Earning the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School honor is a remarkable accomplishment for any educational institution, and when a private Christian school focused on discipleship and a biblical worldview receives this recognition, it carries deep significance.
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This September we received the exciting news that Heritage Christian School earned recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School. This prestigious recognition, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education, highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps. Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, and family and community involvement.
Message from DR. BRIAN DOUGHERTY HEAD OF SCHOOL
While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation. Heritage was recognized as an Exemplary High Performing School among the top performers in Indiana as measured by state assessments and/ or nationally normed tests.
Earning the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School honor is a remarkable accomplishment for any educational institution, and when a private Christian school focused on discipleship and a biblical worldview receives this recognition, it carries deep significance. For a Christian school grounded in biblical principles, the award signals a powerful testament to the compatibility of faith-based education and academic excellence.
THE ROLE OF DISCIPLESHIP IN EDUCATION
At the heart of many Christian schools is the concept of discipleship, which is central to their mission. Discipleship, in the Christian context, is a commitment to nurturing and guiding students in their spiritual, moral, and intellectual growth. It is not just about academic instruction but about shaping the whole person in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ. This holistic approach to education places equal emphasis on cultivating character, integrity, compassion, and wisdom, alongside achieving academic success.
In schools where discipleship is integral, the relationship between teachers and students is built on trust, mentorship,
and a shared faith journey. Teachers serve as role models, demonstrating how to integrate faith into daily living and decision-making. They not only impart knowledge but also mentor students in spiritual growth, encouraging them to live out their faith both in and outside the classroom. This relational, student-centered approach fosters a supportive learning environment where students feel valued and motivated to excel.
A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
A school with a focus on a biblical worldview seeks to ensure that all subjects—whether science, history, literature, or the arts—are taught through the lens of Christian beliefs. This doesn’t mean a rejection of modern knowledge or scientific discovery, but rather an interpretation of all knowledge as part of God’s creation and plan. Students are encouraged to see the interconnectedness of all truth, with God as the ultimate source of wisdom. This integration of faith and learning allows students to develop critical thinking skills, apply moral reasoning, and engage with the world around them in meaningful ways.
In this context, academic excellence is seen as an act of worship and service to God. Students are encouraged to do their best not merely for personal achievement but as a reflection of their commitment to living out their faith. This commitment to high standards often translates into academic performance that meets or exceeds the criteria for the Blue Ribbon School award.
ACHIEVING THE BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL HONOR
So how does a school focused on discipleship and a biblical worldview achieve the academic excellence necessary to earn the National Blue Ribbon School honor?
1. High Academic Standards: Christian schools with a strong discipleship model often set high academic standards. They see excellence as a reflection of their faith and work hard to provide rigorous instruction across all subjects. Teachers are not only deeply committed to their students’ academic success but also provide the support necessary for students to reach their full potential. This attention to both spiritual and academic growth often results in exceptional performance on standardized tests, which is a key factor in the Blue Ribbon evaluation process.
2. Individualized Attention: The discipleship model places a high emphasis on the teacher-student relationship, which allows for personalized instruction and mentorship. This focus on the individual can help students succeed academically, especially those who might otherwise fall behind. By fostering close-knit relationships between students and educators, Christian schools are often able to identify areas where students need extra help and provide the necessary support to ensure all students thrive.
3. Character Development: Christian schools focused on a biblical worldview often emphasize character education as part of their discipleship efforts. Integrity, perseverance, and responsibility are woven into the fabric of the school culture. These traits help students develop the work ethic and discipline necessary to succeed academically. The Blue Ribbon School program looks for schools that are not only academically successful but also develop well-rounded students, which aligns well with the goals of Christian education.
4. Parental and Community Involvement: A strong sense of community is often present in Christian schools, where parents, teachers, and church members work closely together to support students. This high level of involvement can play a crucial role in student success, as parents are often more engaged in their children’s education. Schools that encourage family participation and maintain strong community ties often have higher academic outcomes, contributing to the criteria for Blue Ribbon recognition.
