Frequently Asked Questions

What are school hours?

• Early Childhood Program (Preschool, Prep-K, and Kindergarten): 8:00 AM to 2:10 PM
• Elementary School (Grades 1-4): 8:00 AM to 2:45 PM
• Intermediate School (Grades 5-6): 8:10 AM to 3:05 PM
• Middle & High School (Grades 7-12): 8:10 AM to 3:25 PM

Our business office is open Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the school year and 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the summer.

What is the student to teacher ratio?

• 14:1 in Preschool and Prep-K
• 16:1 in Kindergarten
• 20:1 on average in 1st-12th grades

In addition, we have teacher assistants through 6th grade.

Do you offer before or after school care?

Yes! Information about our before and after school care options along with pricing can be found here.

Do HCS students wear a uniform?

We desire that students have a standard of dress that is modest and neat. Specific guidelines vary by age. Contact us at admissions@heritagechristian.net if you would like more information regarding our dress code.

Do you offer bus service?

Yes! HCS offers bus services to and from school on a daily basis. The bus is a very cost/time effective way for your students to get to and from school, and our pricing plans are very simple and convenient. We can transport all students in preschool through high school. Many of our families also carpool. Additional information can be found here or by emailing transportation@heritagechristian.net.

How diverse is your school?

We desire to continue to enrich the ethnic, denominational and socio-economic background of our school. Currently, our student body is approximately 25% ethnically diverse. Diversity among our faculty and staff is lower, but we are continually working to improve. Our families attend over 100 different Christian churches, and nearly 65% of our students receive some level of tuition support.

Do you teach doctrines specific to a denomination?

No. The school’s Statement of Faith defines the core Biblical doctrines and standards of the school. HCS is by choice a non-denominational school, enrolling students and hiring faculty and staff of varied Christian denominations. HCS recognizes that the responsibility for instructing students in denominational differences that are outside the Statement of Faith, resides primarily with their parents, and secondarily with their local church.

What are your technology device requirements?

All students in grades 7-12 are required to bring a personal device for classroom use. More information can be found here.

What do you serve students for lunch?

Heritage is proud to offer nutritious and convenient dining solutions to our parents and students. With menus tailored to growing minds and bodies, parents can rest easy knowing their child is getting the fuel and nutrition they need to successfully conquer each day. More information can be found here.

What safety and security measures are in place at your school?

Heritage Christian School is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and families. Our dedicated Safety and Security Department includes highly trained professionals, many with military and law enforcement backgrounds, who serve on campus daily and are deeply invested in building trust within our community.

We utilize a layered approach to campus security, including controlled access to buildings, visitor check-in protocols, and the presence of armed security officers during the school day. Our team participates in regular training and drills for a variety of emergency scenarios.

When can I apply and do classes ever fill up?

We encourage you to submit all applications before November 1 to be considered for Early Admissions Decisions which are communicated by December 15. All applications submitted after November 1 will be considered for any remaining seats and provided decisions on a rolling basis. More information on our application process can be found here.

Can my student shadow on a day not listed?

We strongly encourage you to schedule a shadow on a day that we have listed, as those days provide a broad experience for your student. Shadowing on other days can be arranged for unique circumstances such as supporting out-of-town applicants. Learn more about student shadow days here.

What is your tuition?

Tuition varies by grade level, and covers the general cost for faculty, facilities management, and administrative support. Most families should plan for some additional monthly expenses and non-refundable fees. Our tuition and fee schedule can be found here.

What are your admissions requirements?

Our admissions policy opens HCS to families who are like-minded spiritually, who are supportive of our Charter of Core Values and standards of education, and whose children meet our enrollment standards. Our purpose is to serve families who desire not simply a private education, but a distinctively Christian education for their children.

Academic requirements are as follows:

• Minimum of a 2.5 grade point average (GPA) in all core classes (Language Arts, History, Math and Science)
• Proficient in ILearn Language Arts and Math for 3rd through 8th graders, or if unavailable, other acceptable test results, including standardized testing or Heritage Christian internally developed assessments. Consideration will be given for standardized achievement scores when reviewing Academic Achievement for 9-12th graders.

Admission to HCS requires a caring Christian adult (parent, family member, or guardian) who is committed to his or her student’s success and willing to partner with us. As such, at least one adult in the student’s life must profess faith in Jesus Christ, hold to beliefs consistent with our Statement of Faith, and agree to support and partner with HCS.

