Christian heritage aCademy Upper School9th - 12th Grade

Built on a Heritage of Excellence in Christian EducationChristian Heritage Academy families prayed for more than two decades that God would open the door for CHA to establish a high school, knowing that “unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1). We rejoiced as His plan began to unfold in Fall 2009, with our first freshman class. Convinced that God brought about Christian Heritage Academy Upper School “for such a time as this,” we seek to provide young men and women with intellectual knowledge, spiritual depth, and above all, wisdom.

The Upper School continues the CHA model of education that unites a high standard of excellence with biblical integration. The result: a learning environment that fosters enthusiasm, intellectual curiosity and spiritual growth. The logic of math, the awe of science, the beauty of art and literature, the joy of music, the accomplishment of athletics, the insight of language and the wisdom of godly teacher/mentors combine to educate young minds, fill their hearts and nourish their spirit. Praise God for this magnificent opportunity to pass down His wisdom to the next generation!

Christian Heritage Academy’s Upper School prepares young men and women to impact their universities, workplaces, homes and the world for the glory of God.

DistinctionsChrist CenteredStudents are mentored by Christ-like role models, are taught to analyze issues with biblical

discernment and begin to develop a sense of God’s call on their lives. As they grow in relationship

with Christ, students are encouraged to place Him at the center of their high school experience,

allowing each one to cultivate a deep faith, an upright character, and a servant’s heart to the glory

of God.

College PreparatoryStructured to prepare the student for academic achievement in college and post-graduate work,

our innovative curriculum meets all college requirements. Throughout their four years of high

school, students can expect a rigorous course load with honors-level and Advanced Placement

courses offered, crafted to prepare students to excel in college and beyond.

Critical ThinkingIn a world that requires students to understand and exercise advanced critical thinking skills,

our curriculum is focused on developing students who can think creatively and logically to solve

problems and analyze disparate information effectively. Students are challenged to respond

according to a biblical worldview and learn to exercise wisdom as they acquire knowledge.

Creative InnovationsWe are committed to the unchanging truths of Scripture as well as a continual, systematic evaluation of

educational methods. Drawing from the latest educational research, innovations in pedagogy are

woven into all disciplines. For example, our science classes are offered in “PCB” sequence (Physics,

Chemistry, Biology); students attend a Winterim term in January; and each student receives a

personal laptop along with remote access to school software and data.

Communication ProficiencyStudents learn to effectively and appropriately incorporate a wide range of communications

media in their work. Whether crafting well-researched papers, delivering an inspiring speech, or

editing a class video to be posted on the Internet, students develop a thorough comprehension and command of electronic and traditional media at all levels of the curriculum.

“…an exemplary education based on biblical values…”Christian Heritage Academy’s Upper School offers a distinctly Christian education, with an in-depth, spiritually rich curriculum at the collegiate inquiry level. Highly skilled Christian teachers utilize the latest technology in a multidisciplinary approach, including strong math/science and fine arts components. The academic program is demanding—comparable or superior to area schools. With class sizes of 22 or less, students learn in an optimal setting. From the sciences and math to social studies and English, a broad spectrum of learning experiences develop students who are both competent and confident, well equipped for life and the challenges of college.

What does the learning look like at CHA Upper School?• CLASSROOM LECTURES pique inquisitive minds

• INDEPENDENT STUDY teaches responsibility for one’s own learning

• DISCUSSIONS sharpen the ability to defend an argument

• INTERDISCIPLINARY CONNECTIONS develop crosscurrents between subject matters

• PROBLEM SOLVING ACTIVITIES stretch the intellect

• RESEARCH PROJECTS strengthen investigative abilities

• PRIMARY-SOURCE READING challenges presuppositions

• HANDS-ON DISCOVERY creates astute observers

• A CROSS-CURRICULAR EMPHASIS ON COMPOSITION forms strong writers

• DELIBERATE, THOROUGH EXAMINATION OF TEXTS yield readers with a critical eye

• PRESENTATION OF PROJECTS hones verbal communication skills

CHA Upper School students graduate with a solid biblical and academic foundation from an ACSI and NCA accredited school. They will understand that it’s not just what you know in life that’s important, it’s what you do with what you know. That’s wisdom.

Program

VIBRANT FINE ARTSContinuing the rich tradition of CHA’s extraordinary music, drama, and visual art programs, Upper School students are encouraged to participate in a variety of fine arts venues in whick students can develop a grand imagination, a sense of patience, and purposeful creativity. Students find their voice as they grow in their relationship with the Author of Life and discover how to bring Him glory through artistic expression.

COMPETITIVE ATHLETICSOur athletic program provides students with Illinois High School Association (IHSA)-based opportunities for intra- and inter-scholastic competition. Whether team sports or individual sports, a student’s participation in athletics is an integral part of their overall education. With Christ at the center, disciplined training, competition and performance develop life-long character and leadership qualities.

