As the leaves begin to change and there’s a refreshing coolness in the evenings, fall is here at Heritage. This is a season of new beginnings with the start of school and the transition to autumn, and it brings so much fun and energy—Friday night football games, Homecoming celebrations, and pep rallies are alive with excitement. Most of all, it brings us together as a family celebrating the wonderful work God is doing in and through our school.
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we could ask or imagine, according to His power within us, to Him be the glory!”
Immeasurably More Ephesians 3:20-21
Our theme this year found in Ephesians 3:20-21 is Immeasurably More. This prayer by Paul to the Ephesian believers speaks to the infinite goodness of God. This year marks my 35th year of Christian school ministry. I have to confess that earlier in my career, my faith would only go as far as what I thought God would do in a particular year. Each June, I begin outlining my goals and expectations for the ensuing year with the hope that I will hit my marks by year’s end, and yet God always has something bigger and better than my plans. I have now come to expect the unexpected from God. This school year so far has been no exception.
We began the year with our second highest enrollment in school history (1,642) — a testament to God bringing the increase. I am so encouraged that so many families in greater Indianapolis want what God is doing at Heritage! Additionally, we enjoy a 97% faculty retention rate. Having a first-class faculty makes all the difference, yet the new teachers that God has brought to join our team have also enhanced our ministry effectiveness and school culture. Furthermore, we have already seen 33 students come to faith in Christ at school! A phone call from the office that tells me that another student accepted Christ always makes my day! This is why I love my work—to see young people come to faith in Christ and grow in that relationship to become sold-out disciples! These are some of the tangible examples of God’s goodness
to our school this year that are truly immeasurably more. None of these metrics were on my planning document for this year. I should not be surprised and should always have a spirit of expectancy that God will move in such amazing ways!
As I look forward to the rest of the school year and what God will do, I am reminded that nothing eternal happens without God’s enabling and fervent prayer by His people. Jesus reminded His disciples in John 15:5 to remain in Him because “apart from Me, you can do nothing!” As believers, we must remain in the Vine. Core to this abiding is fervent, consistent, intentional prayer. I am grateful for the incredible prayer support we get from our PTF volunteers throughout the week. Their prayers are such a blessing and so needed! I recently started a prayer time once a week before school, inviting those staff members who are available and willing to join me whereby, we are asking God to bless our school abundantly and to have His way with our ministry. I am encouraged to meet with others for the sole purpose of calling on God to move in our midst! Please join me in prayer for Heritage Christian School. Our work is both necessary and important. The stakes are high for the hearts and minds of the next generation. But prayer is what we must do if we are to see God work in mighty ways like Paul prayed, “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we could ask or imagine, according to His power within us, to Him be the glory!”
OH, WHAT A NIGHT!
Our Back-to-School Bash was held on August 5, 2025, and after a rainy day, the skies cleared for a beautiful evening outside for a celebration filled with smiles, laughter, and all the energy that comes with the start of a new school year. Live music was provided by My Yellow Rickshaw and our school community’s generous support for the Shepherd Community highlighted the strong spirit of giving that defines Heritage.
See what some of our parents shared about this year’s celebration.
“Kids were dancing with huge smiles, parents were reconnecting, and everyone was just happy to be back together. It felt like the perfect way to kick off another school year!”
“There was such overwhelming joy within the Heritage community!”
“We are so grateful that our school fosters a closeknit, welcoming atmosphere.”
“You could truly feel the excitement, love, and anticipation for the new school year, as well as the warmth of families coming together in fellowship.”
At HCS, our teachers, faculty, and staff are passionate about living out our mission, vision, and values every day. They weave biblical truth into every subject they teach and are deeply committed to discipling and mentoring our students. Their dedication goes beyond the classroom, shaping hearts and minds for Christ. Below, you’ll find highlights about some of the new individuals who make up our incredible team. Discover more at heritagechristian.net/teachers.
6th Grade Teacher
Meet Seth Ambrose who returned to Heritage with a unique perspective as an alum, having graduated in 2021. Now a 6th grade ELA, social studies, and Bible teacher, he carries the influence of his own experiences as a student and the legacy of his father, longtime HCS history teacher and baseball coach Dan Ambrose. After earning his bachelor’s degree in Secondary Social Studies Education from Bethel University, Seth felt both academically and spiritually prepared to step into the classroom.
“I’ve loved seeing Heritage from the perspective of a student and now as a teacher, knowing that everyone here wants what is best for the kids—to know Jesus,” he shared. For Seth, teaching is about more than academics; it’s about mentoring students in their faith and personal growth. A former college baseball player, Seth brings energy, teamwork, and fun into his classroom.
