Bigger facilities

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Christian Academy celebrated the grand opening of its new location on Nelson Road Friday.

The school celebrated by moving a bus, giving tours and holding a concert. Children and adults gathered in front of the building Friday afternoon.

"Praise God we are here," Principal John Bartkowski told a crowd. "It took a lot of effort."

Volunteers including parents, teachers and community members worked to get the school open in time for classes at the 1475 Nelson Road N.E., Suite A location. The new location is situated between the South Campus Athletic Club and the Moses Lake Convention Center.

Bartkowski gave much credit to preschool teacher Joean Brader for her efforts during the renovation. He said she literally lived at the school.

"If it wasn't for Joean, I don't think we'd be here where we are today," he said.

The Moses Lake Christian Academy was formerly located on Grape Drive.

Christian academy junior Mariah Troutman and freshman Kelsey Bickel said the new location is a lot more spacious.

"You can spread your arms in the hallway and not hit anybody," Troutman said.

Junior Esther Timofeyev noticed there are now intercoms and bells. Timofeyev said unfortunately, the new location does not have lockers.

Junior Jocelyn McCornack said the school's new location has more bathroom stalls.

"You never have to wait," McCornack said.

She joked the location is an improvement because it is closer to Starbucks.

Sophomore Kayla Bickel said the school feels more like a school than the old buildings did.

Teacher Mark Bassett said the new facilities are long overdue. The Grape Drive location was functional, but it did not feel like a school, Bassett said. In addition, the school outgrew its location.

"It is very, very good," he said. "We have a goal of becoming a 500-plus school."

Currently, 295 students are enrolled in preschool through 12th grade, he said.