✈️ Students in the UCA Aviation program had the incredible opportunity to visit Delta Airlines’ maintenance hangars last week — the very ones you see from I-494! They got up close with several aircraft, including sitting in the cockpit of an Airbus A330 (notice the picture featuring our first all-female UCA flight crew 🙌 👩✈️👩✈️).
Students toured the hangars, saw inside an engine compartment, and even learned that one A330 tire costs $48,000 and lasts only 40–50 landings!
From there, they explored the baggage sorting area, ramp control tower, and even toured a plane bound for Paris — complete with a quick sit in first class! 😲
A huge thank-you to Delta Airlines and to our amazing chaperones — Mr. Hagen, Mrs. Metcalf, Mrs. Hohnstad, and Mr. Dahlen — for making this day such a high-flying success! 💜
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaaviation
Students toured the hangars, saw inside an engine compartment, and even learned that one A330 tire costs $48,000 and lasts only 40–50 landings!
From there, they explored the baggage sorting area, ramp control tower, and even toured a plane bound for Paris — complete with a quick sit in first class! 😲
A huge thank-you to Delta Airlines and to our amazing chaperones — Mr. Hagen, Mrs. Metcalf, Mrs. Hohnstad, and Mr. Dahlen — for making this day such a high-flying success! 💜
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaaviation
🍎✨ It’s time to put the spotlight on one of our incredible UCA staff — sharing a glimpse into their heart for students, their passion for UCA, and the impact they make every day. We’re so grateful for the dedication and love they pour into our school and community! ✨ 📚
This week is all about Mrs. Hohnstadt, who has worn many hats in and out of the classroom, both at one of our legacy schools, Bethany Academy, and here at UCA. One of her colleagues put it best:
“With all the hats Jennie wears each day, she still found time to strap on a vacuum backpack and clean the front foyer. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our staff and students have what they need to succeed—and takes pride in keeping our building looking its best.”
Thank you, Mrs. Hohnstadt! We’re blessed to have you at UCA! 💜
#ucathunder #ucateacherfeature
This week is all about Mrs. Hohnstadt, who has worn many hats in and out of the classroom, both at one of our legacy schools, Bethany Academy, and here at UCA. One of her colleagues put it best:
“With all the hats Jennie wears each day, she still found time to strap on a vacuum backpack and clean the front foyer. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our staff and students have what they need to succeed—and takes pride in keeping our building looking its best.”
Thank you, Mrs. Hohnstadt! We’re blessed to have you at UCA! 💜
#ucathunder #ucateacherfeature
Our kindergarteners rocked around the clock to mark their 50th day of school with a fun ’50s theme! From poodle skirts and leather jackets to root beer floats and rock ’n’ roll tunes, the day was full of smiles, laughter, and learning. 🍦🕺🎶
Students also explored what life was like back then, getting hands-on with rotary phones, typewriters, and other vintage items that showed how much things have changed. A fun mix of learning and celebration to honor 50 days of growing, discovering, and having fun together! 👓 📞
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
Students also explored what life was like back then, getting hands-on with rotary phones, typewriters, and other vintage items that showed how much things have changed. A fun mix of learning and celebration to honor 50 days of growing, discovering, and having fun together! 👓 📞
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
This week, our Head of School, Mr. Peters, and Director of Operations, Ms. Andi, teamed up to bless our entire staff with a special tea or coffee treat!
Teachers got to choose their favorite drink from a custom menu, then Miss Andi worked her magic as a barista, while Mr. Peters made the deliveries. 🚗☕
When asked about the idea, Mr. Peters shared, “The staff blessed me recently for Boss’s Day, so I had to get them back!” 💜
It was a fun way to show appreciation for our amazing team — and a great reminder that at UCA, gratitude and encouragement go both ways! 🙌✨
#ucathunder
Teachers got to choose their favorite drink from a custom menu, then Miss Andi worked her magic as a barista, while Mr. Peters made the deliveries. 🚗☕
When asked about the idea, Mr. Peters shared, “The staff blessed me recently for Boss’s Day, so I had to get them back!” 💜
It was a fun way to show appreciation for our amazing team — and a great reminder that at UCA, gratitude and encouragement go both ways! 🙌✨
#ucathunder
🔢 Our first graders are building a strong foundation in math! This week, they’ve been learning all about ones and tens — practicing how to group, count, and add them together. It’s so fun watching their confidence grow as they discover how numbers work! 💜📚
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
🌟 Every student at UCA has an incredible story — unique, inspiring, and full of potential! 💜
We’d like to celebrate those students who shine. From personal achievements to acts of kindness, creative talents, and leadership in or out of the classroom, each student makes a difference and brings something special to our community! 🙌
Nominated by his Cross Country coach, first up is Stetson, a 10th-grader. "He recently completed the Mankato Half Marathon with his dad. He trained diligently all cross country season, and his hard work paid off!” Way to go, Stetson! 👟 🏃➡️
Join us in congratulating Stetson — leave a comment below!
