“What began with a vision?” That’s the question to ask ourselves as we stand before Valley Christian School. It is a place with a rich history and a promising future.
Valley Christian School’s story starts in 1975. Pastor Tom Starr had a vision. He wanted a school that integrated Christian values with education. His vision came to life with a small staff and thirty-five students. They were in grades 2-11. The school used the Accelerated Christian Education program. It offered individualized learning.
In 1978, Valley Christian School became part of Valley Fourth Memorial Church. The school grew over the years. It expanded its programs to include PreK-12. It shifted to a traditional curriculum. Prayer and hard work fueled this expansion.
Valley Christian School started a Home School satellite program in 1992. This program supported parents who chose to homeschool. It offered home visits and monthly conferences. Certified teachers provided curriculum help. Workshops and annual testing were also included. Elementary enrichment classes were added one day per week. Core junior and senior high classes were added as well.
The school gained accreditation in 1995. The Association of Christian Schools International granted it. The Northwest Association of Schools of Colleges and Universities recognized this accreditation. Valley Christian School underwent re-accreditation in 2003. It used the ACSI “By School Progress” model. In 2010, it achieved its third accreditation. This time, it used the ACSI “REACH” model. Continuous school improvement was the goal. Accreditation was renewed in 2016. Both ACSI and AdvancEd recognized Valley Christian School.
God blessed Valley Christian School with growth. In 2001, the School Commission asked the church’s Elder Board for independent status. They wanted to become a 501C3 non-profit. The Elder Board unanimously approved the request. The State of Washington approved the application in November 2001. The Commission became the Board of Directors.
In 2005, the secondary campus moved. It found a new home at the old University High School. In 2009, the elementary school joined the secondary school. Both were united on one campus as a K-12 school for the first time in 16 years. In 2010, the Home School Program moved to the K-12 campus. All school programs were finally together. Valley Christian School launched a preschool program. They also introduced an innovative 4-day school week in 2013.
Valley Christian School purchased its facility in July 2017. It had leased the facility for 12 years. This purchase established a permanent home after 43 years. The property includes 24 acres and 155,700 sq. ft. of space.
Valley Christian School has several distinguishing traits. These include a committed school board and a dedicated administrative team. High standards and strong convictions are important. There is also a professional staff, supportive parents, and an enthusiastic student body. The school provides Bible-centered instruction. It fosters a family-like atmosphere and maintains its facilities well. Valley Christian School offers a challenging curriculum. It promotes outreach service projects and extracurricular activities. Athletic opportunities and tutorial assistance are available too.
The school’s mission is clear. It aims to provide quality education. It wants to develop a biblical worldview in each student. The school prepares students for service to God and others. Parents, faculty, and the local church work together. They enable Valley Christian School to minister to this generation for Christ. They lay the foundations for life.
Valley Christian School is more than just a school. It is a community that encourages Christ-like character. It inspires service to God and the world. Valley Christian School stands as a testament to faith. It embodies dedication and a commitment to Christian education.