5. Closing Achievement Gaps: The Blue Ribbon School award also recognizes schools that have made significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups. Christian schools often provide a nurturing and inclusive environment that helps all students, regardless of their background or abilities, succeed. The discipleship model promotes individualized attention and mentorship, which can help disadvantaged students or those with learning differences excel.
I would like to thank our Academic Director, Dr. Angela Ruiz, and her team for their diligence in compiling and submitting all of the necessary materials needed to be considered for this important distinction. It is an arduous process that was undertaken with the utmost professionalism and excellence. I would also like to thank all of the past and present faculty, staff, and administrators who have made an immeasurable investment at Heritage to put us in the position to receive this award. It truly is a testament to the incredible body of work in fulfilling our mission over the past 60 years to make Heritage a world class and God-honoring college preparatory school worthy of this honor.
FAITH AND EXCELLENCE: A POWERFUL COMBINATION
For a Christian school in Indiana—or anywhere in the country—earning the National Blue Ribbon School honor validates that academic excellence and a biblical worldview are not mutually exclusive. Rather, they complement each other. Students who are grounded in their faith and taught to see their studies as part of their service to God are often highly motivated to excel. Furthermore, schools that prioritize both spiritual and academic development create an environment where students can thrive holistically. This recognition also sends a powerful message to the broader community. It demonstrates that faith-based education can meet, and even surpass, national standards
of academic excellence. It reassures parents that they can entrust their children to an institution that nurtures both mind and soul, preparing students not only for college and career but also for lives of service and leadership in their communities and the world.
In summary, a private Christian school that earns the National Blue Ribbon School honor exemplifies the harmonious integration of faith and academics. By maintaining high standards of discipleship, offering a biblically grounded worldview, and achieving measurable academic success, such a school becomes a beacon of excellence in education, one that shines both academically and spiritually.
HERITAGE CHRISTIAN HONORED AS NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL
On Monday, September 23, 2024, The U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona, recognized Heritage Christian School as a National Blue Ribbon School. Earning the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School honor is a remarkable accomplishment for any educational institution, and when a private Christian school focused on discipleship and a biblical worldview receives this recognition, it carries deep significance.
This prestigious award recognizes our school’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, and fostering a strong sense of community.
National Blue Ribbon Schools is the U.S. Department of Education’s award program honoring high-performing schools and schools that are making great strides in closing achievement gaps among diverse groups of students.
We are deeply honored to receive this award. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to high academic standards, a Christcentered curriculum, and nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared to impact the world.
-Dr. Brian Dougherty Head of School
A private Christian school that earns the National Blue Ribbon School honor exemplifies the harmonious integration of faith and academics. By maintaining high standards of discipleship, offering a biblically grounded worldview, and achieving measurable academic success, such a school becomes a beacon of excellence in education, one that shines both academically and spiritually.
To read more about this distinguished honor, visit heritagechristian.net/nbrs.
WELCOME BACK EAGLES!
Our Back-to-School Celebration was held on August 6, 2024, and it was a fantastic success! This year’s event brought together new and returning Heritage families, faculty, staff, and their loved ones for an evening of fellowship and fun. Live music was provided by My Yellow Rickshaw. Our school community’s generous support for Shepherd Community highlighted the strong spirit of giving that defines Heritage, making it the perfect way to kick off the new school year.
2024-2025 Spiritual Theme
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Romans 12:2
The spiritual theme for the 2024-2025 school year is TRANSFORM based on Romans 12:2. This is a pivotal verse in the New Testament that emphasizes transformation through the renewal of the mind. It encourages believers to resist conforming to worldly values and instead adopt a mindset aligned with God’s will.
The significance of this verse lies in several key themes:
1. Transformation: It speaks to spiritual growth and change, urging Christians to continuously evolve in their faith by deepening their values and behaviors.
2. Non-Conformity: The verse calls for believers to resist societal pressures and trends that may conflict with Christian principles, focusing instead on living in accordance with God’s standards.
3. Renewal of Mind: This phrase points to the importance of changing one’s perspective and thought patterns – a shift in thinking – from the mindset of the world to a mindset that aligns with God’s truth and righteousness.
