Stillwater Christian School has received a $1 million grant from the Gianforte Family Foundation for its Early Learning Center construction project, which is slated to start in the spring. 

The grant will be used for site work, including expansion of the septic system and parking lots in addition to new vehicle pick-up and drop-off areas.  

“As we grow, we recognize the need for increased parking for teachers, staff, parents and visitors, including more accessible parking spaces. New drop-off areas will enable safer vehicle entry and egress from campus,” Stillwater Head of School Laura McCollum said at a state of the school address Feb. 13. 

Also funding the Early Learning Center construction project is a $5 million donation from local businessman Paul Wachholz, which was announced in September 2024.  

McCollum unveiled updated architectural renderings of the new center last week alongside LSW Architects Chief Innovation Officer Casey Wyckoff. The new 18,000-square-foot building will include two kindergarten and three pre-kindergarten through kindergarten classrooms, restrooms, teacher and support staff workrooms, a gymnasium/multipurpose room for elementary physical education and a dedicated space for music classes. 

“The new and reconfigured spaces will allow us to open up more enrollment for children in Pre-K through K, with a developmentally appropriate design, so that all grade and age levels are best served,” McCollum said in a statement. “The valley has been growing, with many new, young families moving into the area, so we anticipate increased enrollment, especially at the pre-school level.”  

The new Early Learning Center is anticipated to open in fall 2026. 

McCollum thanked general contractor, Tadd Nicely, owner of Nicely Construction, subcontractors and donors for their support, financial assistance and collaboration on the project.  

“We are so excited and proud to celebrate the many entities who have come together, captured by our vision, to enhance Christian education in the Flathead Valley,” she said. 

Located at 225 FFA Drive in Kalispell, the private school offers a “Christ-centered education” for grades pre-kindergarten through 12th. Current enrollment stands at 400 students.  

The Gianforte Family Foundation is a Bozeman-based nonprofit founded in 2004 that has supported various education, school choice and Christian ministry programs/initiatives through grants and scholarships. Foundation trustees are Gov. Greg Gianforte and his wife, Susan.  

“We’re thrilled to provide this grant to partner with Stillwater Christian School on its new Early Learning Center,” Gianforte Family Foundation Executive Director Catherine Koenen said. “The campus expansion will directly address demand for increased options in education.” 

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or [email protected].

    Stillwater Christian School Early Learning Center construction project will include five classrooms and a gym geared for elementary students. The project recently received a $1 million grant from the Gianforte Family Foundation. (Drawing by LSW Architects)