The Shield: Volume 1

COTTAGE HILL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

SHIELD the

A comprehensive look at strategic objectives

Intentional • Together • Onward

December 2024

table

OF CONTENTS

LETTER FROM MR. BRAZELL

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SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS AND STAFF BETTER

INCREASING AND IMPROVING WHAT WE OFFER STUDENTS AND THE FACILITIES FROM WHICH WE OPERATE

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STRENGTHENING OUR FINANCIAL HEALTH

ENHANCING EFFECTIVENESS IN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT AND DISCIPLESHIP

MAKING OUR COMMUNICATION BETTER INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE WALLS

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LETTER FROM MR. BRAZELL As we reach the midway point of our accreditation cycle, we want to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible work being accomplished at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. Our School Improvement Plan, “Keeping the Mission, Expanding the Vision, and Demonstrating Warrior Pride,” is a comprehensive list of strategic objectives that communicates our focus for our students and stakeholders. These goals were created two years ago through the data collected in surveys to our families, faculty, and the entire school community as part of our preparation for our past accreditation visit.

It is remarkable to see what the Lord has done in and through our school as we continue to work for Him aim to exceed these objectives through 2027 and beyond.

We always want to be intentional and with an onward approach in all we do. We cannot and choose not to attempt this journey alone but to do it together. We are shaping a future that upholds the Cottage Hill traditions and values of Christian independent education while embracing opportunities for growth upon the legacy of our 63-year foundation. Established in 1961, CHCA is recognized as the oldest evangelical school in the state of Alabama, and it is because of the Lord’s provision and the sacrifice of so many that we are still accomplishing His work. Thank you for your unwavering support and the cultivation of an authentic community, all while donning the Blue & Gold. CHCA remains committed to serving the Warrior family as we navigate the opportunities and celebrate the wins in the lives of our students and in the life of our school.

As we are transparent about what He has done in the past, we also look forward to sharing more details about future improvements in the coming months. We count it an honor to work with each of you to implement them effectively. As we look ahead, let’s continue building on this momentum for many years to come.

Your partnership to foster excellence in education, spiritual development, well-rounded extra-curriculars, and community engagement inspires all of us at CHCA. We have much to be grateful for and proud of at The Hill. Thank you again for your continued commitment by prayerfully partnering with us to develop tomorrow’s servant leaders today!

Let’s Keep the Mission, Expand the Vision, & Demonstrate Warrior Pride in all we do!

With CHRIST as my coach, CHRIS BRAZELL Head of School

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1 SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS & STAFF BETTER recent years, great strides have been made in strengthening support systems for both staff and students. Here’s an overview of some things that have been implemented since 2021.

Academic & College Advisor The Academic and College Advisor meets individually with seniors to discuss post-graduation goals and to develop a plan to navigate the college application and scholarship process.

Supporting Our Students

Supporting Our Staff

Enhanced Security and Wellness Programs We have made it a priority to establish a Security and Wellness platform with a dedicated Director of Security and School Resource Officers on both campuses.

Pay Raises for Staff Since the 2021–2022 academic year, both percentage and merit based pay raises have been prioritized, reflecting the important role our staff plays in the school’s success. Competitive pay shows our commitment to their well-being and professional growth.

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Counseling Services The introduction of a school counseling newsletter keeps staff and parents informed about resources and updates. Monthly classroom lessons for K–12, alongside individual and group counseling, ensuring every student has access to tailored support.

Our counselor is also equipping teachers with evidence-based strategies to better support students in the classroom.

These initiatives reflect our commitment to a culture of support and growth for both students and staff. By investing in these things, we’re creating an environment where everyone can flourish.

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New Positions The creation of the positions of Director of Security, School Counselor, Assistant Church Campus Director, Finance Office Assistant, Administrative Assistant to the Head of School, Facilities Manager, Driver’s Education Instructor, two Early Education Center leadership positions, full time Church Campus Spanish teacher, a K3 teaching unit, and 5th and 6th Grade Bible Teacher has helped alleviate the strain on faculty and staff who previously wore multiple hats.

This allows team members to focus on their areas of expertise.