4. Understanding God’s Will: The verse promises that through mental and spiritual renewal, believers will be able to discern and understand God’s will for their lives— what is truly good, pleasing, and perfect.
During the year we will learn how Romans 12:2 challenges us to live distinctly from the world, actively engage in spiritual growth and transformation, and pursue God’s will wholeheartedly. We are excited to explore this theme together as a school community this year. Please continue to be in prayer with us that our Heritage community pursue Christ and reflect Him to the world.
My prayer and hope for the students at HCS is that this theme will bring a change in their lives. That they will fight against the pull to blend in with this world and instead live a life that stands out for Jesus!
-Ken Shutt Director of Discipleship
WELCOME PASTOR KEN SHUTT:
OUR NEW DISCIPLESHIP DIRECTOR
We are excited to introduce Pastor Ken Shutt, our new Discipleship Director, to Heritage Christian School. With a heart for nurturing spiritual growth and a passion for guiding others in their faith journey, Pastor Shutt brings a wealth of experience and dedication to helping students deepen their relationship with Christ.
Pastor Shutt comes to us from Almond, NY, where he served as an associate pastor at the Alfred-Almond Bible Church since 2017. His ministry work, not only at Alfred-Almond Bible Church, but in all of his ministry stops has been working with young people of all ages, from children through college. He thoroughly enjoys school-aged kids. This experience positions him well to serve in our K-12 setting.
As an ordained pastor, Ken has command of the Word of God and ministered from the pulpit, in Sunday School, and through various age-level ministries. Through his ministry experience, Pastor Shutt has had the privilege of serving in these capacities since 2006. He has also done extensive Biblical counseling, which will be a valuable asset to our school family.
“What stood out about Ken during the interview process was his commitment to the Gospel, passion for discipleship, and vision for seeing it happen throughout our campus as
a director,” said Dr. Brian Dougherty, Head of School. “He will not only model it through a strong relational model of ministry but will champion a pursuit of discipleship by all staff members to reach our students for Christ,” Dougherty added.
Ken and his wife, Felicia, have three children who have joined the Heritage family: Josiah (10th), Moriah (8th), and Noah (6th). When not doing church ministry, Pastor Shutt and his family can be found at the baseball diamond, a sport they dearly love. We look forward to the positive impact Pastor Ken will have in fostering a strong, faith-centered environment for all of us.
In a world that is constantly telling our kids that life is all about living for oneself, we need to teach and empower our students to live differently for the glory of God above all else.
- Ken Shutt
Athletics
Photo: Grace Hollars | IndyStar
GLORIFY GOD. PLAY HARD. HAVE FUN.
Heritage Christian Athletics are grounded in the school’s mission to glorify God through the discipleship of studentathletes and the pursuit of excellence in athletics, with the Bible as the foundation and Jesus Christ as our focus. Our school has a reputation for producing well-rounded student athletes and our program helps shape students into young adults with good sportsmanship and Christ-like attitudes, character, and leadership.
STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Senior Luke Himes competed in the shot put during the IHSAA Boys State Track & Field Finals at the Robert C. Haugh Track & Field Complex on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington on Saturday, June 1, 2024.
Junior Kya Crooke competed in and won the high jump during the IHSAA Girls State Track & Field Finals at the Robert C. Haugh Track & Field Complex on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington on Saturday, June 1, 2024. Her jump of 5’11” ties her PR and ranks her 9th in the country.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
HOW CHLOE SALSBURY FINDS HER JOY - AND HER PLACE - ON HCS SWIM TEAM
Meet Chloe Salsbury, 11th grader and member of the Eagles Swimming team, whose story is nothing short of remarkable. Last year, the IndyStar featured an incredible story about Chloe, highlighting her journey as a true champion in every sense of the word. In the competitive world of swimming, victories are often tallied by podium finishes, but for Chloe, her triumphs go far beyond the final results.
