Vandalia Christian Academy Moves to New Location at First Presbyterian Church (Vandalia, Indiana)

Vandalia Christian Academy has begun its school year at a new location after a lengthy search for a suitable space. The private school, which has served students from kindergarten through fifth grade, moved to the First Presbyterian Church at 1221 W. Fillmore St. in Vandalia. This marks a significant shift from its previous home at the First Baptist Church on South Sixth Street, where it had operated for over two decades.

The decision to relocate came after enrollment numbers declined over the years, making it increasingly difficult to sustain the school financially. On June 30, the First Baptist Church community informed the VCA board that the ministry would end by the end of July, forcing the school to find a new location quickly. VCA Board President Casey Leidner expressed determination to prevent the closure, stating, “We decided we didn’t want that to happen. So we did everything we could to not let that happen.”

Vandalia Christian Academy is a nondenominational institution that emphasizes the value of Christian education. Founded in 2000 by former principal Rod Deem, the school initially served children in kindergarten through second grade. Over the years, it expanded its offerings to include fifth grade. The school’s mission is rooted in the belief that Christian values provide a strong foundation for learning.

The search for a new location began in July, and the school became a nonprofit organization in hopes of securing a space before the fall semester. The process was challenging, with several rejections before the idea of the First Presbyterian Church emerged. Board treasurer Staria Smith noted that the church had been suggested repeatedly due to its underutilized Sunday school rooms. “We just want to come there and be a blessing,” Smith said. “We want to hopefully help grow their church. It’s such a beautiful location.”

Another connection to the Presbyterian church was the relationship between Leidner and her uncle Mike Kopp, an elder at the church. Leidner was at her uncle’s visitation when she received a text about a meeting to discuss VCA’s future at the church. This personal tie, combined with the church’s willingness to accommodate the school, played a role in the decision.

Pete LeDuc is now the administrator at Vandalia Christian Academy. While the school had to downsize due to resource limitations, the board and administration remain committed to growth. The move to the First Presbyterian Church has allowed the school to continue its mission, providing education to students in a new setting. The board members believe the relocation was divinely guided, though they did not elaborate further on the spiritual significance of the decision.

Source: Read the original report