  • What are my payment options?

    To pay for ESM, follow these steps:

    Sign-Up and Deposit:
    Students will sign up for their ESM experience by grade on their designated day. For all 9-12 grade students, a $50 deposit is required within 48 hours of sign-up. This policy ensures that students make informed decisions with their parents' involvement. Please note that no changes can be made once the deposit is received. If the deposit is not submitted within the 48-hour window, the spot will be offered to another student, and you will need to select from the remaining ESM opportunities.

    Junior high students have a $25 deposit due by September 25. This policy also ensures that parents are aware of ESM and understand that further payments may be deducted from their accounts through Tuition Management.

    Payment Options:
    To make the cost of the ESM experience more manageable, we offer flexible payment options:
    1. One-Time Payment: Pay the entire fee upfront to clear your payment obligations and avoid monthly installments.
    2. Monthly Payments: If paying the full fee at once is challenging, you can opt for five monthly payments (October, November, December, January, and February). These payments will be automatically withdrawn along with your tuition payments on the same date each month.
    3. Manual Payments: If you prefer not to have automatic withdrawals, you can make individual payments manually. Simply pay the installment through Tuition Management before the scheduled withdrawal date.
    Financial Planning:
    We encourage families to plan and discuss how they will cover the expenses of an ESM trip. Involving the student in contributing to the cost is also recommended, as it fosters a sense of responsibility and investment in the opportunity. Every family's financial situation is unique, so please decide what contribution method works best for you.

  • How can my student get the most from their ESM experience?

    To ensure your student gets the most from their ESM experience, consider the following guidelines:

    1. Stay Informed: Students should pay close attention to school announcements and attend all student meetings related to their trip. These meetings may provide important information about the itinerary, preparations, and expectations for the trip. Likewise, parents should attend the parent meeting associated with the trip to stay informed about the details and any specific requirements.
    2. Team Travel: Encourage your student to travel to and from the destination with their team. Group travel fosters a sense of camaraderie and provides valuable bonding opportunities with fellow participants. If possible, try to avoid scheduling family plans that might interrupt their trip experience.
    3. Adhere to Deadlines: Make sure your student turns in all required forms and payments by the assigned due dates. Timely submissions are crucial for the trip's organization, as payments are used for various essential aspects such as purchasing airline tickets, acquiring necessary supplies, and covering fees.
    4. Prepare for International Trips: If your student is planning to attend an out-of-country experience, ensure they have a valid passport well in advance. The passport application process can take time (up to 13 weeks), so it's important to plan ahead and apply early to avoid any delays.
    5. Leave Phones Behind: It is important for students to be aware that phones will be collected at the beginning of their ESM experience to ensure maximum participation and minimize distractions. The trip leaders will have the discretion to grant time for phone use or picture-taking during appropriate moments of the trip. This policy is designed to help students fully immerse themselves in the educational and cultural aspects of the trip while maintaining a balance with staying connected to their families.
    6. Embrace the Experience: Encourage your student to be open-minded and embrace the learning opportunities and cultural experiences that come with the trip. Engaging fully in the activities and interactions during the journey will make the experience more rewarding.
    7. Be Respectful and Responsible: Remind your student to be respectful of local customs, cultures, and people during the trip. They should also be responsible for their belongings and follow the guidance and rules set by the organizers.

    By following these guidelines, your student can make the most of their ESM experience, grow personally and academically, and create unforgettable memories.
700 S Dorset Rd. Troy, OH 45373
Phone: 937 339-5692      Fax: 937 335-6258