Elementary at HCA

Welcome to Elementary

Welcome to Heritage Christian Academy, where we believe the elementary years are a time of wonder, discovery, and rapid transformation—foundational years that shape not only a student’s mind, but also their heart and character. Whether it’s the thrill of reading that very first book, the pride of a successful classroom presentation, or the anticipation of "graduating" to middle school, Heritage stands as your partner—fully invested in your child’s development and future success.

Our staff is passionate about ensuring that every child feels welcomed, truly known, and deeply loved—not only by us, but by Jesus. We are unwavering in our mission to equip students to pursue Jesus and discover His unique purpose for their lives. By nurturing character development, we empower students to become servant-hearted scholars, compassionate friends, and inspiring leaders. Learning at Heritage transcends the classroom—from worshiping together in music class, to exploring creativity in our innovative STEM labs, to building relationships on the playground, your child is invited to soar! We offer a rich, engaging curriculum that ignites curiosity and fosters a love of learning. Recognizing that each child is wonderfully created, we provide both challenge and support—ensuring that all students are equipped to be and feel successful.

God is moving at Heritage, transforming lives and shaping futures. We are honored to send our elementary students into middle school as confident, compassionate, and academically strong learners—and we cannot wait to see them graduate from high school as HCA Eagles! There has never been a more exciting time to become part of the Heritage family. I look forward to welcoming you to campus and partnering with you in your child’s remarkable journey. 

A Heritage of making memories

Since 1979, we have built a Heritage of academic distinction, Christ-centered values, and cherished traditions. As we honor our rich history, we are also boldly focused on the future—investing in innovative programs, expanding opportunities, and preparing every student to meet tomorrow’s challenges with faith, integrity, and confidence. At Heritage, your child will be part of a vibrant community where tradition and forward-thinking vision work hand in hand to inspire lifelong growth.

Heritage Highlights
  • Kindergarten: Jingle bells at Christmas chapel and a special year-end graduation
  • 1st Grade: Teddy bear and Dr. Seuss weeks, tooth count charts
  • 2nd Grade: Habitat projects, cursive, and multiplication tables!
  • 3rd Grade: Reciting Luke 2 for Christmas chapel, Live Wax Museum
  • 4th Grade: Washington State Notebook
  • 5th Grade: Nation Notebook, Camp Casey outdoor education trip
In His Service,

Mrs. Jennifer Edler
Elementary Principal
jennifere@hcabothell.org
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Admissons Information

"This is the best decision we have made in the life of our child, and we believe that God called us to be Heritage parents. Take a tour. Talk to the staff. See for yourself." 
- HCA Parent

Program distinctives


Faith: Rooted in Christ 

"What we love most about Heritage is the genuine love the staff and teachers have for both our children and for Jesus. It's clear they are passionate about what they do and take their roles seriously—not just in teaching academics, but in nurturing each child’s faith. They consistently make thoughtful, prayerful decisions and are always seeking ways to grow and improve the school, creating meaningful experiences and opportunities for our children. We’re so thankful to be part of a community where Christ-centered education is truly lived out."

Mission Minded and Missional
At Heritage, we glorify God together by equipping students to pursue Jesus and His purpose for their lives. This mission drives every aspect of our school, allowing biblical integration across all subject areas and activities. As a school, we ensure that every decision and offering aligns with our mission, and our students learn to use the same lens as they navigate through their formative years and beyond.

Heritage is a missional school that welcomes families from all backgrounds and faiths. While we do not require families to attend a particular church or share our beliefs, we are open about our commitment to integrating Jesus and a biblical worldview—at an age-appropriate level—into every aspect of the school day. We invite all families to partner with us and experience the Heritage difference, knowing that our mission and core values are central to who we are.
Weekly Chapel Services
Our students gather weekly for chapel, which includes worship and a message. We also gather as a school family, including our older secondary students, for special chapel weeks: Veterans' Day, Christmas, Easter, as well as our monthly Philippians Awards, where we recap our biblical character trait focus and recognize students and staff who exemplify the month's characteristic. Combined chapels unify us as a school family and provide opportunities for our older students to serve and model for our younger students.
Share Chapels
As the school year draws to a close, students create and lead their own Share Chapels. They might share how they use the "superhero" gifts God has given them, perform engaging skits, or recite meaningful Bible passages. Through these chapels, students encourage and inspire one another with heartfelt messages and creative presentations.
Bible curriculum
Our kindergarten through second-grade students enjoy exploring a variety of Bible stories together throughout the year. Beginning in third grade, we introduce the inductive Bible study method (Kay Arthur). Students learn to follow three key steps when studying God’s Word: observation, interpretation, and application. Our goal is for students to see that the Word is living and active—not just something to read and recap, but something to question, dig deeper into, and apply to their own lives.
Memory Verses
Throughout their elementary years, our students are challenged to memorize Scripture. Not only is rote memorization beneficial for a child's brain development, but we also pray that students will draw on the Bible verses they learned for the rest of their lives.

