Faith • Excellence • Leadership • Purpose
FaithLife Academy is a Christ-centered K–8 academy dedicated to partnering with families to provide exceptional education rooted in Biblical truth, academic excellence, leadership development, and character formation.
As a ministry of FaithLife Church, FaithLife Academy was founded with a vision to raise the next generation of students who know God, love truth, pursue excellence, and confidently fulfill their God-given purpose. We believe education is more than academics—it is discipleship. Our goal is to develop students spiritually, intellectually, socially, and emotionally in a safe and nurturing environment where every child is known, valued, and encouraged to grow.
At FaithLife Academy, students receive a traditional teacher-led education using the trusted Abeka curriculum. Our instructional model combines strong academic foundations with Biblical worldview integration, helping students understand not only what they learn, but why it matters. Every subject is taught through the lens of faith, preparing students to think critically, lead courageously, and serve others with integrity.
Meet our Team
Marcus Butler
Academy Director & Principal
Marcus Butler serves as the Academy Director and Principal of FaithLife Academy, bringing a unique combination of educational leadership, ministry experience, and public service to the Academy’s mission. A retired U.S. Army veteran with more than 21 years of honorable service, Marcus has dedicated his life to leadership development, mentorship, and serving others.
As an Associate Pastor at FaithLife Church, Marcus is passionate about helping students and families grow spiritually, academically, and personally. His vision for FaithLife Academy is to create a Christ-centered learning environment where students are equipped with strong academic foundations, biblical truth, leadership skills, and the confidence to fulfill their God-given purpose.
Marcus holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). Throughout his military, professional, and ministry career, he has led organizations, developed teams, and mentored individuals to achieve excellence while maintaining a strong commitment to faith and service.
Under Marcus’s leadership, FaithLife Academy is committed to providing a traditional, teacher-led educational experience using the Abeka curriculum, while emphasizing discipleship, character development, leadership training, and family partnership. He believes education is more than academics—it is the process of shaping future leaders who will positively impact their communities, churches, and the world for Christ.
Marcus and his family are deeply rooted in the local community and are honored to serve families throughout Rochester, Thurston County, and the surrounding region through FaithLife Academy’s mission of Faith, Excellence, Leadership, and Purpose.
Cassidy Clevenger
Academy Lead Instructor
Cassidy Clevenger serves as the Academy Lead of Instruction and Lead Teacher at FaithLife Academy, where she is dedicated to helping students grow academically, spiritually, and personally. With a heart for teaching and discipleship, Cassidy views education as a powerful opportunity to shape not only minds but also character, faith, and purpose. She is passionate about creating a Christ-centered learning environment where students are encouraged to discover their God-given gifts, develop a love for learning, and build a strong foundation rooted in Biblical truth.
Cassidy earned her Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in Biology from Whitworth University, where she developed a deep appreciation for both scientific inquiry and lifelong learning. Her educational background equips her to foster critical thinking, curiosity, and academic excellence while helping students see the beauty and intentional design of God’s creation. She believes that faith and learning work together to provide students with a meaningful and well-rounded education.
As Academy Lead of Instruction, Cassidy is committed to maintaining high academic standards while ensuring that every aspect of the educational experience reflects FaithLife Academy’s mission and values. She works closely with students, families, and fellow educators to cultivate a learning community marked by excellence, integrity, and Christ-centered leadership. Her approach to education emphasizes strong relationships, individualized support, and the belief that every child has unique strengths and potential.
Cassidy’s classroom is characterized by encouragement, engagement, and purpose. She strives to create an atmosphere where students feel safe to ask questions, take on challenges, and grow in confidence. Through thoughtful instruction, mentorship, and genuine care for each student, she seeks to inspire a lifelong love of learning and a desire to honor God in all areas of life.
Her educational philosophy centers on developing the whole child—academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. Cassidy believes that true success is found not only in academic achievement but also in the development of strong character, servant leadership, and a personal relationship with Christ. She is passionate about helping students become compassionate, confident, and capable individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact in their families, communities, and the world.
Information and Services
Faith • Excellence • Leadership • Purpose
Scholarship Opportunity
Scholarship Opportunity
Investing in the Next Generation
At FaithLife Academy, we believe every child deserves access to a Christ-centered education regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.