For nearly 25 years, Kim Armstrong has dedicated her life to teaching, with 19 of those years at Heritage Christian School. Her journey has included homeschooling, public, and Christian school teaching, but her heart has always been with early elementary students. “God has placed on my heart the desire to inspire our young students to have a growth mindset and a love of reading,” Kim shared. “It’s a joy to help them grow into the person God created them to be.”
Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University and has taught nearly every grade from kindergarten through 4th grade. Now, as Academic Coach, she helps shape the learning experiences of Heritage’s young Eagles. Kim’s connection to Heritage runs deep—her children and grandchildren have attended HCS, and her daughter serves as the Elementary Librarian. Kim loves being a part of a community that shares her faith and mission. “I just love working in a place that honors our Lord Jesus and working with so many incredible people who love the Lord and do their best for Him each day.”
Intermediate and Middle School Assistant Principal and Varsity Head Football Coach
Welcome Caleb Brink, our new Intermediate and Middle School Assistant Principal and Varsity Head Football Coach. Caleb was inspired to pursue a career in education because of the profound impact his K-12 teachers had on his life. “My life was radically impacted by the teachers I had during my K-12 experience,” he shared. “It is a vocation full of purpose and meaning; I feel extremely blessed to be an educator.”
Caleb holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and English from Wheaton College and a master’s in educational administration from Lamar University. He was drawn to Heritage for its excellence in gospel-centered learning. “In my opinion, Heritage Christian offers the best spiritual and educational environment in the Indianapolis area,” he said. His leadership philosophy is rooted in his faith. “Christian education allows parents to partner with the Church to give their children the foundations of a biblical worldview – a rich inheritance,” he explained. Caleb is passionate about equipping students to know Jesus and impact the world for Christ.
Intermediate and Middle School Girls’ Discipleship Coordinator for 5th- 8th Grade
Welcome Michelle Schall, our Intermediate and Middle School Girls’ Discipleship Coordinator for 5th through 8th grade. With 24 years of experience in both public and private schools, Michelle brings a love for the energy and rewards of working with students.
Michelle holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Taylor University and a master’s in Social Work from Indiana University. She was drawn to Heritage Christian School for its long-standing family connection and the opportunity to integrate faith into her daily work. Her philosophy centers on intentional, relational discipleship, focusing on the spiritual and emotional care of each student. “I hope to impact students by helping them learn about and mature in their walk with Jesus before they head off on their own,” she shared. From planning spiritual engagement opportunities to teaching Bible classes, Michelle’s mission is clear. Prayer is central to her approach, and she is dedicated to praying daily for students and the school community.
Meet Matt Sullivan, High School Business Teacher. After 22 years in corporate America, Matt felt called to step into the classroom. “The Lord called me out of corporate America and into education,” he shared. Now, he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for teaching personal finance through the lens of biblical stewardship. “I want to help students see money not as the goal, but as a resource to manage faithfully, wisely, and generously in service to God and others,” he explained.
Matt earned a bachelor’s degree in General Studies with a focus on Behavioral and Social Sciences from Indiana University. He was drawn to Heritage’s covenant school model, which aligned with his family’s values. His teaching philosophy is rooted in faith, viewing education as an opportunity to invest in students’ hearts and minds for the Kingdom. This year, Matt is excited to walk alongside students in their faith journeys, helping them feel connected, valued, and inspired by Christ’s example of love and service.
It is with deep appreciation that we share the news of high school Bible teacher Carter Booker’s retirement from Heritage Christian School. During his time at Heritage, Mr. Booker poured his heart into helping students grow in their faith, equipping them to think critically and stand firm in the truth of the Gospel. His senior Bible classes— known for their rigor and the unforgettable “Booker Bible tests”—shaped generations of graduates, preparing them to defend their faith with clarity and conviction. His legacy is found not only in lessons taught but in countless conversations and moments where he pointed students to Christ. We celebrate Mr. Booker’s steadfast faithfulness and the profound mark he has left on Heritage Christian School.
“As believers, it is important that our minds be engaged in our walk with the Lord, just as much as our hearts.”
- Carter Booker
EPH.3:20-21 // HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL \\ 2025-26
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20 -21
The spiritual theme for the 2025-26 school year is based on Ephesians 3:20-21, which emphasizes God’s limitless power and glory. There are four significant themes to this passage:
This passage reminds us that God is not limited by our understanding, our imagination, or even our prayers. He is able to do immeasurably more, not for our comfort or success, but according to His will, by His power, and for His glory. His work in us is always aimed at fulfilling His perfect purposes shaping hearts, building faith, and advancing His kingdom.
This passage emphasizes that God’s power is not distant or abstract – it’s actively at work within us. As believers, we are empowered by Him to fulfill His purposes and live out our faith in meaningful ways.