In addition to the above requirements, attendance and discipline reports must be submitted through the application checklist for grades 5-12 to be considered for admission. All applicants will  also be assessed prior to acceptance.

More information can be found on our Admissions Policy page.

How old does our student need to be to attend HCS?

• Preschool is available to students who turn 3 by June 1st.
• Prep-K is available to students who turn 4 by June 1st.
• Kindergarten is available to students who turn 5 by June 1st.

The June 1st cutoff is firm and is NOT evaluated on a student by student basis

How are your admissions decisions made?

Each student's application is carefully considered by a committee who reviews the completed application, supplemental forms, reference letters, and assessment results to verify that the student aligns both academically and spiritually with our school’s mission. In grades 7-12, a student interview is also factored into the decision. All discussions regarding applications are held in strict confidence. Admission decisions consider the student's potential for success at HCS, and the parents’ desire for a Christ-centered education for their children. Applicants who submit by November 1 will be notified of the admissions decision by December 15 in writing. Applicants who submit their application after November 1 will be notified of the admissions decision on a rolling basis. Reasons for the decision are not disclosed to applicants. Heritage Christian School reserves the right to grant admittance only to students who we believe meet the criteria outlined in our admissions policy.

What is the Admissions Portal?

The Admission Portal allows applicants to apply and manage their application online. Important "application checklist" items, such as academic records, teacher references and faith statements can be managed from one location. You will find a numbered list above the Candidate Profile indicating the number of required items that remain before the application is complete. All required items are marked with an asterisk. Items without an asterisk, such as academic test results and associated plans, are not marked as required because they do not pertain to all students. When a checklist item is complete it will be crossed out. Once all required items are complete, the application is finished. You will not need to click a "submit" button.

What happens if I have been notified that a seat is available and I fail to enroll and pay the enrollment fee within the stated time frame?

Your seat may be offered to another student in the wait pool.

What is your tuition?

Tuition varies by grade level, and covers the general cost for faculty, facilities management, and administrative support. Most families should plan for some additional monthly expenses and non-refundable fees. Our tuition and fee schedule can be found here.

What assistance do you offer to help people afford a private school education? How do I apply?

A private school education does require the investment of your financial resources; however, it is our desire to provide need-based financial assistance to qualifying Christian families who desire a Christ-centered, college-prep education for their students. In addition to accepting school choice vouchers and Indiana Tax Scholarships, HCS annually provides over $3 million in financial aid to qualifying families. You should apply for financial assistance starting November 1 through December 15 for the upcoming school year, and we will work with you to identify the appropriate funding sources. 

Do you offer payment plans?

Payments are made via ACH through our Veracross Student Information System and is accessible 24/7 through your online parent portal. Payment plan options are as follows:

• Monthly payments (June-April), based on enrollment date
• Semi-annual payments (June and November)
• Lump sum payment option (due by July 15)
• Tuition paid in full by July 15 will receive a 1.5% discount

Do you offer a multi-student discount?

While we do not have a set discount percent for multiple students from the same family, for those that qualify for financial aid, the number of students in the family is heavily considered. If you need assistance in order to attend Heritage Christian, we encourage you to apply for financial assistance starting October 1 for the upcoming school year. 

Do you offer a pastoral discount?

While we do not have a set discount percent for Pastors, this is heavily considered in our financial assistance process. We strongly encourage you to apply for apply for financial aid starting November 1 for the upcoming school year. 

Do you accept Indiana School Choice Vouchers?

Yes. Beginning in 2026-27, all K-12 students are eligible to receive the voucher regardless of household income. We submit the state required application for you. More information can be found on our Affording Heritage page and by visiting the Indiana Department of Education website.

If I only want the voucher and not any additional financial aid, do I need to submit a Clarity Application for aid?

No. Families only wanting the Indiana voucher do not need to submit an application with Clarity.

Can I receive both an Indiana Choice Scholarship (Voucher) and a Tax Credit Scholarship?

Yes, based on financial need. See the question above for information regarding 2026-27 and beyond. In addition, your application will be evaluated for HCS Tuition Assistance.

How is income verified?

When completing your financial aid application, you will provide authorization for Clarity to obtain your 2-year-old tax information (ex. 2024 tax info for 2026-27 aid) directly from the IRS. You will not need to upload those documents. Families with a business partnership or S corp may be asked later to upload those related tax documents. If you do not have tax returns or if your household income is different from what is stated on the tax return, you can indicate that in the Clarity Application.

Do children of HCS alumni receive a tuition discount?

