Stories

2022-23 Quarter 2 

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the second quarter of the 2022-2023 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

"A" Honor Roll

1st grade

Rowan Adams
Michael Altadonna
Sofia Altadonna
Israel Angle
Tinslee Biggs
Natalie Carter
Nolan Cincioni
Chase English
Wyatt Hicks
Eli Higgins
Owen Krehbiel
Emelyn McDonald
Avery Moore
Nelle Nunley
Silas Perdue
Gunnar Preston
Eli Rucker
Tristan Rutrough
Tatum Shell
Ruby Simmons
Braelyn Sink
Kennedy Sloss
JoHanna Smallwood
Brynlee Spicer
Charlotte Trochim

2nd Grade

Hattie Boone
Emma Bowman
Anna Carter
Zeke Flint
Maeve Gallimore
Alexander Gillispie
Addy Green
Reagan Hodges
Emma Houf
Wilder Long
Coleton Meadors
Landon Novak
Liam Rutrough
Hadley Scott
Emily Shell
Lila Sledd
Connor Williams
Zoe Wisler

3rd Grade

Faith Angle
Elijah Bowles
Aiowa Hall
Braxton Hosey
Olive Keen
Ali Mistele
Liam Moore
Harper Neice
Eddie Prillaman
Nate Scott
Kolston Strong
Molly Trochim
Jackson Williams
Ava Wilson

4th Grade

Jackson Anderson
Lillian Boitnott
Olivea Bowman
Sierra Bowman
Easton Chitwood
Hunter English
Natalie Flint
Kennedy Floyd
Rylan Hacker
Tucker Hodges
Aubrey McDonald
Asher Mogan
Lincoln Rakes
Mia Wiegand
Dawson Wisler

5th Grade

Grey Arrington
Austin Magill
Rob Meredith

6th Grade

Caleb Anderson
Gracie Cornwell
Reese McDonald
Taetym Russell
Chloe Setliff

7th Grade

Abby Altice
Jake Bowles
Alaina Bowman
Tucker Edmondson
Cora Hacker
Skylar Krehbiel
Ruthie Williams

8th Grade

Trinity Goodman
Kylee Pendleton
Julia White

9th Grade

Emily Fifer
Maggie Weddle
Wyatt Yanok

10th grade

Giacomo Ceruzzi
Olivia Holland
Kaleb Young

11th Grade

Grace Fifer
Josiah Rutter
Sofia Velandia

12th Grade

Gil Schmidt

"AB" Honor Roll

1st grade

Josie Alley
Tye Alley
Cora Feather
Aiden Hall
Kemper Hodges
Blakely Washburn

2nd Grade

Parker Fralin
Brooke Green
Harper Hodges
Savannah Jones
Emmalee Lafferty
Asher Meeks
Lexi Meredith
Wyatt Radford

3rd Grade

Jake Arrington
Isabelle Bobbouine
Martha Cornwell
Wyatt Fichtner
Levi Gallimore
Penelope McNeil
Sarah Prillaman
Tannyr Russell
Grace Sloss
Gabriel Smith
Autumn Steele
Clinton Young

4th Grade

Kensley Boone
Jackson Dennis
Lillie Hodges

5th Grade

Cooper Altice
Charleigh Bowles
Azlyn Brown
McKenna Edmondson
Lydia Gillispie
Connor King
Josey Lamm
Rylan Manning
Caleb Quinn
Caine Sigmon
Tes Smith

6th Grade

Alessia Altadonna
Annaleigh Boone
Belle Carter
Bryleigh Clements
Rose Dalton
Valerie Flint
Benjamin Furrow
Tucker Gravely
Creed Hodges
Chase Leonard
Addyson Meadors
Reese Novak
Jenasis Spence
Kylie Wright
Tripp Young

7th Grade

Kamryn Altice
Martha Bowman
Ariyah Clements
Colton Ferguson
Addyson Fichtner
Brooklyn Floyd
Cara Fralin
Michaela Furrow
Avery Gallimore
Abby Gray
Lucas King
Lani Meredith
Brice Montgomery
Cowan Montgomery
Emma Quinn
Taylor Rooney
Kaylee Sigmon
Ty Smith
Heath Spencer
Shawnna Young

8th Grade

Ethan Furrow
Levi Lamm
Caden Moore
Micah Trail
Georgia Winch

9th Grade

Joella Brooks
Hunter Manning

10th Grade

Josh Barbour
Johana Gonzalez
TK Toney

11th grade

Lydia Atkins
Evie Novak

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the fourth quarter of the 2018-2019 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

A Honor Roll

1st Grade - A Honor Roll

Boone, Hattie
Bowman, Emma
Carter, Anna
Fralin, Parker
Gallimore, Maeve
Gillispie, Alexander
Green, Addy
Green, Brooke
Hodges, Harper
Hodges, Reagan
Houf, Emma
Jones, Savannah
Long, Wilder
Meadors, Coleton
Meeks, Asher
Meredith, Lexi
Novak, Landon
Rutrough, Liam
Scott, Hadley
Sledd, Lila
Williams, Connor
Wisler, Zoe

2nd Grade - A Honor Roll

Arrington, Jake
Bowles, Elijah
Cornwell, Martha
Fichtner, Wyatt
Gallimore, Levi
Hall, Aiowa
Hosey, Braxton
Houf, Isaiah
McNeil, Penelope
Mistele, Ali
Moore, Liam
Prillaman, Eddie
Prillaman, Sarah
Quist, Hannah
Sloss, Grace
Smith, Gabriel
Steele, Autumn
Strong, Kolton
Trochim, Molly
Williams, Jackson

3rd Grade - A Honor Roll

Boitnott, Lillian
Boone, Kensley
Bowman, Olivea
Bowman, Sierra
English, Hunter
Flint, Natalie
Floyd, Kennedy
Hacker, Rylan
Hodges, Lillie
Hodges, Tucker
McDonald, Aubrey
Rakes, Lincoln
Wisler, Dawson

4th Grade - A Honor Roll

Altice, Cooper
Arrington, Grey
Bowles, Charleigh
Edmondson, McKenna
King, Connor
Magill, Austin
Meredith, Rob
Pugh, Emersyn
Sigmon, Caine
Smith, Tes

5th Grade - A Honor Roll

Boone, Annaleigh
Carter, Isabelle
Cassady, Brooks
Cornwell, Gracie
Dalton, Rose
Furrow, Benjamin
Haynes, Colton
McDonald, Reese
Quist, Maverick
Russell, Taetym
Setliff, Chloe

6th Grade - A Honor Roll

Bowles, Jake
Bowman, Alaina
Bowman, Carsen
Clements, Ariyah
Edmondson, Tucker
Hacker, Cora
King, Lucas
Krehbiel, Skylar
Meredith, Lani
Randall, Laila
Sigmon, Kaylee
Williams, Ruthie
Zorn, Griffin

