---
title: Stories - Hope Christian Academy
description: Discover student, parent, and staff perspectives on how Hope Christian Academy nurtures unshakable believers through a faith-based education.
image: https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hubfs/Photo%20May%2009%202025%2c%202%2034%2048%20AM.jpg
---

[Skip to content](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/stories#primary)

[![Hope Christian Academy](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Hope_Christian_Academy/images/hca-logo-img.png?width=220&height=115&name=hca-logo-img.png "Hope Christian Academy")](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/?hsLang=en)

24Aug

#### [Volleyball Start Date](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/volleyball-start-date?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/volleyball-start-date?hsLang=en)

29Aug

#### [Family Workday, 10:00 – 12:00 Noon (Choice 1 of 2)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/family-work-day-option-1?hsLang=en)

Saturday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/family-work-day-option-1?hsLang=en)

31Aug

#### [Teachers’ Workshop](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/teachers-workshop-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/teachers-workshop-2?hsLang=en)

31Aug

#### [Family Work Night, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (Choice 2 of 2)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/family-work-night-630-830-p.m.-choice-2-of-3?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/family-work-night-630-830-p.m.-choice-2-of-3?hsLang=en)

02Sep

#### [New Student Testing & Orientation, 9:00 – 12 Noon](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/new-student-testing-orientation-900-12-noon-2?hsLang=en)

Wednesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/new-student-testing-orientation-900-12-noon-2?hsLang=en)

03Sep

#### [New Student Testing & Orientation, 9:00 – 12 Noon](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/new-student-testing-orientation-900-12-noon-3?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/new-student-testing-orientation-900-12-noon-3?hsLang=en)

03Sep

#### [Back-to-School Open House, 7-8 p.m. - School Photographs](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/back-to-school-open-house-7-8-p.m.-school-photographs?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/back-to-school-open-house-7-8-p.m.-school-photographs?hsLang=en)

05Sep

#### [Labor Day Weekend: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/labor-day-weekend-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Saturday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/labor-day-weekend-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

08Sep

#### [School Begins, 9:20 a.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/school-begins-920-a.m-1?hsLang=en)

Tuesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/school-begins-920-a.m-1?hsLang=en)

23Sep

#### [“See You at the Pole” Prayer Time 9:00 a.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/see-you-at-the-pole-prayer-time-900-a.m-1?hsLang=en)

Wednesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/see-you-at-the-pole-prayer-time-900-a.m-1?hsLang=en)

24Sep

#### [New Parent Orientation, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/new-parent-orientation-600-830-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/new-parent-orientation-600-830-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

28Sep

#### [Open House/Visit Day - No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/open-house/visit-day-no-busing-provided-1?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/open-house/visit-day-no-busing-provided-1?hsLang=en)

03Oct

#### [Volleyball Tournament at Fourth Baptist in Plymouth](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/volleyball-tournament-at-fourth-baptist-in-plymouth?hsLang=en)

Saturday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/volleyball-tournament-at-fourth-baptist-in-plymouth?hsLang=en)

09Oct

#### [Fall Pizza Fundraiser](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/fall-pizza-fundraiser?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/fall-pizza-fundraiser?hsLang=en)

15Oct

#### [MN Teacher’s Convention: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/mn-teachers-convention-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/mn-teachers-convention-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

03Nov

#### [VISIT DAY and Open House - No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781716099077?hsLang=en)

Tuesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781716099077?hsLang=en)

06Nov

#### [End of 1st Quarter, Dismiss at 12:00 - No Afternoon Bus](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/end-of-1st-quarter-dismiss-at-1200-no-afternoon-bus-2?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/end-of-1st-quarter-dismiss-at-1200-no-afternoon-bus-2?hsLang=en)

09Nov

#### [Basketball Start Date](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/basketball-start-date?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/basketball-start-date?hsLang=en)

19Nov

#### [Parent/Teacher Conferences, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent/teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m-2?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent/teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m-2?hsLang=en)

23Nov

#### [Parent/Teacher Conferences, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent/teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m-3?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent/teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m-3?hsLang=en)

26Nov

#### [Thanksgiving Break: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/thanksgiving-break-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/thanksgiving-break-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

04Dec

#### [VISIT DAY and Open House - No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781716518731?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781716518731?hsLang=en)

17Dec

#### [Christmas Program, 7:00 p.m. (Off campus)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/christmas-program-700-p.m.-off-campus-1?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/christmas-program-700-p.m.-off-campus-1?hsLang=en)

