Calvary Church has served the Clearwater and Tampa Bay community since 1866, when it was established as Midway Baptist Church. Recognized as the first church in Clearwater and the first Baptist church in Pinellas County, the church has spent more than 150 years faithfully proclaiming the Gospel, serving its community, and investing in the spiritual growth of generations of believers.

 

As the church grew, so did its commitment to Christian education. What began with discipleship and biblical teaching expanded into a broader vision of equipping students academically while nurturing a strong biblical foundation. 

 

In 2000, this commitment led to the establishment of Calvary Christian High School (CCHS), which has grown from 40 students to enrolling more than 900 students per year in grades 9–12. In 2025, CCHS achieved Exemplary Accreditation status. This is noteworthy because there are over 2,200 ACSI schools in the US and currently, only 20 ACSI schools have received this recognition. CCHS is the 4th ACSI school in Florida to receive this recognition, affirming Calvary's commitment not only to meet educational standards, but also to exceed them in ways that serve as a model for other institutions. 

 

Also in the Fall of 2025, Calvary Church launched Calvary Christian College, extending its long-standing mission of preparing men and women to serve Christ with excellence. The college offers Certificate, Associate, and Bachelor's degree programs designed to equip students for ministry, leadership, and faithful service in today's world. Programs include Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Cross-Cultural Missions, Worship & Production Ministry, and Youth Ministry, combining rigorous academic instruction with practical, hands-on ministry experience.

 

Today, Calvary Christian College continues the vision that began in 1866: to develop knowledgeable, Christ-centered leaders who are prepared to impact their churches, communities, and the world with the truth of God's Word. Rooted in the heritage of Calvary Church and focused on the future, the college stands as the latest expression of a legacy built on faith, education, and service.

 

"We live in a time when Biblical truth is needed more than ever. People are hungry for answers, for direction, for hope. And the truth is, we can't give what we don't have. That’s why building a strong foundation in Scripture and theology is not just important—it's essential."

-Dr. Willy Rice

Senior Pastor of Calvary Church, President of Calvary Christian College