On Sept. 3, Orcas Christian School (OCS) opened to several full elementary and middle school classrooms. Waiting lists are being formulated and the high school still has limited availability in some classes also.

“This year’s enrollment looks to be better than expected,” said Tom Roosma, Principal of Orcas Christian School.

An anonymous donation directed toward new scholarships for high school students also came unexpectedly this fall.

“We are very excited about the prospect of offering a Christian based education to more families and their children in our high school program. With the donation we will be able to reach families whom we have previously missed. It’s exciting to see the school continue growing,” said Roosma.

In addition to the other changes at the school, OCS has added three new members to the staff – two teachers and a task force worker.

Jonathan and Rachel Fox, a husband-and-wife team, who were married earlier this year, moved to Orcas in late July to start their teaching careers at OCS.

“We are really excited to get to know the kids. The school is an amazing facility and living on Orcas is great. It’s going to be a great school year.” says Jonathan Fox.

Jonathan Fox will be teaching high school English and high school Spanish.

Rachel Fox will be teaching two high school electives, technology and culinary arts.

Lonie Sanders is a professional football player from Oakland, Calif., who will be teaching PE and will assist the school as this year’s task force worker, a position that encompasses many different needs across the school. On loan from the National Football League, he is recovering from an injury and has found Orcas to be a great place to recuperate.

“Coming from Oakland, I can really appreciate the calm and laid back atmosphere of Orcas,” says Sanders. “The staff and kids at OCS have been very welcoming, and I’m looking forward to being here.”

“With all of the positive changes, we are looking forward to a great year at OCS.” says Roosma.