7th Grade - A Honor Roll

Cassady, Adelyn
Furrow, Ethan
Martin, Kolby
Pendleton, Kylee
Pendleton, Teagan
Rickmond, Mikaila
White, Julia

8th Grade - A Honor Roll

Haynes, Carsen
Perdue, Annabelle
Weddle, Maggie

9th Grade - A Honor Roll

Ceruzzi, Giacomo
Holland, Olivia
Winesett, Zack

10th Grade - A Honor Roll

Gardner, Abbie
Novak, Evie
Rutter, Josiah
Scott, Gabriel

12th Grade - A Honor Roll

Lawrence, Evan
Zorn, Brockton

A/B Honor Roll

1st Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Flint, Zeke
Kefauver, Colten
Mills, Carter
Shell, Emily

2nd Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Bobbouine, Isabelle
Keen, Olive
Meadors, Jackson
Ratliff, Kaiden
Russell, Tannyr
Scott, Hunter
Young, Clinton

3rd Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Anderson, Jackson
Flint, Jacob
Mogan, Asher
Wiegand, Mia

4th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Alley, Easton
Doss, Layla
Gillispie, Lydia
Lamm, Josey
Manning, Rylan
Marsh, Autumn
Quinn, Caleb
Young, Seleece

5th Grade  - A/B Honor Roll

Anderson, Caleb
Clements, Bryleigh
Flint, Sophia
Flint, Valerie
Leonard, Chase
Meadors, Addyson
Novak, Reese
or, Madison
Pendleton, Aiden
Perdue, Ethan
Pugh, Miles
Spence, Jenasis

6th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Altice, Abby
Altice, Kamryn
Bowman, Martha
Ferguson, Colton
Fichtner, Addyson
Floyd, Brooklyn
Gallimore, Avery
Gardner, Anna
Gray, Abby
Moody, Caleb
Quinn, Emma
Rooney, Taylor
Smith, Ty
Spencer, Heath
Young, Karleigh
Young, Shawnna

7th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Anderson, Paige
Clark, Greyson
Dammann, Maddie
Hooks, Priscilla
Kirby, Marley
Lamm, Levi
Ruiz, Marlee
Trail, Micah
Winch, Georgia

8th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Allen, Alissa
Arrington, Chase
Brooks, Joella
Dick, Jocelyn
Fifer, Emily
Flint, Scarlett
Gardner, Wyatt
Gray, Will
Hodges, Gavin
Jones, Claire
Manning, Hunter
Martin, Jayden
Weems, Eli

9th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Gonzalez, Johana
Smith, Reese
Spencer, Bailey

10th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Fifer, Grace
Velandia, Sofia

11th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Schmidt, Gill

12th Grade - A/B Honor Roll

Bramblet, Daniel
Craig, Ethan
Craighead, Matthew
Divers, Luke
Hoyle, Malachi
Renick, Logan

Rocky Mount, VA (May 31, 2022) – After 40 years of service to Christian Heritage Academy, Cindy Spencer has announced her retirement at the end of the 2021-22 school year.

Mrs. Spencer began working at CHA in 1982 in the office and has been associated with the school in some capacity since that time--custodian, K4 teacher, 5th grade teacher, office manager, bookkeeper, Director of Operations, and currently serves as Director of Finance.

Mrs. Spencer’s time at CHA has had significant impacts on the school and touched the lives of the many students and parents esteeming her as a pillar in the school community. Her wisdom and leadership will be greatly missed by all within the CHA community.

“Having the privilege of being a part of the ministry of CHA for forty years is a precious gift that our Father has given to me and I will be forever grateful to Him for the opportunity to serve Him through the school.   There are not adequate words to express what the school and all of the people associated with it mean to me.  I have had so many opportunities to see God’s hand at work through these years and feel very blessed to have been a part of it,” shared Spencer. 

“Cindy has had an everlasting impact on me and so many other students, parents, faculty, and staff at Christian Heritage Academy,” said Mr. Tony Quist, Head of School. “Her love, kindness, generosity, dependability, ability to work well with others and strong work ethic have helped to make our school the wonderful place that it is. She will truly be missed.”

The CHA community is extremely grateful for Mrs. Spencer’s  service over the years and prays for continued blessings on her future endeavors.  Spencer looks forward to spending her time serving her family, church, and others.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the 3rd Quarter Honor Roll members for the 2021-2022 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the 2nd Quarter Honor Roll members for the 2021-2022 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

 CHA has been hand-selected to join an exclusive group of private schools in offering a new scholarship that gives our students a 50% discount to Liberty University.

This is an incredible opportunity for our students to continue building upon their strong, Christian foundation and to have access to the many degree options and career paths that Liberty University has to offer!  

The main eligibility requirement is that the student has graduated from CHA after attending for 4 years.  Click here for additional eligibility requirements.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the 1st Quarter Honor Roll members for the 2021-2022 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the 2020-2021 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

After 22 years of impacting lives through education, Mr. Eric Miller has announced the end of a chapter as he retires from Christian Heritage Academy. 

It is evident that Mr. Miller’s path to the classroom was paved by the Lord. Before becoming a teacher, Miller was reluctantly working towards service in the pastorate. Consequently, he pursued a BA in Biblical Studies from Piedmont Bible College. Unbeknownst to Miller, the Lord would use his education from Piedmont to make a lasting impact in the lives of many through education. 

This impact began when the Lord opened the door for him to teach at Martinsville Christian School. Miller quickly grew to love education. After three years at MCS, Mr. Miller sent an email to the headmaster at Christian Heritage Academy - seeking a position in Bible, computer, and mathematics. Imagine his surprise when he learned that the Bible, computer, and mathematics teacher had just announced his retirement. The Lord was once again paving Miller’s path for service at CHA. 

Miller taught many subjects during his time at Christian Heritage Academy. Subjects taught include the following: Math 7, Pre Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, Precalculus, Calculus, Consumer Math, Physics, Bible, and boys’ Health/PE. No matter the content area, Mr. Miller left an impact for Christ. 

One of the greatest areas of impact that Mr. Miller made at CHA was within the Bible department. In this department, he started the flagship senior Bible class on worldview comparison. This class, Understanding the Times, was focused on helping students develop a Biblical worldview within a postmodern world. 

In line with his heart for worldview training, Eric Miller pursued personal development in this area when he became a Colson Fellow in 2018. 

Overall, Miller’s footprint reached far beyond the classroom. He started the Cross-country program at CHA in 2005. Miller successfully coached XC/Track for 14 years. In that time, he impressively led the team to three VACA State Titles. 

Whether in the classroom or on the field, Miller’s heart for meaningful connections was apparent. According to Miller, “My favorite part of teaching has been the connections I’ve made with kids, whether it be through cross country coaching, praise team, or just helping them with their life’s questions and struggles. Those are the relationships that have continued into adulthood.”

Looking back over Miller’s 22 years in education, there is no doubt that the Lord went before Him and paved for him a purposeful path. Through education, sports, the loss of a classmate, and more, the Lord used Eric Miller to make a difference for the Gospel. 

