🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re thrilled to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Lissa and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“At UCA, I am in classes with teachers who I know truly care about me and my education, not just teaching a lesson and sending the pack off.”
“UCA has taught me some debate methods and also instilled in me a desire to research a topic as thoroughly as possible so that I can form my opinion. It also makes me more comfortable with accepting when I am wrong about a topic and changing my opinion.”
“I’ll be attending the University of Northwestern this coming fall in order to get a degree in Kinesiology and physical therapy. I hope to travel more as well, and am looking into study abroad programs in Europe.”
Congratulations, Lissa!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We’re thrilled to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Lissa and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“At UCA, I am in classes with teachers who I know truly care about me and my education, not just teaching a lesson and sending the pack off.”
“UCA has taught me some debate methods and also instilled in me a desire to research a topic as thoroughly as possible so that I can form my opinion. It also makes me more comfortable with accepting when I am wrong about a topic and changing my opinion.”
“I’ll be attending the University of Northwestern this coming fall in order to get a degree in Kinesiology and physical therapy. I hope to travel more as well, and am looking into study abroad programs in Europe.”
Congratulations, Lissa!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Leah and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has given me a foundation for my faith. Hilge’s apologetic class especially has helped shape my faith.”
“UCA has taught me that a small act of kindness can make someone’s whole day.”
“Because of my time here at UCA, I know how to defend my beliefs and advocate for myself.”
“I will be attending the University of North Florida and studying International Studies.”
Congratulations, Leah!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Leah and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has given me a foundation for my faith. Hilge’s apologetic class especially has helped shape my faith.”
“UCA has taught me that a small act of kindness can make someone’s whole day.”
“Because of my time here at UCA, I know how to defend my beliefs and advocate for myself.”
“I will be attending the University of North Florida and studying International Studies.”
Congratulations, Leah!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
🍎✨ It’s time to put the spotlight on one of our incredible UCA staff members — sharing a glimpse into their heart for students, their passion for UCA, and the impact they make every day. ✨ 📚
Today, we’re celebrating Ms. Lynette Tillman, High School Science Teacher. Here is what one of her students said:
“There are teachers who teach a subject, and others teach you that you matter. Ms. Tillman shows students both. Not only does she help students to understand what the lesson is, but she also cares about us as people. In her Missions Class, we pray over the UCA staff and CVC staff every Friday. This is bringing our community closer together, and change is happening at our school. Ms. Tillman is making a real impact, and it’s something I will not ever forget."
Thank you, Ms. Tillman, for the care and compassion you share with our school community! 🙏
We’re blessed to have you at UCA! 💜
#ucathunder #ucastaff
Today, we’re celebrating Ms. Lynette Tillman, High School Science Teacher. Here is what one of her students said:
“There are teachers who teach a subject, and others teach you that you matter. Ms. Tillman shows students both. Not only does she help students to understand what the lesson is, but she also cares about us as people. In her Missions Class, we pray over the UCA staff and CVC staff every Friday. This is bringing our community closer together, and change is happening at our school. Ms. Tillman is making a real impact, and it’s something I will not ever forget."
Thank you, Ms. Tillman, for the care and compassion you share with our school community! 🙏
We’re blessed to have you at UCA! 💜
#ucathunder #ucastaff
Last night’s College & Career event was a great opportunity for our high school students to start thinking about what’s next! 💜
Students connected with representatives from several colleges, asking questions and exploring options for their future 🎓
They also heard from our Academic Dean about opportunities for dual enrollment and PSEO. Each of these are valuable pathways that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school.
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
Students connected with representatives from several colleges, asking questions and exploring options for their future 🎓
They also heard from our Academic Dean about opportunities for dual enrollment and PSEO. Each of these are valuable pathways that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school.
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Ara, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has surrounded me with a supportive community that has helped me grow both spiritually and personally, something I will always be grateful for.”
