Damascus Christian School

How did the school begin? As a dream, a conviction, and the fruit of faithful prayer.

In 1975, a small group of people under the leadership and vision of Pastor David Whiting, began praying that the Lord would lead them step by step regarding the possible expansion of the already-existing preschool and kindergarten program Damascus Community Church offered. As they visited other Christian schools, surveyed parents in the church, checked out curriculum and programs, considered the cost and a myriad of other details, they became convinced that this was a mission the church should undertake.

Tim Oakley was called to get the school started and to serve as principal. In September 1975, the doors opened to forty-nine first through ninth grade (with one senior) students. The start-up curriculum was Accelerated Christian Education. Pre-school, kindergarten and first grade were stand-alone classes: because the curriculum was individualized, second through ninth grades were in the downstairs rooms with a Head Teacher/Supervisor (Mr. Oakley) and an Assistant Monitor (Mrs. Molly Olsen). Parents graciously volunteered their time and expertise in many different areas to help establish an enhanced though limited educational program. PE was held in the classrooms on rainy days, home ec and science labs shared the kitchen, computer classes consisted of T-44's from Toys R Us, band met in the foyer, sports were coached and officiated by willing though not always well-trained parents.

Over and over, we saw DCS weather many challenges and difficulties. These were opportunities to see the Lord's faithfulness in meeting and exceeding our expectations and prayers to carry us through. The last thirty-two years have brought many changes. Growth, an expanded and refined curriculum, drama, choir, yearbook, computer and science labs, a gym and weight room, foreign languages, a library, additional classrooms, certified teachers and school-wide accreditation. Through thirty-two years and all the changes, one thing remains the same - our mission - to assist Christian parents in the Biblical training of their children spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally and physically, to help prepare them to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ for God's glory and the building of His Kingdom.

Tim Oakley
Principal