A new chance at education may be just around the corner for some.

Cassie Patrick, a former employee of Rockingham Christian Academy requested a conditional use permit from the Richmond County Zoning and Planning Board at Tuesday’s meeting and will have the grand opening of the Richmond County Faith Academy on Thursday at 8:15 a.m. The zoning board approved the request, and her mother Lori Patrick says that they were walking on faith.

“We have numerous programs here. The kids can come here and get a Christian education and walk away with a high school diploma,” Patrick said.

Located on US 220 North, the office hours of operation are from 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The day program is from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the after school program is from 3 to 6 p.m. The day program is for grades sixth to 12 and the price for day school is $225 per month. The after school program is for K-12 and the price is $25 per week.

“My goal is for us to become a non-profit organization, and have enough grants. This way, no one will have to pay tuition,” Lori said.

“This is a new addition to our Richmond County School system, and what a blessing it is,” said Emily Tucker, president of the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce. “This is an avid benefit to kids that want an alternative.”

Along with providing education, the school will also have self-help groups, tutoring, motivational speakers, job skill training, Christian learning, Bible study, piano and guitar lessons.

“I am very proud of her,” Patrick’s father, Sidney Patrick, said. “She has such good people around her. This was her dream after high school.”

Every Tuesday at 7 p.m. there will be Bible study with Alex Perakis.

“I want to congratulate the owners here, and lets all work together to make this a success in Richmond County,” said Richmond County Commissioner Peggy Covington.

Gary Williams, Richmond County building inspector, has reviewed the property and found it to be in compliance for the change of use.

“Overall, the building is in good condition,” he said. “It will be a good facility for a school.”

Richmond County Faith Academy is registered with the North Carolina Department of Non-Public Education as a school of religious charter.

“Our staff has certified teachers along with staff who are qualified to work with students who have behavioral and emotional problems,” Patrick said.

For more information and applications you can contact the school at (910) 419-9002.

Staff Writer Hollie Nivens can be reached at (910) 997-3111 ext. 19 or by e-mailing at hnivens@yourdailyjournal.com