WELCOME to WARRIORVILLE! Dr. Gary Arnold, President and Head of School - Since 2007, Dr. Arnold has advanced the mission of LRCA by focusing on leadership and program development. By the grace of God, under his leadership, the school has experienced national recognition for academic excellence, growth, capital expansion, and debt reduction. Dr. Arnold is also President of The Council for American Private Education (Washington D.C.), and serves on the boards of The Council for Educational Standards and Accountability, and The Arkansas Nonpublic School Accrediting Association. Before coming to LRCA, Dr. Arnold served as the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Council of Religious and Independent Schools, the Illinois Coalition of Non-Public Schools, and as headmaster of Christian schools in Massachusetts and Illinois. He also served as an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University and Trinity International University in Illinois. Ann Chami, Head of Lower School (Grades PreK-6th) - Mrs. Chami is a dedicated and experienced educator, serving at Little Rock Christian Academy for over 30 years. During her first 18 years, she taught first, second and third grades. She has served in administration since then, initially as Early Childhood Principal and now as Head of Lower School. Mrs. Chami leads over 80 lower school faculty and staff with love, skill and wisdom. She earned her B.S.E. in Early Childhood Education from Ouachita Baptist University. Dr. Justin Justin Smith, Head of Upper School (Grades 7th-12th) - Dr. Smith brings an array of spiritual, educational, professional and personal experience to LRCA. A graduate of University of San Diego, he earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Sam Houston State. He has led well in administration, teaching and coaching. With a number of published articles and peerreviewed presentations on record, he also received such honors as the Excellence in Superintendency Program Award from Sam Houston State University and recognition as The Woodlands Preparatory School’s Most Inspirational Educator. LeAnn Murry, Middle School Assistant LeAnn Assistant Principal - Mrs. Murry earned B.S., B.S.E., and M.S. degrees in Elementary Education from Arkansas State University. In addition to her administrative experience, she has taught over 18 years in public and private elementary schools. She manages day-to-day operations in the middle school building, planning chapels, partnering with other faculty to develop curriculum, and helping students thrive academically and spiritually. Tyler Eatherton, Juni Junior or High Assistant Principal - Mr. Eatherton joined the educational team of LRCA in 2018 after teaching middle school English and Social Studies in public and private institutions, where he also served as a Grade Level Team Leader and Professional Development Chair. Mr. Eatherton is passionate about developing a culture of intentional discipleship paired with engaging instruction to forge a strong, Christ-centered identity within early adolescent students. He earned a B.A. in Middle-Level Education from Harding University and is currently pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.
ELEMENTARY: The House of Love
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he early childhood and elementary curriculum is designed to prepare students for lifelong learning by building a strong academic base, while fostering spiritual and social growth in a loving, accepting environment. God’s Word, the foundation of our curriculum, is integrated into all areas and activities. Core subjects include Bible, Math, Social Studies, Science, and Language Arts. Enrichment classes include Spanish, STEM, Music, Art, Physical Education, and Library.
"The love of Jesus is seen and felt here every single day. Students are academically, emotionally, spiritually and physically given the foundation to begin their journey into who God wants them to be."
- Ann Chami
Head of Lower School
MIDDLE SCHOOL: The House of Joy
T "We have such a loving and supportive staff here to help students navigate challenges, encourage them when things are hard, and nudge them toward independent thinking, learning and growth"
- LeAnn Murry
Middle School Assistant Principal
he middle school years (grades 5-6) are characterized by growth and change, and our experienced faculty understands the specific needs of developing adolescents. Teaching, understanding, and nurturing the whole child are critical to helping students navigate this stage of development. With this understanding, the middle school schedule is constructed to provide advisory time each day for students to build community with teachers and each other through academic and spiritual support. Goals for students include helping them gain independence as thinkers and learners, and recognize failures and struggles as an opportunity for growth. Students pursue mastery of core subject areas (Math, Science, History, English, and Biblical Foundations) while also being challenged to integrate all knowledge through a Christ-centered worldview. Enrichment classes include Band, Orchestra, Choir, Technology, STEM, Theatre, Art, and Physical Education.
JUNIOR HIGH: The House of Enthusiasm
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he LRCA junior high school (grades 7-8) is focused on the whole child while providing an excellent foundation in academic work that is key to success in high school and college. A variety of co-curricular opportunities include chapels, house groups, social events, clubs, athletics, seminars, and more where our junior high students further develop their unique God-given gifts and abilities. Core classes consist of Math (Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Pre-AP Algebra, or Pre-AP Geometry), English, History, Science and Biblical Worldview. Many electives are offered in the areas of World Languages, Theatre, Choir, Band, Orchestra, Art, Digital Art, STEM, Physical Education, and Athletics.
"I love that our building is strictly for adolescents who are beginning their road toward becoming courageous godly men and women. Within this house, they are paired with strong faculty mentors and disciple makers."