The ultimate purpose of God’s power and blessings is to bring Him glory. This passage calls us to worship and praise, acknowledging that all good things come from Him and are for His eternal glory.
Finally, these verses speak to the enduring nature of God’s glory. His work and praise will continue through all generations,
reminding us of the lasting legacy of faith and eternal nature of His kingdom.
Throughout the school year, our focus will be on what it means to trust God to do more than we can ask or imagine—not according to our desires, but in alignment with His plan. We’ll learn that true growth and transformation come not from striving harder, but from surrendering more deeply to the One who is already at work within us. “We would love to see students, faculty, staff, and families all become astounded with both the goodness and the greatness of God,” said Ken Shutt, Discipleship Director.
As a school community, we want to walk in confidence not in ourselves, but in God’s ability to work powerfully in and through us. This year’s theme invites us to pursue bold, prayerful lives, fully submitted to Christ, and to celebrate when God’s plans surpass our own.
It is our prayer that students, families, and staff at Heritage Christian will experience the joy, peace, and awe of following a God who does immeasurably more than we could ever plan for our good and His glory.
Every Wednesday, a dedicated group parents walk the halls, lifting up the needs of our students, teachers, staff, and families. Their faith and prayers make such a difference in our school community!
This year marks an exciting step forward in our Discipleship program with a new focus on weekly spiritual growth for our younger students. To help facilitate this important change, we are thrilled to welcome Lisa Huff as our new Elementary Discipleship Coordinator.
Under Lisa’s guidance, our elementary students have moved to a weekly chapel service, held every Friday morning at 9 a.m. This dedicated time allows students to gather, worship, and deepen their faith through age-appropriate teaching and connection, helping to embed spiritual formation into the rhythm of their school week.
“I LOVE elementary chapel! I can hardly wait to hear our kids raising their voices together in praise to God. You might just see a tear or two down my cheek when our kids start to sing.”
- Lisa Huff, Elementary Discipleship Coordinator
At HCS, discipleship is not just a program – it’s a way of life. It’s our mission to faithfully nurture every student to know Christ deeply, live for him wholeheartedly, and impact the world for His Glory.
To further meet the spiritual needs of our students, the discipleship team expanded this school year. Michelle Schall joined as the Girls’ Discipleship Coordinator, bringing additional support and guidance for our female students. In the elementary school, Lisa Huff joined us as the Elementary Discipleship Coordinator, allowing us to move to weekly chapels for our young learners. These changes reflect our commitment to providing intentional, Christ-centered opportunities for every student to grow in their faith.
“Because God is and does immeasurably more, we are excited to witness His work and join Him in it. We’ve already seen Jesus do incredible things in the lives of our students and our community, and it’s our hope that everyone will recognize His work and declare His glory by obediently living out His calling in their lives.”
- Ken Shutt, HCS Discipleship Director
At Heritage, we believe that growth and learning extend far beyond the walls of the classroom. That’s why we encourage our students to explore their interests and grow their talents through our variety of clubs and organizations. From intermediate to high school, there’s something for everyone! These activities not only provide opportunities for fun and connection, but also help students develop leadership skills, uncover their spiritual gifts, and pursue their God-given passions. Check out the full list of clubs and organizations available to our students:
Bible Studies
Books and Snacks
(MS Literature Club)
C-Club for Christ (Biblical Service & Stewardship)
Crochet
Frisby Golf
IS General Music
Mock Trial
MS Chapel/Worship Band
MS Jazz Band
Robotics
Spelling Bee Club (Preparation for State Spelling Bee)
Wood and The Word Club (Traditional Craftsmanship)
AP Art Portfolio
Bible/Book Studies
Chamber Orchestra
Jazz Combo
National Honor Society
Student Council
VEX Robotics
Mock Trial
Theatre (Fall Musical/ Spring Play)
After a short pit stop, the Heritage Go-Kart Club is back in action! Led by high school Physics teacher, Adam Snyder, the club is part of Purdue’s evGrandPrix High School Program, offering students an incredible hands-on STEM experience. For many, it’s a chance to discover a passion for STEM careers and build the confidence to chase their dreams.
“We have about 15 students signed up this year,” shared Adam. “We’ve started fundraising and are diving into the initial work on the kart.” From assembly and fundraising to media outreach, financial planning, and event scheduling, students are taking the wheel on every aspect of the project. “Our goal is to be race-ready for the spring circuit of the evGrandPrix,” he added.
Social/Hobby Clubs:
• Board Games
• Card Sharks
• Chess
• Childhood Games
• Club America (TPUSA)
• Conversations Inspired by Higher Level Mathematics
• Cornhole
• Creative Writing
• English Premier League
• Entrepreneurship
• Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
• Go-Kart Club
• Guitar Jam Session
• Music Production
• PepClub
• Pickleball
• Reading Nook
• Study Break Games
• Wilderness Explorers
• Yearbook
• Young Life
With Adam’s guidance and support from Purdue, students aren’t just learning STEM principles—they’re gaining realworld experience in teamwork, leadership, marketing and project management.
