March 19, 2026
SPRING BREAK | March 23-27
EASTER BREAK | April 3-6
IOWA TESTING (1st-8th GRADE) | April 8-9
GRANDPARENTS DAY- PENINSULA | April 14-15
GRANDPARENTS DAY- PEPPER PIKE | April 15
SPRING MUSICAL- THE WIZARD OF OZ | April 17-18
SPRING CONCERT- PARKSIDE CHURCH | April 30
SPRING MUSICAL
Our community is warmly invited to attend Heritage Classical Academy’s Spring Musical, The Wizard of Oz. Tickets are now on sale. Click below to purchase your tickets.
Performance Times
All seating will be general admission.
Additionally, families and friends can include a special message for a cast member in the official playbill. These messages may be submitted for $25 by clicking the poster to the right.
We look forward to celebrating this production together and supporting our students in this milestone event.
RENWEB/FACTS REMINDER
We kindly ask all parents to ensure that their child’s full legal name is entered in the primary Name field in RenWeb/FACTS. While there is a designated space for a preferred name or nickname, the main name on record must match your child’s official documents.
Accurate legal names are essential for standardized testing and future academic processes. Registrations, score reports, and eventual college applications all rely on consistent information, and discrepancies can lead to avoidable delays or complications.
Thank you for taking a moment to review your child’s information and for helping us maintain accurate and reliable student records.
2026–2027 ACADEMIC CALENDARS
The 2026–2027 academic calendars are now available. Families may access calendars for the Upper School, Lower School, Study Center, and Early Childhood programs. Please use the buttons below to view or download each calendar.
NEW VISITOR MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
HCA has implemented a new visitor management system at both campuses. As of Monday, March 2, all visitors are required to check in by scanning their driver’s license on an iPad at the front desk. The system automatically prints a visitor badge that must be worn while on campus. Before leaving, visitors must sign out in the system to maintain an accurate, real-time count of all visitors in the building. This update is part of our continued commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for our students and staff. Thank you for your partnership in keeping HCA safe!
CARPOOLING
Did you know we offer a carpool sign‑up to help families connect with others living in their area? By adding your information, you can discover nearby HCA families who may be interested in coordinating a carpool.
Carpool forms are available for both campuses. Click the link below:
ADMISSIONS APPLICATIONS OPEN
Admissions season is in full swing, and we are still accepting applications for the 2026–27 school year. We invite you to spread the word about Heritage to families within your church, small group, or broader community who share our mission and values. Families interested in learning more about Heritage can visit our website to explore our programs, schedule a campus tour, and begin the application process.
Please note: Current students are automatically re-enrolled for the next school year; no action is required to maintain their enrollment.
If you wish to apply for a sibling who is not currently enrolled, please log in to your existing FACTS Family Portal account (do not create a new account). From there, go to “Apply/Enroll,” choose “Application,” and then select “Click Here to Add an Application” on the main screen. If you wish to request a campus or track change during priority enrollment, please notify our Admissions Director, Laura Calo, at laura.calo@heritageclassicalacademy.org. For any other questions, contact Laura directly.
THE GRIFFIN RUNDOWN
In this episode, Mr. Nees welcomes Rick Eimers and Katie Anne Mann for a thoughtful conversation on the heart behind HCA’s Rhetoric School Mentoring Program. Together, they explore how intentional mentoring strengthens the partnership between teachers and parents, helping to reach the heart of each student with the truth of God’s Word. Click here to listen to this week’s Griffin Rundown.
COLLEGE AND CAREER COUNSELING PROGRAM WEBPAGE
We are pleased to share our new College and Career Counseling webpage, which introduces our College and Career Counselor, Anne Johns, and provides helpful information and resources about our program. We invite you to explore the page and learn how HCA is preparing students to follow the Lord’s leading after high school graduation. Click here to visit HCA’s College and Career Planning webpage.
HCA APP
Click here to download the HCA App for easy access to class details, lunch orders, directories, The Griffin Rundown podcast, and more.
CONVERT YOUR OHIO TAX DOLLARS TO HCA SCHOLARSHIPS
Did you know there is a way to turn your tax dollars into scholarship support for HCA students at no net cost to you? It’s a simple, impactful way to directly strengthen our school community.
To learn how it works, please visit our SGO webpage, or feel free to reach out to our Senior Development Officer, Rick Eimers, at rick.eimers@heritageclassicalacademy.org with any questions. We are here to help you make the most of this opportunity!