In-Service Meetings End-of-quarter in-service sessions al-

low time for educators to collaborate across campuses to strengthen vertical alignment of curriculum. Professional development topics have also included a focus on supporting students with unique learning needs and increasing the effective use of technology in the classroom.

Fostering Staff Cohesion Regular lead team, administrative team, and campus specific meetings have become a priority. These meetings promote staff cohesion on both campus-wide and area-specific levels.

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2 INCREASING AND IMPROVING WHAT WE OFFER STUDENTS AND THE FACILITIES FROM WHICH WE OPERATE

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our commitment to providing the best education, we’ve taken steps to increase the opportunities available to students and improve the facilities they use every day. From new electives to advanced safety measures, these things reflect our mission to prepare students for excellence while providing a secure learning environment.

Improving Student Offerings New Electives To expand students’ academic options we’ve added a wide array of electives, that include Driver’s Education, Pottery, Forensics, Life Skills, AP Art, Meteorology, Biblical Worldview, and Middle School Worship Team.

Dual Enrollment Partnerships Partnerships with colleges and universities have increased dual enrollment opportunities, allowing students to earn college credits and get a head start on their college career.

New college partnerships have expanded our course offerings to include vocational training, preparing students to enter the workforce. Since its inception at CHCA, dual enrollment participation has increased 566%.

Community Leaders in the Classroom We’ve invited professionals and experts to speak directly with students, offering real-world perspectives.Topics include insights on boater’s education, biblical worldview, broadcasting expertise, meteorology, physics, and the power of social media.

Student Leadership Development National Junior Honor Society has revamped meetings, and students now hear from special guest speakers and focus on patriotism and service.

Church Campus Break Area A new area for outdoor break and snack time for 5th–8th graders offers a chance for students to relax with friends in the midst of the school day.

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Improving Facilities Campus Security We have partnered with a 3rd party to conduct an independent assessment of our facilities to make sure our security measures are meeting the highest standards.

The installation of maglocks on all exterior doors, video entry to the Early Education Center, and additional cameras on each campus allows for a safe learning environment.

We have also installed HALO units in all bathrooms to ensure safer environments for our students.

Transportation The purchase of a school bus has improved our ability to provide transportation for field trips and various off campus events.

Technology Upgrades Our teachers now have the opportunity to integrate smartboards, student laptops, and tablets to enhance classroom learning experiences.

We have also added resources to our science labs to foster more hands-on learning opportunities.

Feasibility Study A feasibility study is being conducted to compare costs associated with renovating current facilities versus new buildings on the Church Campus.

Student & Family Support Partnerships have formed within the community to provide mental heath support, to make certain students and families have the care they need.

These additions continue to show our ongoing efforts to creating envi-

ronments where students can thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Our investment in these programs and facilities allow us to prepare our students for the future they will step into after they graduate from Cottage Hill Christian Academy.

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STRENGTHENING OUR FINANCIAL HEALTH The financial health of our school is critical to our ability to provide high-quality education, maintain facilities, and invest in the future. Over the past few years, we have implemented multiple strategies to enhance our financial stability and provide resources for our students.

Legacy Fund Achievements The Legacy Fund has broken records in annual giving with contributions beyond tuition. The generosity of our stakeholders shows the support of our school community and their investment in our students.

Fundraising A variety of fundraising events have been created to help in our efforts: We participated in Feed the Need where our families participated in a service-based fundraiser. Our students raised money to support our school while also packing and sending 15,000 meals to orphanages and schools in Haiti.

The implementation of our annual Legacy Golf Tournament has been a fun, engaging way to involve our community and build relationships

between local businesses, alumni, and friends of the Cottage Hill family.

We have participated in an annual Day of Giving, where we focused our efforts to share stories of how donations have impacted our students.

We also offer personalized bricks for $150 each, creating a legacy for families and alumni while supporting our school initiatives.

Through these efforts, we have strengthened our financial health and laid the groundwork for future growth.

Our community’s ongoing generosity makes sure that we can offer a great education, maintain our facilities, and continue to provide a Christ-centered education that prepares students as life-long disciples.