#ucathunder #ucastudentswhoshine
We’d like to celebrate those students who shine. From personal achievements to acts of kindness, creative talents, and leadership in or out of the classroom, each student makes a difference and brings something special to our community! 🙌
Nominated by his Cross Country coach, first up is Stetson, a 10th-grader. "He recently completed the Mankato Half Marathon with his dad. He trained diligently all cross country season, and his hard work paid off!” Way to go, Stetson! 👟 🏃➡️
Join us in congratulating Stetson — leave a comment below!
#ucathunder #ucastudentswhoshine
✈️ UCA students are soaring!
🛩️ Recently, three aviation students -- Isaac, Jacob, and Ethan-- took to the skies on a free flight through the EAA Young Eagles program! Since 1992, Young Eagles has given kids ages 8–17 their first airplane ride — inspiring the next generation of pilots.
🙌 You don’t need to be in the aviation program to sign up! Learn more at EAA.org or contact our High School Aviation Teacher, Mitch Hagen.
“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.”
Leonardo da Vinci
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucastem #ucaaviation
🛩️ Recently, three aviation students -- Isaac, Jacob, and Ethan-- took to the skies on a free flight through the EAA Young Eagles program! Since 1992, Young Eagles has given kids ages 8–17 their first airplane ride — inspiring the next generation of pilots.
🙌 You don’t need to be in the aviation program to sign up! Learn more at EAA.org or contact our High School Aviation Teacher, Mitch Hagen.
“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.”
Leonardo da Vinci
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucastem #ucaaviation
🍎✨ It’s time to put the spotlight on one of our incredible UCA teachers — sharing a glimpse into their heart for students, their passion for teaching, and the impact they make every day. We’re so grateful for the dedication and love they pour into our classrooms and community! ✨ 📚
First up is Mrs. Ray, whose roots go deep, having taught third grade here at UCA and one of our legacy schools, Bethany Academy, for many years. One of her colleagues put it best:
“She is a teacher who has a love for her students, a passion for truth, and pursues excellence in the classroom. For years, she has faithfully served our UCA community with consistency, humility, and grace. One of the reasons she is so special is that she never stops growing. She still brings fresh ideas, creativity, and innovation into her classroom while staying deeply rooted in God's truth. She models what it means to teach with excellence, mentor with compassion and train with purpose. Countless students have been shaped by her steady presence and Christ-centered influence.”
Thank you, Mrs. Ray! We’re blessed to have you at UCA! 💜
Share in the comments below how Mrs. Ray has impacted you or your students.
#ucathunder #ucaelementary #ucateacherfeature
🔥🚒 Special visitors in Pre-K!
🧯 The Bloomington Fire Department stopped by to meet our youngest learners! Kids loved exploring the fire truck, learning about fire safety, and asking lots of questions.
👩🚒👨🚒 A big thank you to the firefighters for inspiring curiosity and excitement in our Pre-K classroom! 💜✨
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
🧯 The Bloomington Fire Department stopped by to meet our youngest learners! Kids loved exploring the fire truck, learning about fire safety, and asking lots of questions.
👩🚒👨🚒 A big thank you to the firefighters for inspiring curiosity and excitement in our Pre-K classroom! 💜✨
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
Come explore what God may have planned for your family at UCA. See our discipleship model in action, connect with teachers and students, and discover why UCA could be the right next step for you.
📅 Tuesday, October 28
⏰ 6:30 pm
📍 8600 Bloomington Ave S, Bloomington (enter door #9)
🎟️ Register @ ucathunder.org
The evening starts with a large group presentation at 6:30 pm for Pre-K through 12th grade families, followed by age-appropriate info sessions and tours.
🍂🎨 Our high school art students are celebrating the beauty of God’s creation this season! Based on a photo they took, they are using watercolors to capture the vibrant colors of fall to reflect the wonder of the world around us. Each piece is a unique expression of creativity and a reminder of the beauty God has painted in nature. 🌟🖌️
#ucathunder #ucafinearts
#ucathunder #ucafinearts
🏆 During today’s chapel services, we had the honor of recognizing our Student of the Quarter winners! These outstanding students were chosen by their teachers for consistently displaying the House Essentials—integrity, helpfulness, respect, compassion, and many more. 🌟
Elementary: Carson S (Gratia House)
Middle School: Abby W (Scriptura House)
High School: Claire F (Gratia House)
We are so proud of each of them for their dedication to excellence both in and out of the classroom. Congratulations to all the winners! 👏 💙 ❤️ 💚 💛
#ucathunder #ucahousesystem
Elementary: Carson S (Gratia House)
Middle School: Abby W (Scriptura House)
High School: Claire F (Gratia House)
We are so proud of each of them for their dedication to excellence both in and out of the classroom. Congratulations to all the winners! 👏 💙 ❤️ 💚 💛
#ucathunder #ucahousesystem
📸✏️ Our yearbook team is gaining serious momentum! Students are diving into the design and editing process with creativity and focus.