“I’ve learned how to respect different opinions. Even among Christians, there are a variety of perspectives, and learning to value and understand them has helped me strengthen my own beliefs while also gaining a deeper appreciation for the beliefs of others.”
“Because of our supporters, students like me have the opportunity to grow not only academically, but also in our faith and character.”
“My future plans are to attend GCU, in Arizona, where I plan to study finance and business management. I hope to start my career as a financial planner and eventually open my own business.”
Congratulations, Ara!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Ara, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has surrounded me with a supportive community that has helped me grow both spiritually and personally, something I will always be grateful for.”
“I’ve learned how to respect different opinions. Even among Christians, there are a variety of perspectives, and learning to value and understand them has helped me strengthen my own beliefs while also gaining a deeper appreciation for the beliefs of others.”
“Because of our supporters, students like me have the opportunity to grow not only academically, but also in our faith and character.”
“My future plans are to attend GCU, in Arizona, where I plan to study finance and business management. I hope to start my career as a financial planner and eventually open my own business.”
Congratulations, Ara!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Montana and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has made me confident in my theology and ability to debate questions that surround the faith and the Bible.”
“Mrs. Mi has been a cornerstone for applying God's words to my own life. She has taught me that prayer is the way to a healthy relationship with God.”
“Mr. Hilgy's class encouraged critical thinking and to never be afraid of discussing the faith.”
“I am not sure where God wants me next year, but I will serve wherever He calls me, whether through pursuing music, continuing teaching, or getting a higher education in college.”
Congratulations, Montana!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Montana and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has made me confident in my theology and ability to debate questions that surround the faith and the Bible.”
“Mrs. Mi has been a cornerstone for applying God's words to my own life. She has taught me that prayer is the way to a healthy relationship with God.”
“Mr. Hilgy's class encouraged critical thinking and to never be afraid of discussing the faith.”
“I am not sure where God wants me next year, but I will serve wherever He calls me, whether through pursuing music, continuing teaching, or getting a higher education in college.”
Congratulations, Montana!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Kyra and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“While going to UCA I have become more confident in speaking out about my faith, and speaking my opinion.”
“The leadership skills that I have learned will definitely help me in the future.”
“While I was in Mr.Hilgenkamp's Apologetics and Mr. Peter's American history, I was taught how to stand up for my beliefs while loving others.”
“I would want our supporters to know that I am thankful for their prayers and donations, and that this school has created an environment where I can freely talk about my faith and grow.”
“I plan to go to Grand Canyon University next year and study Elementary education.”
Congratulations, Kyra!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Kyra and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“While going to UCA I have become more confident in speaking out about my faith, and speaking my opinion.”
“The leadership skills that I have learned will definitely help me in the future.”
“While I was in Mr.Hilgenkamp's Apologetics and Mr. Peter's American history, I was taught how to stand up for my beliefs while loving others.”
“I would want our supporters to know that I am thankful for their prayers and donations, and that this school has created an environment where I can freely talk about my faith and grow.”
“I plan to go to Grand Canyon University next year and study Elementary education.”
Congratulations, Kyra!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
Mrs. Ray’s 3rd graders recently completed their Peep Parent Project. This experience combines STEM, responsibility, and creativity! 🐥
To start, students designed and built cozy homes for their Peep, preparing for “Adoption Day.” When the big day arrived, each student discovered their Peep (some even had twins!) and gave it a name, measurements, and lots of care.
Throughout the week, students practiced faithfulness and responsibility by taking their Peep everywhere—at school and at home—or even hiring a “bunny sitter” when needed! They kept daily journals to reflect on their experiences, creating authentic and engaging writing opportunities.
Along the way, students earned (and sometimes lost!) Bunny Bucks as “life” happened—whether their Peep needed a dentist visit, forgot homework, or did something kind like helping a neighbor or encouraging a friend. At the end of the week, they used their earnings at the class “store.”
