History

The History of CCS

The history of Cascade Christian Schools is truly a story of God’s faithfulness through miracle after miracle. Our founder—Don Johnson, a young visionary principal from then Puyallup Valley Christian School—had a dream to start a Christian school system for infants through high schoolers. That system would be run through a central office, taking many of the administrative burdens off the principals. With the support of his wife, Sue, Don organized a task force of other faithful and visionary Christian educators to figure out how to make this dream a reality.

In mid-1991, three church-related schools in Pierce County realized the commonality of their schools’ missions and their shared desire to meet the needs of children. These people of vision from Cascade Christian’s three founding churches (Puyallup First Assembly of God, then Destiny Christian Center; Spanaway Assembly of God, now Sound Life Church of the Assemblies of God; and the People’s Church, now Champions Centre) unified their efforts to launch a new school system.

A year later, in 1992, Cascade Christian Schools was incorporated as an independent, interdenominational school district with a Board of Directors (originally seven members) and Pastors’ Council consisting of the senior pastors of our three founding churches. School was officially in session in the fall of 1993, and in the spring, the Class of 1994 was the first Cascade Christian High School class to graduate.

Today, nearly 400 employees are adding to the story of God’s faithfulness and miraculous provision! Cascade Christian Schools, governed by a Board of Trustees, is a thriving school district serving students and families on five campuses throughout Pierce County.

Celebrating 30 Years

It is with a great deal of excitement and gratitude that we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Cascade Christian Schools. Through the visionary leadership of Don and Sue Johnson, three different church-sponsored schools merged to form Cascade Christian Schools. Over the past 30 years, CCS has gained a strong reputation in the Puyallup Valley, the broader Puget Sound region, and even around the world.

The journey of CCS is filled with story after story of God’s amazing blessing and provision. And while elements such as campus expansion and significant growth in enrollment over the years are notable achievements, what is most worthy of celebrating is the number of lives impacted for God’s kingdom and the global impact CCS has had through its IMPACT Term, Biblical Worldview Institute, and alumni serving the Lord around the world.  

For 30 years, Cascade Christian Schools has made a distinct and profound impact in literally tens of thousands of lives by helping people discover their purpose before God in a culture where they are known and valued. CCS has developed discerning leaders who are spiritually, personally, and academically prepared to impact their world.  

Together, we celebrate 30 wonderful years of God’s goodness. Go, Cougs! 

Ken Friesen, EdD
Superintendent
Cascade Christian Schools

2023