If there is a specific section of the Gazette you would like to view, please select it from the menu below.
PENINSULA CAMPUS
PEPPER PIKE CAMPUS - LOWER SCHOOL
PEPPER PIKE CAMPUS - UPPER SCHOOL
ATHLETICS AND CLUBS
IOWA TESTING
Students in grades 1–5 will participate in the IOWA standardized assessments on April 8–9. Because of our school’s status with the state and the high number of families utilizing EdChoice scholarships, testing is mandatory for all students. While standardized test scores are not our primary focus, they do provide valuable insight into student progress. In addition, IOWA testing is required for continued EdChoice eligibility. Make-up testing will be available for unique circumstances only, so it is essential that students are present and on time both days.
To help your child do their best, please ensure they receive a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast on testing days. Students should also bring a snack, a water bottle, and a book to read in case they finish early.
GRANDPARENTS DAY
We are delighted to welcome our Heritage grandparents to campus for this year’s Grandparents Day celebration. This cherished event provides grandparents the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for HCA’s mission as they enjoy a special program, spend meaningful time with their grandchild, and listen to a message from our leadership team.
Below, you will find the schedule for the Peninsula campus along with the specific sessions designated for each grade level and Jr. Kindergarten class. An email with detailed instructions for the day will be provided one week before the event.
Tuesday, April 14
Session 1: All Study Center students and Junior Kindergarten students in Mrs. Hornbeck’s class or Mrs. Flaker’s class: 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, April 15
Session 1: All Academy students and Junior Kindergarten students in Mrs. Toner’s class or Mrs. Flaker’s class: 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Session 2: All Academy students: 12:30–2:15 p.m.
Please register grandparents here before April 7.
Note: We are implementing a new check‑in system this year. All HCA guests, including grandparents, will be asked to scan their driver’s license upon arrival, consistent with our updated security procedures.
MCKIBBEN AND MONTE EVALUATIONS
The McKibben and Monte Pediatric Therapy team is committed to supporting your child’s development in the areas of speech and language, social skills, fine motor skills, and feeding. Their experienced therapists partner with top daycares and preschools to provide on‑site evaluations and treatment, ensuring children receive timely access to the services they may need.
Informal developmental assessments will take place during the week of March 30. To review developmental expectations for your child’s age group and to register for an assessment, please visit the registration page here (Password: MM2024).
Developmental expectations can be found near the bottom of the webpage. Families may register by selecting their center link in the Cleveland region table and clicking on their school.
Please complete registration by Thursday, March 26, at 11:59 p.m.
The cost of each assessment is $130 ($150 for ESL). An invoice will be emailed following the assessment and consultation.
For any questions, please contact the McKibben and Monte team at info@mckibbenandmonte.com.
HOT LUNCH
Please note that there will be no Hot Lunch service during the week of March 30. After that break, we will have four remaining weeks of Hot Lunch. There will be no Hot Lunch offered in May.
The hot lunch schedule is available here, and ordering instructions can be viewed on the Orientation Page. Orders must be placed by Sunday night. Please note the dates you order lunch for your child, as this service is not available every week.
LUNCH & RECESS VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP
We are grateful for our Special Lunch volunteers! Volunteers serve Chick-fil-A and Gionino’s and assist with delivery, set up, distribution, and clean up, and will receive a list of student orders. A consistent weekly volunteer is especially helpful for both routine and relationships with students. If you would like to serve, please click on the link located below. Emily Thompson, our Campus Coordinator, will follow up regarding a quick background check. Thank you for considering this opportunity to bless our school community.
AFTERCARE REGISTRATION
Aftercare registration is required for each student who will remain on campus after school hours. This includes students staying due to a sibling’s participation in after-school clubs, lessons, or athletics. Please register by 2:00 p.m. daily to ensure proper supervision and planning. Please note, students who ride the HCA Shuttle do not need to register for aftercare if they will be picked up by 3:45 p.m.
DISTRICT BUSSING SIGN-UP
Please complete daily registration for students who will be riding district buses after school. Registration must be submitted by 2:00 p.m. each day, using the appropriate district form linked below. Please do not email your campus coordinator or attendance line with bus changes. All updates must be made through the form by the daily deadline. Any students not listed on the form will not be placed on the bus after school.
