Despite the scoreline, the Comets continued to display moments of dominance, outshooting the Pirates with 11 shots on goal compared to their opponents' seven.

Kaia Miller’s flawless 20-for-20 serving, including 3 aces, set the tone early and never let up. Ruby Peterson (15/15) and Elsa Retzlaff (12/12) followed suit, providing critical consistency behind the service line. These powerful and precise serves are becoming a hallmark of Hillcrest’s game, helping them gain an early advantage and maintain control throughout the match.

The Lady Comets wasted no time making a statement in their season opener, dominating Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal with a swift 3-0 victory (25-8, 25-9, 25-11) on Tuesday night. Picking up right where they left off last year, the Comets are on a mission to prove that they are stronger than ever and poised to make a serious run at the state tournament this season.

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Kathy Koch will return to Hillcrest Academy from October 13-15. Dr. Kathy, a renowned speaker, author, and expert in child development and discipleship, will conduct specialized training with our support staff and engage directly with parents and students. Her visit promises to be a powerful time of equipping our community to navigate the challenges of today's world with a Christ-centered identity.

The value of modeling in teaching within a classical program cannot be overstated. It is a method that enhances academic learning, strengthens community bonds, and fosters the development of robust and virtuous character. Mrs. Retzlaff’s gym class is a testament to the power of this approach, demonstrating how rhythms, habits, and intentional modeling can lead to lasting and meaningful growth in students. Through imitation, students learn to embody the values and principles that will guide them throughout their lives, both in and out of the classroom.

Despite the final scoreline, Hillcrest outshot the Deacons 10-6, a testament to their offensive pressure and ability to create opportunities. The Comets didn't simply sit back; they pushed forward, lining up shots and moving the ball into striking positions, gaining valuable experience and confidence in the process.

Hillcrest’s ability to adapt and defend against a strong opponent throughout the game built their confidence. The team’s performance, holding the Otters at bay for almost the entire match, is a testament to their growing strength and unity. While the game ended in a narrow 1-0 loss, the Comets left the field with their heads held high, knowing they had tested their limits and emerged stronger as they continue to build momentum for the season ahead.

Coach Rod Jensen praised Morris High School for launching their MSHSL program and acknowledged the challenges of building a new team. Reflecting on the match, Coach Jensen was pleased with the opportunity to rotate players and give some veterans a well-deserved rest. Notably, younger players like Levi DeYounge, David Diniz, and Miles Selvig stepped up, making significant contributions throughout the contest.

Ava Lindgren unpacks the school theme.

The Hillcrest Comets Boys Soccer Team kicked off their season with a resounding 5-1 victory over the East Grand Forks (EGF) Green Wave on Thursday afternoon, demonstrating the team's growing unity and confidence in Coach Rod’s system.

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy equipped Elle Foss for life in multiple ways, both intellectually and spiritually. Elle's decision to attend Hillcrest was influenced by a desire for community and purpose, especially during a time of loneliness and uncertainty. The supportive community at Hillcrest, along with the guidance of teachers and mentors, played a crucial role in Elle's personal development and prepared her for adulthood.

Teaching students to worship, and building in time for worship, is a unique dynamic at Hillcrest Academy. Teaching young children to worship through song is a powerful and impactful practice that shapes their identity and security as they grow. Worship, especially through music, plays a crucial role in faith formation and can guide children to develop a lasting relationship with God, fostering a "forever faith" that endures throughout their lives.

President Brad Hoganson introduces the new academic dean team at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy - Mrs. Michele Foss, Mrs. Lauren Frobish, and Mrs. Julie Stender. They discuss their connections to Hillcrest and their roles in adopting the classical model of learning at the school.

Hillcrest partners with parents, grandparents, churches, and synods to equip young people to continue developing their calling as people who testify to the saving work of Jesus Christ.

Principal Isaac recently explained the incredible benefit of a classical approach to learning at Hillcrest Academy, using a research initiative called The Good Soil Report. This report explains the incredible benefits families receive when their child is enrolled in a classical education program. The unique part of Hillcrest that the Good Soil report only touches on is the impact of a classical education curriculum inside a focused discipleship school like Hillcrest Academy. The classical curriculum comes a live inside a trusted network of mentor relationships, and that is exactly what Hillcrest offers, and a key reason we are adopting the classical approach to learning.

Hillcrest’s lower school students had the privilege of diving into finance with Mr. Walvatne. With a keen understanding of the importance of financial literacy from a young age, Walvatne shared the foundational structure of money, unraveling the mysteries of what money does in our community, its origins, and how it's valued. His insights gave students a clearer picture of the economic fabric that weaves our society together, emphasizing the value of money not just as a currency but as a pivotal element of community life.

The emphasis on presentations at Hillcrest Academy serves a dual purpose. Academically, it prepares students to defend knowledge on specific subject matters with confidence and clarity. Spiritually and personally, it equips them to boldly and thoughtfully present the Gospel to their communities. Through these experiences, students develop not just as scholars but as community leaders, ready to communicate what they've learned in ways that are both effective and aligned with the glory of Jesus Christ.