8th Street
Academy.

The building already had a history of Christian education. Built in 2004, the former Phonics Phactory school had a Bible placed in its foundation. When the Greys purchased it in June 2021, opening a new school by September was an ambitious step of faith.

They began connecting with people who shared their passion for students and had experience in education. Monica Barham helped develop and direct the early education program, bringing valuable experience from Phonics Phactory.

In just a few months, teachers and team members came together, and the school opened that fall with eight teachers and 130 students. Beginning during the pandemic brought challenges, but the team remained committed to giving children a place to learn, find stability, and grow.

During the second school year, Troy Wagner joined as Director of Rise Up Education, bringing experience in private school administration. The Academy continued to grow and expand into the elementary and middle school years.

Through each new chapter, the heart has remained the same: helping children know Jesus, become grounded in Scripture, and discover their calling. It is a story of people responding to God’s invitation to invest in the next generation, right here in Gresham.