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
To start, students designed and built cozy homes for their Peep, preparing for “Adoption Day.” When the big day arrived, each student discovered their Peep (some even had twins!) and gave it a name, measurements, and lots of care.
Throughout the week, students practiced faithfulness and responsibility by taking their Peep everywhere—at school and at home—or even hiring a “bunny sitter” when needed! They kept daily journals to reflect on their experiences, creating authentic and engaging writing opportunities.
Along the way, students earned (and sometimes lost!) Bunny Bucks as “life” happened—whether their Peep needed a dentist visit, forgot homework, or did something kind like helping a neighbor or encouraging a friend. At the end of the week, they used their earnings at the class “store.”
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Elijah and the incredible individual he has become! 💜
“The smaller class sizes at UCA have helped me to know every person that I am graduating with, and to form an appreciation for the bonds I have with my classmates.”
“The leadership opportunities at UCA have been wonderful! Although they may change after graduation, I'm looking for new and significant ways to lead beyond high school.”
“Uca has offered a firm foundation to rely upon in life. The apologetic courses have provided evidence, not only for myself but also support during arguments with non-believers.”
“The support for UCA that comes through time, money, and effort from our community does not go unnoticed.”
“After graduating, I plan to start at Normandale Community College, then continue at the University of Northwestern, St. Paul. Eventually, I would like to pursue a seminary degree of some sort.”
Congratulations, Elijah!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Elijah and the incredible individual he has become! 💜
“The smaller class sizes at UCA have helped me to know every person that I am graduating with, and to form an appreciation for the bonds I have with my classmates.”
“The leadership opportunities at UCA have been wonderful! Although they may change after graduation, I'm looking for new and significant ways to lead beyond high school.”
“Uca has offered a firm foundation to rely upon in life. The apologetic courses have provided evidence, not only for myself but also support during arguments with non-believers.”
“The support for UCA that comes through time, money, and effort from our community does not go unnoticed.”
“After graduating, I plan to start at Normandale Community College, then continue at the University of Northwestern, St. Paul. Eventually, I would like to pursue a seminary degree of some sort.”
Congratulations, Elijah!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.” – Matthew 28:6
Happy Easter from our UCA family to yours! Grateful to celebrate the hope we have in Jesus together.
Happy Easter from our UCA family to yours! Grateful to celebrate the hope we have in Jesus together.
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Faith and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has shaped me by showing me a great example of community and Christian based teachings.”
“I will remember the people and the relationships I grew and gained at this school.”
“UCA prepared us to stand for truth by getting us comfortable with expressing our faith and by challenging and discussing it in the classroom.”
“After graduating, I plan to get a degree in Nursing, then move on to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.”
Congratulations, Faith!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Faith and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has shaped me by showing me a great example of community and Christian based teachings.”
“I will remember the people and the relationships I grew and gained at this school.”
“UCA prepared us to stand for truth by getting us comfortable with expressing our faith and by challenging and discussing it in the classroom.”
“After graduating, I plan to get a degree in Nursing, then move on to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.”
Congratulations, Faith!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Liam and the incredible individual he has become! 💜
“UCA has given me the opportunity to branch out and try different things as a leader and a learner. The Christ- centered environment has become a huge part of my walk with God and in my everyday life.”
“It’s amazing to share a space with other believers and to have that community.”
“We have been taught not only how to read and interpret the bible but also how to defend it.”
“I’m grateful for our supporters who help make this a safe place for students and a community where they can grow in their faith and make it their own.”
“I plan to go to Bethel University to pursue a degree in Mechanical engineering and applied physics.”
Congratulations, Liam!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Liam and the incredible individual he has become! 💜
“UCA has given me the opportunity to branch out and try different things as a leader and a learner. The Christ- centered environment has become a huge part of my walk with God and in my everyday life.”
“It’s amazing to share a space with other believers and to have that community.”
“We have been taught not only how to read and interpret the bible but also how to defend it.”