21Dec

#### [Christmas Fun Week](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/christmas-fun-days?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/christmas-fun-days?hsLang=en)

23Dec

#### [CHRISTMAS VACATION](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/christmas-vacation-1?hsLang=en)

Wednesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/christmas-vacation-1?hsLang=en)

05Jan

#### [School Resumes](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/school-resumes-2?hsLang=en)

Tuesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/school-resumes-2?hsLang=en)

15Jan

#### [End of Second Quarter, Dismiss at 12:00 - No Afternoon Bus](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/end-of-second-quarter-dismiss-at-1200-no-afternoon-bus-2?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/end-of-second-quarter-dismiss-at-1200-no-afternoon-bus-2?hsLang=en)

18Jan

#### [Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/martin-luther-king-jr.-day-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/martin-luther-king-jr.-day-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

21Jan

#### [HCA Open House, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/hca-open-house-700-800-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/hca-open-house-700-800-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

25Jan

#### [VISIT DAY and Open House](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-4?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-4?hsLang=en)

28Jan

#### [Parent / Teacher Conferences - 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. (Choice 1 of 2)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent-/-teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m.-choice-1-of-3?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent-/-teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m.-choice-1-of-3?hsLang=en)

01Feb

#### [SPIRIT Week](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/spirit-week-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/spirit-week-2?hsLang=en)

01Feb

#### [Parent / Teacher Conferences - 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. (Choice 2 of 2)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent-/-teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m.-choice-2-of-3?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/parent-/-teacher-conferences-500-900-p.m.-choice-2-of-3?hsLang=en)

12Feb

#### [VISIT Day and Open House - No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781719230770?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781719230770?hsLang=en)

15Feb

#### [Presidents’ Day: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/presidents-day-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/presidents-day-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

16Feb

#### [National Achievement Testing](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/national-achievement-testing-2?hsLang=en)

Tuesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/national-achievement-testing-2?hsLang=en)

04Mar

#### [Varsity MCAC Tournament](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/varsity-mcac-tournament?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/varsity-mcac-tournament?hsLang=en)

06Mar

#### [“Building Hope for the Next Generation”: Spaghetti Supper and Silent Auction - 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/building-hope-for-the-next-generation-spaghetti-supper-and-silent-auction-430-730-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

Saturday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/building-hope-for-the-next-generation-spaghetti-supper-and-silent-auction-430-730-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

12Mar

#### [School – No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/school-no-busing-provided?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/school-no-busing-provided?hsLang=en)

15Mar

#### [SPRING BREAK: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/spring-break-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/spring-break-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

25Mar

#### [End of Third Quarter, Dismiss at 12:00 - No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/end-of-third-quarter-dismiss-at-1200-no-busing-provided-2?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/end-of-third-quarter-dismiss-at-1200-no-busing-provided-2?hsLang=en)

26Mar

#### [Good Friday, No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/good-friday-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/good-friday-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

09Apr

#### [HCA Student Convention](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/hca-student-convention-2?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/hca-student-convention-2?hsLang=en)

16Apr

#### [VISIT DAY and Open House - No Busing Provided](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781720183994?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/visit-day-and-open-house-no-busing-provided-1781720183994?hsLang=en)

06May

#### [Spring Program (Thursday), 7:00 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/spring-program-thursday-700-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/spring-program-thursday-700-p.m-1?hsLang=en)

07May

#### [Grandparent’s Day Program](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/grandparents-day-program-2?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/grandparents-day-program-2?hsLang=en)

21May

#### [HCA Track and Field Day](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/hca-track-and-field-day-2?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/hca-track-and-field-day-2?hsLang=en)

31May

#### [Memorial Day: No School](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/memorial-day-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/memorial-day-no-school-2?hsLang=en)

03Jun

#### [Last Day of Classes](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/last-day-of-classes-1?hsLang=en)

Thursday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/last-day-of-classes-1?hsLang=en)

04Jun

#### [Graduation and Awards Ceremony, 7 p.m.](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/graduation-and-awards-ceremony-7-p.m?hsLang=en)

Friday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/graduation-and-awards-ceremony-7-p.m?hsLang=en)

07Jun

#### [Teacher’s Workday](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/teachers-workday-2?hsLang=en)

Monday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/teachers-workday-2?hsLang=en)

08Jun

#### [Summer School Session I Begins](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/summer-school-session-i-begins-1?hsLang=en)

Tuesday

[EVENT DETAIL](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar/summer-school-session-i-begins-1?hsLang=en)

