ULCS History

In 1976 a group of Christian parents from the Evangelical Friends Church of Clinton Corners, concerned about the increasing secular and humanistic attitude in the public schools, established a Christian day school. Its purpose was to provide an excellent academic education from a Christian perspective. The new school was named the Community Friends Christian Academy, and consisted of one teacher and a few students meeting in the basement room of the old church building.

The school experienced a steady growth, and in 1978 the name was changed to Upton Lake Christian School, which then had reached its enrollment capacity of 30 students in grade levels 1-2. With the rapid expansion of the church and the growing interest in the Christian school movement, the Lord wonderfully provided, in the spring of 1980, for the purchase of a large tract of land nearby. Thanks to the hard work of devoted church members and school parents, the existing Annex building was totally renovated in just 45 days. By the opening of school that fall, the enrollment had nearly doubled to 56 students, including a new kindergarten program. 

In 1983 the name of the church was changed to the Evangelical Free Church of Clinton Corners. God provided in every way, working miracles of faith and sacrifices as the school enrollment increased to over 100 students. The first class of 8 students was graduated in June of 1985. Since then, these students have gone on to distinguish themselves in college and chosen careers.

In December of 1986, the church completed a beautiful new building, which provided three additional classrooms and a gymnasium for the school’s use. In 1989, another wing was added to the church and three more classrooms became available. In the spring of 1990, the school council made a commitment to the high school – the curriculum was changed, facilities were given a facelift, and teachers were hired. Everything was done to bring Upton Lake Christian School to the forefront of educational institutions in Dutchess County. Even today, changes are being made so we can better prepare our students for the 21st century.

God continues to bless this ministry. He provides for our needs and challenges our students. It is our hope that we, as His servants, remain faithful to His Word and the vision of the school’s founders as we move forward in the vital task of educating our young people “in the training and instruction of the Lord.”