From the pool deck to the basketball court, Chloe’s story resonates as one of courage and inspiration. Here are some excerpts from the IndyStar story, written by columnist, Greg Doyel:
Chloe Salsbury can hear them up there, somewhere above the water line. They’re shouting her name, sounds like. It’s muffled down there at the Lawrence North pool, but this much noise finds a way through the water, and when her face pops above the surface she can see them. They are standing on the pool deck, chanting her name, willing her to the finish line.
Chloe is swimming the 100-yard breaststroke for Heritage Christian at the Sectional 14 meet, and she’s not going to win her preliminary heat, and it doesn’t matter. Her victory has already happened, and happens each day she rolls her wheelchair to the pool deck, lowers herself to the water’s edge and then, well, here’s how Chloe puts it.
Making a Splash
The entire place is cheering for Chloe, chanting her name, because they know what they’re seeing: The toughest swimmer in the pool. And the fastest 100-yard breaststroke they’ll ever see by a girl with spina bifida.
“I kind of plop into the pool,” she says.
This is how Chloe faces the world, with humor, positive energy and a spirit you’ve got to see, or in my case hear, to believe.
…she’s aware of the cheering, if not the magnitude. Because as she cuts through the water, swimming the breaststroke without the use of her legs, competitors on other teams and fans of other schools realize what’s happening and join Chloe’s teammates.
Chloe has a smile that can warm a swimming pool, and she’s not afraid to use it – “She puts herself out there, and does it with the biggest smile on her face,” says Heritage Christian coach Paula Gates.
She was born with the most serious form of spina bifida, called Myelomeningocele or open spina bifida, where the baby’s backbone doesn’t fully form, exposing tissues and nerves.
Chloe’s perseverance serves as a beacon of hope and reminds us all of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
STRONGER TOGETHER
Heritage’s Parent-Teacher Fellowship (PTF) is an organization of volunteers dedicated to encouraging our faculty, staff and families primarily through sponsoring events that bring everyone together throughout the school year. PTF is a great way for any parent to become more connected with the Heritage community. Together we can ensure vibrant events, community blessings, and create unforgettable memories for all!
For more information about PTF events or to get involved, send an email to ptf@heritagechristian.net or visit heritagechristian.net/ptf.
During Parents in Prayer (PIP), we encourage, support and gain strength from each other as we spend time talking with God about the needs of our HCS community. Join us on Mondays at 8:10 a.m. (after drop-off) as we pray in the elementary cafeteria. For more information, send an email to ptf@heritagechristian.net or visit heritagechristian.net/PIP to join the email list.
MEET PTF PRESIDENT CHELSIE BURROW
Hi Heritage!
My name is Chelsie Burrow and I am the President of the Parent-Teacher Fellowship for the 2024-2025 school year. My husband, Nick, and I have three children at Heritage – Knox (7th), Stella (6th), and Ivy (4th). Eight years ago Jesus led us to tour Heritage Christian where He made it clear that this was the place for our children to attend school and a place where they would be surrounded with other Christ followers. Following His decision for our family has been such a blessing in so many ways!
As PTF President, my focus is to serve the staff and families at HCS, grow the PTF community, and build community between our Heritage families with Jesus at our core. I am honored to serve in this role and am eager with anticipation to see how the Lord will move through our Heritage community this school year. If you are interested in serving as part of the PTF, we would love to have you on our team! More information can be found at heritagechristian.net/ptf. I look forward to serving alongside you in the future. God bless!
Chelsie Burrow
PTF President
Your Gift Makes
WE ARE INVESTING IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF CHRISTIAN LEADERS.
Giving to the Heritage Fund is giving to the cause of Christ as you help fulfill the school’s mission to glorify God through the pursuit of excellence in education.
Since its creation in 2018, the Heritage Fund has been used to provide campus improvements, Worthy Servants Christmas bonuses to faculty and staff, and tuition assistance for students. Your support is an invaluable way to give students a discipleship-focused education. This year, our $1.3 million goal will help enrich the lives of students and staff and encourage everyone to get involved in the ministry of Heritage Christian School. Here is a small sample of some of our projects that have been accomplished because of generous donations to the Heritage Fund:
Worthy Servants Faculty and Staff Christmas Bonus
It is an annual tradition to bless our mission-minded faculty and staff with a Christmas bonus. We again hope to provide over $700 per employee family as a bonus in mid-December.
