A tiny Collin County school is poised to collect $500,000, having finished second in Facebook votes in a national contest sponsored by Kohl's Department Stores.

Lucas Christian Academy, with just 276 students but a highly motivated group of parents and staff, received more than 157,000 votes in balloting that ended late Friday.

Kohl's Cares, the company's philanthropic program, promised $500,000 each to the 20 schools that got the most votes.

Lucas Christian parents and staff took laptops to special events, restaurants and college campuses, persuading thousands to vote for the school.

Before the winners get the money, an audit of the votes must be completed. Schools also must provide Kohl's with plans for how they'll spend the money.

Lucas Christian Academy intends to finish paying for 16 acres in Lucas. The school currently meets in space rented from a church and in portable classrooms.

"The goal would be to pay off that land and then get into the building mode," said administrator Julie Montgomery.

Courtesy of Dallas Morning News

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