The final product will be worth the wait! 💻📘✨
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
The final product will be worth the wait! 💻📘✨
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
Our 8th grade Language Arts students put their literary knowledge and quick thinking to the test in our very own version of Wheel of Fortune — Wheel of Words! 🎡📚
Students went head-to-head attempting to solve famous quotes from popular literature, and bonus points were given if they guessed the author and book title. They spun the wheel, called letters, and raced to decode lines from classic and contemporary texts. Suspense, excitement, and a little bit of friendly competition all working together to sharpen their language skills and gain a deeper appreciation for great writing. 💬❤️📖
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
Students went head-to-head attempting to solve famous quotes from popular literature, and bonus points were given if they guessed the author and book title. They spun the wheel, called letters, and raced to decode lines from classic and contemporary texts. Suspense, excitement, and a little bit of friendly competition all working together to sharpen their language skills and gain a deeper appreciation for great writing. 💬❤️📖
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
📖 In Bible class, our 6th graders took on the role of teachers this week!
Each student or small group was assigned one of the judges from the Bible and challenged to research, prepare, and present what they learned to their classmates. Through this project, they not only deepened their understanding of Scripture and the lessons we can learn from it, but also strengthened their skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, and confidence.
We love seeing our students take ownership of their learning and share God’s truth with one another! 💜👏
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
Each student or small group was assigned one of the judges from the Bible and challenged to research, prepare, and present what they learned to their classmates. Through this project, they not only deepened their understanding of Scripture and the lessons we can learn from it, but also strengthened their skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, and confidence.
We love seeing our students take ownership of their learning and share God’s truth with one another! 💜👏
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
🥢 Culture Friday: Chinese Hot Pot! 🇨🇳
Our Chinese students recently enjoyed another Culture Friday experience, where they enjoyed authentic Hot Pot, including translucent bean noodles, and it was a big hit!
They explored traditional Chinese dining styles, using a variety of utensils—from beautiful chopsticks to unique spoons and bowls.
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
Our Chinese students recently enjoyed another Culture Friday experience, where they enjoyed authentic Hot Pot, including translucent bean noodles, and it was a big hit!
They explored traditional Chinese dining styles, using a variety of utensils—from beautiful chopsticks to unique spoons and bowls.
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
💜 Our 8th graders are putting their faith into action through a new class called Service & Small Groups!
Once each week, students gather in small groups for Bible study, prayer partners, and opportunities to serve others. This week’s project had them caring for our campus by picking up garbage around the school and church grounds—a simple but meaningful way to show stewardship and teamwork. 🌿👏
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
Once each week, students gather in small groups for Bible study, prayer partners, and opportunities to serve others. This week’s project had them caring for our campus by picking up garbage around the school and church grounds—a simple but meaningful way to show stewardship and teamwork. 🌿👏
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
💜 What a great morning at our first-ever Parent Learning Collective!
Parents came together this past weekend for a time of encouragement, connection, and practical insight—diving into important topics like attention and focus, social-emotional regulation, and healthy technology use in the home.
We’re so grateful for our knowledgeable speakers who shared wisdom and strategies, and for all the parents who showed up to learn, grow, and strengthen our community together.
It was an inspiring start to what we hope will be the first of many Parent Learning Collective gatherings! 🌿👏
#ucathunder
Parents came together this past weekend for a time of encouragement, connection, and practical insight—diving into important topics like attention and focus, social-emotional regulation, and healthy technology use in the home.
We’re so grateful for our knowledgeable speakers who shared wisdom and strategies, and for all the parents who showed up to learn, grow, and strengthen our community together.
It was an inspiring start to what we hope will be the first of many Parent Learning Collective gatherings! 🌿👏
#ucathunder
🤝 This year, our 6th and 7th graders are taking part in a brand-new class called Team Builders!
The focus of this class is to help students develop skills that are essential when working with others—learning how to encourage teammates, build each other up, and solve challenges together.
Through hands-on activities and group tasks, students are growing as collaborators and leaders who know how to make their team stronger. 💜👏
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
The focus of this class is to help students develop skills that are essential when working with others—learning how to encourage teammates, build each other up, and solve challenges together.
Through hands-on activities and group tasks, students are growing as collaborators and leaders who know how to make their team stronger. 💜👏
#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
🍎 Fall fun in Pre-K! 🍁
Our youngest learners spent the week exploring all things apples—tasting four different kinds, voting on their favorites, and describing each one using their five senses. They even practiced their fine motor skills by cutting apples and making homemade applesauce together.
Everyone had a taste, and it was delicious! 😋💜
#ucathunder #ucaelementary #ucaprek
Our youngest learners spent the week exploring all things apples—tasting four different kinds, voting on their favorites, and describing each one using their five senses. They even practiced their fine motor skills by cutting apples and making homemade applesauce together.
Everyone had a taste, and it was delicious! 😋💜
#ucathunder #ucaelementary #ucaprek