Tuition Assistance
To leverage SGO giving through the Indiana SEC (Scholarships for Education Choice) program, we provide baseline SGO student aid through the Heritage Fund. Learn more about the Heritage Fund’s opportunity to utilize SGO by visiting heritagechristian.net/SGO. Along with ESS HOPE scholarships, approximately $400,000 in scholarships will be provided.
Makes a Difference
Campus Improvements
A successful Heritage Fund will invest in the following projects:
Athletics: Facility upgrades needed include new fencing along the practice field, high school locker room renovations, and a baseball field scoreboard.
Elementary Playground: Phase 4 of the playground renovation will provide new play equipment, turf fields, and mulch replacement.
Fine Arts: New musical instruments and band room acoustic enhancements are needed.
Security: Campus security needs further upgrades with new classroom door locks and additional cameras.
ESCAPE TO A WORLD OF FUN AND FANTASY
Make room for ogre-sized fun as the greatest fairy tale never told comes to life. Shrek the Musical is a Tony Award-winning, one-of-a-kind, hilarious fairy tale adventure that brings all the beloved characters you know to life on the stage and proves there’s more to the story than a “perfect happy ending.”
SCAN HERE for in-person tickets
Become a Fine Arts Patron
BENEFITS
Recognition in program
Recognition in program and Priority Ticket Seletion for 2 seats at each fine arts event
Recognition in program and Priority Ticket Seletion for 4 seats at each fine arts event
Recognition in program and Priority Ticket Seletion for 8 seats at each fine arts event
Fine Arts patrons are active members of the Heritage Christian School community who desire to promote the arts through participation in the program and provide financial support. Your financial support will help enhance the current fine arts program by providing extra experiences like field trips, attending honors events or acquiring equipment that will enrich the activities in the music, theatre, and art classrooms.
We offer different levels of membership and invite interested patrons to contribute towards fine arts at Heritage in any way possible. All patrons will be recognized in every fine arts event program, unless indicated otherwise. For your privacy, we will not disclose the levels in the programs.
BUILDING THE FUTURE How STEM innovation drives HCS Robotics program
At Heritage Christian School, robotics is an exciting platform for students to engage in hands-on learning. Through robotics, students gain practical experience in STEM fields, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—key skills for future careers in STEM. Our program is currently offered to students in 5th – 12th grades.
Our Accomplishments
Throughout the past several years, our Robotics program has performed exceptionally well, showcasing innovation and teamwork, and earned a well-respected place in the city and state. Throughout their wins, our program strives to emphasize the “win” of student growth, not just the trophies. This dedication to the students' growth has helped them achieve numerous championships. Learn more about our Robotics program and accomplishments at heritagechristian.net/student-life/robotics.
STATE
CHAMPIONSHIPS
WORLD
High School
One VRC team won their division and finished 2nd overall.
Four VRC teams qualified. VRC teams finished at 8th, 10th, 11th, & 13th.
Middle School
One VRC team won the State Championship and was also awarded the design award and placed 3rd in Skills.
Two VEX IQ teams qualified. One VR team qualified.
Elementary
Three IQ teams qualified. VEX IQ teams finished 5th & 10th in Skills.
One team won the Build Award. VEX IQ teams finished 5th & 7th in teamwork.
Elementary
Two VEX IQ teams qualified. One team won the Judges Award. Middle School
One VRC team qualified. High School
One VRC team qualified.
Robotics is a vital part of STEM education, as it integrates concepts from all four disciplines. Here’s how they connect:
Science: Robotics involves understanding the principles of physics, biology, and computer science. Students learn about mechanics, electronics, and the scientific method through hands-on experimentation.
Technology: Robotics leverages cutting-edge technologies, such as programming languages and software development, to design and operate robots. Students gain skills in coding and using various tools and platforms.
Engineering: Building robots requires engineering principles, including design, testing, and problem-solving. Students apply engineering concepts to create functional prototypes and understand systems integration.
