Their story
Covenant Journey Academy was born from a vision that God placed on the hearts of founders Mat and Anita Staver many years ago. They believed there was a growing need for a school that would provide students with a safe, Christ-centered education without the limitations of a traditional classroom. After much prayer, planning, and perseverance, that vision became a reality.
We launched just three and a half years ago with only 50 students. Today, by God's grace, we serve more than 300 students worldwide. Our growth has been a testament to God's faithfulness and the incredible need for an educational option that prioritizes academic excellence, flexibility, and the emotional and spiritual well-being of every child.
For many families, Covenant Journey Academy has truly been an answer to prayer.
How it began
Covenant Journey Academy was born from a vision that God placed on the hearts of founders Mat and Anita many years ago. They believed there was a growing need for a school that would provide students with a safe, Christ-centered education without the limitations of a traditional classroom.
What makes them unique
Covenant Journey Academy is a 100% online Christian academy designed to meet students where they are. We combine academic excellence with faith-based values while providing the flexibility that many families need.
Our K-12 program is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, allowing students to learn from anywhere in the world. Students have access to more than 300 courses, including six foreign languages, all taught by certified teachers who are trained in Christian worldview integration. Courses are self-paced with rolling enrollment, so families can begin at any point during the year instead of waiting for a traditional school calendar.
What truly sets us apart is the safe learning environment we offer. Many of our students come to us after experiencing bullying, anxiety, mental health challenges, or other struggles in traditional school settings. Others have enrolled because their previous brick-and-mortar schools closed, leaving families searching for stability.
At Covenant Journey Academy, students can thrive academically without fear, parents become active partners in their child's education, and every student is seen, supported, and encouraged. We don't simply educate students—we help restore confidence, cultivate purpose, and provide hope.
A challenge they have overcome
As with any new educational institution, it takes time for people to recognize your vision and understand the value you offer.
As we've grown, we've also worked hard to ensure that we maintain the personalized attention and strong sense of community that has always defined Covenant Journey Academy.
Every challenge has strengthened our commitment to our mission, and we continue to trust God to guide every step.
A proud moment
Our greatest achievement is seeing the lives that have been transformed.
Growing from 50 students to more than 300 in just three and a half years is something we are incredibly grateful for, but the numbers only tell part of the story. The real success is hearing from parents whose children are excited to learn again, whose confidence has returned, and whose mental and emotional well-being has improved because they finally feel safe and supported.
We are also deeply honored to have received letters of recommendation and recognition from respected leaders, including Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Rick Scott. Those endorsements affirm the impact Covenant Journey Academy is making, but our greatest reward will always be the students and families we serve.
Another milestone this year was hosting our very first Covenant Journey Academy Education Expo, which was a tremendous success. Families, students, and members of the community came together to celebrate education, faith, and the opportunities available through Covenant Journey Academy. We were especially honored to welcome the America 250 Freedom Truck as part of the event, making the day even more memorable and reinforcing our commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation.
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
Begin with purpose, not just a business plan.
If God has placed a vision in your heart, be faithful to pursue it even when the journey feels uncertain. Building something meaningful requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to overcome obstacles.
Listen to the people you serve, remain committed to excellence, and never lose sight of your mission. Success doesn't happen overnight, but consistency, integrity, and faith can accomplish incredible things.
What is next
We are excited about the future of Covenant Journey Academy and the opportunity to serve even more families around the world.
Every year, we meet parents who are looking for a safe, flexible, faith-based education where their children can flourish academically and emotionally. We believe the need for this type of education continues to grow, and we are excited to expand our reach while maintaining the personal care and Christ-centered values that define who we are.
Most of all, we are excited to continue watching God open doors and use Covenant Journey Academy to impact the lives of students and families for generations to come.
Leadership
Covenant Journey Academy was founded by Mat and Anita Staver, whose vision helped bring the academy to life after years of prayer and planning. Today, he works alongside a dedicated leadership team that includes Michelle Archival, Director of Strategic Partnerships, and Yanique Smith, Director of Admissions, as they continue serving students and families around the world. We are grateful for our entire leadership team, whose faithful service, unique gifts, and commitment to our mission have helped Covenant Journey Academy grow into what it is today through God's grace.
Link: Our Leadership Team