We can’t wait to cheer on this hardworking team as they gear up for an exciting season ahead!
The 2025-2026 Mock Trial season has begun! In Mock Trial, students step into the courtroom to tackle the ultimate challenge: building a case from the ground up. Working in teams of seven to eight, they develop case theories, craft compelling lines of questioning, and prepare to argue both sides of a legal case.
Students playing attorneys dive deep into the Federal Rules of Evidence, learning to present their case with precision and professionalism. Meanwhile, those taking on witness roles bring characters to life, mastering every detail and developing personalities that captivate the courtroom. Every trial is unique, and with it comes the chance to build confidence, poise, and the ability to think on your feet—all while under the pressure of the courtroom spotlight.
But it’s not just about the competition. Students often say the best part of Mock Trial is the laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories forged during intense practices and trials. These bonds create friendships that last long after the final verdict. It’s no wonder so many Mock Trial alumni return to support the program, keeping the tradition alive for future generations.
Since 1999, Heritage has built a strong reputation as one of the top five schools in the highly competitive Indiana High School Mock Trial program. Our teams have a remarkable history of success, winning the Indianapolis Regional competition more than ten times and consistently advancing multiple teams to the state finals. At least one team regularly finishes in the top 10 statewide. In 2025, Heritage students took home five of the twenty Top 10 Best Attorney and Witness honors.
Through an engaging 8-week after school program, and coached by our students in high school mock trial, our middle school mock trial students gain valuable experience in public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork as they argue real-world-inspired cases in a “courtroom” setting.
Our five high school robotics teams and one middle school team have been hard at work since summer, designing, building, and programming robots for this year’s VEX V5 Robotics Competition, a worldwide challenge where students engineer and code robots to complete game-based tasks. Learn more about the VEX V5 program on vexrobotics.com/v5/competition/vrc-current-game. HCS has six VEX V5 teams:
Sam Adams, Josh Davis, Chase Galloway, Ezra King
6210P: PLEASE WORK
Justus Melchi, Caleb Lyon, Tate Manbeck
Libby Dixon, Luke Dixon, Dean Bender, Muyang Cheng
6210C: COSMIC CRASH
Dexter Buckley, Aidan Leist 6210M: META MAFIA
6210H: HALAPEÑOS
Paige Loholdt, Sandy Melika (Middle School Team): Austin Leist, Caden Peterson, Noah Terrell
During the weekend of October 4, our Robotics teams kicked off their season with an impressive showing at Kentucky’s Battle of the Bolt Tournament, competing against 23 other teams. All five Heritage teams advanced to the elimination rounds, delivering standout performances that set the tone for an exciting season ahead:
6210M took home the Excellence Award, the tournament’s highest honor, and claimed the Skills Champion Award for the top driving and coding score! 6210A battled their way to the finals.
Congratulations to all our teams for their hard work, teamwork, and incredible achievements! We can’t wait to see what the rest of the season holds.
6210H (our middle school team) and 6210M reached the semifinals.
6210P made it to the quarterfinals.
6210B competed through round 16.
Our elementary and middle school robotics teams work hard every year, honing their engineering, programming, and collaboration skills. These students are part of the VEX IQ Robotics platform, building and programming robots to tackle the year’s exciting challenges. Beyond competitions, they grow in innovation, critical thinking, and teamwork – the real “win” of Heritage Robotics.
After weeks of excitement, social media buzz, and a naming contest, the big moment finally arrived during the Homecoming pep rallies on October 3. Say hello to Swoop the Eagle, our school’s spirited new mascot, ready to bring energy and pride to our school events!
During the Homecoming football game on Friday, October 3, Heritage Christian School proudly announced the launch of its Athletics Hall of Fame, celebrating the rich legacy of excellence in sports. The inaugural inductee, Al Leinbach, was honored for his outstanding contributions to the school’s athletic program and lasting impact on the community.
Al Leinbach has spent 59 years in service at Heritage Christian School, including 10 years as the Athletic Director from 19661976. Al also served as Varsity Head Boys Soccer Coach from 1970-1982 and again from 1986-1999, along with Varsity Head Boys Basketball Coach from 1966-1976. During his time as a Head Coach, Al achieved an impressive 400+ victories and coached in more than 600 contests. Most impressively, Coach Leinbach brought Heritage Christian our first ever State Championship, when he led the 1977 Boys Soccer team to victory over New Albany High School 1-0.