- [Home](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org?hsLang=en)
- [About](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/about?hsLang=en)
  
  
  
    - [HCA Staff](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/staff-biographies?hsLang=en)
    - [Sponsoring Churches](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/sponsoring-churches/?hsLang=en)
    - [Donate](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/donate/?hsLang=en)
    - [Map and Directions](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/map-and-directions/?hsLang=en)
    - [Transportation](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/transportation/?hsLang=en)
    - [Featured Alumni Testimonials](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/featured-alumni-testimonials/?hsLang=en)
    - [Local Wellness Policy](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/local-wellness-policy?hsLang=en)
    - [HCA Stories](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/stories)
- [Academics](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/academics/?hsLang=en)
  
  
  
    - [Test Scores](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/test-scores/?hsLang=en)
    - [Home School Umbrella Program](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/home-school-umbrella-program/?hsLang=en)
    - [Summer Enrichment Program](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/summer-enrichment-program/?hsLang=en)
- [Extra Curricular](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/extra-curricular/?hsLang=en)
- [PreK](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/prekindergarten/?hsLang=en)
  
  
  
    - [Tuition Options and Schedules](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/prek-and-kindergarten-tuition/?hsLang=en)
    - [PreK and Kindergarten Enrollment](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/prek-and-kindergarten-enrollment/?hsLang=en)
- [Calendar](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar?hsLang=en)
  
  
  
    - [Schedule a Tour](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/meetings/shawna-terrell/hope-christian-academy-tour-?hsLang=en)
- [Contact](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/contact/?hsLang=en)
- [Apply](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/apply/?hsLang=en)
  
  
  
    - [Application Process](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/application-process/?hsLang=en)
    - [Tuition and Fees](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/tuition/?hsLang=en)
    - [Handbook](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/handbook/?hsLang=en)
    - [Teacher/Staff Application](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/teacher-staff-application/?hsLang=en)
- [Schedule a Tour](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/meetings/shawna-terrell/hope-christian-academy-tour-?hsLang=en)

Menu

# Hope Christian Academy Stories

[1 Student Perspective](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/stories?hsLang=en#student-perspective)

[2 Parent Perspective](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/stories?hsLang=en#parent-perspective)

[3 Staff Perspective](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/stories?hsLang=en#staff-perspective)

## Student Perspective: How Hope Christian Academy Grew an Unshakable Believer

Amanuel Tafesse may seem like your average 10th-grader. He likes his “teenage alone time” at home, [plays basketball](https://hopechristianacademy.org/basketball/?hsLang=en) for his school team, and focuses on his studies. But behind his quiet demeanor is an unshakable faith that has grown exponentially since he began attending school at [Hope Christian Academy](https://hopechristianacademy.org/?hsLang=en).

## **Get To Know Amanuel Tafesse**

**![](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-2.jpeg?width=1200&height=628&name=undefined-2.jpeg)**

Amanuel transferred to Hope in 5th grade from a public school in Cottage Grove. Though unsure of what to expect at first, he immediately felt a sense of belonging when he toured the campus and learned about the school’s values. Now in his 6th year at Hope Christian High School, Amanuel credits the school for nurturing his spiritual growth through daily devotionals, scripture reading, chapel services, and an emphasis on Biblical principles across all subjects.

## **Life at HCA**

Outside the classroom, Hope’s retreats, service activities, and conventions allow students to put their faith into action. Amanuel fondly recalls a [regional gathering](https://hopechristianacademy.org/local-and-regional-conventions/?hsLang=en) where Hope students competed alongside youth groups from other Christian schools. “It was tiring but really fun,” he says.

Amanuel also developed close mentoring relationships with Hope Christian Academy’s faculty. “The teachers are so supportive. Those are lasting relationships,” he shares. His tight-knit community of like-minded peers has also played a pivotal role. “If you’re sick, people ask how you’re doing and go out of their way to help you out.”

## **Life After HCA**

Now, looking ahead to college, Amanuel is equipped to live out his beliefs as an unshakable believer. He continues prioritizing church, Bible study, scripture memorization, and keeping God at the center of his decisions.

Amanuel’s journey illustrates the transformative power a Hope Christian Academy education can have on students. By infusing Biblical principles across all aspects of student life, we develop not just minds — but spirits. Our school empowers youth to internalize Christian values and emerge as courageous leaders grounded in faith.