Head of School, Mr. Tony Quist, commented, “Mr. Miller has always impressed me with his breadth of knowledge and his ability to connect with students.  His teaching style reminds me of the Theodore Roosevelt quote, ‘Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.’ He’s been a source of consistency and stability for CHA for many years and we’re going to miss him tremendously.”

Miller may be stepping away from full-time teaching but not from the work the Lord has for him. He and his wife will continue serving at their church plant, Redemption Church, in Roanoke. Miller serves on the worship team, teaches multiple classes, and serves on the leadership team at Redemption. In addition to serving at his church, Mr. Miller plans to tutor in a one-on-one capacity. 

Please join us in celebrating Mr. Miller's 22 years of service at Christian Heritage Academy.

CHA Celebrates 40-Year Anniversary & Shares Vision for Future

On Saturday, May 1st, Christian Heritage Academy held a celebration to recognize it’s 40th year of operation.  The celebration began with a presentation from Board Chairman, Rob Johnson, to highlight the Lord’s faithfulness and provisions over the past 40 years.  Franklin Heights Senior Pastor, Stan Parris, then shared about the exciting opportunity to partner with CHA to open an expansion campus for the 21-22 school year.  The keynote speaker for this event was CHA Head of School, Tony Quist.  Mr. Quist’s presentation outlined the school’s success in implementing two 5-year strategic plans and the next steps for the future of CHA. 

“During the past two years, while the impact of COVID-19 has presented incredible challenges to students, educators, and families across the landscape of all education, the Lord has blessed us with answered prayers, continued growth, and a unified vision for moving forward in faith.”

Mr. Quist announced that the Board of Directors and school administration has prayerfully discussed, researched, and prepared a plan to build a new school facility within 5 years to accommodate continued growth and enrich CHA’s program through additional athletics and fine arts opportunities.  In addition, Mr. Quist revealed that a longtime donor and supporter of CHA has purchased an 84 acre lot on Cornell Road to build a new school.  

A Forward in Faith capital campaign will begin in the coming months to begin raising funds for this new facility.  

“Since 1980, the Lord has been faithful to call us and equip us to serve students and their families.  Praise the Lord for the incredible heritage of love, ministry, and education our school community has enjoyed for so many years and, prayerfully, for many more to come!” -- Mr. Quist

On Tuesday, April 13th, CHA K4 - 6th grade students celebrated their creative gifts at a special Creative Writing Arts Chapel.  Each class performed a short song or memorization piece along with a reading from the first place winner in our Creative Writing contest. 

Please click to view this special chapel: 

2021 Creative Writing and Arts Chapel 

(this was also Western Day for Spirit Week :) Enjoy the creative outfits!)

In addition to the chapel, we have created videos of each grade to showcase some of their recent artwork.  

K4 Art Work

K5 Art Work

1st Grade Art Work

2nd Grade Art Work

3rd Grade Art Work

4th Grade Art Work

5th Grade Art Work

6th Grade Art Work

“Every man, woman, and child is creative. When we create, it pleases God, because He sees us reflecting his image. He sees us “imaging” him to the rest of the world. God loves to see his image shine throughout the world.”

It is a blessing to encourage and cultivate the creative gifts of our students.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the first quarter of the 2020-2021 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the first quarter of the 2020-2021 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Thirty-seven students, representing Kindergarten - Eighth Grades, joined Mr. Jerry Hubbard, Mrs. Jane Hubbard, Mrs. Nancy Blankenship, Mrs. Judy McCarty, and Mrs. Caroline Shires for the first "all-school" photo in the fall of 1980.

"Nothing would have been possible without the glorious work of God."

That statement was typed in the opening paragraph of our inaugural yearbook, The Heritage (1980-81), and applies just as much to our school today as it did 40-years ago.  Our faithful God has been with us every step of the way!

This year, we're excited to look back through four decades of our history as we continue moving forward towards our future.  

Dear Parent Partners,

Since 1980, we’ve been blessed to freely exercise our faith in Jesus Christ through Christian education -- a responsibility we’re committed to and a calling we cherish.  That’s why we’re so thankful to be your partners in Christian education for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year and prayerfully beyond!

Admittedly, this school year will be unlike any other, but we are excited to celebrate our 40th Anniversary with a fresh approach to education and a steadfast commitment to our mission.  With the summer drawing quickly to a close, here are several important highlights and announcements you need to know as we approach the first day of school on Wednesday, September 9th.

New Knight Wear Store - We’ve launched a brand new online Knight Wear apparel store (open 24/7 at chaknights.org) and stocked it with fresh designs that you’ll want to add to your Knight Wear collection.  Remember, Knight Wear can be worn to school anytime!

Dress Code Update: KNIGHT PRIDE DAYS - On Fridays, students may wear jeans (not frayed or torn, should fit casually; they should not be tight or immodest). Students not in jeans should be in regular dress code attire. Crocs will be allowed on Knight Pride Days as well.  There will no longer be a $1 charge for wearing jeans on these days.

No Aftercare Program - After several months of diligent effort and prayer, we’ve been unable to find an adequate solution for offering an aftercare program. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please contact our Director of Academy Relations, Mrs. Melanie Cassady (mcassady@chaknights.org) for alternative options.

Tuition Relief Plans - New tuition relief plans have been created to help families who may experience financial hardships in the form of child care expenses due to extended seasons (4+ weeks) of remote learning, or a reduction or loss of employment due to COVID-19 this year.  Please contact our Director of Finance, Mrs. Cindy Spencer (cspencer@chaknights.org) for more information.

Pledge to Partner -  Next week, you’ll receive revised versions of our 2020-2021 Family and Athletic Handbooks to review before completing our Pledge to Partner form. We will send a link to the digital form and documents through our text notification system so you can complete the agreement at your convenience by September 4th, 2020.

In closing, I want to remind you of our Back-to-School Orientation on Thursday, September 3rd, in the Castle gymnasium.  Families with students in multiple grade levels are asked to attend either session or both as necessary to meet with their children’s teachers.  

• K4-4th Grade 6-7 PM, with K4/K5 Meet & Greet
• 5th-12th Grade 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Social distancing and screening protocols will be in place for the evening. Face coverings will be optional.

We are requesting your attendance that evening so that your family can receive important information for the upcoming school year including detailed instructions on student drop-off/pick-up and lunch procedures.  Additionally, we’ll be providing a few helpful resources for navigating our COVID-19 Health & Mitigation Plan on a daily basis. It’s important that we begin our #UKNIGHTED effort to adhere to our new protocols and procedures from day one.

If you have any questions related to the beginning of school, please contact our main office at 540-483-5855 at your convenience. We’re always happy to assist you. I look forward to seeing you at orientation.

#UKNIGHTED,

Dear CHA Community, 

The Administrative Team would like to extend a sincere thank you for your trust, understanding, flexibility, feedback, and support throughout recent months. Your patience has provided us with sufficient time to pray and plan out the details for a safe return to school next month.  