IOWA TESTING
Students in grades 1–5 will participate in the IOWA standardized assessments on April 8–9. Because of our school’s status with the state and the high number of families utilizing EdChoice scholarships, testing is mandatory for all students. While standardized test scores are not our primary focus, they do provide valuable insight into student progress. In addition, IOWA testing is required for continued EdChoice eligibility. Make-up testing will be available for unique circumstances only, so it is essential that students are present and on time both days.
To help your child do their best, please ensure they receive a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast on testing days. Students should also bring a snack, a water bottle, and a book to read in case they finish early.
GRANDPARENTS DAY
We are delighted to welcome our Heritage grandparents to campus for this year’s Grandparents Day celebration. This cherished event provides grandparents the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for HCA’s mission as they enjoy a special program, spend meaningful time with their grandchild, and listen to a message from our leadership team.
Below you will find the schedule for the Pepper Pike campus, along with the specific sessions designated for each grade level and Jr. Kindergarten class. An email with detailed instructions for the day will be provided one week before the event.
Wednesday, April 15
Session 1 Jr. Kindergarten, Kindergarten–12th Grade: 8:45–10:15 a.m.
Session 2 Kindergarten–12th Grade: 10:45–12:15 p.m.
Session 3 Kindergarten–12th Grade: 12:45–2:15 p.m.
Please register grandparents here before April 7.
Note: We are implementing a new check‑in system this year. All HCA guests, including grandparents, will be asked to scan their driver’s license upon arrival, consistent with our updated security procedures.
LOST AND FOUND
Our Lost and Found is currently filled with many items, including HCA fleeces and jackets, water bottles, textbooks, and various school supplies. Any items without names will be donated on the Friday before Spring Break.
If you believe your child may be missing something, please stop by the front desk at your earliest convenience to look through the collection.
MCKIBBEN AND MONTE EVALUATIONS
The McKibben and Monte Pediatric Therapy team is committed to supporting your child’s development in the areas of speech and language, social skills, fine motor skills, and feeding. Their experienced therapists partner with top daycares and preschools to provide on‑site evaluations and treatment, ensuring children receive timely access to the services they may need.
Informal developmental assessments will take place during the week of March 30. To review developmental expectations for your child’s age group and to register for an assessment, please visit the registration page here (Password: MM2024).
Developmental expectations can be found near the bottom of the webpage. Families may register by selecting their center link in the Cleveland region table and clicking on their school.
Please complete registration by Thursday, March 26, at 11:59 p.m.
The cost of each assessment is $130 ($150 for ESL). An invoice will be emailed following the assessment and consultation.
For any questions, please contact the McKibben and Monte team at info@mckibbenandmonte.com.
HOT LUNCH
Please note that there will be no Hot Lunch service during the week of March 30. After that break, we will have four remaining weeks of Hot Lunch. There will be no Hot Lunch offered in May.
The hot lunch schedule is available here, and ordering instructions can be viewed on the Orientation Page. Orders must be placed by Sunday night. Please note the dates you order lunch for your child, as this service is not available every week.
LUNCH VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP
As we enter the final quarter of the year, we kindly ask for your support in the Lunchroom. Your help makes a meaningful difference! Please use the sign-up link below to volunteer.
RHETORIC SEMINAR - SENIOR PANEL | March 19
THE RHETORIC SCHOOL EXPERIENCE - 9th AND 10th GRADE| March 19
COLLEGE AND CAREER COUNSELING NIGHT - 11th GRADE| March 19
HOUSE COMPETITION| March 20
RHETORIC SPRING FORMAL RESERVATION DEADLINE| April 2
SENIOR BANQUET RESERVATION DEADLINE| April 2
RHETORIC MENTORING| April 2
RHETORIC SEMINAR- CLT TEST PREP| April 9
HOUSE COMPETITION| April 10
GRANDPARENTS DAY
We are delighted to welcome our Heritage grandparents to campus for this year’s Grandparents Day celebration. This cherished event provides grandparents the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for HCA’s mission as they enjoy a special program, spend meaningful time with their grandchild, and listen to a message from our leadership team.
Below you will find the schedule for the Pepper Pike campus, along with the specific sessions designated for each grade level and Jr. Kindergarten class. An email with detailed instructions for the day will be provided one week before the event.
Wednesday, April 15
Session 1 Jr. Kindergarten, Kindergarten–12th Grade: 8:45–10:15 a.m.
