The first day of school is set for Wednesday, Aug. 10. That’s not a date students and teachers want to think about three weeks into summer vacation.
Centertown Christian Academy is gearing up for its third year of operation under the direction of school administrator Billy Cunningham. The private institution can handle up to 24 students who are allowed to work at their own pace in a relaxed classroom environment.
“Each student sets their goals of what they’re going to do that day,” said pastor Jerry Smith, the school’s founder. “If they reach their daily goal, they don’t have homework. At first, they go through an adjustment period of dealing with self-motivation. Then they get used to it and understand what they need to do.”
Centertown Christian Academy is located at the old Centertown School grounds. Classes are conducted in what used to be the cafeteria, while the gym still stands and is filled with inflatables for students to use during PE.
“We couldn’t ask for a better facility,” said Smith, pointing out the building remains in great shape.
Seven subjects are taught under the ACE curriculum, which Smith says is used by about 8,000 schools worldwide. ACE stands for Accelerated Christian Education. Bible and art are two of the side subjects taught.
The school operates under the auspices of Centertown Community Church, which is a member of the Central Baptist Association. Students must provide their own transportation and their own lunch.
The school finished its second year with eight students. Smith said two new students have already registered for next year with enrollment capped at 24.
The school mirrors the Warren County School System calendar and is available for students in grades 2-12. The cost is $200 a month.
To celebrate the end of the year, the school recently held an awards banquet that included a 15-minute play that was written and directed by students. The play had a biblical theme, portraying Christ on the cross.
For more information on Centertown Christian Academy, call the school at 939-5001 and leave a message if no one answers. School officials check in several times a week during the summer. Pastor Smith can be reached at (615) 522-7525.