In the mid-1990’s the city of Lancaster had no private or Christian school. A medical doctor, L. Connor, and a pastor, Huey A. Mills, had a vision to open a Christian school in Lancaster. This vision was presented to more than twenty-five area pastors, the sheriff, mayor, professional and business individuals. The response was nothing short of incredible. Excitement rippled all through the community and area churches. Even though the school would not open until September of 1996, enrollment for the new school began in February of 1996. Within four days, over seventy-five signed up and within one week over one hundred. It quickly became apparent that the demand for Christian education in Lancaster exceeded what Fellowship Bible Church, the church that Dr. Mills pastored, and what Dr. Connor was able to provide. The community rallied. Both individuals and businesses came forward to equip classrooms, computer labs, the lunchroom, etc. Three thousand five hundred dollars was contributed for each of more than ten classrooms to purchase everything the classrooms would need – chalk boards, bulletin boards, storage cabinets, teacher’s desks and student’s desks. A funeral home gave ten thousand dollars to equip the computer lab, Wachovia gave a large grant to equip the kitchen and dining area, money was given for a library, etc. Later a medical doctor gave twelve thousand dollars to equip a science lab and the Coke Company gave a grant of $100,000 to complete the junior and senior high wing. From the beginning, The Lancaster News gave its editorial endorsement to the formation of a Christian school in Lancaster and has been supportive over the years. That was sixteen years ago. During those years, Carolina Christian Academy has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top Christian schools in South Carolina, and its seniors have been recognized by the Charlotte Observer as having some of the highest SAT scores in the Charlotte Metro region. Those of us at CCA are thankful for the continued support of the Lancaster area, and for the good reputation we have in Lancaster and surrounding areas.