Our ability to safely return to school and continue providing in-person instruction throughout the year will require a #UKNIGHTED effort to adhere to our recently completed, COVID-19 Health & Mitigation Plan. This plan contains detailed information on how our day-to-day operations will be handled this year, including health & hygiene protocols, social distancing, face coverings, screening procedures, positive cases, school closures, and more.  Please take the time to review this plan thoroughly and discuss it with your family over the remainder of the month.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss.

Speaking of returning to campus, please make plans to join us on Thursday, September 3rd, for our Back-to-School Orientation in the Castle gymnasium.  During the evening, you and your family will have the opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher as a class to receive additional information about the upcoming year and ask any questions. For our K4/K5 students and families, the evening will include a fun meet and greet experience as well. Families with students in multiple grade levels are asked to attend either session or both as necessary to meet with their children’s teachers.  

• K4-4th Grade 6-7 PM, with K4/K5 Meet & Greet
• 5th-12th Grade 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Social distancing and screening protocols will be in place for the evening. Face coverings will be optional.

Additionally, we ask that families refrain from bringing school supplies during the orientation and instead plan to bring them to school during the designated drop-off time on Tuesday, September 8th, from 9 AM-3:30 PM.  

In closing, I encourage you to take this unique opportunity to pray with your children and families in preparation for the upcoming year.  God would be so glorified in delivering a peace that transcends all understanding to us as we reflect on His sovereignty.  He is sovereign over all things and is more than able to take care of all that concerns us. Isaiah 41:13-14 says, “For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, for I myself will help you.” We are praising the Lord for the promise that He, Himself, will sustain us in the coming days.

Please look for additional information in next week’s update.

#UKNIGHTED,

Tony Quist
Head of School

Dear CHA Community, 

As we soak in the remaining days of summer break and approach the 2020-2021 school year, I want to encourage you with a most exciting truth -- God will direct our steps when our plans are committed to Him! 

In just a few short weeks, we will return to our classrooms with joy in our hearts and praise upon our lips to celebrate our 40th year in Christian education! Since 1980, the Lord has faithfully protected our school and provided for our needs. Despite the challenges of an ever-changing world, like COVID-19, He has allowed us to once again partner together to encourage, equip, and educate students towards their God-given potential with excellence. We will be ready to welcome every student, in every grade, daily beginning on September 9, 2020!

After prayerfully monitoring COVID-19 data and discussing our plans with families and staff during the summer, we do not feel led by the Lord to alter our 20-21 Reopening Plan. The next step of implementation will be to release our health and mitigation plan to include protocols and procedures for safety measures like:

• Optional face coverings
• Daily health screenings, including temperature checks, for students, faculty, and staff 
• Social distancing in classrooms
• Promoting proper hygiene
• Classroom lunches
• Cleaning and sanitizing 
• Student pick-up/drop-off

We are committed to providing a safe learning and working environment for everyone.  Please look for our health and mitigation plan in next Friday’s update. If you have any questions, suggestions, or would like to express any concerns regarding these plans -- please contact me by phone or email to schedule a time to discuss.  

On behalf of the entire CHA faculty and staff, we love you, we are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see you on the first day of school!

#UKNIGHTED

Tony Quist
Head of School

Despite the ever-changing events of our culture, our country, and recommended responses to COVID-19 during these past few weeks, our 20-21 Reopening Plan remains unchanged.  Christian Heritage Academy will be ready to welcome every student, in every grade, every day beginning on September 9, 2020!

Every CHA student will be able to participate in learning on campus in a classroom setting. In fact, the vast majority of the in-class student experience will look very similar to what we’ve provided in previous school years with additional health and safety measures.

In an effort to reduce the risk and progress our mission, based on CDC safe school Covid-19 guidelines, here is a brief overview of our plan for the upcoming year:

• Delayed opening, Wednesday, September 9th
• 5-day normal school schedule / 8:20am - 3:15pm
• Limited student mixing
  • Students will eat in classrooms 
  • No Before/After School program
  • Minimize school-wide gatherings
• Optional face coverings
• Increased recess time and mental health breaks
• Increased spacing between students in classrooms

Additionally, we recognize the need for flexibility during the upcoming year and are pleased to offer online and hybrid options through our CHA Online program for K-12 students.

We have much more to communicate in the days ahead, including a tuition adjustment plan for childcare expenses in the event of a pivot to remote learning during the year and our response plan for any active coronavirus diagnoses within our CHA community.

Finally, I want to acknowledge that decisions made by state and municipal authorities with jurisdiction over our school may impact our plans. However, we fervently pray for the Lord’s wisdom and guidance in our planning process so that we won’t have to make any changes.  We look forward to following Him as He orders our steps into the 20-21 school year.  Glory to God!

Thank you for your prayers, ongoing support, and entrusting your children to our care.

Sincerely,

Tony Quist

Head of School

Open to students in Grades 5-12

ROCKY MOUNT, Virginia - June 19, 2020 - Excited to announce a new addition to its athletic program, Christian Heritage Academy (CHA) will offer eSports beginning in the 2020-21 school year.

Team-focused, eSports is an organized and competitive approach to playing video games. Participants compete on the middle/high school, collegiate and professional levels, and a number of colleges even offer scholarships for high performers.  CHA will offer eSports to students in grades 5 through 12.

Chris Keller, CHA sixth-grade teacher, and an avid gamer will serve as the coach of the future CHA team. Keller believes, "eSports offers benefits to all students, and it gives those who opt out of traditional sports a chance to learn many of the same ethics and skills learned through traditional sports."  Similar to other athletes, eSports competitors develop hard skills including improved motor function, enhanced hand-eye coordination, and strengthened communication.

Importantly, eSports also develops soft skills that are transferable to the classroom as well as the job market. In a recent study, ”Positive Personal Development Through eSports,” competitors identified the greatest advantages gained from their participation. At the top of their list were commitment, cooperation, and initiative. They also cited improved emotional regulation, personal growth, and increased self-esteem.

Nancy Castillo, CHA Associate Director of Athletics, sees this addition to the athletic program as another opportunity for youth development:  a chance for young people to work with mentors or adult leaders, build their social skills while working with peers on simple and complex tasks and sharpen their problem-solving skills in a sometimes high-pressure context.

Tony Quist, CHA Head of School, agrees. "We're excited to offer eSports as a new avenue of opportunity for our students to become active members of our school community next year. Student engagement beyond the classroom is very important to the school culture and climate we offer here at CHA. We also believe that eSports will help our students become critical thinkers who work to create solutions for relevant problems through effective strategies. ”  

2020 Academic Awards

Congratulations Knights!

