Tony Hinkle

High School Science Teacher

Meet Tony Hinkle, one of our outstanding high school science teachers at HCS. Mr. Hinkle brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his classroom, teaching Zoology/Botany, Dual Credit General Biology, Dual Credit Cell Biology and Genetics, and Dual Credit Anatomy and Physiology. Over his career, he has taught an impressive 14 different subjects—a testament to his dedication to education and his passion for science.

Mr. Hinkle’s path to teaching is unique. Originally a veterinarian with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Purdue University, his journey into education began during a short-term mission trip to Russia. “I was put in a teaching role and found that I loved it!” he recalls. This unexpected discovery led him to pursue teaching full-time, though he continued to work part-time as a vet for the first 27 years of his teaching career. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in education from IUPUI, with a focus on history and science.

In his classroom, Mr. Hinkle’s mission is clear: “My most important job is to help students see the hand of the Creator in everything they see in nature, and to glorify Him for it.” This deep commitment to integrating faith and science is at the heart of his teaching philosophy.

When asked what he loves most about Heritage Christian School, Mr. Hinkle shares, “Everyone here, from students to parents to faculty and staff, has one goal: to bring glory to God through our mission of educating students well.”

For Mr. Hinkle, one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is staying connected with his students long after they graduate. “It’s incredible to see their success in college and career, and even more so to see the awesome men and women of faith that they’ve become,” he says.

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Hinkle enjoys a variety of hobbies. Whether he’s spending time with his wife, Linda, and their two grown sons, Clark and Adam, or engaging in his favorite pastimes like camping, hiking, binge-reading, playing guitar, or building things, he embraces life with enthusiasm. He’s also deeply committed to his faith and has traveled on mission trips to India and Nepal, continuing to serve and glorify God in all he does.