The Lamar Christian School - A First In The History Of The Southern Baptist Convention Louis M. Nicolosi - Administrator Including more than sixteen million Southern Baptists, and 42,000 churches in the Southern Baptist Convention, that involves more that 10,000 home and foreign missionaries, the Lamar Christian School is the first and still the only one of its kind.  That is, a locally owned and operated Southern Baptist Association Christian School. In 1997 when 25 acres of prime land was given to the Lamar Baptist Association, a feasibility study was initiated followed by a vote of acceptance from the churches of the Association to build, own, and operate a Christian School.  The school opened in August of 1998 in the Good Hope Baptist Church hosting 97 students in grades K-4 through 8.  During that school year the main building was built.  The school moved to its present location in the new building in 1999 to an enrollment of 150 students and the addition of grade 9.  In August of 2000 the school grew to 215.  With the addition of grade 10 came the advancement of the high school curriculum. The 2001/2002 school year welcomed grade 11, more advance curriculum, 245 students, and further need for more space.  It was during the 2002 summer that a three-classroom building was built that would house a much needed science lab. The 2002/2003 school year ushered in the first senior class as grade 12 became a reality with a total enrollment of 265.  College prep advanced studies were introduced, a Beta Club, the school's first student council, girls athletics in addition to an already established boys' program and to everyone's delight, the occupancy of a beautiful 3000 square foot lunchroom. 275 students opened the 2003/04 school year with full scale Spanish, instrumental and vocal music programs. The 2003/04 school year marked the second graduation exercise again held at the Purvis First Baptist Church. The 2004/05 school year welcomed 285 students, 20 certified teachers, and 17 assistants. The school graduated its third senior class with almost 100% of them receiving ACT scholarships. More than 300 students answered the 2005/06 bell including the fourth senior class in the history of the school. This eighth year of operations for the school is giving all indications of being the best to this date. The hallmark of this school year (06/07) was the completion of the construction of a beautiful gymnasium/high school building under one roof that will allow the enrollment figures to advance to 414 students. The Lamar Christian School is a true miracle of God and is "Kingdom Work" at its best.  Only God knows the number of vocational Christian Ministers that will come from this work, as it is a wonderful mission opportunity.  The school functions off of student tuition, church and individual gifts.  The major obstacle facing the school is funds to build more space as the demand for entrance is more than its capacity. Construction of a combination gymnasium and high school building is presently underway.  Financial gifts are tax deductible and can be sent to:  Lamar Christian School/P.O. Box 880/Purvis, MS 39475