“I’m grateful for our supporters who help make this a safe place for students and a community where they can grow in their faith and make it their own.”
“I plan to go to Bethel University to pursue a degree in Mechanical engineering and applied physics.”
Congratulations, Liam!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
While it’s hard to briefly summarize what our high school students are doing and experiencing over in Lithuania, this statement from one of our staff members gives a heart-warming glimpse:
“Every student has gifts and abilities uniquely given to them by God, and they are all stepping in to serve in spaces on this trip in their own unique ways. From our dramatic comic reliefs to our quiet servants organizing cabinets or decorations to our board game players to our “I have a fun idea!” kids—they all play important roles in making deep connections on this trip, and it’s a blessing to see each of them continue in obedience and grow in courage (out loud AND behind the scenes).”
Thank you for your continued prayers for our students and staff serving in Lithuania. 🙏 💜
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
“Every student has gifts and abilities uniquely given to them by God, and they are all stepping in to serve in spaces on this trip in their own unique ways. From our dramatic comic reliefs to our quiet servants organizing cabinets or decorations to our board game players to our “I have a fun idea!” kids—they all play important roles in making deep connections on this trip, and it’s a blessing to see each of them continue in obedience and grow in courage (out loud AND behind the scenes).”
Thank you for your continued prayers for our students and staff serving in Lithuania. 🙏 💜
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Iris, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“Through Mr. Hilgenkamp's Bible classes, I discovered a passion for Scripture and for the academic aspects of Biblical and Theological studies.”
“What will stick with me most from UCA is how I learned to be confident and resilient through trials. Even when things were hard, my teachers encouraged me to keep going and helped me see my worth.”
“UCA has prepared me to stand for truth by giving me a strong foundation in Scripture through the Bible courses.”
“I’d want supporters of UCA to know that the teachers truly make the experience. By supporting them, you’re not just investing in a school--you’re changing lives, like mine.”
“My future plans include getting my Bachelor's degree in Biblical and Theological Studies at the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, MN, then hopefully pursuing seminary.”
Congratulations, Iris!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Iris, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“Through Mr. Hilgenkamp's Bible classes, I discovered a passion for Scripture and for the academic aspects of Biblical and Theological studies.”
“What will stick with me most from UCA is how I learned to be confident and resilient through trials. Even when things were hard, my teachers encouraged me to keep going and helped me see my worth.”
“UCA has prepared me to stand for truth by giving me a strong foundation in Scripture through the Bible courses.”
“I’d want supporters of UCA to know that the teachers truly make the experience. By supporting them, you’re not just investing in a school--you’re changing lives, like mine.”
“My future plans include getting my Bachelor's degree in Biblical and Theological Studies at the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, MN, then hopefully pursuing seminary.”
Congratulations, Iris!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
Our Pre-K students are learning about the joy and hope of the resurrection story in such a meaningful (and tasty!) way! 🌅
As part of their lesson, they made “Empty Tomb Rolls.” This special treat helps illustrate the story of the empty tomb on Easter morning. As the rolls baked, the marshmallow inside melted away, leaving them empty, just like the tomb! 🪨 🥐
Hands-on activities like these help bring big truths to life for our youngest learners. 💜
#ucathunder #ucaelementary #ucaprek
As part of their lesson, they made “Empty Tomb Rolls.” This special treat helps illustrate the story of the empty tomb on Easter morning. As the rolls baked, the marshmallow inside melted away, leaving them empty, just like the tomb! 🪨 🥐
Hands-on activities like these help bring big truths to life for our youngest learners. 💜
#ucathunder #ucaelementary #ucaprek
Travel update from our 11th & 12th grade mission team ✈️
Flights to Lithuania went smoothly; uneventful travel is always a huge blessing! Two students celebrated birthdays along the way, and our hosts helped with a special dessert after arrival 🎉
After check-in at the hotel, we walked to Journey Church, prepared for our chapel service, and then had dinner. Our group is tired after a lot of travel and little sleep.