Our Scholarship Program was created to remove financial barriers and provide students with the opportunity to receive a quality education rooted in Biblical truth, academic excellence, leadership development, and character formation.
We understand that many families desire a Christian education for their children but may face financial challenges that make tuition difficult. Through the generosity of donors, churches, businesses, and community partners, FaithLife Academy is committed to helping families access the educational environment they desire for their children.
Our Commitment
FaithLife Academy’s goal is simple:
No child should miss the opportunity to receive a Christ-centered education because of financial hardship.
Scholarship assistance is awarded based on financial need, available funding, and family commitment to partnering with the Academy.
Scholarship Options
Full Scholarship
A Full Scholarship covers the entire monthly tuition amount of $415 per month, allowing a student to attend FaithLife Academy with no tuition burden placed upon the family.
Partial Scholarship
Partial Scholarships provide assistance toward monthly tuition costs and are awarded based on demonstrated financial need and available scholarship funds.
Emergency Family Assistance
Emergency assistance may be available for families experiencing temporary financial hardship due to unexpected life circumstances.
Sponsor-A-Child Program
One of the most impactful ways individuals and organizations can support FaithLife Academy is through our Sponsor-A-Child Program.
Champion Sponsor
$415 per month
Fully sponsors one student for an entire academic year.
Leadership Sponsor
$207.50 per month
Provides half of a student’s tuition cost.
Faith Sponsor
Any amount
Contributes toward scholarships and educational opportunities for students in need.
Sponsors help ensure that families can focus on their child’s education and growth without the burden of financial stress.
What Your Support Provides
Scholarship support helps fund:
- Daily instruction
- Christian curriculum
- Classroom resources
- Leadership development
- Bible education
- Chapel programs
- Student enrichment activities
- Academic support services
Most importantly, it provides students with an environment where they can grow academically, spiritually, and personally.
Scholarship Application Process
Families seeking assistance may apply by:
- Completing the Scholarship Application
- Providing requested financial information
- Participating in a family interview if requested
- Receiving scholarship review and notification
All scholarship requests are handled confidentially and reviewed with care and respect.
Changing Lives Through Christian Education
A scholarship at FaithLife Academy is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in a child’s future.
When you support a scholarship, you help provide:
✓ Academic Excellence
✓ Biblical Discipleship
✓ Leadership Development
✓ Character Formation
✓ A Strong Foundation for Life
Together, we can impact families, strengthen our community, and help raise the next generation of Christian leaders.
Apply for a Scholarship
If your family would benefit from scholarship assistance, we encourage you to apply.
If you would like to sponsor a child or contribute to the Scholarship Fund, we invite you to partner with us in changing lives through Christian education.
FaithLife Academy
Faith • Excellence • Leadership • Purpose
“A scholarship doesn’t simply pay for education—it opens the door to purpose, opportunity, and a brighter future.”
Learning Format
Our Learning Format
A Christ-Centered, Teacher-Led Educational Experience
At FaithLife Academy, we believe students learn best in a structured, engaging, and supportive environment where academic excellence and Biblical truth work together.
Our learning model combines traditional classroom instruction, individualized support, leadership development, and spiritual growth to help students reach their full God-given potential.
Unlike many modern educational programs that rely heavily on self-directed learning or screen-based instruction, FaithLife Academy utilizes a teacher-led approach that places experienced instructors at the center of the learning process.
Every lesson is intentionally designed to develop strong academic foundations, critical thinking skills, Christian character, and leadership abilities.
Teacher-Led Instruction
FaithLife Academy uses the proven Abeka curriculum combined with direct classroom instruction.
Students are taught through:
Direct Teaching
Teachers actively present new concepts and skills through structured lessons.
Students receive clear explanations, demonstrations, examples, and guided instruction.
Guided Practice
Students work alongside teachers as they develop understanding and confidence.
Teachers provide immediate feedback, correction, encouragement, and support.
Independent Practice
Students apply newly learned concepts independently to demonstrate mastery and build confidence.
Review and Reinforcement
Concepts are reviewed regularly to ensure long-term retention and mastery.
Grade Band Learning Structure
To maximize instruction and ensure age-appropriate learning experiences, students are organized into three academic learning groups.
