Intro To Business

Mr. Mark Walker

I’ve spent over 30 years in leadership—most of that time in ministry, and a large portion specifically in student ministry. Working with teens and families has always been one of my greatest joys, and it’s a big reason why I feel so at home here at KBA. Before joining KBA, I spent years coaching leaders and helping churches and nonprofits around the country gain clarity and momentum. I currently hold degrees in Pastoral Leadership and Divinity, complemented by a certification in Business Coaching. I’ve always been drawn to building things—whether that’s building systems, solving problems, or encouraging people.

In my role, I oversee the operational side of the school—everything from systems and staffing to culture and long-term planning. But what really drives me is helping students become who they were created to be. Education isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you become. I want every student here to grow in confidence, character, and purpose.

Outside of school, I love learning new things, woodworking, and finding any excuse to make something better, simpler, or more fun. My family and I are active in our local church, Yes, my wife is the school secretary, and my 17-year-old son is a student leader at our church, and my 27-year-old daughter serves as the worship pastor at Life.Church Springfield.

I’m available most of the day on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Tuesdays & Thursdays I will reply to your email after 1pm.
mwalker@kineticbridges.org

Class Syllabus

Course Overview

This high school course is designed to help students develop entrepreneurial thinking, character-driven leadership, and a faith-informed sense of purpose. Through project-based learning, weekly class sessions, and reflective grid work, students will cultivate the mindset and skillset to create, lead, and launch ideas with impact.

Course Goals

– Understand what it means to think and act like an entrepreneur.
– Discover personal identity, calling, and core values.
– Build leadership skills based on faith and proven thought leadership.
– Create and pitch a real-world business project.
– Practice disciplined reflection and communication through weekly assignments.

Schedule

Class meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for 1 hour each.
Grid assignments are given for Tuesdays and Thursdays to reinforce in-class concepts through reflection and project work.
No new content is introduced on Tuesdays & Thursdays.

Course Structure by Quarter

Quarter 1 – Identity & Calling
Quarter 2 – Character & Communication
Quarter 3 – Business Frameworks
Quarter 4 – Project Execution & Shark Tank Capstone

Capstone Project

Each student or small group will develop and present a business idea at the end of the year in a Shark Tank-style pitch event. The project will include problem identification, value proposition, basic business planning, and a persuasive presentation in front of real entrepreneurs and business owners.

Grading Breakdown

Category	Percentage
Class Participation	20%
Grid Assignments (T/Th)	20%
Personal Reflection & Journals	15%
Project Development	25%
Final Pitch	20%

Materials Needed

– Notebook or journal
– Access to grid assignments
– Assigned readings (provided in class)

Core Influences & Resources

– Seth Godin, ‘The Practice’: https://www.sethgodin.com/thepractice
– Donald Miller, ‘Business Made Simple’: https://businessmadesimple.com
– John Maxwell, ’21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership’
– Patrick Lencioni, ‘The Five Dysfunctions of a Team’
– Scripture and biblical principles (woven naturally)
– Instructor-curated (quotes and insights)