## **Discover Unshakable Faith at Hope Christian Academy**

If you want your child to thrive academically while growing deeper in their Christian faith, we invite you to visit Hope Christian Academy. [Tour our campus](https://hopechristianacademy.org/contact/?hsLang=en), observe classes, and meet our faculty and students. See firsthand how we develop unshakable believers equipped to live out their purpose. Apply today to give your child the gift of a values-based, God-first education.

[![Schedule a Tour](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/43907374/interactive-136827347884.png)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLL9xCjsSfTQFPqz1m7J3SZf5eH8VJDlDRdaqKBFRHGjnIWJ0Xyv0J2ciUbnulWxVBiCTHbKytPAokzCQd7EeckzGnAUZVyM4LGgdQiIsNznOBTUoJvQutgL8gJRowzjAt%2BVf2OMWPt6ZN%2BVQ1x1EBcJR6JLR8BjlC%2FndbVZZm9Tf%2BQwO%2BnjTrvdZ2NH&webInteractiveContentId=136827347884&portalId=43907374&hsLang=en)

 

## Investing in the Future: A Glimpse Into the HCA Experience Through Parental Eyes

![](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-3.jpeg?width=1200&height=628&name=undefined-3.jpeg)

Finding the right school for your child is a big decision. You want an environment that will nurture their academic, social, and spiritual growth. For Tamara Hernandez, [Hope Christian Academy (HCA)](https://hopechristianacademy.org/?hsLang=en) proved to be the perfect fit for her son.

### **Why HCA Stands Out for Tamara and April Hernandez**

In a recent interview, Tamara and her sister April, also a caretaker, gave insight into what makes HCA stand out. Their perspective highlights our school's strengths in fostering a faith-based, God-first education.

#### **1. Aligning Values at Home and School**

For Tamara, finding a school that reinforced the values taught at home was critical. She explained, "We teach values at home, but if you confirm those at school, that helps develop potential." HCA's [Christian principles and mission](https://hopechristianacademy.org/about/?hsLang=en) are strongly aligned with the values they instill as a family.

#### **2. Cultivating Spiritual Growth**

The school's role in nurturing her son's faith also stood out. Tamara shared that "HCA meets for devotions, prayer, and care for each other." The integration of [faith into academics](https://hopechristianacademy.org/academics/?hsLang=en) and student life has enriched her child's spiritual journey.

#### **3. Preparing for College Through Individualized Learning**

The Hernandez sisters highlighted HCA's approach to individualized learning as a key factor in preparing their child for future academic endeavors:

"They study individually, and if they have any questions, they can ask for help from a mentor, a tutor, an instructor," Tamara explained.

This approach, they believe, equips students with the skills needed for success in college, where independent study is crucial.

#### **4. A Supportive Community Through Small Classes**

For April, the small class sizes were a major draw, fostering a tight-knit community where students support and pray for one another. She appreciates the harmonious environment that has been so beneficial for her nephew.

"Being a small class, they know each other very well, and they pray for each other," April noted. 

#### **5. An Investment in the Future**

Regarding tuition considerations, Tamara and April firmly believed that prioritizing their child's spiritual and academic growth was a worthwhile investment. They found a unique blend of values, education, and faith at HCA.

"Any sacrifice is always worth it," Tamara asserted, emphasizing the prioritization of education in a parent's list of priorities.

### **Why Parents Like the Hernandez Family Choose Hope Christian Academy**

Hope Christian Academy is more than just an educational institution in the eyes of parents like Tamara and April Hernandez. It's where values, education, and faith intersect to create an environment that shapes unshakable believers. 

For our parents, choosing HCA is not just about the present — it's an investment in their child’s future, a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are academically proficient and spiritually grounded.

### **Invest In Your Child’s God-Given Potential at Hope Christian Academy**

As you consider the educational journey for your child, let the experience of parents at Hope Christian Academy inspire you to prioritize values, faith, and individualized learning – a combination that makes the investment worthwhile.

If you're looking for a caring Christ-centered learning community for your child, we invite you to [come learn more](https://hopechristianacademy.org/contact/?hsLang=en). Discover how the HCA difference has shaped so many young lives.