- Tyler Eatherton Junior High Assistant Principal
HIGH SCHOOL: The House of Warriors
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he high school offers college preparatory curricula and innovative teaching philosophies such as the Harkness method where critical thinking, reasoning and effective expression through writing and speaking are emphasized. Our highly qualified, committed faculty maximizes opportunities to help students dig deeply and view what they are learning from God’s perspective.
"We believe in our students as individuals…angular kids making up a well-rounded student body of thinkers. Their voices, minds, hearts and souls are of great value. We’re not just preparing them for college. We’re preparing them for life."
- Dr. Justin Smith Head of Upper School
LRCA offers over 50 electives in the areas of World Languages, Business, Technology, Engineering, Theatre, Choir, Band, Orchestra, Art, Digital Art, Physical Education, and Athletics. There is also a bountiful selection of Advanced Placement and Concurrent College courses. Other unique offerings include STEM (Project Lead the Way), agriculture and ecology studies, more than 30 clubs, and countless service opportunities. Students also enjoy the annual J-Term program where trips, classes, and internships not usually offered are available to them. J-Term allows students to pursue passions, explore new ideas and skills, and develop life purpose and perspective. Senior Capstone is another program distinctive to LRCA. Rising juniors submit proposals to engage in a high-level, independent study/research program resembling college-level thesis work.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: Motivating Minds
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ach building on the LRCA campus is a house of learning in a myriad of ways. Devoted faculty and staff create a culture of academic rigor characterized by introducing challenges, presenting engaging lessons, encouraging understanding, and fostering enjoyment. A student’s faith as well as his or her intellect increase and excel in tandem. From the youngest preschooler to the graduating senior, every effort is made to help students develop and explore their God-given talents and abilities in order to thrive beyond the gates of Warriorville. ACADEMIC & COLLEGE COUNSELING The Office of Academic and College Counseling believes that glorifying God in their work begins with a holistic view of students as His image-bearers. This premise leads to an understanding that the college search process begins with the alignment of one’s identity in Christ. The counselors seek to support and advocate for each student in their journey to discover who they are and how God will use them beyond the gates of Little Rock Christian. Free and comprehensive programs offered by the Office of Academic and College Counseling: • SCOIR application management platform • YouScience aptitude platform (a digital version of the Johnson O’Connor Aptitude Test) • Warrior U - small group sessions on all aspects of the application process • An individualized approach to high school course selection and the college application process • Test Prep for PSAT, ACT, and SAT offered during school hours • Visits with more than five dozen colleges and universities • Expanded opportunities sponsored by the Central Arkansas Private School (CAPS) Consortium • College Workshop for Juniors - small and large group sessions with representatives from regional colleges and universities
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: A Higher Purpose
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eginning with Biblical Foundations in elementary grades, LRCA’s Biblical Worldview curriculum emphasizes the grace and truth of Jesus. We are about educating the hearts of our students while also educating their minds. In this effort, faculty and staff prepare them to be the hands and feet of Jesus and to be highly functioning, mature Christian young men and women who bring a biblical frame of reference to any area of study, work, or life. In Biblical Worldview, we emphasize the principle that Christian Truth permeates all areas of life, affirming God’s inspired, inerrant Word as the transcendent standard by which we understand and interpret all aspects of our existence and live our lives. The doctrinal basics about God, Christ, Salvation, and man permeate each course. We desire LRCA students to discern truth and untruth not only in the academic realm but also in the realm of popular culture. Our ultimate goal is to equip students to represent Jesus in culture through personal knowledge of God and His truth and to reflect Christ in word and action to the world around them. Students gather corporately in chapel services once per week to sing worship, learn scripture, and unpack Biblical lessons. Chapel services are led by teachers, local pastors, alumni, and students. In Warriorville, chapel is grade-level specific (Elementary, Middle School, Junior High, and High School), authentically engaging, and prayerfully prepared.
FINE ARTS: Creativity in His Honor
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RCA’s Fine Arts program seeks to cultivate the God-given talents of our students by providing a variety of venues for student learning and achievement in the arts. While a diverse knowledge of the arts is developed, cultivating an art form also stretches and grows a student’s character. In addition to creativity and expression, a study in the arts produces persistence, patience, consistency, respect, and a teachable mindset. Students are afforded opportunities to explore and develop their abilities in both the performing and visual arts in the academic setting: • Instrumental Arts – offered 6th grade through high school • Studio Arts – offered preschool through high school • Theatre – offered 5th grade through High School • Vocal Arts – offered preschool through high school All of LRCA’s high school fine arts programs are actively involved in their respective regional academic associations. Faculty and students attend workshops, clinics, and competitions each semester. Students are also given the opportunity to explore, develop, or enhance a skill in LRCA’s after-school Fine Arts Academy. Weekly private and group lessons are offered in all areas of the arts and are based on age and skill level. Whether a student pursues the arts as a career or as an enhancement, LRCA’s Fine Arts program offers the academic and extra-curricular opportunities needed to support and advance their goals.
