Our History

A Story of Faith, Growth, and God’s Faithfulness

Where the Vision Began

In the heart of Kampala, a dream took root—a vision for a school that would combine academic excellence with a strong Christian foundation.

Guided by faith and a shared calling to serve, Jason Carpenter, Linda Carpenter, and Lee Erin Jones stepped forward to answer a need within the missionary and international community. With prayerful commitment and the support of families and mission partners, Acacia International School opened its doors in August 2012 with just 17 students.

What began as a small, faith-filled step has grown into a thriving, multi-campus Christian international school—educating and inspiring servant leaders for Christ.

A Journey Marked by God’s Grace

Key milestones in Acacia’s growth

2012–2014: Laying the Foundation

August 2012 – Junior School campus opens with 17 students in K4–Grade 5
Summer 2013 – Construction of the first three Junior School classrooms
August 2014 – Launch of the Senior School for Grades 5–8

2015–2018: Academic Expansion and Accreditation

May 2015 – First Cambridge IGCSE examinations completed
Summer 2016 – Purchase of the Senior School Annex and rental of the Junior School football pitch
May 2018 – First A-Level examinations taken
Summer 2018 – Purchase of the 41-acre Lakeside Campus for USD 1 million
October 2018 – Dual accreditation awarded by Association of Christian Schools International and Middle States Association

2019–2023: Growth, Stability, and New Opportunities

June 2019 – First graduation ceremony, celebrating four graduates
October 2019 – Addition of the Lower Junior School
March 2021 – Purchase of an additional 3 acres at the Lakeside Campus
March 2023 – Completion of payment for all 44 acres of the Lakeside Campus
June 2023 – First Advanced Placement (AP) examinations offered
December 2023 – Acquistion of the Lakeside Campus land title

Acacia Today

Growing with purpose, building for the future

Today, Acacia International School continues to grow in both size and impact. With construction underway at the Lakeside Campus, we are preparing for the next phase of our journey—one that will expand learning opportunities while remaining rooted in our founding mission.

From 17 students to a vibrant, multi-campus school community, our story is still being written. What has never changed is our commitment to Christ-centered education, academic excellence, and the vision that started it all.

Looking Ahead

Join us as we build the next chapter

As we step into the future, we invite families, partners, and supporters to be part of what God is doing at Acacia International School. Together, we continue to educate, inspire, and equip servant leaders for Christ.