"I have stored up your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11
chapel blog


Fundamentals: Student-Tailored Academics

From the moment I started working here, I knew this was the right place for our family. The caring staff and the welcoming, family-like atmosphere make every student feel seen, valued, and loved. Heritage is more than a school—it’s a community that genuinely reflects Christ’s love and helps our children grow in their faith. That commitment to both education and spiritual growth is why we choose Heritage every day. 

-Mrs. Gaeta, 3rd-grade teacher and HCA elementary, middle, and high school parent.

Biblically-Based Curriculum
Christ is reflected in all subject areas, and we teach from a biblical worldview. Students are equipped to become independent, critical thinkers who approach all topics through the lens of Jesus.
Kindergarten-2nd Grade: Learning to Read
At HCA, we believe that the focus in kindergarten through second grade is on "learning to read." By the time students reach third grade, they should be able to confidently "read to learn." The developmental continuum for children extends through early third grade. We are dedicated to meeting students at their current level and providing them with the support they need for growth and long-term success in school and beyond.

  • Reading (BJU)
    • Reading A to Z: regularly assess decoding, fluency, and comprehension, assigning students an independent reading level
    • Reading centers: Small group reading sessions with the teacher and students at similar levels, active and independent centers around the room
    • Sight words
  • Math (BJU)
    • Graduated lessons in number sense and math facts 
    • Hands-on centers to bring lessons to life
  • Science and Social Studies (BJU)
    • Students learn to appreciate the history and science behind the beautiful world God created!
  • English
    • Weekly spelling tests (BJU)
    • Grammar/phonics (BJU)
    • Institute for Excellence in Writing
  • Bible (BJU)
  • Handwriting (A Reason for Handwriting)
3rd-5th Grade: Reading to Learn
By the time our students reach third grade, they are well-prepared for the increased academic expectations that come from "reading to learn." Weequip students to become repsonsible and independent learners, teaching them how to utilize tools like planners, study cards, and key word outlines.

  • Reading (BJU)
    • Class novel studies
    • Quarterly book reports
  • Math (BJU)
  • Science (BJU)
    • Research reports
    • 5th Grade Camp Casey Trip
  • Social Studies (BJU)
    • Research reports
      • Presidents- 3rd
      • Washington State Notebook- 4th
      • Nation Notebook- 5th
    • Memorization of Historical documents
  • English
    • Weekly spelling tests (BJU)
    • Grammar (BJU)
    • Institute for Excellence in Writing
  • Bible (Kay Arthur Inductive Bible studies)
  • Handwriting (A Reason for Handwriting)
High Academic Results, Curriculum Exceeds State Standards
Heritage students consistently average in the 85th percentile and above on nationally normed Iowa standardized assessments.

Our students also exceed the average of local public schools on state-normed iReady diagnostics (about a grade level).

Many of our curricula (Bob Jones University) are based on state standards that exceed Washington's, preparing our students for middle school, high school, and subsequent college entrance exams and college-level coursework.
Student-Tailored Approach
Heritage recognizes that no student fits in one box. Students are known as we recognize their strengths and areas for growth. Our smaller class sizes allow our teachers to work closely with students to achieve their goals. In addition to class time, after-school student support is offered four days each week at no additional cost.

Heritage is blessed to have the Learning Success Center, which is a unique offering for a private school in Washington. The mission of the LSC is to equip our students to grow and blossom academically, socially, spiritually, and physically into the unique individuals God created each of them to be. The LSC supports the elementary department by equipping teachers to meet a diversity of learning styles, offering 504 accommodation plans, and facilitating pull-out or push-in support or independent studies as resources and schedules allow.
kindergarten at hCA
Staff directory
Learning Success Center
hear the gaeta's story


Flourishing through Specialists and Extra Curriculars

"The caring staff and the welcoming, family-like atmosphere make every student feel seen, valued, and loved. Heritage is more than a school—it’s a community that genuinely reflects Christ’s love and helps our children grow in their faith. That commitment to both education and spiritual growth is why we choose Heritage every day."