Session 2 Kindergarten–12th Grade: 10:45–12:15 p.m.
Session 3 Kindergarten–12th Grade: 12:45–2:15 p.m.
Please register grandparents here before April 7.
Note: We are implementing a new check‑in system this year. All HCA guests, including grandparents, will be asked to scan their driver’s license upon arrival, consistent with our updated security procedures.
THE RHETORIC SCHOOL EXPERIENCE
We invite all 9th and 10th grade parents to join us on Thursday, March 19, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the Pepper Pike Chapel. This evening is designed to give families a clear understanding of the academic, spiritual, and formative journey that unfolds during these pivotal years and to reinforce the philosophy of a classical, Christian education within the Rhetoric classroom.
Families will also receive an overview of key elements of the Rhetoric School experience, including curriculum expectations, HCA’s College and Career Counseling program, an introduction to the Senior Thesis, and formative social traditions such as the Rhetoric Formal and Senior Banquet.
Please RSVP here.
COLLEGE AND CAREER COUNSELING NIGHT
We invite all 11th grade students and their parents to join us on Thursday, March 19, from 7:00–8:00 p.m. in the Pepper Pike Music Room for an informative evening designed to guide families through the key components of the Rhetoric School academic journey. The program will feature our College and Career Counselor, Anne Johns, who will share valuable insights on the college search and application process, standardized testing timelines, career‑exploration resources, transcript and course‑planning guidance, and how families can partner with HCA to best support students during this important season.
We also encourage you to visit our College and Career Counseling webpage to learn more about the resources available and how HCA is preparing students to follow the Lord’s calling after graduation. Please RSVP here.
UPCOMING ASSESSMENTS
Iowa assessments for students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 will take place on:
Wednesday, April 8 — morning session
Thursday, April 9 — afternoon session
Additionally, the CLT assessments are scheduled as follows:
Grade 11:Thursday morning, April 16
Grades 7–10:Thursday morning, April 23
We ask families to refrain from scheduling appointments during these testing times so students may complete their assessments without interruption. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
NORTHEAST OHIO SUBURBAN COLLEGE FAIR
The Northeast Ohio Suburban College Fair will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at John Carroll University in the Athletic, Wellness & Event Center.
More than 100 colleges will be represented, providing an excellent opportunity for students and families to speak directly with admissions staff.
RHETORIC SPRING FORMAL
The Rhetoric Spring Formal will take place on Friday, May 1, from 6:00–9:30 p.m. at Tanglewood Golf Club.
Reservations are due by April 2, and dress submissions must be received by April 17.
To review all event details, you may view the email that was sent to families by clicking here.
We look forward to a wonderful evening with our students.
HOT LUNCH
Please note that there will be no Hot Lunch service during the week of March 30. After that break, we will have four remaining weeks of Hot Lunch. There will be no Hot Lunch offered in May.
The hot lunch schedule is available here, and ordering instructions can be viewed on the Orientation Page. Orders must be placed by Sunday night. Please note the dates you order lunch for your child, as this service is not available every week.
SENIOR WEBPAGE
We are excited to share that the Senior Webpage is now live! Families can find all senior resources in one place, including the Senior Checklist, the photo upload link for yearbook pages and the senior slideshow, important details about graduation, and more. We hope this page serves as a helpful hub as we celebrate and support our seniors through their final months at HCA.
SPRING MUSICAL
Our community is warmly invited to attend Heritage Classical Academy’s Spring Musical, The Wizard of Oz. Tickets are now on sale. Click below to purchase your tickets.
Performance Times
All seating will be general admission.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE HCA SPRING MUSICAL
We are delighted to offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities for this year’s spring musical as we prepare to travel down the yellow brick road. HCA is proudly presenting The Wizard of Oz—our very first musical production—and we invite you to partner with us in supporting our talented cast and dedicated production team.
Several sponsorship levels are available. Please click on the following link— Sponsor the Spring Musical Today—to support our students and to help bring this beloved story to life on stage.
BASKETBALL
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the basketball banquet on Monday. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the hard work, dedication, and accomplishments of all our teams!
CLUBS
Congratulations to Oliver Carafa who will be advancing to the Power of the Pen State Tournament! We are proud of his hard work and outstanding accomplishment.
STAY CONNECTED
Join your child’s after-school club on the Band App to receive updates. Didn’t receive an invite? Please email mitchell.monas@heritageclassicalacademy.org.