02/19/08 Smith Mountain Lake Academy Establishes Board of Directors

Moneta, VA, February 19, 2008 ­­-- Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy formally announces its Board of Directors.  The following members have been approved by SMLCA founders and are pictured from left: Micah Gaudio, Maggie Gray, Deke Andrews, Rachel Abrams, Bob Odom, Jessica Morgan, Gary Feazell, Sharon Sicher) Not pictured: Karl Vandegriff The newly formed board of directors had their first meeting in December and has met seven times so far to establish various committees, milestones, and objectives to ensure the school is open in the fall of this year. 

Deke Andrews, the Academy’s Head of School, said the selection process was a combined effort between himself and fellow SMLCA founder Micah Gaudio.  “Micah and I prayed for direction and guidance. From there, we began to process names of talented and resourceful people we knew, in addition to reviewing potential volunteers from questionnaires we had received,” said Andrews. “After agreeing on an individual, I would approach them and ask if they would simply pray to consider being a part of the foundation of the school.” 

Andrews said most of the individuals approached did become a board member or suggested someone who was an even more appropriate candidate for inclusion.  Andrews said the purpose of the Board is to provide oversight and accountability for the operation of the school, protect the integrity of the school by ensuring it remains true to its mission, set tuition, approve the budget, develop long-range planning, and help raise funds through capital campaigns and the annual fund.  

Each board member has been assigned chairmanship to a committee: Policies and Procedures, The Admissions Process, Curriculum Development, Business and Finance, Marketing and Development, Site Development, Human Resources, and Prayer and Pastoral Support. Andrews said the Board’s initial focus is finalizing admissions materials, procuring our temporary location, marketing, and hiring teachers. 

Andrews said he is privileged to work with such a talented group of people. “The board is a diverse group with several things in common; a love for the Lord, an appreciation for our community, and a growing love and passion for the value of Christian education,” he said. 

About Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy is a private Christian school located one mile from Halesford Bridge that exists to grow students spiritually, mentally, and physically through Bible-based principles and Christian curriculum. The school is currently enrolling its first group of kindergarten through sixth grade students in the fall. For more information visit www.smlacademy.com