UPPER TOWNSHIP — For Bryce Martin and Savannah Markins, this year is the culmination of 12 years of hard work. They will graduate in May from Sugar Creek Christian Academy.

For the Rev. Mike Long and the faculty and staff at the school, when Martin and Markins walk across that stage, that moment will be the culmination of more than six years of hard work and a lot of prayers.

“We started with K through 6 and we’ve added a grade every year,” Long explained. We planned it that way and now we’re seeing it come to pass.”

Six years ago when the school opened its doors, 19 students were enrolled. This year Long said 80 to 85 students are enrolled right now but thinks that number may climb as high as 90 by the time school starts.

The staff has increased as well to accommodate the hike the students. This year Karen Mays will teach fourth grade and Lora Bazel will teach a mixture of high school classes.

School begins Monday, Aug. 22 and the last day is May 18.