ATHLETICS: Competing for His Glory
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thletics are a vital part of a Little Rock Christian education. Coaches and athletic administration strive to develop student-athletes into spiritually alive, intellectually alert and physically disciplined individuals.
Life lessons of punctuality, perseverance, teamwork, self-discipline, and dedication are core values of Warrior athletics and give students an opportunity to reflect the character of Christ both on and off the field. Christ-centered athletics provide an avenue for displaying God’s plan to teammates, opponents, and spectators. Athletes, fans, parents, and staff are encouraged and expected to reflect Christ by winning humbly and losing graciously. Little Rock Christian joined the Arkansas Activities Association in 2000. Since that time, the Warrior athletic program has won numerous conference and state titles in almost every sport and has been recognized as one of the best overall athletic programs in the state. Warrior athletes have accumulated countless individual All-State and All-Conference honors with 100+ student athletes receiving athletic scholarships to continue their athletic career at the collegiate level. Athletic offerings are available for students in 3rd – 12th grades.
Christ-centered • Character Based • Committed • Competitive
PARTNERSHIP: Christ-centered Community & YOU
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s a Christian school, we are an extension of the Christian church and the Christian home. Christian schools are stronger and wiser in partnership with the Christian home and local churches. At LRCA, we refer to this partnership as the golden triangle, triangle as we work to maximize each student’s reach toward their highest potential through an extraordinary educational experience. You, as parents, have a key role in this partnership at LRCA. Well over 900 families in Warriorville represent 100+ churches to create a beautiful tapestry illustrating the golden triangle. triangle Warrior parents are truly vital to our school community. Just as the countless ways students’ lives are enriched here, there are numerous opportunities for parents to plug in at Little Rock Christian. Warrior parents serve as field trip chaperones, room moms and dads, office helpers, guest speakers, substitute teachers, parent coaches, fine arts volunteers, and much more. Parents offer a wide spectrum of professions and often provide opportunities for high school J-Term internships. Businesses owned by Warrior parents also actively support many facets of education at LRCA.
PARTNERSHIP: PTF & Warrior Club
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RCA’s Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF) (PTF and Warrior Club are two parent-led organizations which have had tremendous impact over the years. PTF partners with LRCA to continually better the school for learning and growth, and encourages fellowship and supports families by hosting various activities throughout the year. Schoolwide events bring all age groups together, while building-specific endeavors are tailored toward age-appropriate interests. Annually, PTF’s efforts fund professional development, curriculum and equipment for education of the entire student body. PTF also stocks classrooms and provides faculty encouragement throughout the school year. If you’re an LRCA parent, you’re automatically part of the PTF. Check out ways to get involved at www.LittleRockChristian.com/PTF. Warrior Club is the athletic booster club that supports all junior high and high school athletic teams and spirit squads. LRCA athletes are trained and encouraged to achieve their personal best for the glory of God. Coaches are training students to be healthy and godly men and women while educating young athletes in safe physical training techniques and equipping them to pursue life-long fitness. Warrior Club works to equip the programs and facilities that these athletes need in order to keep LRCA a top competitor in numerous sports. Volunteerism, branding, spirit, encouragement, caring, planning, funding, and hosting a fantastic golf tournament are all part of the Warrior Club’s game plan. From volunteering in the concession stand or shopping at the Warrior Store, to purchasing a Warrior Club membership, your involvement and support show leadership while serving teams, Little Rock Christian, and the community! Go to www.LittleRockChristian.com/WarriorClub for more information.
ADMISSIONS: Joining the Journey
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e can’t wait to welcome you to campus! Every day we serve families who desire a Christian (teaching children the person of Jesus and his Holy Word), Independent (LRCA is a nondenominational school rooted in historical Christianity) and Collegiate education. LRCA was awarded the 2012 National Blue Ribbon Award for Excellence.
Heidi Brandt Director of Admissions Heidi.Brandt@LittleRockChristian.com 501-975-3439
Core values of Truth, Excellence, Love and Partnership are displayed and taught by a skilled cadre of faculty and staff, making LRCA a truly unique school experience. Little Rock Christian Academy is a discipleship community. We seek families who believe in the purpose of a biblical education and highly motivated students who will contribute positively to our community. COME VISIT Every day is a tour day at LRCA! Schedule your tour or shadow experience by calling 501-868-9822 or email VisitLRCA@ LittleRockChristian.com. HOW TO APPLY Please find and complete an application form at LittleRockChristian.com/Admissions.
JoEllyn Cooper Admissions Specialist JoEllyn.Cooper@LittleRockChristian.com 501-975-3437
Once all academic and reference documents have been returned to the Admissions Office, an interview and testing will be scheduled. A non-refundable $75 application fee must be submitted with each application.
To experience even more, go to LittleRockChristian.com today!