Mathematics: Robotics relies heavily on mathematical concepts, such as algorithms, geometry, and statistics, to solve problems, optimize designs, and analyze data.
StudentS Hold Court
How Mock Trial prepares HCS students for future success
Mock Trial is an enriching program that provides an engaging way for students to learn about the law and develop essential skills for future academic and professional success. Students work side by side with local, real-life attorneys and other professionals as their coaches to prepare a fictional civil or criminal case for trial at regional and state competitions. HCS students participating in Mock Trial develop and refine a number of skill-sets important for college and life, including:
• Public Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Logical/Analytical Reasoning
• Team Collaboration
• Presentation and Power of Persuasion
• Communications
Students learn about courtroom procedures, evidence presentation, and the roles of various legal professionals. And they begin to understand the legal system and its workings, potentially sparking interest in careers in law, public policy, or related fields.
Since 1999, Heritage has earned a strong reputation as one of the top five schools in the intensely competitive Indiana High School Mock Trial program. Heritage teams have a remarkable history of success, having won the Indianapolis competition more than ten times.
Counter Attack:
Soared to 3rd place overall, securing victory in 3 out of 4 trials.
Get Off My LAWn:
Put up a strong fight, landing in 14th place with a solid 2-2 record.
Big Pharma:
Faced some unexpected challenges, but despite this, they showcased exceptional talent throughout the competition.
Alumni Spotlights
Heritage Christian School has graduated many talented, dedicated and successful professionals who have made significant contributions in their fields of study and within their communities. What started as three alumni in 1967 has grown today to more than 4,000 total alumni around the world.
LINDA (DUGAN) ARMES (1977)
As a child, Linda (Dugan) Armes’ favorite thing to do was help her grandmother make candy, cookies and desserts for the holidays. They would spend time together wrapping pralines in waxed paper and pulling taffy until it was light and creamy, and this sparked a lifelong passion inside of Linda that continues to this day. She is currently the owner of The Olive Leaf and Bloomington Chocolate Company in Bloomington, IN.
Linda embarked on her formal chocolate-making education by taking classes and learning everything she could about different kinds of chocolates, creating recipes and evaluating fillings. In 2010, she began selling her chocolate creations at a local Farmer’s Market and soon after several retail stores began selling her products in their stores. “After creating a best-selling Dark Chocolate Balsamic Truffle for a local Olive Oil store, I decided to purchase The Olive Leaf in Bloomington and combine both businesses into one retail space.”
During her time at Heritage, Linda enjoyed her involvement in the fine arts program. In fact, her fondest memories are of the band and choir concerts and drama productions. After graduation, Linda went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in theatre and drama from Indiana University. “Attending Heritage Christian School impacted my entire life by teaching me to integrate my relationship with God into everything that I do and every part of my life,” Linda said.
Throughout every step of her journey, Linda has known and felt God’s companionship and guidance. She is currently introducing a line of olive oil-based skincare, which she plans to scale up and launch nationally.
MYLES COLVIN (2023) AND RAVEN COLVIN (2021)
Brother and sister duo and former Heritage athletic stars, Myles Colvin and Raven Colvin, are making waves at Purdue University—Myles on the basketball court and Raven on the volleyball court and in the literary community. Myles has authored “MYLES and miles and miles and miles and Myles...” and “The ABCs of Basketball.”
Raven has written “Raven Flies High” and “The ABCs of Volleyball.”
Together, they’ve co-authored “Family Ties: A Purdue™ Story About Raven Colvin & Myles Colvin Oh, and their father, Rosevelt.”
We’re excited to see where their journey takes them next!
When Makenna was growing up, she was always interested in science and healthcare. Her mom was a paramedic for a period of time, which further increased her interest in the healthcare field. After graduating from Heritage Makenna went on to the University of Pittsburgh. “I wasn’t
MAKENNA (MCATEER) VACEK (2013)
aware of athletic training as a career option until I had been in college for a year,” said Makenna. “Athletic training seemed like a more exciting job – being on the sidelines and traveling with sports teams – versus being in an office all day.” Makenna was named Athletic Trainer of the Year for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Makenna earned her bachelor’s degree in athletic training from the University of Pittsburgh and a master’s degree in exercise science from Georgia State University (GSU). “I love working with the same individuals day in and day out. Building rapport, helping them grow and develop over time and being able to see that during their college careers. Athletics can be a demanding career but I love my athletes and coworkers who make it a lot of fun.”
