Our History

Redeemer Christian School: A Story of God's Faithfulness

A Story of God's Faithfulness in South King County

The story of Redeemer Christian School is a testimony to God’s enduring faithfulness and His vision to bring Christian education to the heart of South King County. Over a ten-year span—from 1963 to 1972—God planted the seeds of three distinct ministries that would, in time, grow independently, serve thousands of students and families, and ultimately come together as one united school: Redeemer Christian.

It began in 1963 when a group of passionate pastors and parents formed Christian Enterprises. They dreamed of offering Christ-centered education in Maple Valley, and Maple Valley Christian School was born. It first met in Tahoma Assembly of God, moving later to a unique site—a former Nike missile base near Lake Desire. This location became a spiritual and educational sanctuary where classrooms filled with Scripture, prayer, and purpose began to shape young hearts.

Just a few years later, in 1972, Little People Day Care opened its doors in Kent. What started as a small preschool ministry would evolve into Kent View Christian School, offering K–6 education. In the decades that followed, Kent View expanded into middle and high school, playing a pivotal role in the formation of the Rainier Christian School District in 1994.

Meanwhile, in Renton, the seeds of another school were quietly germinating. Conversations about Christian education began as early as 1969 at Renton Assembly of God (now New Life Church). By 1979, after years of prayer, planning, and dedication by leaders like Walt Nelsen and Pastor Don Duncan, Renton Christian School opened with 37 students and two teachers. It grew steadily, moved to a 50-acre campus in 1995, and became known for its academic strength, caring community, and commitment to prayer and discipleship. 

Also in 1995, Sonshine Learning Center was born. This early learning center, operating alongside Renton Christian, served infants – preschool students in a caring, Christ-centered environment. 

As these schools flourished—each bearing fruit in their own communities—they were all guided by a shared mission: to educate and disciple children in the ways of Christ. Over five decades, Maple Valley Christian, Kent View Christian, and Renton Christian cultivated rich legacies. They nurtured faith, launched ministries, and produced servant-leaders impacting the world for God’s glory.

In time, God’s plan for unity emerged more clearly. In 1994, the merger of Kent View and Maple Valley Christian formed Rainier Christian Schools, creating new opportunities for collaboration and growth. And in 2023, Renton Christian School—recognizing its shared mission and vision—announced a high school expansion and plans to fully unite with Rainier Christian.

Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, these stored institutions will become one: Redeemer Christian School. Redeemer Christian will serve nearly 1,200 students at four locations from infants – 12th grade. It will consist of three early learning centers, two elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. 

Redeemer Christian School stands today not simply as a merger of names or buildings, but as the culmination of decades of faith, service, and vision. It is a single school, deeply rooted in the history of many, poised to impact the next generation for Christ with renewed strength and purpose. What God began over sixty years ago continues to grow—firmly planted, deeply rooted, and ever reaching.