School History

Remembering God’s faithfulness through the years….

Belize Christian Ministries was incorporated in Belize as a non-profit corporation in 1991. Its early activities included vacation Bible schools for children, revival services, home improvement projects for the poor, and medical and dental clinics. Through these initiatives, the seeds of God’s vision for education in Belize were planted. The vision for Belize Christian Academy began in 1992, when Charlie Williams went on a prayer retreat seeking the Lord and listening for His guidance regarding ministry in Belize. Upon  returning, Charlie shared with his wife, Judy, that he believed God was calling them to establish a private Christian school in Belmopan. The magnitude of the task was overwhelming, yet they rested in the assurance that only God could accomplish it.

Charlie and Judy invited spiritual leaders from the community to join a meeting where the idea of starting a Christian school was presented. Among those present were Joel Westby, Pastor and Educator, Glenda Johnson, Teacher, and Kent Fuller, Pastor and Missionary. These individuals affirmed that such a school would be a blessing to the community. Though they were not directly involved in planning the school, their encouragement was invaluable.

In the months that followed, Charlie and Judy found others who shared their vision and commitment. Jeff and Fabian Keilly, a couple from Australia working with YWAM, and former Peace Corps volunteer Claire Joya, joined them in prayer and seeking God’s guidance for every detail of the school. With more questions than answers, they pressed forward, continually witnessing God’s provision in ways that clearly revealed His hand. Every decision about curriculum, uniforms, schedules, and staffing was immersed in prayer, grounded in the conviction that God Himself was establishing the school.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) approved BCA to operate as a licensed private primary school, and in September 1993, Belize Christian Academy opened its doors in a rented building on Forest Drive in Belmopan. The inaugural year welcomed 38 students and 4 teachers, representing 14 nationalities. The evidence of God’s faithfulness was undeniable.

After the first year, BCA expanded to include 9 th grade, and subsequently added a grade each year  until a full high school was established. The MoE granted a license for Belize Christian Academy High School, and in June 1998, the first high school graduation was celebrated with 10 graduates, eight of whom went on to colleges in the United States. Three of these alumni have since returned to serve as teachers at BCA, continuing the legacy of God’s faithfulness.

“Perfect Timing – Reaching the 20-year milestone at BCA, our prayers for successors became more frequent. Charlie used to say, ‘What if a dump truck runs us both over and there is no structure for continuing the vision for BCA?’ We knew God had a plan for the day we would step aside and allow others to carry forward the vision. In 2015, we connected with TeachBeyond, an organization that manages Christian schools and sends teachers worldwide. Conversations with them brought affirmation that God had guided us to the right partners, all with hearts for God and for Christian education. By May 2016, we celebrated the transition with our community. In September, Charlie was diagnosed with leukemia, and on November 6, 2016, the Lord called him home. His work on earth was complete. TeachBeyond is God’s answer to our prayers for His school. Praise be to Him for His wisdom and faithfulness!”.

From the very beginning, governance of the school has been entrusted to Charlie and Judy Williams, alongside those called to offer counsel and guidance. During the acquisition of BCA’s current property and the transition process, key additions to the Board of Directors included Tony Chanona and Johnny Roberson, BCA parents, and Bonnie Adolphus, a BCA teacher. Their partnership helped bring BCA to the next level of growth and stability.

Today, the BCA Board of Directors includes Tom Caan, Chantelle Sawatzky, Rosangela, Marjorie Shaw, Furlong Usher, and Cheryl Stirm. Alfredo Acosta serves as Principal and a non-voting member of the Board. Each year, BCA continues to celebrate cultural diversity, currently serving students from 16 countries and having welcomed students from over 40 nations throughout its history. While teachers from diverse countries have contributed over the years, BCA is proud to be fully equipped with trained local teachers who combine strong pedagogical expertise with extensive experience.

Through every season, Belize Christian Academy has stood as a testimony to God’s faithfulness, guidance, and provision, shaping generations of students in knowledge, character, and faith.