Al represents the very best of Heritage Christian School, not only for his athletic achievements, but for his Christian character, sacrificial leadership, and lasting influence on our community.
During this year’s Homecoming festivities, the Class of 1975 gathered to celebrate their 50-year reunion—a milestone filled with laughter, memories, and reconnections. Alumni enjoyed reminiscing about their time at Heritage, sharing stories from the past and catching up on life’s journeys since graduation.
The group toured the campus, marveling at how much has changed while cherishing the familiar spirit that still feels like home. While catching up and snapping photos together, the Class of 1975 proved that the bonds formed at Heritage truly stand the test of time.
We’re so grateful to have hosted this special group and to celebrate their legacy as part of the Heritage community. Here’s to 50 years of faith, friendship and fond memories— and many more to come!
Heritage Christian School is pleased to announce its membership in the Indiana Crossroads Conference (ICC), beginning with the 2025–26 school year. As one of Indiana’s premier athletic conferences for small schools, the ICC offers an exciting new chapter for our athletic program.
“Joining the Indiana Crossroads Conference has been a blessing and a positive step forward for our athletic program,” shared Stephanie Gillett, HCS Athletic Director. “It provides our teams with missionaligned opponents, additional recognition opportunities for our student-athletes, and increased avenues for community engagement.”
The ICC is home to schools that share our commitment to sportsmanship, excellence, and integrity—values we strive to instill in every Heritage Christian athlete. The conference’s impressive legacy includes:
42 IHSAA State Championships
57 IHSAA Semi-State Championships
128 IHSAA Regional Championships
354 IHSAA Sectional Championships
“It’s been encouraging to see our student-athletes already rise to the challenge and represent Christ and our school with excellence in this new environment,” added Stephanie.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to collaborate with member schools Cardinal Ritter, Covenant Christian, Scecina Memorial, Greenwood Christian, and Indianapolis Lutheran to uphold the ICC’s tradition of sportsmanship and excellence.
For more information, visit hcsathletics.net/conference.
Heritage Christian School is proud to announce that Athletic Director Stephanie Gillett has been elected to the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) Board of Directors as the Private School Representative. This election is both a professional honor and a meaningful opportunity for Stephanie to represent private schools across the state at the highest level of high school athletic governance in Indiana.
“Having committed my career to serving others through education-based athletics over the past two decades—ten of those years here in Indiana—it’s exciting to be given the opportunity to lead from within this role at the state level,” Stephanie shared. In this role, she will represent all private schools in Indiana, giving voice to their unique perspectives and challenges within the broader high school athletics landscape.
“This position gives Heritage Christian School a deeper understanding of and greater voice in the broader landscape of Indiana high school athletics,” she explained. “It reinforces that Heritage Christian is a school of influence—not just competing at high levels, but also contributing at the highest levels.”
Above all, Stephanie expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “I want our community to know that my heart is to serve faithfully, represent our school well, and continue building a program that develops young men and women of strong character and Christlike leadership both on and off the field,” she said.
We congratulate Stephanie on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to the positive impact she will make for private schools and studentathletes across Indiana.
“This role will help share Heritage Christian’s commitment to developing student-athletes’ character and leadership.”
– Stephanie Gillett, HCS Athletic Director
God is working in the lives of young men through “Pizza and Jesus,” a weekly football team Bible study. After taking a look at the Gospel and God’s call on their lives, 12 players made the decision to be baptized! Just a couple of weeks later, 11 of those students were baptized on the football field, each sharing their testimony with their teammates and our school community.
In January 2025, Heritage took an exciting step of faith by launching an FCA Huddle with just 20 students and one adult leader. Since then, God has been at work in incredible ways! Today, nearly 70 students gather during the school day, 30+ football players meet after school, and a Coaches Huddle has formed. Through this ministry, hearts have been encouraged, healing has taken place, and relationships have been beautifully restored.
This school year, HCS welcomed Greg Habegger as the new Assistant Athletic Director. After 34 years in education and nearly two decades in athletic administration, Greg thought he was stepping away from school life … until God opened the door at Heritage. “I realized I missed working at a school and with kids and coaches,” he shared. “The Lord graciously opened the door to this opportunity and I am beyond grateful to be here.”
GLORIFY GOD. PLAY HARD. HAVE FUN.
Varsity Sports*
Girls Golf: Qualified as a team for Regionals; Senior Bevin Turner competed at State.
Girls Volleyball: ICC Champions
Girls Cross Country: ICC Champions | Advanced as a team to Regionals for first time in school history.
Boys Cross Country: ICC Champions | Three boys advanced to Regionals.
Girls Soccer: ICC Champions | Sectional Champions | Regional Champions | Semi-State Champions.
*Some varsity seasons are not complete at time of publication.