[![Learn More About Hope Christian Academy](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/43907374/interactive-156074997315.png)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJ2Hmp78ooeAawDnJP%2FF2zYcPn2R2byNsmU7v%2BTEoMQzi01Qx2G5b1GhFDfSSX2i9Vn8%2B1s%2Ffsv9RzZTxrDxU4Gw%2BzAqAAgbJpDHVCtMeYcLEGRVjCvaMyz%2Bkny60WK8i5aTmxSMVnTz9d3IiviNRdHUzsXlVDzkDUOWmUPzoXyk7B40YZg1HeOobCWpWc%3D&webInteractiveContentId=156074997315&portalId=43907374&hsLang=en)

 

## Staff Perspective: A Look at What Sets Our God-First Education Apart

![](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-4.jpeg?width=1600&height=838&name=undefined-4.jpeg)

[Hope Christian Academy's](https://hopechristianacademy.org/?hsLang=en) mission is to provide students with a rigorous, faith-based education centered on Christian values. As a [teacher at HCA](https://hopechristianacademy.org/staff-biographies/?hsLang=en) for over 20 years, I've witnessed firsthand the academic excellence and character development that sets our school apart from other private schools in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Let me share a staff perspective on what makes Hope Christian Academy so unique. 

### **What Sets Hope Christian Academy Apart?**

Since 1975, HCA has offered a holistic curriculum that integrates Biblical principles across all subjects and grade levels. Our students consistently achieve [high marks on standardized tests](https://hopechristianacademy.org/test-scores/?hsLang=en) and gain acceptance to top colleges and universities.

Just as importantly, they emerge with an [unshakable spiritual foundation](https://hopechristianacademy.org/about/?hsLang=en) to guide them.

### **Lessons Through a Gospel Lens**

As [Band and Choir](https://hopechristianacademy.org/band/?hsLang=en) Director, I apply a creative, student-driven approach to music education. Rather than reproducing pre-made arrangements, the students and I collaborate to form ensembles and select pieces based on their talents and interests. 

Together, we analyze compositions through a Gospel lens, developing their musical abilities while gaining a deeper appreciation for how this art form connects to our Christian faith. 

From classroom lessons to on-stage performances, the music program provides a supportive environment for students to hone their gifts and learn the power of working together to create something beautiful for the glory of God.

![](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-Oct-17-2025-02-11-48-9405-PM.jpeg?width=316&height=316&name=undefined-Oct-17-2025-02-11-48-9405-PM.jpeg)

### **Outside of the Classroom**

Beyond the classroom, HCA's signature programs teach leadership, service, and discipleship.

Weekly chapels, morning devotions, and Bible study sessions nurture students' faith. Our annual Christmas musicals allow every student to participate in a shared expression of their beliefs.

Mission trips, nursing home visits, and mentoring reinforce the importance of living out one's faith.

### **Our Hope Christian Community **

The tight-knit HCA community also fosters lasting friendships. Traditions like homecoming and graduation unite current students with alums, many of whom [stay deeply involved](https://hopechristianacademy.org/featured-alumni-testimonials/?hsLang=en) with HCA. Likewise, on campus, older students readily mentor younger peers.

Having taught here for over 20 years, I'm blessed to be part of such a unique community rooted in faith. I've witnessed firsthand the academic excellence and character development that set HCA apart. The school excels at educating both the mind and spirit, preparing students to thrive as principled Christian leaders.

### **Discover Unshakable Faith at Hope Christian Academy**

My hope is that this glimpse inside life at Hope Christian Academy inspires you to come and learn more about our school. Tour our campus, attend an upcoming open house, and meet our incredible students. See for yourself how HCA's God-first approach shapes poised, compassionate graduates ready to make their mark on the world.

[![Learn More About Hope Christian Academy](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/43907374/interactive-156074997315.png)](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJ2Hmp78ooeAawDnJP%2FF2zYcPn2R2byNsmU7v%2BTEoMQzi01Qx2G5b1GhFDfSSX2i9Vn8%2B1s%2Ffsv9RzZTxrDxU4Gw%2BzAqAAgbJpDHVCtMeYcLEGRVjCvaMyz%2Bkny60WK8i5aTmxSMVnTz9d3IiviNRdHUzsXlVDzkDUOWmUPzoXyk7B40YZg1HeOobCWpWc%3D&webInteractiveContentId=156074997315&portalId=43907374&hsLang=en)

- [About](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/about)
- [Academics](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/academics/)
- [Extra Curricular](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/extra-curricular/)
- [PreK](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/prekindergarten/)
- [Calendar](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/calendar)
- [Apply](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/apply/)

[Schedule a Tour](https://www.hopechristianacademy.org/contact?hsLang=en)

920 Holley Avenue, Suite 2  
 St. Paul Park, MN 55071  
 (651) 459-6438

Hope Christian Academy is a private PreK - 12th Grade school located near the Twin Cities.

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 Copyright © 2026 Hope Christian Academy

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