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What started as a small, faith-driven vision in 2002 has blossomed into a thriving educational institution that serves families across Central Virginia. Central Virginia Christian School (CVCS) opened its doors in 2004 with just eight kindergarteners, a handful of teachers, and a deep-rooted mission: to provide a Christ-centered education that shapes students into strong, compassionate leaders. Today, the nonprofit is home to over 200 students stretching over six counties and is preparing for its next big chapter– expanding into high school education. 

Laying the Foundation: The Early Years

Cherie Brickhill, who is now entering her 21st year as Head of School, has been involved with CVCS since the very beginning. She remembers her first two years volunteering with the non-profit and its founders’ desire to create a school that wasn’t just about academics, but about instilling values of excellence, respect, and teamwork through a biblical lens. 

CVCS incorporated as a nonprofit educational institution in 2002 with Buckingham County chosen as a neutral location to serve families from surrounding areas. The school officially opened in 2004 with just one kindergarten class, adding a new grade level each year as demand grew. By 2012, CVCS had reached eighth grade, completing its earliest vision for an elementary and middle school program. Two years later, a Pre-K program was introduced where they offered a certified preschool education for four year-olds. 

Accredited by the ACSI, the Association of Christian Schools International, and recognized by the Virginia Council for Private Education, CVCS has worked hard to maintain excellence in its educational approach. From the beginning, the school’s mission was to provide students with a Christ-centered academic path. The focus was on instilling strong moral values and a heart for service. 

Growth, Change, and Community Impact

Over the years, CVCS has become a pillar in the community. Its growth from a single kindergarten class to an institution serving hundreds of students speaks to the parental demand for quality Christian education. But beyond enrollment numbers, what has truly sets CVCS apart is its strong emphasis on service and outreach. 

“Success for us isn’t just about the grades or test scores– it’s about students growing in their faith and using their gifts to serve others,” Cherie explained. Alumni have gone on to become active contributors to their communities, reflecting the school’s mission in their careers and personal lives. Graduates from the school have entered fields such as law enforcement, secondary education, medicine, ministry, journalism, and skilled trades; this stands as a poignant testimony to the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. 

CVCS students are actively engaged in service projects that benefit both their local communities and communities seemingly out-of-reach. Whether through food drives, volunteer work at local shelters, mission trips, or large-scale projects like hurricane disaster relief efforts, students learn that success is measured by their impact on the world around them. This way, students have been able to see their service changing the world, both big and small. The school also organizes annual events such as the Veteran’s Color Run, “Walk for Life” fundraisers, and a Christmas drive-through event that drew 10,000 attendees during its first year. These initiatives exemplify the school’s dedication to fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion in its students. 

As the world changes, so do the challenges facing educators. Cherie noted that adapting to cultural shifts, such as the rise of cell phones and social media, has been an important part of CVCS’ journey. Through it all, the school has remained committed to fostering an environment where students are not just well-educated, but also well-grounded in their faith. 

Central Virginia Christian School Expands

The most exciting development for CVCS is its long-awaited expansion into high school education. For years, parents and students alike have voiced their desire to continue their Christ-centered education beyond eighth grade. That vision is now becoming a reality. 

In 2025, CVCS will launch its high school program starting with ninth and tenth grade at a temporary off-site location while construction begins on a dedicated high school building on the main campus. The school plans to add 11th grade in 2026 and 12th grade in 2027, culminating in its first graduating high school class in 2028. 

The high school curriculum will offer both standard and advanced diplomas. One of its most distinctive features will be community-based internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in both professional and vocational fields. The school will also operate on an A/B schedule, giving students a taste of college-style learning while allowing for deeper engagement in their studies. 

Beyond academics, the high school will feature an extracurricular program, like sports, performing arts, student government, and a variety of clubs driven by student interests. Cherie emphasized that “CVCS leaders have always been determined to provide a well-rounded experience that prepares students for future success.” 

Fundraising and Support

None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of the CVCS community. The school recently raised $500,000 through grassroots efforts– proof that when people believe in a cause and mission, they come together to make it happen. 

But there’s still work to be done. The school is actively seeking additional funding to bring the high school expansion to completion. Every donation goes directly to this mission, and as a nonprofit, all contributions are tax-deductible. 

A Bright Future for Central Virginia Christian School

With nearly two decades of history behind it and an exciting future ahead, Central Virginia Christian School continues to stand as witness to faith, education, and serving communities. 

For families seeking an education that blends academic excellence with Christian values, CVCS is more than just a school– it’s a community where children are nurtured, challenged, and inspired to make a difference. As the school embarks on its new chapter, its mission remains steadfast: to equip students with the knowledge, faith, and character they need to serve God and their communities in years to come. “To define success for us,” Cherie explained, “is that our students have a relationship with Jesus Christ, that they are not me-centered, but that they leave here with their eyes first on glorifying God and secondly on serving and loving others.”