K4 Virtual Awards Presentation

K5 Virtual Awards Presentation

1st Grade Virtual Awards Presentation

2nd Grade Virtual Awards Presentation

3rd Grade Virtual Awards Presentation

4th Grade Virtual Awards Presentation

5th Grade Virtual Awards Presentation

Secondary (6-12th) Awards Presentation

Dear CHA Students and Families,

We often say, “excellence in simple ways at CHA” as a reminder to ourselves that being better is a matter of paying attention to the small details.  It’s that very mindset that’s driving our efforts to make small improvements to our remote learning program to better your student’s learning experience.  

Mrs. Hacker and I took some time to put together a video to share the improvements we’re making to RLP 2.0 beginning this week.  I think you’ll find the adjustments and additional resources very helpful as we continue along this journey. Your communication and collaboration have been invaluable to this process, so I want to thank you for investing in our partnership and this program.  Please watch this short video at your earliest convenience.

Click here to watch: RLP 2.0 Updates 4.20.20

As mentioned in the video:

Non-Digital Request Deadline: Tomorrow, April 21st - The deadline for requesting a non-digital status for your 3rd - 12th grade student is tomorrow, April 21st.  Please call the main office at 540-483-5855 or email rlp@chaknights.org to make your formal request.

Mrs. April Stultz - Mrs. Stultz is a former CHA parent and current educator with a passion for helping students. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Radford University and is certified by the Virginia Department of Education to teach students (K4-12). April is available to provide assistance and tutoring as needed on a variety of levels. You can reach her at 540-493-4917 or apstultz04@gmail

Coffee with Quist (Zoom): Friday, April 24th at 8:30 a.m. - Join me virtually with your coffee to ask questions and share your thoughts about our school.

Note: Participants will be limited to the first 15 attendees to join the meeting.  Please fin the Zoom link, meeting ID, and password in the email you received on April 20th.

Thank you again for your trust and partnership as we walk through this remote learning journey together.

#UKNIGHTED,

Mr. Quist

Dear CHA Community,

It was such a blessing to see you and many of our students during pick-up day earlier this week. Your smiling faces brought more warmth to my heart and soul than the sunshine did that day. Thank you for your continued partnerships and ongoing encouragement.

After a full week of planning and preparing, we are ready for RLP 2.0 to begin next week. That said, here are a few reminders and resources that I think you’ll find helpful ahead of Tuesday.

Pick-Up/Drop Off Boxes[K4 - Grade 2 & Non-Digital Students Grades 3-12]

Short Video - How to Pick Up and Drop Off Your Weekly Assignments 
 

FACTS LMS for Students [Digital Students in Grades 3-12]

Slideshow Tutorial - How to Change Your Student Password in LMS

Short Video - Navigating The Student Dashboard & Completing Assignments in LMS
 

#UKNIGHTED T-shirts - Click here to purchase your very own #UKNIGHTED T-shirt (short/long sleeve) online today -- (all payments, purchases, and deliveries are handled with Full Armor Custom Apparel in Rocky Mount.)
 

RLP 2.0 Presentation Video - If you haven’t already watched the video on our RLP 2.0 program and plans to finish the year, please click here to do so at your earliest convenience.

In closing, I encourage you to join with us in prayer and praise this weekend as we remember Jesus’ crucifixion and celebrate His glorious resurrection on Sunday.  Praise the Lord that “He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.” (Romans 4:25)

We love you deeply and miss you dearly. Enjoy your weekend, and the rest of the Easter break!

#UKNIGHTED,

Mr. Quist

Dear CHA Community,

Thinking back to early March, I’m sure none of us expected to be in the situation we’re in right now.  After reflecting on all that has taken place in this short amount of time, I am incredibly grateful for our dedicated CHA team, our diligent students,  and our strong parent partnerships.  Through the Lord’s strength and guidance, I’m confident we will come out of this time more #UKNIGHTED than ever! 

To continue this momentum and help our students obtain the credits and concepts needed for progression, we are planning to launch our Remote Learning Plan 2.0 on Tuesday, April 14th. 

Click Here to Watch The RLP 2.0 Presentation Video (35 min)  [Very Important You Need]

I realize that this video covers a lot of material, so I’m providing these RLP 2.0 Presentation Slides for you to access as needed. 

Once you’ve viewed the video, please complete this RLP 2.0 Response Form no later than Sunday, April 5th IF you have any questions or if you would like to be a non-digital student.

It is our goal to remain #UKNIGHTED and maintain a strong school community during this challenging time. I want to encourage you and your family to stay connected through the following:

• chaknights.org/stories for daily announcements and updates
• CHA Facebook page, CHA Twitter page, CHA Instagram page for daily announcements, photos, videos, and more.

Once again, I want to thank you for your ongoing encouragement, prayers, and gracious partnership as we navigate these uncharted waters.  We are confident that our sovereign God has us all in the palm of His hand.

#UKNIGHTED,

Mr. Quist

Dear CHA Community,

Congratulations on completing the first week of remote learning! Thank you for working hard and working together to maintain a #UKNIGHTED mindset in our school community during this time of remote learning.

Here are a few changes for next week:

Assignments will be due by the end of the week on Friday, April 3rd, rather than daily. Please make use of this flexibility to complete assignments during the most optimal times for your student and family throughout the week.
 

Hard copy assignments must be delivered to the school on Saturday, April 4th.  Students who are/have been unable to submit work digitally (email, Remind, photo) to their teachers must drop off their RLP Packet, with hard copies of their assignments, in the RLP Drop/Pickup Box on campus. The plastic bin will be clearly labeled and located on the front porch of the Castle.
 

Wednesday, April 1st, will now be a Teacher Workday.  Faculty, staff, and administrators will use this day to collaborate and begin preparations for the next period of remote learning that will start after Easter Break. Therefore, teachers will be unavailable for any virtual office hours for that day.
 

RLP Presentation on Friday, April 3rd -- Next Friday, I’ll be sharing a special presentation to discuss, in detail, the next phase of our Remote Learning Plan and other important information about finishing the year.  We will announce a time and methods to attend the presentation early next week.

In closing, I want to humbly encourage you to attend one of the many virtual worship services, so many churches in our area are offering.  Community is God’s design for his children, even during this time of social distancing. Have a blessed and restful weekend!

#UKNIGHTED,
 

Tony Quist
Head of School
Christian Heritage Academy

Dear CHA Students & Families, 

Today, we find ourselves living a new normal in the wake of the Coronavirus’ impact. Nevertheless, the Lord is good, His love endures forever, and His faithfulness extends to all generations. It’s time for us to move forward and finish the year well.

To continue planning, we need your feedback.  Please complete this critical CHA Remote Learning Survey by 3 p.m. tomorrow. We will finish the year through a revised Remote Learning Program (RLP), which will allow students to work from home and earn the grades and credits needed to move to the next grade level or graduate. Our administrative team will use your feedback to adjust the parameters and expectations of our current RLP to implement a feasible and sustainable solution to complete the year beginning on April 14th. Next week, I will produce a video to share with our CHA community that will explain our revised RLP. 

