Perhaps the Northwest’s best-kept secret is tucked away in the Skagit Valley of Burlington, Wash.
Skagit Adventist School existed for 20 years as a junior academy before expanding into a senior day academy three years ago. The second graduating class of the now K–12 academic program of Skagit Adventist School and Academy marched down the aisle this year.
The transition from a junior to a senior academy brings special milestones: full six-year accreditation approval from the North American Division; new staff and new learning space; an expanded curriculum with four years of science and math; a college prep program; and foreign language and technology courses.
Underscoring the curriculum is a strong desire to present the gospel as practical for students—and not just in Bible class. "The music program," says Michael Sandvik, teacher, "is more than just performance, but a ministry, an opportunity to present the gospel, and a tool for outreach."
The past three years as a senior academy have included mission trips, including a recent one to the Bamboo School in Bongti, Thailand, and another to flood-zoned Mississippi after the wake of Hurricane Katrina; choir and band tours to surrounding schools and churches including their first tour to the Orcas Islands this past April; and friendship tournaments at Walla Walla University.
From colorful classrooms, to outstanding academic programs and caring teachers, to practical ministry application, the Northwest’s best-kept secret won’t last long as the ever-expanding campus attracts more and more students.
A Skagit Academy student helps salvage a Mississippi home from the damage of Hurricane Katrina.
Michael Sandvik, choir teacher conducts the advanced choir.
Ten seniors made history in June as the second graduating class of Skagit Adventist Academy.
Skagit Academy students work together laying the foundation for a bathroom facility in Bongti, Thailand.
