Jonathan Cardinal’s belief in educational choice is rooted in lived experience. Having grown up attending both private school and homeschool programs, Jonathan understands firsthand that learning does not follow a single path. That perspective deepened as he and his wife navigated similar decisions for their own children, who attended private school before transitioning to homeschooling in 2015. Today, their family participates in Classical Conversations, continuing a journey shaped by flexibility, faith, and thoughtful engagement.
For Jonathan, the most important part of any learning environment is simple: children need to feel safe, supported, and free to be themselves.
“You want a nurturing space where your kids can grow and thrive,” he says. “Bullying, constant classroom disruptions, or lessons that conflict with what you’re teaching at home are not what parents are looking for.”
That belief is what drew him to Children’s Scholarship Fund early in the Education Tax Credit program. He appreciated that CSF scholarships could support a wide range of educational approaches, from faith-based schools to homeschooling and other personalized learning options, without forcing families into a rigid model.
In his own family’s experience, Jonathan saw how powerful the right environment can be. When his children moved away from loud, chaotic classrooms, their grades improved by a full letter. More importantly, they gained the space to learn in ways that matched their individual strengths.
“Kids learn differently,” Jonathan explains. “Some are visual learners. Some need hands-on experiences. Others do best with repetition or discussion. As parents, you’re in the best position to recognize that and help create an environment that supports how your child learns.”
Jonathan also understands that choosing an alternative education path can feel overwhelming for families at first. Many parents worry they are not qualified to guide their children’s learning, especially if they do not have a teaching background. He believes CSF scholarships help remove that fear by providing both financial support and reassurance that families are capable.
“It’s a leap of faith,” he says. “But dedication, consistency, and genuinely caring about your child’s growth go a long way. And there are so many resources available, from co-ops to online courses to tutors. You don’t have to do everything alone.”
What has kept Jonathan committed to CSF over the years is seeing real impact. He has watched families he knows personally benefit from scholarships and has appreciated CSF’s ongoing communication about program updates and student stories. For him, being able to direct a portion of his state tax dollars toward a cause he genuinely believes in simply makes sense.
He also values CSF’s transparency and clarity of mission. Before supporting any organization, Jonathan takes time to research its work and ensure it aligns with his values. With CSF, he found a nonprofit focused on empowering parents and opening doors for students, rather than prescribing one version of success.
At its core, Jonathan sees education as preparation not just for careers, but for life.
“A strong foundation helps kids become independent thinkers,” he says. “People who know how to ask good questions, evaluate information, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
As a father, he hopes his children grow into adults who lead with integrity and purpose, giving back in ways that strengthen families and communities.
When asked why he continues to support CSF, Jonathan puts it simply: “Children need an education that suits them and protects them, regardless of their family’s financial situation.”
Join supporters like Jonathan in directing resources where they can make a real difference – for students, families, and their futures.