The How

Just two weeks after stepping down as principal, Mr. Haynes submitted the necessary paperwork to the IRS to begin the process of obtaining 501(c)(3) nonprofit status for Vectors of Grace—a process typically expected to take 6 to 9 months.

However, shortly after filing, church leadership communicated that the current school might not continue operating beyond the current school year. Mr. Haynes was asked to move forward with planning as though the school would not reopen in August 2025.

In response, the IRS forms were refiled with an expedited request. By mid-February, initial approval was granted, and full nonprofit status was officially confirmed on March 24, 2025. With that, Vectors of Grace became a recognized provider of Christian education, and Oakwood Academy was officially on track to open in August 2025.