Makenna developed an interest in mental health through experiences she had while working as a graduate assistant and is currently working towards her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at GSU. She also serves as an athletic trainer and mental health resource coordinator at the school. “I love my current role of advocating for change within athletics in mental health care, education and resources for student athletes,” she said.
JEFFREY A. JOHNSON (1979)
From the time he was in grade school, Jeff Johnson dreamt of being a scientist. Eventually, he became an engineer, which led to a career for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). His work sometimes includes climbing communications towers as high as 360 feet to inspect equipment for problems or riding shotgun with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), solving problems together. In his career, Jeff has worked on issues in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia and Florida. He describes his work as both challenging and rewarding.
In 1985, Jeff began working at the Naval Avionics Center in Indianapolis, reviewing contractor’s weapons systems designs for their reliability and maintainability. In 1990, he transferred to the FAA’s Indianapolis
Air Route Traffic Control Center working on their technical support staff, where he works today.
Jeff recalls that his parents made the decision to send him and his siblings to Heritage. “They believed that Heritage would prepare all three of us for wherever God put us, and they were right,” said Jeff. He credits Heritage’s College Prep track for aptly preparing him for college, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in physics and a minor in mathematics, as well as a master’s degree in mechanical engineering.
When he looks back on his time at Heritage, he is most thankful for his incredible teachers. “I appreciated them somewhat at the time, but so much more as I grew up and realized what they had given me,” Jeff stated.
Today, Jeff resides in Greenfield, IN. He works with the single’s class at his church, in the music ministry and on the deacon board. He also works on his 110-acre farm, on his amateur radio and amateur star gazing hobbies, as well as practices karate (he is a fifth degree black belt) and spends time with his grandkids.
HERITAGE TUITION SCHOLARSHIP FOR ALUMNI FAMILIES
We value our alumni. They are an important part of our rich history and community. Families where at least one parent is a Heritage alumni will receive a one-time $2,000 per new student tuition scholarship. This scholarship is available to all new students of alumni enrolling at Heritage for the first time and would be in addition to any other financial aid provided. Existing alumni families who enroll additional children are eligible for this one-time scholarship for their new children being enrolled.
For more information, contact Admissions at (317) 849-3441 or admissions@heritagechristian.net.
HERITAGE FACULTY & STAFF MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Our teachers, faculty and staff are committed to upholding the mission, vision and values of HCS. They are dedicated to biblical integration within each subject as well as in investing in the discipleship and mentorship of HCS students. Below you can read about some of our teachers and staff. Learn more at heritagechristian.net/teachers.
Amy Ashley
Educational Support Services Teacher
Meet Amy Ashley who serves as an Educational Support Services Teacher and RWL (Reading, Writing, and Literacy) Teacher in the Intermediate School. Her path to this role was guided by a passion to support students in their academic journeys. Initially driven by the desire to help one of her own children who needed extra academic support, Amy pursued a special education license. This experience deepened her commitment to advocating for students and working with families to ensure that every child receives the support they need in the classroom.
Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Ball State University, a Mild Intervention Special Education License from Taylor University, and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the American College of Education. Her love for teaching was inspired by her second-grade teacher, whose faith and dedication left a lasting impact on her.
Bethany Berghofer
Intermediate and Middle School Art Teacher
Meet Intermediate and Middle School Art teacher, Bethany Berghofer. Her journey to Heritage is a story of faith, perseverance, and divine timing. After graduating from college, Bethany met a principal at a Christian school who invited her to interview for an art teacher position. She accepted the role yet still felt uncertain about her calling. However, in 2022, while working at a charter school in Indianapolis, Bethany received an unexpected email from Heritage, a place she had dreamed of being part of throughout her entire school career. “I almost cried,” she said. “I have felt so blessed and proud to be part of this incredible school.”