Foundations Academy (K–2)
Young learners focus on developing the foundational skills necessary for future academic success.
Primary Areas of Focus:
- Phonics
- Reading Readiness
- Handwriting
- Number Sense
- Basic Mathematics
- Bible Foundations
- Character Development
Students receive significant teacher interaction and hands-on learning experiences.
Intermediate Academy (3–5)
Students begin transitioning toward greater independence while continuing to receive strong instructional support.
Primary Areas of Focus:
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar
- Composition
- Mathematics
- Science
- History
- Leadership Skills
Students develop critical thinking, communication, organization, and study skills.
Leadership Academy (6–8)
Middle school students are prepared academically, spiritually, and socially for high school and future leadership opportunities.
Primary Areas of Focus:
- Advanced Reading
- Writing & Research
- Pre-Algebra
- Science
- History
- Public Speaking
- Leadership Development
- Biblical Worldview
Students are encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead confidently.
Daily Learning Schedule
FaithLife Academy operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Morning Block
Prayer & Devotions
Bible Instruction
Mathematics
Reading & Language Arts
Students engage in their most academically intensive subjects during the morning when attention and focus are highest.
Afternoon Block
Science
History
Writing
Physical Education
Leadership Development
Students participate in hands-on learning, discussion, projects, and enrichment activities.
End of Day
Reflection
Review
Prayer
Dismissal
This structure allows students to reinforce learning while maintaining a healthy balance throughout the day.
Biblical Integration
Faith is not simply a separate subject at FaithLife Academy—it is woven into every area of learning.
Students learn to view:
Science through God’s creation.
History through God’s providence.
Mathematics through God’s order.
Language through God’s truth.
Leadership through Christ’s example.
Every lesson provides opportunities to connect academic learning with Biblical principles and real-world application.
Leadership Development
One of the unique features of FaithLife Academy is our commitment to leadership training.
Students regularly participate in:
- Public Speaking
- Leadership Challenges
- Service Projects
- Character Development
- Goal Setting
- Team Building
- Personal Responsibility
Our goal is to prepare students not only for academic success but also for meaningful influence in their families, churches, communities, and future careers.
Small-Class Learning Environment
FaithLife Academy is intentionally designed to provide a more personalized educational experience.
Benefits include:
✓ Increased Teacher Interaction
✓ Individualized Support
✓ Strong Relationships
✓ Greater Accountability
✓ Enhanced Student Engagement
✓ Improved Communication with Families
Students are known by name, valued as individuals, and encouraged to grow at their own pace.
Parent Partnership
We believe parents are the primary educators of their children.
FaithLife Academy works alongside families by providing:
- Professional Instruction
- Academic Guidance
- Spiritual Encouragement
- Leadership Development
- Regular Communication
Together, we create a partnership that supports the whole child.
The FaithLife Academy Difference
At FaithLife Academy, education is more than preparing students for the next grade level.
We are preparing students for life.
Our learning format develops:
✓ Academic Excellence
✓ Biblical Discipleship
✓ Christian Character
✓ Leadership Skills
✓ Confidence
✓ Purpose
Every lesson, every conversation, and every opportunity is designed to help students discover who God created them to be and equip them to make a lasting impact on the world around them.
FaithLife Academy
Faith • Excellence • Leadership • Purpose
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Information
What is FaithLife Academy?
FaithLife Academy is a Christ-centered K–8 academy and ministry of FaithLife Church dedicated to providing academic excellence, biblical discipleship, leadership development, and character formation in a teacher-led learning environment.
Where is FaithLife Academy located?
FaithLife Academy is located at:
10441 Independence Rd SW
Rochester, WA 98579
on the campus of FaithLife Church.
What grades do you serve?
FaithLife Academy serves students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade.
What are your school hours?
Our school day is:
Monday–Friday
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Academics
What curriculum do you use?
FaithLife Academy utilizes the Abeka Christian Curriculum, a nationally recognized program known for strong academics, traditional teaching methods, Biblical integration, and college-preparatory foundations.
How is learning structured?
Students are taught through teacher-led instruction, guided practice, independent learning, hands-on activities, and leadership development opportunities.
Our students are organized into three learning groups:
- Foundations Academy (K–2)
- Intermediate Academy (3–5)
- Leadership Academy (6–8)
Do students receive homework?
