Forward Together Campaign

Creating a PreK-12 campus for Sunnyside Christian School

SCS is committed to shaping the future by providing a safe, Christ-centered environment where students can grow. We envision a united campus that prioritizes student safety, expands opportunities, enhances fine arts and athletic programs, and elevates the overall quality of education.

We are trusting in God’s provision and faithfulness as we embark on this capital campaign. We are asking you to join us by praying for this project and giving your time and resources to help us grow. We are not building for ourselves, but for our children, grandchildren, and future generations.

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Why build a consolidated campus?

  1. Safety concerns
  2. Increasing enrollment
  3. Improve overall quality of education
  4. Creating intentional interactions between all student ages
  • Two cars have hit the elementary building in the last 5 years.
  • Crime maps show an overwhelming number of incidents happening within 100 yards of the elementary building. This is drastically reduced within 100 yards of the SCHS campus.
  • Lockdowns are becoming frequent at the elementary campus.
  • Seeing 13% growth in the last 10 years, 33% growth in the past 6 years
  • Sunnyside Christian Childcare Center opened in 2019
  • A new website, marketing structure, and parent communication app launched in 2023

Our improved operational efficiencies may open opportunities for dual-credit classes, which would give our students a head start on their college journey. Our vision includes retaining and hiring teachers qualified and passionate about dual-credit courses as well as expanding on advanced learning opportunities in technical and horticulture programs. Empowering our students to get a head start on their journey after graduation is a priority.

Our new building would provide flex spaces close to each classroom which creates the ability to differentiate groups with ease, providing instruction to students at their current ability level. With modern classrooms and enhanced resources, we will equip our students with the tools they need to excel academically while also growing in their faith.

We appreciate your support

Our students are helping us get donations from all 50 US states.
By donating today, you can turn your state gold.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is new construction and what is already in place?

The Sunnyside Christian consolidated campus will be located at 1820 Sheller Rd in Sunnyside, the current location of our high school campus. Our future plans include constructing a new PreK-8th grade classroom building to be located between our existing high school gym and VoAg buildings. We will also build a new gym on the west side of our existing west parking lot.

How did we choose a general contractor?
  1. Experience and Expertise
  2. Reputation and References
  3. Financial Stability
  4. Communication and Project Management
  5.  Subcontractor Network and Relationships
  6. Safety Record
  7. Contract Terms and Flexibility
  8. Value Engineering and Cost-Saving

Why did we choose WDS Construction as our general contractor?
  1. WDS Construction excels in providing construction services for Christian schools and colleges, rooted in shared values and a deep understanding of the unique needs of faith-based institutions.
  2. WDS understands that every dollar spent is a donated dollar.
  3. A “School” is classified as an Essential Facility under our building code.
  4. Cost to build in WA State is $300-$550+ per square foot
    • WDS projected cost has SCS at $320
  5. WDS profit margin is 6-7%, which is comparable to area companies

Why did we choose this school design?

Safety – We strive to minimize movement between buildings and minimize entrances

Additional classroom space to accommodate SCS’s growing student population

Improve student education by providing new, modern classrooms

Create student interaction between different ages and grades

Utilize relationships in the community by maximizing practicality and stewardship
1. Sunnyside Christian Childcare Center will remain at Sunnyside Christian Reformed Church
2. Rent Sunnyside High School auditorium for performances, if necessary
3. Rent Sunnyside High School football field

School design checks all boxes
1. Student safety is enhanced
2. Extra classroom space for present and future
3. Flexibility for future expansion
4. Create interaction between grades
5. Estimated savings of approximately $1 million by building up, not out
6. Teacher efficiency by using shared spaces
7. Foster unity between all ages and stages by having shared spaces

Why did we choose this gym design?

Jr High and High School athletes practicing in proximity enhances athletic programs

Athletes get home sooner in the evenings due to having additional practice spaces

Creates flexibility for classes and athletics

What’s next?

The Capital Campaign committee will continue to refine the design and budget. Our goal is to raise 70% of the proposed $27 million budget in donations and pledges, which will allow us to break ground in Spring 2026.

Who can I contact about this project?

Superintendents for Sunnyside Christian School: Del Dykstra and Dana Clark

School Board Members: Dave Andringa, Chris Clapp, Laura Eisenga, Teci Greydanus, Brian Newhouse, Jason Prins, Jason Smeenk, Ryan Van Beek, and Scott Wolters

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Timeline of Campaign

2015-2016

School Board begin discussions of a consolidated campus, and a survey is conducted of SCS staff.

2022

School Board hires BORArchitecture to create initial plans for a campus consolidation

2022-2023

School Board continues search for a general contractor

2024

SCS Foundation Dinner is the soft launch of the capital campaign

School Board is introduced to WDS Construction and begins working with them

Prayer Team is established

Vision Team is established

2025

WDS presents conceptual drawings and cost estimates

The SCS Society passes the motion to pursue a consolidated campus with a 90.3% yes vote

Fundraising Committee, Design Committee, and Communications Committee are populated and begin working