Middle School Sports
Boys Cross Country: Placed 1st at the State Meet.
8th Grade Girls Volleyball: Won the Marion County Tournament.
In August, Kya Crooke (HCS ’25) was named 2024-2025 National Christian School Athletic Association (NCSAA) Girls’ Varsity Track and Field National Athlete of the Year She had been named to this NCSAA Athlete of the Year award once (in 2022-23) and was also the Fall Girls’ Soccer Player of the Year (2023-24). Kya is the first HCS athlete to be named a Player of the Year in multiple sports! “Kya has been an incredible representative of our school and most importantly of Jesus Christ,” said Stephanie Gillett, HCS Athletic Director. “She is not only accomplished in her skill and shows that in competition, she also serves those around her well as a role model and example to being a Christian student-athlete.”
After being selected as the 7th overall pick in the 2024 Pro Volleyball Federation Draft and spending her rookie season with the Grand Rapids Rise, Raven Colvin (HCS ’21) signed with Major League Volleyball’s Atlanta Vibe on August 7, 2025. Following her time at Heritage, Raven had an outstanding volleyball career at Purdue. She recorded 642 total blocks, leading the team in that category for three of her four seasons as a Boilermaker. Her impressive performance earned her two AVCA All-American honors and back-to-back All-Big Ten First Team selections in 2023 and 2024.
On June 24, 2025, Kya was named the 2024-25 Gatorade Indiana Track & Field Player of the Year, an honor recognizing the nation’s top high school athletes for their excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. Kya set a state record in the high jump with a mark of 6 feet, 2 inches, which ranked first nationally among high school girls last spring. She also won the high jump and long jump at the Girls State Track & Field Championships, with her long jump of 20-4.75 ranking No. 10 nationally. Kya also helped lead the Heritage Christian Girls Soccer Team to a 2024 Class A semi-state appearance. “Kya solved the technique puzzle necessary to become the best high jumper in America last spring,” said Rich Gonzalez, editor of PrepCalTrack.com. “She graduated as one of the 10 best high jumpers in prep girls national history.”
he timeless tale of The Wizard of Oz is coming to life on the Heritage stage! Dorothy Gale and her unforgettable friends—the Scarecrow, Tin Woodsman, and Cowardly Lion—will trot tunefully down the yellow brick road in this delightful, family-friendly production of the classic story.
After a tornado sweeps Dorothy to the magical land of Oz, she embarks on a journey to find the mighty Wizard who can send her home. Along the way, she faces the Wicked Witch of the West and discovers the true meaning of friendship.
Tickets are $15 and are available online at heritagechristian.net/finearts.
Our Fall Choral Concert was a delightful celebration of music and the perfect way to begin a new season at Heritage! Middle and high school choirs lit up the stage with inspiring performances, blending talent, passion, and heart into every song.
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 contributions will help enhance the current fine arts program by providing additional experiences such as field trips, attending honors events, and acquiring equipment that enriches music, theatre, and art classrooms.
We offer different levels of membership and invite interested families 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.
$100
$250
$500
$1,000
Recognition in program
Recognition in the program & Priority Ticket Selection for 2 seats at each fine arts event
Recognition in the program & Priority Ticket Selection for 4 seats at each fine arts event
Recognition in the program & Priority Ticket Selection for 8 seats at each fine arts event CONTRIBUTION
This fall, students at Heritage have been treated to an extraordinary opportunity to engage with the Huffman Collection of Fine Art, a remarkable assembly of original works by masters like Rembrandt, Picasso, and Renoir. The collection also features historical documents and artifacts with royal origins, bringing both art and history to life in our classrooms.
On loan from Santa Fe Christian School in Solana Beach, CA, this special collection has enriched our art and history classes, offering students a hands-on connection to cultural and historical treasures and was a truly unforgettable experience for our students.
Joshua Neal’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and a heart for service. His journey as a Scout has not only shaped him into a leader, but has also left a lasting impact on his community and beyond.
For HCS sophomore, Joshua Neal, scouting has been more than just earning badges or going on camping trips—it’s been a life-changing journey of growth, faith, and service to others. Joshua joined Cub Scouts at the age of 11 and transitioned to Boy Scouts at 13, following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a Scout. “When it came time for me to join, I was super excited to spend time with my dad doing stuff we both liked,” Joshua shared. One of Joshua’s favorite aspects of scouting is the freedom to shape his own experience. “You can go camping all the time, and you can choose what to focus on in your scouting career,” he explained. “For example, you can prioritize advancement and getting to be an Eagle Scout, focus on making friends and having fun, or some mixture of both.”