Yes. Homework may include reading assignments, memory verses, projects, review work, or practice activities. Homework expectations vary by grade level.
How are students assessed?
Students are evaluated through:
- Daily assignments
- Weekly reviews
- Quizzes and tests
- Projects
- Presentations
- Teacher observations
- Progress reports
Faith & Spiritual Development
Is FaithLife Academy a Christian school?
FaithLife Academy is a Christ-centered educational ministry of FaithLife Church. Biblical principles are integrated throughout all subjects and activities.
Is Bible taught every day?
Yes.
Students participate in:
- Daily Bible instruction
- Prayer
- Scripture memory
- Character development
- Weekly chapel services
Do families have to attend FaithLife Church?
No.
Families from all church backgrounds are welcome.
While FaithLife Academy teaches from a Biblical worldview, enrollment is open to families who support and respect the Academy’s mission and values.
Tuition & Scholarships
How much is tuition?
Tuition is:
$415 per month
for a 10-month academic year.
Are scholarships available?
Yes.
FaithLife Academy offers scholarship opportunities based on financial need and available funding.
Our goal is that no child should miss Christian education because of financial hardship.
What is the Sponsor-A-Child Program?
The Sponsor-A-Child Program allows individuals, businesses, and churches to help fund Christian education for students.
A gift of $415 per month fully sponsors one student.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
Families may complete a Scholarship Application during the enrollment process.
All scholarship requests are reviewed confidentially.
Enrollment
How do I enroll my child?
The enrollment process includes:
- Inquiry
- Parent Information Meeting
- Application Submission
- Family Interview
- Enrollment Decision
- Registration Completion
Is there an enrollment fee?
Any enrollment or materials fees will be communicated during the admissions process.
Can students enroll during the school year?
Yes.
Mid-year enrollment may be available depending on classroom capacity and student readiness.
Learning Environment
What makes FaithLife Academy different?
FaithLife Academy combines:
✓ Christ-centered education
✓ Academic excellence
✓ Leadership development
✓ Character formation
✓ Family partnership
✓ Small-group learning
Our focus is not only academic success but also spiritual growth and leadership development.
What is your student-to-teacher ratio?
FaithLife Academy is committed to maintaining a learning environment that allows for individualized attention and meaningful teacher-student relationships.
Specific ratios may vary by enrollment and grade grouping.
Do you offer technology instruction?
Yes.
Technology is used as a tool to support learning while maintaining a strong emphasis on teacher-led instruction and personal interaction.
Parent Partnership
What role do parents play?
Parents are the primary educators of their children.
FaithLife Academy partners with families by providing instruction, guidance, communication, and support.
How often will I receive updates about my child?
Parents receive:
- Progress reports
- Report cards
- Parent conferences
- Email updates
- Academy announcements
Can parents volunteer?
Yes.
We encourage parent involvement and volunteer opportunities throughout the school year.
All volunteers may be required to complete screening and safety procedures.
School Policies
What is the dress code?
Approved polo colors:
- Navy
- Black
- Red
Approved pants or shorts:
- Black
- Tan/Khaki
Students are expected to maintain a neat, modest, and professional appearance.
How is student discipline handled?
FaithLife Academy uses a Biblical and restorative approach to discipline focused on:
- Character development
- Accountability
- Growth
- Restoration
Our goal is to help students learn from mistakes and develop Christ-like character.
What safety measures are in place?
FaithLife Academy maintains:
- Visitor check-in procedures
- Emergency response plans
- Fire and lockdown drills
- Student release procedures
- Child protection policies
- Incident reporting systems
Student safety is a top priority.
Future Vision
Is FaithLife Academy a private school?
FaithLife Academy is launching as a homeschool learning center ministry while preparing for future Washington State private school approval.
What is the long-term vision?
Our vision is to grow into a fully established Christian academy that continues to provide high-quality education, discipleship, leadership training, and opportunities for students to discover and fulfill their God-given purpose.
Still Have Questions?
We would love to connect with you.
Contact FaithLife Academy:
Phone: (360) 797-9955
Location:
10441 Independence Rd SW
Rochester, WA 98579
Email:
[email protected]
Faith • Excellence • Leadership • Purpose