Thank you for your continued patience, prayers, and cooperation during this time of transition. I’m confident that the Lord will grant us success as we start to rebuild. God bless!

Sincerely, 

Tony Quist
Head of School
Christian Heritage Academy

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the third quarter of the 2019-2020 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Dear CHA Students & Families,

As you may already be aware, Governor Northam has ordered schools (public and private) closed for the remainder of the school year. Understandably, this announcement generates many questions for you and us as well. We are fervently praying for the Lord to reveal the next steps for CHA and believing, by faith, that He will answer those prayers according to His will.

Our administrative team met this evening to discuss this situation and will be taking immediate steps to gather information and evaluate our options. Tomorrow, we plan to seek guidance from the Virginia Department of Education and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) on a variety of issues, including graduation requirements and verified credits, continuity of learning, grades, and GPA. Additionally, please look for a family survey to be sent out to you later this week. This survey will provide us with critical information about our students and families as we work to put a plan in place for our school.

Thank you for your continued patience and prayers. We will provide another update as soon as possible. In the meantime, let’s continue to work together to complete our current Remote Learning Program.

Stronger together,
 

Tony Quist
Head of School
Christian Heritage Academy

Dear CHA Community,

Thank you very much for the encouraging words and feedback that you have shared with us since announcing our decision to implement a Remote Learning Program last week.  One parent said, “Thanks for all of your hard work and dedication to protecting and supporting our children! God Bless!”  It’s such a blessing to work with parent partners like this during such a challenging time.

Looking ahead, we understand that educating at home will require adjustments to your family’s schedule and routine.  Our faculty has been working diligently during this week of workdays (thankful for unused snow days) to prepare lessons that contain valuable content and assignments that can be completed in a reasonable amount of time at home -- no more than 3.5 hours total per day. After observing the professionalism, creativity, and commitment our faculty, staff, and administrators have displayed while developing this program, I truly believe we’re doing everything we can to give you and your students everything you need to successfully complete our Remote Learning Program. We are in this together.  

As we move into our Remote Learning Program next week, here are some essential details:

• Visit CHAKNIGHTS.ORG/REMOTE for full program details, requirements, and lesson downloads for our Remote Learning Program
• Make plans to pick up your child’s RLP Packet and resources in the Castle Cafe on Wednesday, March 18 anytime between 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• RLP assignments and Teacher Office Hours will begin on Monday, March 23rd and end on Friday, April 3rd
• Questions should be directed to the teachers first and then to Mrs. Hacker at jhacker@chaknights.org as needed

At this time, we plan to return to campus as soon as we are safely able to do so following our Easter Break, April 6th - 13th.  There will be no remote learning or support during that week. Instead, we encourage everyone to take that time to rest, recover, and focus on the glorious resurrection of our loving savior, Jesus Christ!

In closing, I want to thank you again for your prayers, encouragement, grace, and understanding as we move into this new territory together. We step forward with trust and not fear because we know that God is good, and He will continue to do great things in our school community through this experience!

May the Lord guide our hearts, minds, and actions as we walk the path He has set before us. 

Stronger Together, 

Tony Quist
Head of School
Christian Heritage Academy

CHA’s leadership team assembled this morning to address a response to growing COVID-19 concerns and formulated a closure and remote learning plan effective Monday, March 16th.

“Within our school community, we know that many of our students have direct and daily contact with family members in vulnerable segments of our population including older adults (60+) and individuals with underlying health problems. As Christians, it is important for us to act out of love and responsibility for each other, our neighbor and the larger community,” said Mr. Quist, Head of School

CHA’s primary goals at this time are to increase social distancing within the school community and continue educating their students through a brief two-week period of Remote Learning ahead of their scheduled Easter Break. 

CHA has initiated the following plan for Remote Learning through Monday, April 13th:

Teacher Workdays (No School): Monday, March 16th - Friday, March 20th -- our faculty and staff will use these days to prepare for a two-week period of Remote Learning

Resources Pickup: Friday, March 20th from 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. -- families may visit the school during this designated time to pick up the resources, books, and materials teachers have assembled for their students to complete the two-week Remote Learning period

Remote Learning Period: Monday, March 23rd - Friday, April 3rd

Easter Break (No School): Monday, April 6th - Monday, April 13th

ALL EVENTS will be canceled through Friday, April 3rd and rescheduled as possible throughout the remainder of the year

In a recent letter to the school community, Mr. Quist stated, “Scripture commands us repeatedly, “Do not be afraid.” At the same time, we are encouraged to “understand the times and know what to do”. We choose not to react out of fear or hysteria but based on a realistic recognition that this situation requires us to protect others, particularly those in our community who are most vulnerable and to aid in efforts to “flatten the curve” to slow the spread of the virus so our healthcare system is not overloaded beyond capacity.” 

CHA recognizes that this is a developing situation and will continue to monitor, evaluate, and adjust plans accordingly in the days ahead.  

Dear CHA Community,

As our school leadership team assembled this morning to address a response to growing COVID-19 concerns, I asked the Lord to grant us clear direction and wisdom to know and follow His will for CHA at this time.  He was faithful to answer those prayers and worked within our team to produce a plan that ensures the continuity of education for our students and assists with ongoing efforts to reduce the impact of the virus.

We believe that COVID-19 represents a significant public health risk, especially to those in vulnerable segments of our populations including older adults (60+) and individuals with underlying health problems.  Within our school community, we know that many of our students have direct and daily contact with family members in those vulnerable segments. As Christians, it is important for us to act out of love and responsibility for each other, our neighbor and the larger community. 

Scripture commands us repeatedly, “Do not be afraid.” At the same time, we are encouraged to “understand the times and know what to do”. We choose not to react out of fear or hysteria but based on a realistic recognition that this situation requires us to protect others, particularly those in our community who are most vulnerable and to aid in efforts to “flatten the curve” to slow the spread of the virus so our healthcare system is not overloaded beyond capacity. 

Our primary goals at this time are to increase social distancing within our school community and continue educating our students as we begin the fourth and final quarter of the school year.  Confidently, we will pursue these goals through a brief two-week period of Remote Learning ahead of our scheduled Easter Break. 

Therefore, we have initiated the following plan for Remote Learning through Monday, April 13th:

Teacher Workdays (No School): Monday, March 16th - Friday, March 20th -- our faculty and staff will use these days to prepare for a two-week period of Remote Learning

Resources Pickup: Friday, March 20th from 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. -- families may visit the school during this designated time to pick up the resources, books, and materials teachers have assembled for their students to complete the two-week Remote Learning period

Remote Learning Period: Monday, March 23rd - Friday, April 3rd

Easter Break (No School): Monday, April 6th - Monday, April 13th

ALL EVENTS will be canceled through Friday, April 3rd and rescheduled as possible throughout the remainder of the year

We understand the temporary inconvenience this may place on students and families. However, as your partners in Christian education, we are committed to making this plan as easy and effective to implement as we can.  To that end, we will be sending additional communications and instructions to you over the next week to help you and your children prepare for the Remote Learning period, beginning on Monday, March 23rd.