Tomorrow, we begin our first day of ministry, and we can’t wait to share more! 💜
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
Flights to Lithuania went smoothly; uneventful travel is always a huge blessing! Two students celebrated birthdays along the way, and our hosts helped with a special dessert after arrival 🎉
After check-in at the hotel, we walked to Journey Church, prepared for our chapel service, and then had dinner. Our group is tired after a lot of travel and little sleep.
Tomorrow, we begin our first day of ministry, and we can’t wait to share more! 💜
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Abby, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has helped me to be more independent and more confident in my faith as I've grown these last three years going here. ”
“I will never forget the memories of sophomore year, and the House events. I'm so grateful and lucky to be able to go to a safe christian school.”
“I feel prepared to stand firm in my faith and God, to focus on Jesus, and not to worry for the future, because God has the plan already made. ”
“I would like our supporters to know that I appreciate them so much, more than I can express. UCA deserves more recognition, we really are an amazing school!”
“After senior year, I’m planning to take a gap year, making more money. Then potentially college here in MN or at GCU in AZ. I’m giving it to God and what He wants me to learn in different seasons of my life."
Congratulations, Abby!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.
Join us as we honor Abby, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has helped me to be more independent and more confident in my faith as I've grown these last three years going here. ”
“I will never forget the memories of sophomore year, and the House events. I'm so grateful and lucky to be able to go to a safe christian school.”
“I feel prepared to stand firm in my faith and God, to focus on Jesus, and not to worry for the future, because God has the plan already made. ”
“I would like our supporters to know that I appreciate them so much, more than I can express. UCA deserves more recognition, we really are an amazing school!”
“After senior year, I’m planning to take a gap year, making more money. Then potentially college here in MN or at GCU in AZ. I’m giving it to God and what He wants me to learn in different seasons of my life."
Congratulations, Abby!
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
Bringing the Bible to life ✝️ 📖
This week, our 1st grade students created their own palm branches by tracing their hands, then used them as they acted out the story together. Through this activity, they learned that Jesus wasn’t the king people expected. He came as a humble King, riding on a donkey instead of a mighty horse, and didn’t need a throne or a gold crown. 🌿 👑
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
This week, our 1st grade students created their own palm branches by tracing their hands, then used them as they acted out the story together. Through this activity, they learned that Jesus wasn’t the king people expected. He came as a humble King, riding on a donkey instead of a mighty horse, and didn’t need a throne or a gold crown. 🌿 👑
#ucathunder #ucaelementary
Our high school biology students are exploring symbiotic relationships and discovering how organisms interact in ways that can be mutually beneficial, harmful, or somewhere in between. 🌿
They recently welcomed a special guest speaker, an arborist, who also happens to be Mrs. Diamond’s brother! He shared his expertise on tree galls and the unique relationships behind them. Students had the opportunity to see real-world examples and gain insight into how these interactions play out in nature. 🌳
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
They recently welcomed a special guest speaker, an arborist, who also happens to be Mrs. Diamond’s brother! He shared his expertise on tree galls and the unique relationships behind them. Students had the opportunity to see real-world examples and gain insight into how these interactions play out in nature. 🌳
#ucathunder #ucahighschool
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓
We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives:
“UCA has strengthened my confidence and identity in Christ by helping me understand that I am a child of God.”
“I've learned to view everyone as valuable, because they are made in God's image.”
“UCA has strengthened my knowledge about the faith and enabled me to understand why I believe what I do.”
“After high school, I am going to Evangel University in Missouri to pursue a degree in accounting, and hopefully specialize in forensic accounting.”
“Thank you for supporting a school that helps students understand who they are, by teaching them whose they are.”
Join us as we honor the Class of 2026 and the incredible individuals they’ve become! 💜
Congratulations, Lacey! 🎉 👏
#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