Heritage values our alumni. They are an important part of our rich history and community. Families where at least one parent is a HCS 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.

How will I know if I am awarded a scholarship?

Once you complete your financial aid application, Clarity will verify your information and then notify us of your financial need. We will provide you with an award letter listing all scholarships for which you qualify no later than February 15.

Do I need to reapply each year?

Yes, you must reapply for the upcoming school year. Clarity will use your 2-year-old federal tax information. For example, for the 2026-27 school year they will use your 2024 tax information.

Is HCS accredited?

HCS is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Cognia, and holds recognition status by the Indiana Department of Education.

What is your preschool program?

Our preschool program is a developmental class which offers quality education in a fun, creative, Christian atmosphere. You can learn more about our current preschool program options and curriculum here.

What is your prep-k and kindergarten curriculum?

Our curriculum for prep-k and kindergarten is designed to prepare students for what they will experience throughout the elementary school and into the intermediate school. You can learn more about our curriculum here.

How is the elementary school day organized and what curriculum do you use?

Our elementary students stay with one teacher throughout the entire day. We use a 5-day color rotation and students attend a different “specials” class on each of the color days. Specials include: art, music, library, physical education, and STEM.

In 4th grade, while students are primarily with their homeroom teacher, they have the privilege of rotating between two teachers for certain subjects throughout the day.

More information about our elementary program can be found here.

How is the intermediate school day organized? (Grades 5-6)

Intermediate school students have 2-3 core teachers in their own building and have lockers and a recess – a great blend of elementary and middle school life. The intermediate school day includes rotating between 2-3 teachers for certain subjects, specials and either study hall or fine arts activity. Specials are art, PE, Biblical literacy, STEM, and PowerUp. Fine arts activities include orchestra, choir, band, or general music. More information about our intermediate school can be found here.

How is the middle school day organized? (Grades 7-8)

The middle school has eight class periods and a "resource" period. Resource class is a study hall on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Thursday is middle school chapel day and Friday includes "chapel chats" in resource classes. Middle school students typically have an 1-1.5 hours of homework each day. Many students use resource class or study hall to work on their daily homework and studying. More information about our middle school can be found here.

How is the high school day organized? (Grades 9-12)

The high school has eight class periods and a "Connect Period," held mid-morning on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. During this time, students can attend group meetings, participate in clubs, use it as a study hall, or get extra help in specific classes. Tuesday is the high school chapel day with 8 periods of class. 2-3 hours of homework per night is common. A normal student load is seven classes and one study hall. More information about our high school can be found here.

How can I keep up with my student's progress?

Your student's grades are available in the myHCS Parent Portal (Veracross). For grades 4-12, Canvas, our Learning Management System, augments Veracross for student assignments throughout each quarter.

In addition to regularly scheduled conferences, we encourage you to contact your student’s teacher when you have questions or concerns.

When can students begin to participate in accelerated classes?

HCS offers challenging and enriching learning experiences through differentiated instruction with advanced content. Students have the opportunity to go on special field trips, and they participate in projects and presentations that parents are invited to be a part of. Students are also given the opportunity to take a specific subject at a higher grade level to challenge them and to encourage academic growth.

What services do you have available for students who need support?

Our Educational Support Services program consists of a unique group of programs designed to meet the learning needs of exceptional children. Each year, we assist about 20-30% of our students through one or more of these programs. We do our best to meet students where they are so that they can be successful in the classroom. More information can be found here.

My student has an IEP and/or a 504 Plan. Will you admit them?

Our Educational Support Services program provides services and accommodations to many students with an IEP or 504 Plan. As part of the application review process, our ESS department will determine if we provide the services and accommodations needed to support your student’s unique needs.

Do you use technology in the classroom?

Technology is integrated throughout our curriculum. Students at all academic levels have access to two computer labs (preschool - 6th grade), various iPad carts, and two media centers for research.  All students in grades 7-12 are required to have a device for use during the academic day. More information can be found here.

Do you offer Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or Dual Credit (DC) courses?

Yes. More information can be found here.

What was your graduation rate last year?

100%

What sports do you offer?

Our student athletes participate in 19 IHSAA sports as well as cheerleading and boys/girls lacrosse.