INSPIRING ACTIVITIESCHA Upper School offers special opportunities unavailable to students at most schools, each one designed to give practical insight into God’s call on their life. These include a Winterim term each year, in which students take a multi-week intensive course between semesters to pursue an interest for enrichment. Focused internships from area businesses and academic institutions reveal students’ gifting and passions in real-world settings. Students begin to think globally and gain understanding of God’s heart for the world as they take advantage of local and international mission trips.

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIESA broad range of opportunities to develop special gifts and explore new areas of interest are provided through a variety of clubs, groups and organizations. Led by spiritually mature, highly qualified teachers, students have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and learn new skills within the context of relationship. With the Upper School’s emphasis on helping students discern their life calling, these extra-curricular activities play a critial role in the development of confidence and leadership skills.

John Kilner, Ph.D. – Professor of Bioethics & Contemporary Culture, Forman Chair of Christian Ethics & Theology, Director of Bioethics Programs, Trinity International University; author

John Lewis – Science Teacher, Glenbrook South High School; former CHA parent & Board member

Daniel MacKinney – former Leader Teacher, New Trier High School; former CHA Spanish Teacher

Dirk Pogue – Visitation Pastor, Christ Church of Highland Park; CHA Middle School Social Studies & Bible Teacher; CHA Upper School Counseling & Guidance Director

Leland Ryken, Ph.D. – Professor of English, Wheaton College; Literary Chairman of Translation Oversight Committee, ESV Bible; author

Steve Farish, J.D. – Senior Pastor, Crossroads Church; CHA parent & Board member

Wayne Grudem, Ph.D. – Research Professor of Bible & Theology, Phoenix Seminary; Translation Oversight Committee, ESV Bible; author; CHA founding parent, first CHA Board President

Steven Horvath – President & Principal Consultant for distance education, social media, and organizational strategy, Stesco Consulting

Peggy Hoskin, Ed.D. – former Professor & Director of Graduate Programs in Education, North Park University; CHA Middle School Principal

Art Hyde, Ed.D. – Professor of Mathematics Education, National-Louis University; author

Gregg Swackhamer – Science Teacher, Glenbrook North High School; former CHA parent

George Sweeting, D.Div. – Chancellor Emeritus, former Chancellor and former President, Moody Bible Institute; former Senior Pastor, The Moody Church; author

Bill Thrasher, Th.D. – Professor of Bible & Theology, Moody Graduate School; author

Brenda Vishanoff – Director of Admissions & Boarding Students, Former Fine Arts Department Chair, Wheaton Academy

James Warfield – former Math Teacher, Counselor and College Advisor, Administrator, Lake Forest High School

Upper School Board of Reference

Living Curriculum TeachersOur Upper School faculty, certified by the State of Illinois and Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), serve as “Living Curriculum Teachers” who live what they teach. Whether teaching in a classroom or building relationships with students, these articulate men and women demonstrate Christ-like servant leadership on a daily basis. They prayerfully guide their students toward intellectual and spiritual maturity, with humble recognition that “a student, when he is fully trained, will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). A life on life mentoring program is an important part of the Upper School experience.

David L. Roth, Ed.D., Upper School Principal

Leadership

After an extensive search, Christian Heritage Academy called Dr. David L. Roth to be its first Upper School principal. An outstanding educator with over 40 years of experience in Christian education, Dr. Roth is responsible for providing entrepreneurial and visionary leadership for CHA’s Upper School. By stimulating enthusiasm as well as spiritual and academic motivation, he leads an educational program that upholds the Truth of God’s Word with sensitivity to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Prior to his role as CHA Upper School principal, Dr. Roth served as Headmaster at Wheaton Academy (IL) for 19 years. During that time, he created and implemented a strategic plan at WA that resulted in the rejuvenation of the 150-year- old institution, considered to be one of the most respected Christian high schools in the country. In his most recent role as Headmaster Emeritus, Dr. Roth helped develop a comprehensive business plan for a Virtual Academy. Prior to Wheaton Academy, Dr. Roth served two years as Headmaster at Lexington Christian Academy (MA) and twenty years as teacher/Principal at Wheaton Christian Grammar School (IL).

SettingChristian Heritage Academy’s conveniently located Northfield campus is situated on 15 beautiful acres and houses an exceptional instructional complex including outstanding new athletic facilities; a state of the art, 850 seat performance auditorium with HD video, digital sound and movable lights; and tiered band and choral rooms. The Upper School wing includes classrooms, science lab, lecture hall and student lounge, and is equipped with WIFI and SmartBoards.

315 Waukegan Road, Northfield, IL 60093Phone: 847 446.5252 Fax: 847 446.5267

www.christianheritage.org

In Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge - Colossians 2:3

Christian Heritage Academy