In closing, please keep in mind that none of us asked for the coronavirus, yet God sent it anyway according to His good and perfect will and timing. Pray that we would be able to work together to navigate the tasks ahead of us for his glory, for the benefit of our students, and the protection of everyone involved.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership!

Prayerfully, 

Tony Quist
Head of School
Christian Heritage Academy

The CHA Math Olympics was held on Friday, January 23rd.  Congratulations to all of the qualifying participants who will be representing CHA in the District ACSI competition on March 27th in Roanoke.  
 

2020 GRADE WINNERS 

3rd grade- Miles Pugh, Brooks Cassady, Maverick Quist, Rose Dalton, Taetym Russell, Reese McDonald
4th grade- Addyson Fichtner, Lucas King, Cora Hacker, Lani Meredith, Griffin Zorn, Ruthie Williams
5th grade- Jessica DeBoer, Adelyn Cassady, Layla Hale, Matthew Robinson, Julia White
6th grade- Wyatt Gardner, Ryder Compton, Carson Haynes, Will Gray, Claire Jones
7th grade- Pearl Gordon, Giacomo Ceruzzi, Olivia Holland, Jordyn Webb
8th grade- Olivia Gordon, Camille DeBoer, Josiah Rutter, Ashleigh Webb

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the second quarter of the 2019-2020 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

CHA Adds High School Cooperative Program to its Curriculum

An increase in responsibility and self-confidence, an opportunity to practice human relations skills, and a keener awareness of the link between classroom learning and the real world are among the benefits students gain from a high school cooperative program. Christian Heritage Academy now offers this opportunity to seniors.

Through the Cooperative Education Training Program, students are released from school early and have the ability to work a minimum of 280 hours in jobs that match their aptitudes. In doing so, they earn high school credit.

Tearra Sink is one of Christian Heritage’s first students participating in the program. Working at a local State Farm agency, she even plans to take a certification exam in January in order to advance in her job.

"I love the opportunity that the co-op program has given me for my senior year.  Not only do I get to leave school early and go to a job that I love, but I also will receive the last credit that I need for graduation,” Sink said. “ I feel that it's a great opportunity and I really appreciate the chance to get a head start on my future.”

Supervising Coordinator Melanie Cassady visits each student on-site to help the student troubleshoot any issues, consult with the training sponsor and evaluate the student. The student is assessed on a wide variety of soft and hard skills including productivity, communication, attitude, initiative, reliability and the way that the student represents himself or herself through personal habits, language and grooming.

“Implementing a co-op program has been a goal for our school for several years and it's exciting to have it as an option for our students moving forward,” Cassady said.

In addition to State Farm, Hometown Ice is also participating in the co-op program. Employers are expected to help develop a training program that exposes students to various aspects of the business, provides instructional materials, and guides students along the way.

According to EricDigests.org, which reports on current trends in education, employers benefit from such a contract, enhancing the business’s reputation, providing an effective screening and recruitment opportunity, and leading to higher employee retention and productivity.

Christian Heritage Academy welcomes the opportunity to work with other businesses in the community as it expands its program. For more information on participating in the co-op program, contact:

 Melanie Cassady

mcassady@chaknights.org

540-483-5855

Christian Heritage Academy Pilots Online Program

 At a time when the K-12 educational climate has rapidly shifted to include online offerings, Christian Heritage Academy (CHA) announces its 2019 online pilot program. In partnership with Liberty University, the dually accredited program (ACSI, AdvancedED) will include a full-time digital offering, a hybrid of traditional and digital school and a dual-enrollment program which enables students to earn college credit online while still enrolled in high school. Students may also choose an academic track that will allow them to graduate with a CHA diploma and earn an Associate’s Degrees from Liberty University. 

Here’s what sets CHA apart from other online programs: All online students are invited to participate in on-campus, student-life activities including athletics, extra-curricular activities, service opportunities, academic counseling, and special events. 

“CHA-Online has been a huge blessing to me and my family, I have been able to take all my classes online and still be involved in activities at my school,” said Savannah Novak.    

With roughly 2.7 million K-12 students enrolled in online courses during the 2014-15 school year. The trend is accelerating.  For families who travel extensively or homeschool, it provides an alternative to traditional schooling. 

“The freedom to enjoy a more fluid schedule is appealing and many families are able to take advantage of those options. We want to offer those families the option to receive a Christian education and access to our CHA community,” said Tony Quist, Head of School.

Christian Heritage Academy is planning to launch CHA-Online for the 2020-2021 school year. This program will be offered to students in grades K through 12 who are seeking an affordable opportunity for biblically integrated and academically rigorous courses with flexibility and school community.

Miller officially becomes a Colson Fellow after completing the 10-month program. He is pictured with Barrie Winn (left), Director at the Carolinas Colson Fellows Cohort, and Bill Brown (right), Dean of the Colson Fellowship Program.

Eric Miller is a believer in the adage that learning never ends. A high school math and Bible teacher at Christian Heritage Academy for 20 years, Miller has successfully completed his fellowship with the Colson Fellows Program.

Miller joins over 1300 fellows across the U.S. and in 12 foreign countries who have taken on the mantle of being leaders of change and cultural counterpoints embracing a Christian perspective.

According to the Colson Fellows website:  “Colson Fellows learn how to better interpret all of life and reality from a consciously Christian worldview.”

The 10-month program included devotionals, discipleship activities, book analysis and bi-monthly webinars with authors and Christian leaders. Importantly, the fellows then developed individual plans to incorporate their learning within their sphere of influence.

The program began in 1991, and fellows come from a wide variety of vocations and backgrounds.  As a teacher, Miller adds another rich layer to his body of knowledge and belief system.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Colson Fellows program. I learned that in spite of my experience, that there are always new issues and authors out there that I need to be reading and assimilating into my classroom to keep preparing my students for the culture THEY will be interfacing with," Miller said.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the fourth quarter of the 2018-2019 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the third quarter of the 2018-2019 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the second quarter of the 2018-2019 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Christian Heritage Academy is proud to announce the honor roll members for the fourth quarter of the 2017-2018 academic year.  These diligent students have earned this prestigious honor by displaying excellence and achievement in their studies.

Rocky Mount, VA (May 17, 2018) - Christian Heritage Academy (CHA) announced today the retirement of one of its cherished educators who has served the CHA community for 31 years.

Mrs. Kathy Griffith came to CHA in 1988 and currently teaches elementary and secondary Spanish classes and girls health/PE; however she has taught many other subjects throughout her tenure. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from Virginia Tech.

"For 31 years I have been blessed to spend my days with my favorite people- the students and staff at Christian Heritage Academy. I love teaching, I love students, I love the freedom to teach creatively, I love being able to express my faith. My students' enthusiasm and humor energizes me, and I have always loved trying to figure out new ways to help them learn," shared Griffith.

