ACADEMICS
Heritage Christian Academy is a Bible-based Christian school in concept, philosophy, and subject content. We emphasize the essential fundamentals of a college-preparatory education while striving to provide a safe, Christian learning environment where students can grow to their full spiritual potential.
Elementary
Kindergarten through Fifth Grade: The elementary program at HCA uses a combination of the A Beka curriculum, developed at Pensacola Christian College, and the curriculum produced by Bob Jones University Press. Both curricula take a traditional approach to education, utilizing a phonics-based reading program, effective drill methods, creationist science, and strong foundational studies in language, penmanship, spelling, arithmetic, history, and health. Bible class is an integral part of each day.
In addition to academics, students participate in regular music, art, and gym classes. Our math program emphasizes traditional methods, focusing on mastering basic math skills. Reading is taught through a phonics-based approach. Other subjects include printing, cursive writing, spelling, science, history, health, art, keyboarding, computers, music, physical education, and vocabulary.
HCA recognizes that the elementary years are a critical time in a child's life, as they lay the foundation for core beliefs, concepts, and life principles. In addition to the core curriculum of Bible, English, reading (phonics-based), math, history, and science, HCA students enjoy music, physical education, STEM, computer, Spanish, and art.
Middle School
Sixth through Eighth Grade: The middle school and senior high programs primarily use Bob Jones University Press materials, along with some resources from other publishers. All materials are carefully examined to ensure their suitability for Christian students. Course offerings and content are reviewed each year to ensure that HCA provides the best possible education.
It is often said that the middle school years are some of the toughest in a child's life. At HCA, we aim to make middle school a time of social, personal, and academic growth in faith, hope, and love. Our middle school program is based on the belief that students at this age need both a solid academic foundation and meaningful relationships with caring Christian educators who can support them during their transition from elementary school to high school and beyond.
HCA educators understand that these transitional years are part of God’s plan, helping students grow into the men and women they are meant to become. From electives that allow students to explore their God-given talents to core academic classes in science, English, math, social studies, computer science, and Bible, students have the opportunity to mature in a safe and nurturing environment. Because a student’s future depends on the guidance and training they receive during these years, a Bible-based education is one of the greatest gifts we can offer a young teenager. Decisions made in middle school can shape their future for years to come.
HCA’s goal for middle school students is to prepare them for high school and beyond while helping them develop their interests and talents to be used for God’s purposes. The middle school years can be a delightful and exciting time for students and a blessing to their parents.
- Classes include: Bible, Math, Science, History, English, Literature, Study Skills, Music, Physical Education, Art, Robotics
High School
Ninth through Twelfth Grade: A student’s high school years are a time of growth, marked by excitement, frustration, disappointment, and hope. It is during this period that students begin to make decisions about their future as they assess their skills and abilities. They are also searching for a sense of belonging and often rely heavily on peer acceptance and feedback. High school is when students start to make concrete plans for college and their careers. During this critical time, they need Christian guidance to help them make informed decisions.
It is essential that your child experiences a disciplined, loving, Christ-centered school environment to complement the values taught at home. HCA offers a strong college preparatory curriculum, including dual credit options in select courses. We focus on ensuring that students master the foundational subjects as they prepare for college. In addition to their core studies, students have the opportunity to take several electives.
Most students enroll at HCA with the understanding that the program is designed to prepare them for higher education. We offer a solid core curriculum, supplemented with electives, to help students become well-rounded individuals. Elective options include foreign language, art and photography, music, speech, drama, choir, and band. Throughout all classes—both core and elective—we strive to present a Christian worldview.
Over 95% of our graduates pursue college degrees. Additionally, we invite college representatives to visit our campus and introduce their institutions to our students.
- Classes include: Bible, Math, English, Science, Literature, Speech, Music, Computer, Foreign Language, Physical Education, Health, Personal Finance, Art
ATC/Dual Enrollment
Advanced To College (ATC)
Dual Enrollment
HCA juniors and seniors may enroll in dual credit classes, earning high school credit and college credit simultaneously. Acceptance of credits is always at the discretion of the receiving institution; HCA cannot guarantee that credits will transfer. Students should check with the colleges they are considering about whether a particular course will transfer. Students must inform HCA by June 1st if they will be participating in the dual enrollment option. Students may take up to two dual enrollment classes a semester. HCA teachers are not responsible for the dual enrollment courses. HCA’s schedule is the priority. Dual credit classes must be able to be at a flexible time. Classes must be taken on HCA campus unless taking courses after school hours. Student’s records of the completed classes must be submitted to the school office for credit. Dual credit classes will be counted toward a student’s overall GPA. A student must:
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- Have completed their sophomore year and earned a total of at least 12 credits
- Meet the minimum GPA requirement of 3.0
- Have a good discipline record during the semester preceding enrollment
- Maintain final grades of a B- and above per college course in order to continue in the dual credit program
Those interested in taking dual enrollment courses must contact the office prior to enrolling
Field Trips
An important aspect of our educational experience includes off-site field trips to various locations. Teachers plan these trips throughout the year to provide students with meaningful learning opportunities beyond the classroom. Each trip is designed to be both educational and enjoyable, enriching the curriculum by connecting classroom concepts to real-world experiences.