Joshua’s hard work and dedication recently earned him the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, an achievement that only about 4% of Scouts attain. Reflecting on this milestone, Joshua said, “Being an Eagle Scout means a lot to me because I am a part of that small percentage of people. It shows me that I can do whatever I put my mind to with help from the Lord.”
For his Eagle Scout project, Joshua wanted to create something that would make a lasting impact on his community. After considering several ideas, he decided to build a prayer path at Castleton Community Church—a quarter mile prayer path in the woods behind the church designed to inspire reflection, prayer, and connection with God. The path is complete with a restored fire pit, new benches, and a large cross made from railroad ties. The path guides visitors through the ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication) model of prayer as a way to help people grow in their faith while enjoying the beauty of nature.
“I wanted to do something to help the whole community, not just the church, and I felt that a prayer path would be perfect,” Joshua explained.
The project was no small feat. Joshua and his team faced several challenges, including adding drainage, building two bridges, and completely redoing the firepit. “The most challenging part wasn’t just one thing—it was a
combination of multiple things,” he said. Despite the obstacles, Joshua persevered with the help of his family and his faith. “I learned that I can do anything I set my mind to as long as I have the Lord on my side.”
Among the many elements of the prayer path, Joshua is especially proud of the two bridges and the “Rugged Cross.” “I built the bridges myself with help from my grandparents,” he shared. “And the Rugged Cross is really special to me because it was made from railroad ties and finished with a beautiful lashing holding the two pieces together.”
For Joshua, the prayer path is more than just a physical space—it’s a way to bring people closer to God. “Creating the prayer path was important to me because I wanted to make an impact on the whole community and help get people into church so God can help change their hearts,” he said.
Joshua’s hard work and dedication were recently recognized when he received the Merle H. Miller Eagle Scout Project of the Year Award during the
2025 Silver Beaver Awards Dinner. Along with the award, Joshua also earned a scholarship to help support his future education.
“It felt great when I received the award, not because I got honored, but because the prayer path was talked about and heard about by many people,” Joshua said. “It was able to shine glory on God and help forward His kingdom. Knowing that more people will see it and maybe come to the Lord makes me very happy and excited!”
Through his scouting journey, Joshua has learned valuable lessons about perseverance, leadership, and faith. “I’ve had many people tell me to slow down or even try to discourage me, but with the support of my family, friends, and Jesus, I was able to complete this big project,” he reflected. “I realized that with the help of my family and God, all things are possible.”
As the chaplain’s aide for his troop, Joshua has embraced the opportunity
to share his faith with others. “If anyone has questions about religious things, they can come to me,” he explained. “This gives me opportunities to tell others about Jesus and answer any questions they might have.”
For younger Scouts, Joshua offered this advice: “Try your best, and if you fail, get up again and try again. Never quit. Always have the mindset of, ‘I’ll quit tomorrow,’ and when tomorrow comes, say the same thing.”
As Joshua prepares for the future, he’s keeping his options open. While he’s not yet sure where he’ll attend college or what he’ll study, he’s considering a career as a professional umpire with the MLB. One thing is certain: Joshua plans to stay involved in scouting, continuing to attend meetings, camping trips, and summer camp even after he turns 18. When asked to sum up his scouting experience in one word, Joshua chose “worthwhile.” He explained, “My scouting experience has been challenging, but very rewarding at the same time.”
The Heritage Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF) is a passionate group of volunteers committed to fostering connection and support among our faculty, staff, and families. Through thoughtfully planned events, PTF creates opportunities to bring our community closer together throughout the school year. Whether you’re a new parent or a long-time member of the Heritage family, joining PTF is a meaningful way to get involved, make an impact, and help create lasting memories for everyone. Together, we can strengthen our community and make this year unforgettable!
November 15 Upaint Pottery
December 19 Worthy Servants Luncheon
January 16 Middle School Pacers Game
February 6 Candy Bar Bingo
March 5 Skate Party
April 25 Father-Daughter Ball
May 1 Fun Run
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, 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.
Heritage Dad’s Club meets once a month before school for prayer and fellowship. Join other dads to pray over the school and our students, as well as enjoy breakfast and a time of instruction from a guest speaker. We believe it is vital to have a foundation of prayer at Heritage, and the Dad’s Club is one part of this initiative. We also want to engage Heritage dads and invest in them and their influence in the home.
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.
Leah (Richards) Hartzell has always had a heart for leading and teaching, and today, she’s doing both as the Marketing Director of Bulldogs Moving Company and a business professor at Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU). After graduating from Heritage in 2011, Leah earned both her undergraduate and MBA degrees from IWU and went on to build a career in marketing, education, and entrepreneurship. These days, she and her husband Seth are also raising two boys, Edison (4) and Franklin (2). “Life is full, and I’m so thankful for the journey God has led us on,” she shared.