Streamlining Processes Over the last two years, we have worked hard to streamline our financial process. By using FACTS to collect lunch payments and various fees for our K5-12th grade students, as well as HiMama and Brightwheel to enhance communication and financial management for our Early Education Center families, we have created greater convenience and ease for both our families and staff.

Capital Fund Creation We’ve established a Capital Fund to set aside resources for future needs, ensuring we are prepared for future enhancements.

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ENHANCING EFFECTIVENESS IN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT AND DISCIPLESHIP At Cottage Hill, we will always keep the main thing, the main thing. That is why we are continuously looking for new ways to engage our students in discipleship programs that allow them to be confident in living out their faith.

Collaborating with Cottage Hill Baptist Church Our partnership with Cottage Hill Baptist Church helps us provide incredible chapel and small group opportunities. Both campuses are now led by student worship teams, giving them the opportunity to lead their peers and grow as leaders.

Small Groups & On Campus Bible Studies The number of high school students eager to serve as small group leaders has grown significantly. On the Church Campus, groups are led by teachers and staff to build community and invest in worldview development.

Women in the Word is a student-led Bible study that take place weekly on the West Campus.

Better Man Bible study is for high school boys led by male coaches and teachers who serve as facilitators and mentors.

There has been increased involvement in Fellowship of Christian Athletes with a goal of seeing the community impacted by Jesus through coaches and athletes.

Staff Additions With the addition of a school counselor, we are able to reinforce Bible-based education and lessons from a spiritual worldview.

A full-time staff member is now leading the way for our Church Campus chapel programing allowing us to enhance support for our students’ spiritual development.

West Campus Mission Trip Students in upper level Spanish classes had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala to serve alongside Agua Viva, a ministry dedicated to helping vulnerable children grow up to be well-educated, Christian adults. All students were able to participate by donating supplies for their trip.

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5 MAKING OUR COMMUNICATION BETTER INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE WALLS At Cottage Hill, we have made it a priority to improve the way we connect and inform - both inside our school walls and within the community. Here are a few ways we are doing just that.

Warrior Express Our weekly newsletter has seen improvement in engagement with a 40% increase in open rate since 2021.

What’s Happening on The Hill Our podcast, What’s Happening on The Hill, was started in the spring of 2023. We have released over 50 episodes highlighting campus events and our students’ achievements.

Social Media Growth Since 2022, we have simplified our social media presence to only include two official CHCA accounts to highlight school activities and athletics.

This has increased our engagement and visibility across all platforms.

School & Athletic Website Upgrades We have taken the time to improve functionality and design two new websites to make it easier for families to access information and celebrate our students achievements.

Updated Handbooks The creation of new Security and Wellness and Athletic handbooks ensures clear expectations and guide12

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lines for students, parents, and staff.

This leads to a more united school community.

School Counseling Newsletter Monthly newsletters for parents and staff provide resources related to the topics that are being discussed in classroom sessions.

FACTs Student Information System We implemented a new Student Information System that has become a onestop shop for tuition, fees, family information, and enrollment.

Focused PLPs The 2023-2024 Professional Learning Plan (PLP) focused on increasing communication. Our staff identified underutilized tools such as OneNote and FACTs and have worked on increasing their usage to improve communication with students and their parents. The introduction of “Remind” has also further increased communication with families.

Church & West Campus Collaboration We have intentionally clustered grade levels and subjects to promote collaboration and vertical alignment.

Legacy Club The Legacy Club allows us to bring together retired teachers and adminis-

trators to stay connected and continue contributing to our school’s mission.

Precinct Meetings By meeting with precinct captains that cover our school’s jurisdiction, we’re able to strengthen relationships with those who support our schools safety.

Grandparents Day Bringing back our annual Grandparents Day event has allowed us to connect multiple generations of the Cottage Hill family together. Each year, we have welcomed over 600 grandparents and grandfriends to campus, where they get to experienceday in the life of a Warrior.

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THE SHIELD COTTAGE HILL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 7355 CREEKWOOD DR MOBILE, AL 36695 4255 COTTAGE HILL RD. MOBILE, AL 36609

Intentional • Together • Onward