Mrs. Griffith has made significant impacts on CHA, educating several hundred students over the years and continually guiding them with their wisdom and leadership. She will be greatly missed by all within the CHA community.

"Mrs. Griffith has placed Jesus first, her family second, and faithfully served the Lord in the ministry of her church and this school for many years. In fact, we are the school we are today in large part because of her sacrifice, commitment, and investment in Christian education at CHA.  It’s truly been an honor to work alongside a teacher of her caliber," said Mr. Tony Quist, Head of School.

The CHA community is extremely grateful for Mrs. Griffith’s  service over the years and prays for continued blessings on her future endeavors.  Griffith looks forward to spending her time serving her family, church, and others.

With her departure, CHA is now seeking applicants for a Spanish teacher and a girls' Health/PE teacher. Interested applicants should send a resume to info@chaknights.org.

Rocky Mount, VA (May 15, 2018) - After announcing Mrs. Jessica Hacker as the school’s first Associate Director of Academics last month, administrators at Christian Heritage Academy are actively filling key teaching positions as new students and families continue to enroll in record numbers.

Replacing Mrs. Hacker’s vacant Kindergarten teacher position will be current K4 Aide, Mrs. Becky Mason. Mrs. Mason holds a Bachelors of Science from Ferrum College and has shown a great level of energy and commitment to the school over the past two years. She is a strong fit for the elementary team, school philosophy, and community culture.

“I will give 200% to the children, parents, and school,” shared Mason.

In another internal hire, Miss Ashley Hodges will be moving from the Elementary Resource teacher to Second grade, as Mrs. Julie Reed secedes that position to focus on preparations for starting a family.

“I am excited for this new opportunity God has blessed me with, and look forward to educating young children to love and glorify Him in the 2nd grade,” stated Hodges.

Miss Hodges joined the CHA faculty last fall as the Elementary Resource teacher and After-care coordinator and has been instrumental in the success of those two programs.Miss Hodges holds a Bachelors of Science from Ferrum College.

“We’re excited to see each of these teachers take on new roles and are confident in following the Lord’s leading in each situation,” said Mr. Tony Quist, Head of School.

With the summer approaching, school administrators are actively seeking passionate, Christian educators to fill additional openings. Please send a resume to info@chaknights.org if you are interested in applying for one of the following positions:

• After Care Coordinator
• Resource Teacher
• K4 Teacher Aide

CHA is proud to announce that Eric Miller, a high school teacher at CHA, has been accepted into the Colson Fellows Program.

“As a teacher at CHA for nearly 20 years, Eric has been extremely instrumental in developing the biblical worldview of CHA’s students. We applaud him for his participation in the Colson Fellows Program, allowing him to extend his gift to so many others,” said Tony Quist, Head of School.

The Colson Fellows Program educates people of strong faith with relevant skills, biblical knowledge, and a solid Christian worldview, helping others to navigate today's culture and re-shaping it in a way that is pleasing to God.

The National program consists of reading the best books on worldview, cultural analysis, and spiritual growth. Bi-monthly webinars with the authors and other Christian leaders provide a deeper dive into current issues. Fellows develop their own mission and vision statements and construct a plan for implementing all they are learning.

As a fellow in the regional Carolinas program, Eric will meet regularly with others in the region for further instruction, discussion about program content, and fellowship with others connected to the Colson Fellows.

"I'm looking forward to this opportunity,” said Eric Miller. “It is my desire to expand and strengthen my worldview training in the context of preparing our Bible for students to face the modern, multicultural world. I also look forward to creating opportunities to provide cultural training and insight to parents both at CHA and in my local church."

To learn more about the Colson Fellows program, visit http://colsonfellows.org.

As part of CHA’s continued efforts towards strategic enhancements and expansion, school administrators are proud to announce Mrs. Jessica Hacker as the new Associate Director of Academics.

In this recently created position, Mrs. Hacker will have a primary role in overseeing the school’s expanding K4-12 academic program.  She will provide instructional leadership for continuing improvements in teaching and student learning to enrich the quality of education and maintain the school’s high standards of academic excellence.  As CHA prepares to transition to a block schedule format at the secondary level for the 2019-2020 school year, Mrs. Hacker will be instrumental in facilitating professional development and providing faculty support to ensure a smooth transition and a successful implementation.

“My goals in stepping into this new position are to support our faculty members and to make sure our students are receiving the best education in the county,” said Hacker “I am grateful for this new opportunity and look forward to assisting in the growth of CHA’s academic success.”

A life-long Franklin County resident, Mrs. Hacker holds a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts minoring in Education from Ferrum College and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Averett University. Over the past decade, she has gained valuable experience and training through her teaching positions at local elementary/secondary public schools and in CHA’s own K4 and K5 programs.

"Mrs. Hacker has a deep passion for Christian education and I’m confident that her skills and expertise will help us take our academic program to the next level," said Tony Quist, Head of School. “She is going to be a great support resource for our faculty and an asset to our administrative team!"

The hiring of Mrs. Hacker marks yet another accomplishment in CHA’s five-year strategic plan known as, “Resolving for Excellence & Truth.” Under this plan, CHA has already seen significant growth in enrollment and athletics after creating similar Associate Director positions to focus on those areas.

Mrs. Hacker will officially assume the new position and duties of the Associate Director of Academics on June 1, 2018.

The CHA drama club has been working on a performance script of the poem "Casey at the Bat" by Ernest Lawrence Thayer.  Students had the opportunity to perform for the audience at our annual Creative Writing and Arts Gala on Monday, April 23rd.

"The students have been working hard since January and they memorized their lines quickly.  Mr. Keller and I were very proud of their performance and how they executed their lines," stated secondary teacher, Mrs. Spence.   "Our lead performers were ironically called away for a baseball game and our understudies did a great job stepping into the roles of Casey and the umpire only two weeks ago."

The drama club is an integral part of CHA's club program.  Students in drama club learn the basics of stagecraft, self discipline and the importance of creativity, teamwork, and presentation skills.

CHA families gathered on Thursday, April 5th to engage in a number of activities for the school’s first STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Night. This event was organized by upper school science teachers, Mary Ann Castaneda and Kathleen DeBoer in hopes of sparking students’ interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.  Families had the opportunity to view STEM related class projects before participating in breakout sessions where students further explored STEM experiments.

Head of School, Tony Quist, attended the event with his family and commented, “This was a great event and an exciting opportunity to celebrate the focus of STEM in our academic program.  I’m looking forward to making it a part of our annual calendar of events”.

Activities for the night included a slime station, an egg drop challenge, paper airplane challenge, spaghetti tower challenge, and an aluminum foil boat challenge.

“STEM Night turned into a evening full of science and fun. Students and their families were able to try different challenges that required them to build and test out their creations.  The science department is already looking forward to next year’s STEM Night with some brand new challenges to try,” said Ms. Castaneda.