The humble beginnings of Mt. Juliet Christian Academy (MJCA) began more than three decades ago in the hearts and minds of the pastor of First Baptist Church of Mt. Juliet, Billie Friel, Mr. and Mrs. N.C. Hibbett, Dr. Art Schulert and Mr. Sam Moore.
MJCA’s inaugural day of school was in August of 1979. The then newly constructed building of First Baptist Church Mt. Juliet also became home of the “SAINTS”. The school consisted of grades 1-3 with plans to add one grade per year. The church’s preschool and kindergarten program eventually became part of MJCA in 1992. The dreams and visions of the school’s founders became reality when the first class graduated in 1989.
The humble beginnings of Mt. Juliet Christian Academy (MJCA) began more than three decades ago in the hearts and minds of the pastor of First Baptist Church of Mt. Juliet, Billie Friel, Mr. and Mrs. N.C. Hibbett, Dr. Art Schulert and Mr. Sam Moore.
MJCA’s inaugural day of school was in August of 1979. The then newly constructed building of First Baptist Church Mt. Juliet also became home of the “SAINTS”. The school consisted of grades 1-3 with plans to add one grade per year. The church’s preschool and kindergarten program eventually became part of MJCA in 1992. The dreams and visions of the school’s founders became reality when the first class graduated in 1989.
Today, MJCA remains a ministry of First Baptist Church, Mt. Juliet located just fifteen minutes from downtown Nashville. It is a fully ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) and SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) accredited school. The average annual enrollment is 550 students in grades Preschool through 12th. The academy has had the privilege of witnessing more than 400 students graduating from the academy. 95% of these students went on to attend a college or university. Many of these students received scholarship money to assist with the rising costs of a college education.
The athletic program continues to provide students the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports including soccer, football, baseball, softball, volleyball, basketball and golf under the regulations of TSSAA (Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association). The academy remains committed to the advancement and growth of a relatively young program. The recent decision to move from TSSAA Division 1 to Division 2 will allow qualifying student athletes to receive financial assistance.
MJCA is more committed than ever to their mission of partnering with families to provide a biblically-based, academically-challenging, and service oriented environment in order to develop students to be servants and leaders for Jesus Christ in their community. It is equally important to them as they continue to grow that they protect the family environment that allows students to feel secure while gaining their independence and education. They strive to prepare our students to face life’s challenges through a Biblical worldview. They believe it is important that young men and women learn the importance of developing good character during these formative years in preparation of college, the work force and throughout their adult lives.
They are also very excited about the future plans to expand their facilities to accommodate the growth of both First Baptist Church of Mt. Juliet and MJCA. The church plans to construct a 55,000 square foot addition that will provide additional academic space for the academy and the church. In addition, the academy is moving forward with plans to construct a new gymnasium. These additions will provide for much needed space to be used by both the church and the school.
For more information about Mt. Juliet Christian Academy visit www.mjca.org or call 615- 758-2427