Bethany holds a bachelor’s degree in general studies from Indiana Wesleyan University, where she focused on art, taking a variety of classes to broaden her skills. In her classroom at HCS, she strives to create a “safe, productive, and creative space for students to learn and grow their artistic expression.”
Kendra Kirby
5th-12th Grade Choir Director
Welcome Kendra Kirby as the 5th-12th grade Choir Director. She brings a wealth of experience and deep passion for both music and faith. In addition to leading five choirs, Kendra directs the middle and high school chapel bands and will serve as the pit orchestra director and vocal coach for the fall musical. “I’m so honored and excited to be here!” she shares enthusiastically. Kendra is excited to integrate her faith with her work, using vocal singing as a means of discipleship and she looks forward to helping students grow in their understanding of scripture through the powerful lyrics they sing together.
Kendra holds a bachelor’s degree in music theory from Indiana State University and a master’s degree in vocal performance from Bowling Green State University. In 2021, she completed her Transition to Teaching Certification, further equipping her to share her love of music with students from Kindergarten through 12th grade.
Kyle Ray
Interim Elementary School Principal
Meet Kyle Ray, our interim Elementary School Principal for the 2024-25 school year. Kyle is also the head football coach. He has been a part of the Heritage family since he began teaching 4th grade in 2016 and coaching the varsity football team. Kyle has 10 years of teaching experience, one year as our elementary assistant principal and is in his ninth year of coaching at HCS. His experiences have helped him learn to balance a passion for football with his commitment to education.
Kyle earned his bachelor’s degree from Franklin College and his master’s degree in educational administration from the American College of Education. He also holds Indiana licensure as a BuildingLevel Administrator P-12.
Adam Snyder Physics and Chemistry Teacher
Meet physics and chemistry teacher, Adam Snyder, who brings a uniquely diverse background to his role at HCS. After serving in the Navy and pursuing successful careers in manufacturing and financial management, Adam felt a call to education. “God made the path for the transition to teaching clear at the end of 2023, and I jumped at the opportunity to become a science teacher in the high school.” The Snyder family moved to the Indianapolis area in 2021, drawn to Heritage by its biblical foundation, warm faculty, and challenging curriculum.
Adam holds business degrees from Colorado State University and the University of Denver. In his classroom, he strives to teach young men and women that “God is the creator of all. Society seems to believe that a belief in God is contrary to scientific thought, when in fact the opposite is true. I hope to help our students carry this truth with them throughout their lives.”
Faith Taylor Freshman English Teacher
Meet Faith Taylor who joined Heritage this school year as a freshman English teacher. With a background that blends a deep commitment to faith and a passion for education, Faith brings a unique perspective to her role. From a young age, Faith felt a calling to serve others.
Influenced by dedicated educators and mentors, she pursued a career in education, earning her degree in secondary education with minors in English, literature, and religious studies from IUPUI. Her journey began in public education and after much prayer and reflection, she was led to transition into Christian education, and she is excited to see how God will work through her at Heritage. In her classroom, Faith strives to “encourage a lifelong love of both Christ and learning through the study of literature.”
A FOND FAREWELL: CELEBRATING OUR REMARKABLE RETIREES
Amy Byrne
Congratulations to Amy Byrne, our former Director of Admissions and Human Resources, on her retirement. The surprise reception was held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in the high school commons. Colleagues, friends, and family gathered to honor Amy's 20 years of dedicated service at HCS. The event was filled with sweet treats and even sweeter memories. Wishing Amy all the best in her retirement!
Brenda Klingerman
Lisa Foster 13 Years
Congratulations to former elementary school principal, Brenda Klingerman, on her retirement. Friends, family and colleagues gathered on May 9, 2024, to honor and celebrate Mrs. Klingerman’s 34 years of service at HCS. While enjoying light appetizers and desserts, guests also shared stories and memories of Mrs. Klingerman’s remarkable career. We offer our best wishes to Mrs. Klingerman as she starts this new, fulfilling chapter of retirement!
