Our Middle School Spelling Bee was a big success! 🐝

Students bravely volunteered to step into the spotlight before the entire middle school student body, which is no small feat! Their courage, focus, and determination were on full display as they took on some challenging words.

We’re so proud of each participant for their willingness to take a risk and give it their best. They did an incredible job! 📚💜

Congratulations to the top three spellers, all representing the 6th grade! Way to go, Ruth, Lucy, and Teddy! 👏

#ucathunder #ucamiddleschool
about 17 hours ago, UCA
middle school dean speaking to all of the students before the spelling bee
top three winners in the spelling bee
middle school student standing at a microphone during a spelling bee
middle school student standing at a microphone during a spelling bee
judges giving a thumbs up during a spelling bee
middle school student standing at a microphone during a spelling bee
middle school student standing at a microphone during a spelling bee
students giving each other high fives on stage during a spelling bee
middle school student standing at a microphone during a spelling bee
middle school student standing at a microphone during a spelling bee
Our 1st and 2nd grade students had an amazing adventure on their recent field trip! 🐐🌿

The fun started at a local city park, where students enjoyed time outdoors playing, exploring, and making memories with their classmates 🌳☀️

Next, they explored Sustainable Safari, where they had the chance to see and learn about a variety of animals up close—sparking curiosity and excitement along the way.

It was a day full of discovery, laughter, and hands-on learning! 💜

#ucathunder #ucaelementary
1 day ago, UCA
class picture of 1st and 2nd grade on a fieldtrip
students petting a snake
1st grade student feeding a capybara
1st grade students feeding goats
student making a silly face that matches the poster behind her
students feeding goats
1st grade students at a petting zoo
students petting an armadillo
students standing next to a capybara
student feeding emus
🎓 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 Elianna and the incredible individual she has become! 💜

“I have had the opportunity to make so many close friends who have shown me the love of Jesus daily. UCA has encouraged me to step up and be a leader, and I have discovered so much about myself and others through that.”

“I have learned that everyone has different stories, backgrounds, and perspectives, each unique and a testimony to themselves. You never know unless you ask, and you'll never understand unless you listen.”

“UCA is a constant reminder of the truth of who God is. I know that I am loved, cared for, and here for a purpose. I know that I am not alone; I have a community to stand with, and God to walk with me throughout my journey.”

“Thank you to everyone who has supported UCA in any way. Everything makes a difference, truly. For instance, I'll never forget the theater parents who helped with tech week for so many years!”

“I will most likely finish the other half of my associate's degree at Normandale Community College and transfer to a 4-year institution, either pursuing coastal environmental science, environmental engineering, or something similar down in Florida. During this time, I hope to travel abroad to some Spanish-speaking countries.”

Congratulations, Elianna!

#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
1 day ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
Bloom, our annual spring fundraiser, was truly lovely evening celebrating the heart and mission of UCA, and we are so grateful for your presence and participation. Whether through attending, bidding, giving, or volunteering, your involvement leaves a meaningful impact on our students and school community.

Our community and supporters raised just over $75,000!

We are honored that you are coming alongside us as we cultivate students who are growing academically, spiritually, and relationally. Together we strive to help our students remain rooted in Christ, built up in Him, and established in their faith, so that their lives may truly bloom for His glory.

If you missed the event, you can still donate here: https://onecau.se/bloom2026

#ucathunder
2 days ago, UCA
logo for annual fundraiser
students on stage worshiping
students working at a raffle table and guests buying tickets
students working at a raffle table and guests buying tickets
auctioneer and emcee speaking on stage
head of school speaking on stage
guests using a photo booth
high school senior speaking on stage
high school students selling "Golden Tickets"
guests looking at silent auction items

Recently, we celebrated United Week, which is when our school intentionally focuses on the spiritual formation of our students, encouraging them to grow in their faith and relationship with Christ ✝️

Our “Four Houses, One Family” theme was clearly on display. Students wore the colors of a certain house each day, building unity and fostering a strong sense of belonging across the school.❤️ 💙 💚 💛

Secondary students led chapel services each day, where speakers demonstrated an inspiring level of maturity, biblical understanding, and clarity in communication 🎤 📖

We also had the opportunity to participate in an All-School Missions Day, where students stepped into servant leadership in meaningful ways. Opportunities like these reflect the heart of UCA’s mission to help students live out their faith through action and service. 💜 💪 🌍

More details can be found here: https://www.ucathunder.org/article/2855268

#ucathunder #ucaunitedweek

2 days ago, UCA
secondary students sitting in a chapel service
group of students working on a service project
student pushing a wheelbarrow
elementary students singing songs in a chapel service while wearing red
group of students working on a service project
students spreading mulch in a garden
group of students working on a service project
high school students speaking in a chapel service
group of students working on a service project
students performing a skit in a chapel service
🎓 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 Cali and the incredible individual she has become! 💜

“UCA has taught me how to grow as a leader and has shown me the importance of community.”

“At UCA, I learned a lot of theological facts and knowledge that will help me throughout my life.”

“I’ve learned to never denounce my faith and always put my trust in God above all else.”

“After UCA, I plan to attend Liberty University online institution and pursue a degree in Aviation management with a possible marketing minor.”

Congratulations, Cali!

#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
4 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
Our 1st graders recently became authors! 💜✏️📚

Using a “Steps to Publishing” process, students worked through each stage of writing—from brainstorming ideas and drafting their stories to revising, editing, and finally publishing their very own books.

To celebrate all their hard work, we hosted a special Publishing Party! Students dressed up, walked the red carpet, and shared their finished books with proud parents and guests. 🎉❤️

To make the day even more memorable, our high school photography students joined in, acting as the paparazzi—capturing all the red-carpet moments and making our young authors feel like true celebrities! 📸✨

It was fun to celebrate the creativity, confidence, and excitement of becoming young authors. 💜

#ucathunder #ucaelementary
4 days ago, UCA
Student in front of the classroom with students raising their hands
student getting help from a teacher
student sitting at her desk writing a story
student "walking the red carpet"
high school photography students acting as paparazzi
two 1st grade students holding up another student
group of boys piled on the floor
class photo of the 1st graders
two students signing the book that they published
three students signing the book that they published
🎓 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 Ashley and the incredible individual she has become! 💜

“UCA has shaped me as a person by showing me the importance of having a strong support system. You need to have someone in your corner.”

“At UCA, I have learned the ability to stand up for what I believe in. Your values are worth standing up for, even if you are standing alone.”

“UCA has taught me the importance of thinking for myself. I feel prepared to stand up for truth in the modern world.”

“I will be attending Drake University and pursuing journalism.”

Congratulations, Ashley!

#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
10 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
🎓 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
15 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
🎓 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
17 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
🍎✨ 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
17 days ago, UCA
teacher feature graphic with a teacher pointing to a periodic table
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
18 days ago, UCA
students and parents speaking to college representatives
students and parents speaking to college representatives
students and parents speaking to college representatives
students and parents speaking to college representatives
students and parents speaking to college representatives
students and parents speaking to college representatives
🎓 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
19 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
🎓 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
22 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
🎓 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
24 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
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
24 days ago, UCA
class photo of Peep adoption day
student working on an art project
student working on an art project
"house" created out of cardboard
student working on an art project
student working on an art project
student working on an art project
worksheets for a classroom project
"houses" created out of cardboard
"house" created out of cardboard
🎓 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
26 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
“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.

27 days ago, UCA
picture of three empty crosses and an empty tomb
🎓 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
29 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
🎓 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
about 1 month ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student