Music: 2x per week
Our vibrant music program inspires students to actively participate in a wide range of creative activities. In class, students eagerly clap rhythms, play instruments such as xylophones, drums, recorders, ukuleles, and keyboards, explore folk dancing, and sing together in harmony. Beyond teaching music theory and fundamentals, our curriculum emphasizes music as a joyful form of worship. Students love showcasing what they’ve learned during our Christmas and spring programs.
Physical Education: 2x per week
In PE class, students enjoy energetic activities and movement that help their growing bodies stay healthy and strong. Each lesson emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Through engaging games and skill-building exercises, students learn the fundamentals of a variety of sports while discovering the importance of caring for the bodies God has given them. PE classes are filled with laughter, encouragement, and opportunities to build confidence and friendships.
STEM and Computer Lab
STEM lab time is a highlight for many students, offering fun, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and creativity. Separate from our regular science classes, the STEM lab engages students in the scientific method through exciting experiments, team challenges, and interactive projects. Each session is filled with opportunities to solve problems, think critically, and collaborate with classmates. We also provide computer lab time, where students enjoy learning typing, navigation, and other essential technology skills.  
Art
Beginning in first grade, our students look forward to art class each week—a time to explore their creativity and learn new skills. Art becomes a form of worship as they discover ways to express their faith through visual expression. Students experiment with a wide variety of artistic media and techniques, proudly creating their own masterpieces. Thanks to a generous donation, our campus now features a kiln, giving students exciting opportunities to work with clay and expand their creative horizons even further. 
Library
Library time is a cherished part of our students’ week. Heritage Eagles of all ages eagerly gather on the library rug for storytime, captivated by our librarian’s engaging readings. Afterward, students browse our ever-growing and diverse collection, discovering books that spark their imaginations and fuel their curiosity. With new selections regularly added to match students’ unique interests and passions, library time fosters a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Athletics and After School Clubs
The Heritage experience doesn't end when the bell rings! Opportunities abound!

We offer a variety of after-school clubs for fall, winter, and spring. Starting in 5th grade, students can participate in our vibrant, growing athletics program. Check out the links below!

We also offer summer camp options and various athletic clinics.


After school programs
athletics at HCA: 5th grade and up
before and after school  extended care
summer camp / care


Family Partnership, Fellowship, and Future

"For its size, you get the best of both worlds: individualized academic support for your child, along with intentional care for their character and faith. When an outside acquaintance asks if I know another family at Heritage, the answer is usually “yes!” Families know and support each other at Heritage, so you never feel lost."

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

Family Focus and Partnership
When our current students and families are asked to describe Heritage in one word, "Family" is one of the most common answers. As one mom shared, “Heritage is our family, and so much of our growth as a family is from God’s work at this little school on the hill.”

When you join the Heritage family, it feels exactly as it sounds, you become "family." That means we care about you and your goals and aspirations. We seek fellowship with you and want you to become a familiar face in school activities and programs.  Our role is to assist families, and we take that very seriously.  Our stance is that education is the parents' responsibility, and that we serve as an extension of the family, providing part of that education in partnership with parents. We encourage and desire parents, guardians, grandparents, etc, to be active and involved in the life of the school. We couldn't do what we do without your partnership and support!

See the link below for information about our amazing Parent Teacher Fellowship!
Foundation for Middle and High School
Each department at Heritage thoughtfully and intentionally prepares students for the next phase. Our fifth graders head into middle school as confident learners with servant-hearted character and leadership. With the opening of our high school in 2022, Heritage is now a place where students can enroll and stay, leading to high school graduation as proud HCA Eagles. Just as our students are building a strong foundation for their middle and high school years, Heritage is also building and growing a vibrant secondary program. We are excited about the opportunities your students will have when they transition into middle and high school here at HCA!
Strategic Growth Plan
Our desire has always been to grow with the same quality and consistency that families have come to expect since we opened our school doors in 1979. In collaboration with the School Board, we published a Strategic Growth Plan in 2023, and we continue to refine and meet the goals and directives established. Every step forward is bathed in prayer, and we know that God has amazing plans for Heritage and each of our students.
Campus Expansion
We are excited to be preparing for the addition of a modern two-classroom portable building for the 2026-2027 school year.

We have a dedicated development director, and we have plans already mapped for potential permanent building expansion. We are in the beginning phases of a capital campaign feasibility study.
Additional Program, Class, and Extracurricular Offerings
We are committed to listening to the desires of our students and families, and we plan to continue increasing our programs, classes, and extracurricular activities as we grow.
parent teacher fellowship
middle school at heritage
high school at heritage
HCA strategic growth plan

 "I’ve seen my children thrive not just in the classroom, but in character, confidence, and spiritual maturity. If you’re looking for a place where your child will be known, loved, and equipped to live out God’s purpose, Heritage is a beautiful choice."
- HCA Parent

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