Lakeland Christian Academy embarks on its first major fund raiser today in hopes of upgrading its facilities.

The first step - a rather small one in its eventual plans - begins today with the start of a coupon book fund-raiser.

Sales of the 4,000 books for $25 each would generate $100,000. Combined with savings and a handful of other donations, the school would then be in a position to purchase a nearby 40-acre tract that officials have eyed for some time.

The booklet contains $1,400 in values through local stores. Printing costs were offset by Warsaw businessman Ray Monteith, meaning all of the proceeds from the sale will go toward the building fund.

The booklets will be on sale at booths beginning today and continuing for the next four Saturdays at Owen's grocery stores, Marsh grocery store and Walmart. For more details, call 268-2884 and the book can be delivered.

The small Christian high school located near Grace College in Winona Lake consists of three buildings, including two that are modular.

After 22 years, the school has reached the point where expansion is necessary, and adding another modular building, isn't the answer.

Enrollment has steadily grown and is expected to jump from 93 students this year to 113 next year. The seventh grade class next year is expected to reach a record 30 students and will force officials to make more creative decisions to provide enough class space.

The school has assembled committees to cover the issues of building, communications and fund raising. With a successful fund drive to purchase the land, school officials would then prepare a major campaign to fund construction of new facilities. That would likely entail the need for significant private donations.

Just how cramped are conditions? Retzer's office is in the back of the band room and the athletic director's office doubles as the study hall.

But the bigger concern is the need for more classrooms and facilities for extra curricular activities.

The campus has about 10 classrooms, but could currently use about three more. Eventually, that need could reach five or six, Retzer said.

Another major need is that of a multi-purpose facility which would serve as a cafeteria, gymnasium and auditorium.

Without a gymnasium the school is dependent on other schools for practices and games. And the only practice times available at other schools is usually about 5:30 a.m.

"That impacts your academics, because by sixth or seventh period, (the students are) tired," said Marv Retzer the school's assistant administrator.

John Urschalitz, whose children attend LCA and who is involved in the campaign, said he hopes the community rallies behind the project and further realizes what the school has to offer. Increased publicity about the school's benefits will coincide with the campaign.

"People, I hope, are going to realize what choices are available for their kids, especially if they're disenchanted with the public schools," Urschalitz said.

"We're convinced that there's a lot of people out there that want a Christian education for their kids," he said.

Current conditions limit the school in more than one way. It can't fully serve its current students and makes it difficult to attract future students.

"Our marketing potential would obviously increase with new facilities," Retzer said. [[In-content Ad]]