In January of 2002 a small group of parents began meeting to discuss the necessary steps to start an Orthodox Christian school to serve the families of Holy Cross Orthodox Church. The goal was set to open the school in September of the same year. With the blessing of the Most Reverend Metropolitan PHILIP, the Right Reverend Bishop Joseph and the Very Reverend Father Joseph a steering committee was formed. This committee eventually evolved into the school board. In the year 2002, St. John's School became the first Washington State approved Orthodox Christian private school.

The second year, 2003-2004 found the board struggling with questions about staffing & funding. It was decided that this year would be devoted to fundraising, with no enrollment. During this time the board applied for non-profit status with the IRS and received its 501(C)3 determination letter in October of 2003. Dr. Ryan Landvoy wrote a grant proposal to the Virginia H. Farrah Foundation asking for start-up funds. What we received was $10,000 for training in fundraising with Stewardship Advocates, which we gladly accepted. With this training we were given the tools to create a sustainable funding system for the school.

In September of 2004 the school year reopened with five students, grades K-3. This was a fine year, spiritually, academically and financially. The next years followed suit with enrollment increasing to eight students, then 11 and then 14. Enrollment and community support for the school continue to grow.

St. John's School is managed by a 10 member school board including clergy, certified educators, community members and parents. At this time the board is focusing on strategic planning for the future and expanding our base of funding support. As you are able, please join us in this worthy effort.

Through the prayers of St. John of Kronstadt, may the school be blessed and may it serve the Orthodox community in Yakima until the Lord returns.