• Baseball (Boys) - Varsity, JV, Middle School
• Basketball (Boys) - Varsity, JV, Freshman, 8th, 7th
• Basketball (Girls) - Varsity, JV, 8th, 7th
• Cheerleading (Girls) - Varsity, Middle School
• Cross Country (Boys/Girls) - Varsity, Middle School
• Football (Boys) - Varsity, JV, 8th, 7th
• Golf (Boys) - Varsity, JV
• Golf (Girls) - Varsity
• Lacrosse (Boys) - Varsity, JV, Middle School
• Lacrosse (Girls) - Varsity, Middle School
• Soccer (Boys/Girls) - Varsity, JV, Middle School
• Softball (Girls) - Varsity, Middle School
• Swimming/Diving (Boys/Girls) - Varsity, Middle School
• Tennis (Boys/Girls) - Varsity, JV, Middle School
• Track (Boys/Girls) - Varsity, JV, Middle School
• Volleyball (Boys) - Varsity, JV
• Volleyball (Girls) - Varsity, JV, Freshman, 8th, 7th

In what class do HCS teams compete?

HCS is a Class 2A IHSAA (Indiana High School Athletic Association) member school.

What is the policy on tryouts, cuts, and playing more than one sport?

Approximately 75% of our high school students participate in at least one sport, and multi-sport athletes are very common. Many of our high school athletic programs have a great reputation and are well-known around the state. If you have specific questions regarding tryouts and cuts, feel free to contact our athletics office at athletics@heritagechristian.net.

What’s involved in the athletic transfer process with the IHSAA?

Any student who has attended another high school, starting with their freshman year, is required to fill out an IHSAA transfer form regardless of whether or not they played a sport at their previous school. Upon officially enrolling at HCS, you will be contacted by the athletics department to begin the paperwork process. If you have any questions regarding the transfer process or how to fill out the transfer form please contact our athletics department at athletics@heritagechristian.net.

What additional fees are required for athletic participation?

Student athletes are charged a participation fee that varies by sport. There may be other charges for team meals or required/optional clothing billed during the school year. Each team coach provides fee information at parent meetings.

Does HCS have chapel?

Yes. Chapel is a regular opportunity for students of all grade levels to experience worship, learn from the Bible, and hear the stories of people whose lives have been changed by Jesus Christ. Our students also get the unique opportunity to lead their student body in worship. Our chapel worship bands meet regularly to prepare for our weekly chapels in middle school and high school.

What service opportunities are available to students?

School sponsored service projects vary by grade level and give students and teachers the opportunity to be a positive witness for Christ in our community. High school students are required to complete 20 hours of community service per year through our S.A.L.T. (Serving and Loving Together) program.

How is the Bible integrated into the curriculum?

In every classroom, teachers integrate a Christian worldview into their teaching and make the most of practical, teachable moments to connect the Bible to real life. In addition, students at every grade level have a Bible class as a part of the curriculum.

What other opportunities do you offer for spiritual growth?

Many faculty members mentor students. Additionally, students can mentor younger students. In middle school, each student is involved in a small group led by Heritage teachers and staff. In high school, students can participate in Bible studies and/or be paired with another peer for accountability and encouragement.

Where can I learn more about your discipleship approach?

In order to provide transformational discipleship, we use God’s inerrant Word as our guide for teaching, mentoring, and training. Our “Teach, Mentor, Train” discipleship model puts definition to what Heritage has been doing from the beginning. Learn more about our discipleship approach here.

What fine arts opportunities are available to students?

• Art: available beginning in elementary school; high school opportunities include AP Studio Art courses
• Band: available beginning in grade 5; middle school and high school opportunities include concert band and jazz band
• Choir: available beginning in grade 5
• Chapel band: available beginning in grade 7
• Music Theory, Dual Credit Music Theory, and Dual Credit Music Appreciation: available for high school students
• Orchestra: available beginning in grade 5
• Theatre: available for high school students with limited parts available for middle school students
• ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival events (choir, band, orchestra): available beginning in grade 6
• Circle the State with Song & All-State honors choirs: available for elementary school, middle school, and high school students by audition
• All-State band, jazz band and orchestra: available for middle school and high school students by audition

More information about our fine arts program and course offerings can be found here.

What is the fine arts performance schedule and may we attend an event?

Our fine arts department holds a variety of concerts, theatre productions and art shows throughout the year. We encourage prospective families to attend one or more of our programs, and a limited number of complimentary tickets may be available. More information can be found on our fine arts page.

What additional fees are required for fine arts participation?

Students participating in the fall or spring theatre productions are charged a participation fee. There may be other charges billed for required/optional clothing or for outside performance events. Required fees are communicated in advance of registration. Certain art courses also carry an additional supply fee that is noted in the course description.