“I was devastated,” said Johnnie Davis, teacher of Powell Valley SDA Christian School (Va.). “Due to our increasing debt of $16,000 and low enrollment, we were told our school would be shut down. The only way it could stay open, is if the debt could be paid off before the upcoming school year and have an enrollment of 10 students.”
Pastor Don Elswick, announced he would do everything he could, in his six church district, which includes the school, to help. Together, Elswick, Davis and several students traveled to the six churches – the closest one more than two and a half hours away – to promote the school. “It was our only hope and we weren’t sure if we would have much of a response.”
Through their journey across Southwest Virginia, every church in the district quickly jumped to the aide of the school and, by August, the debt had been paid off and enrollment had more than doubled, going from four students to ten. “God has answered our prayers in so many ways,” says Davis. “Every church, in one way has contributed. Several members have even given special donations for tuition gifts and others have connected with individuals to supply us with new computers and tablets!”
Beyond the local school board, another board has been created which is comprised of representatives from each of the six churches. “It’s designed to keep members up-to-date with the needs of the school,” explains Davis. “It’s amazing to have such support behind us and to see a true miracle happening right before our eyes. It’s honestly like a dream come true.”
Picture Caption: Lanny Wilson (middle) teaches students, Colton Busic (right) and Hunter Busic (left) how to start a fire in the woods without a match.
