Miami Valley Christian Academy

Miami Valley Christian Academy is a private, multi-denominational Christian school located on the east side of Cincinnati in Newtown, Ohio, United States. MVCA educates children aged Preschool - 12th Grade. The curriculum provides college preparatory academic instruction from a Biblical worldview. Fine arts, athletics, and other co-curriculars complement their core subjects.

History

In February 1994, the Elders of Faith Christian Fellowship Church (FCFC) and Pastor Edgar Bonniwell of Cincinnati, Ohio asked Mary Lou and Edward Wambach, to research the requirements for beginning a Christian school. The Wambachs visited the Ohio State Board of Education and a number of Christian schools within a 150-mile radius of Cincinnati. The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), Christian school administrators, and a number of local parents gave much guidance and encouragement. After receiving the results of this research the FCFC Elders asked the Wambachs to form a committee that would develop a plan to establish a Christian school in the Newtown school building then owned by the church.

In October 1994, the first meeting of the school committee was held. A preliminary plan for a school was adopted. The ten founding members of the committee became the Board of Trustees of Miami Valley Christian Academy. They were as follows: Edward N. and Mary Lou Wambach, Dr. Henry E. and Marilyn Wedig, John and Ellen Maloy, James and Jennifer Simunek, and Paul and Phyllis Zender.

The goal was to open a private, independently incorporated, non-denominational Christian school. The primary purpose was to provide academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment. The plan was to begin classes at Miami Valley Christian Academy (MVCA) beginning August 1996.

Robert S. Marriott, attorney at law and a committed Christian, with Graydon, Head and Ritchey, prepared the Ohio State Incorporation papers and acquired the 501(c)(3) recognition of tax exemption. The MVCA Constitution and Code of Regulations were prepared by the Board of Trustees with help from the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), Ed Reck of World Harvest Christian School and Bud Schindler of Dayton Christian Schools. Many hours of prayer and preparation were given freely.

In November 1995, Mr. Andrew Lowe, a public school principal with 30 years experience came to MVCA as headmaster. Mr. Lowe worked endless hours developing the curriculum, hiring teachers, writing manuals, and applying for a State Charter. His sacrifice and love helped give birth to MVCA.

The Board of Trustees and many others spent long days cleaning, painting, and acquiring furniture and materials in anticipation of opening day.

On August 21, 1996, MVCA opened its doors with five kindergartners and six first graders. Mrs. Diane Pearson and Mrs. Kathy Morris sacrificed part of their salary the first year. Mrs. Dody Staker and Mrs. LaRae Bircher taught the music and art specials without remuneration.

A new middle and high school building was erected on the Miami Valley Christian Academy campus from 2004 to 2005. The new facilities were opened in the fall season of 2005, allowing Miami Valley Christian Academy to welcome enrollment for grades 9-12.

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