Ankeny Christian Academy began with a small group of faithful families who felt called to create a Christ-centered school in their community. Founders Jack and Jane McWilliams, along with other parents, spent a year in prayer, seeking God’s direction before launching the school in a local church. With the support of many dedicated volunteers, ACA steadily grew—moving from shared church spaces to a manufacturing facility, and eventually transforming a former movie theater into its permanent home. Through every stage, the school’s growth was marked by bold faith, sacrificial leadership, and a commitment to follow God’s leading. Today, ACA remains rooted in its original mission: to nurture each student as uniquely created in God’s image and to build strong Christian character in the next generation of leaders.