Skip To Main Content

Mobile Toggle Wrapper

Landing Nav

Breadcrumb

History

After a successful teaching career in the public school system, Mary Michael, at age 65, was set to retire, but God had other plans.  In the Summer of 1976, Mrs. Michael was approached by her friend, Jerry Massey (who owned Massey Ford at the time).  He asked if she'd be willing to tutor his three children during their summer break.  The Massey's were so thrilled with the progress their children made in their reading skills, that they asked Mary to continue teaching their children that fall.  She agreed to teach not only the Massey children, but also two other children who had heard of the great progress that students were making under Mrs. Michael's instruction.   Just like that, Mary Michael realized God's purpose for her "retirement years".  After several months of teaching out of her basement, Grace Academy moved to the Downsville, MD public school building in November 1976.

Timeline of the history of Grace Academy

After increasing enrollment to 45 students in just five years, the school moved to Hagerstown Bible Church from 1981-1983. During those two years, enrollment reached over 100 students.  With the student population growing, along with general wear and tear at the church, HBC made the decision to purchase the "Old Broadway" building in the Spring of 1983.  With nearly 190 students enrolled, the high school program began to develop as students matriculated into higher grade levels, which led to Grace Academy's first graduation in 1984.  At that time there were 11 faculty members. P.E. classes were held at Reed Park, and students walked to the YMCA for swimming classes. Christian Soldiers Club continued as a monthly tradition, and Grace offered a wide variety of sports within its athletic program.

Second part of the historical timeline of Grace Academy

As Grace Academy moved forward in faith, God continued to provide an opportunity for quality Christian education. With that, the need for a new, larger facility became evident.  After several years of prayer, planning, and fundraising, Grace Academy broke ground on a 46,000 square foot building to be constructed off of Cearfoss Pike, in the Summer of 2000. The new facility, where Grace Academy still thrives today, opened it's doors to students in January 2001.  It offers 25 classrooms, two science labs, gymnasium, stage, playgrounds, three outdoor athletic fields, and so much more!