Stillwater Christian School Opens Early Learning Center Kalispell

Stillwater Christian School will open a 17,500-square-foot Early Learning Center this fall, adding five classrooms to accommodate growth in its preschool and kindergarten programs.

The expansion reflects Kalispell's rapid population growth. The city added more than 1,100 residents between 2023 and 2024, reaching an estimated 31,296 people—a 25 percent increase since 2020, making it Montana's fastest-growing city.

The new facility includes two kindergarten classrooms and three preschool classrooms, plus child-friendly restrooms, a staff workroom, a gymnasium for elementary physical education, and a music classroom for preschool through sixth grade students.

"The Valley has been growing, with many new, young families moving into the area," said Dr. Laura McCollum, head of school. "The new center will allow us to open up more enrollment for children in our preschool and kindergarten programs, with intentionally designed spaces so that all of our learners' developmental needs are met with excellence."

Stillwater Christian School has served Flathead Valley families for more than 45 years, offering Christ-centered education from preschool through 12th grade. The school currently enrolls approximately 410 students.

Construction is nearly complete. School officials plan a ribbon-cutting ceremony during the annual Open House on September 1.