Leah sees it as a privilege to teach Small Business Management to juniors and seniors at IWU, a role that allows her to invest in the next generation of entrepreneurs. She credits her time at Heritage with helping shape that passion for mentorship and faithdriven leadership. “Attending HCS was one of the greatest blessings of my childhood,” she said. “I formed meaningful relationships with teachers whose kindness, faith, and steady presence were truly inspirational. I consider the teachers I had at Heritage true heroes, and I still look up to them today.”
During her 7th grade year, Leah’s father, beloved HCS coach “Doc” Richards passed away from cancer. It was a profound loss, but Leah remembers how the Heritage community stepped in with overwhelming love and
support. “Losing a parent at that age was incredibly difficult, but the love and generosity I received from the HCS community made me feel deeply supported,” she shared. That experience, along with the example of her teachers, “sparked a dream in my heart—to become a college professor,” Leah said.
“Today, I’m honored to teach students and do my best to bring that same encouragement and inspiration into my own classroom.” One of those defining moments happened in Geometry class, when Mr. Schnake gave a devotion on the Rich Young Ruler. “Something about that message hit me deeply,” Leah recalled. “That was the moment my faith shifted from religion to relationship. I stopped focusing on what I could do for God and began receiving what He had already done— and continues to do—for me.”
Her father’s legacy continues as well. Etched in black script on the Heritage gym floor are the words he lived and coached by: “Glorify God. Play Hard. Have Fun.” Leah carries that wisdom with her and passes it on.
“Don’t stress about the future—He has it,” she encourages current HCS students. “Show up in the present and work your hardest, and you’ll be prepared for what the future brings.”
Even now, Leah and Seth find ways to stay connected to Heritage. Last year, Bulldogs Moving donated a box truck to help deliver Operation Christmas Child boxes. “We really enjoyed doing it and would love to in the future,” Leah said. They’ve also partnered with Life Centers for donation drives. “If anyone from HCS ever has baby items to donate, we can pick up and deliver!”
From honoring her dad’s legacy to living out her own calling, Leah Hartzell is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose, faith, and joy.
“Lament unlocks the door to hope.” These powerful words reflect the heart behind Awakening Hope, a non-profit ministry founded in 2023 by Joy (Davis) Hoot and her husband, Nate. Born out of personal experience and deep faith, Awakening Hope walks alongside individuals and families navigating the realities of disability—offering soul care, belonging, and beauty in the midst of heartache.
In 2016, Joy and Nate’s son was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The sorrow of that diagnosis became a sacred invitation: an invitation to lament, to grieve, and—ultimately—to hope. From that journey came a calling to encourage others facing similar challenges. Through Awakening Hope, the Hoots are now ministering to families across the country, helping them discover the hidden beauty and deep connection that can grow even in the hardest of places.
We are proud of the way Joy is living out her faith with compassion and purpose. To learn more or connect with their ministry, visit awakeninghope.org.
DR. AUSTIN MCDONALD (2012)
After graduating from HCS in 2012, Dr. Austin McDonald spent the next 12 years immersed in higher education, earning a PhD in mechanical engineering. “Most of that time was for my PhD, working in a lab creating ways to use lasers to measure the effectiveness of new rocket fuels,” he explains.
Today, Austin invests in the next generation of engineers as a university instructor, teaching thermodynamics and mechanics at Purdue’s downtown Indianapolis campus.
Reflecting on his time at HCS, Austin credits his K–12 education with providing an exceptional academic foundation. “My teachers at HCS were the best I’ve ever had,” he says. He still keeps a one-page calculus guide from Mr. Schnake in his desk and recalls Ms. Morton’s AP Statistics class preparing him so well that a master’s-level course “came back easily six years later.” Even his high school writing classes, he says, prepared him better for the academic peer-review process than anything else.
Austin also carries spiritual lessons from HCS, shaping his worldview and teaching him to value truth, wonder, and the power of words.
Lauren Meyers, a 2025 graduate of Carnegie Mellon University with University Honors in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Robotics, recently landed her dream job as a Mechanical Engineer at SpaceX. She now works on Starship Launch Hardware at Cape Canaveral.
“SpaceX is pursuing a very exciting mission of making life multiplanetary and making rockets reusable,” Lauren shared. “Getting the chance to contribute to such an important development in technology was not something I was going to pass up.”
Lauren’s passion for engineering began at Heritage. “HCS was where my love for learning and engineering blossomed,” she said. As a middle schooler, she joined the newly founded robotics team and later took Project Lead the Way engineering classes taught by her mom, Kathy Meyers. “Those classes gave me a strong foundation that set me ahead in college,” she explained.
Lauren encourages students to embrace challenges. “Challenges are what help you grow as a person. Get out of your comfort zone and trust in God’s plan for you!”
