Our Pre-K students are learning about the joy and hope of the resurrection story in such a meaningful (and tasty!) way! 🌅

As part of their lesson, they made “Empty Tomb Rolls.” This special treat helps illustrate the story of the empty tomb on Easter morning. As the rolls baked, the marshmallow inside melted away, leaving them empty, just like the tomb! 🪨 🥐

Hands-on activities like these help bring big truths to life for our youngest learners. 💜

#ucathunder #ucaelementary #ucaprek
1 day ago, UCA
Pre-k students working with dough and marshmallows to make empty tomb rolls
Pre-k students working with dough and marshmallows to make empty tomb rolls
Pre-k students working with dough and marshmallows to make empty tomb rolls
Pre-k students working with dough and marshmallows to make empty tomb rolls
Pre-k students working with dough and marshmallows to make empty tomb rolls
pre-k hands shown rolling dough around a marshmallow
pre-k students looking inside their rolls
pre-k students eating their empty tomb rolls
pre-k student eating
Pre-k students working with dough and marshmallows to make empty tomb rolls
Travel update from our 11th & 12th grade mission team ✈️

Flights to Lithuania went smoothly; uneventful travel is always a huge blessing! Two students celebrated birthdays along the way, and our hosts helped with a special dessert after arrival 🎉

After check-in at the hotel, we walked to Journey Church, prepared for our chapel service, and then had dinner. Our group is tired after a lot of travel and little sleep.

Tomorrow, we begin our first day of ministry, and we can’t wait to share more! 💜

#ucathunder #ucahighschool
2 days ago, UCA
group photo of high school students in the airport
teachers and students on an airplane
teachers and students on an airplane
group photo of high school students on a mission trip with their hosts
student being given a birthday dessert
student being given a birthday dessert
group of students sitting in chairs
six high school boys sitting in chairs and two on the floor
small group of high school students on a bus
🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓

We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives.

Join us as we honor Abby, and the incredible individual she has become! 💜
“UCA has helped me to be more independent and more confident in my faith as I've grown these last three years going here. ”
“I will never forget the memories of sophomore year, and the House events. I'm so grateful and lucky to be able to go to a safe christian school.”
“I feel prepared to stand firm in my faith and God, to focus on Jesus, and not to worry for the future, because God has the plan already made. ”
“I would like our supporters to know that I appreciate them so much, more than I can express. UCA deserves more recognition, we really are an amazing school!”
“After senior year, I’m planning to take a gap year, making more money. Then potentially college here in MN or at GCU in AZ. I’m giving it to God and what He wants me to learn in different seasons of my life."

Congratulations, Abby!

#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026
3 days ago, UCA
senior photo of a graduating student
Bringing the Bible to life ✝️ 📖

This week, our 1st grade students created their own palm branches by tracing their hands, then used them as they acted out the story together. Through this activity, they learned that Jesus wasn’t the king people expected. He came as a humble King, riding on a donkey instead of a mighty horse, and didn’t need a throne or a gold crown. 🌿 👑

#ucathunder #ucaelementary
3 days ago, UCA
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade student holding up palm branches that she made
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
1st grade students reenacting palm sunday
Our high school biology students are exploring symbiotic relationships and discovering how organisms interact in ways that can be mutually beneficial, harmful, or somewhere in between. 🌿

They recently welcomed a special guest speaker, an arborist, who also happens to be Mrs. Diamond’s brother! He shared his expertise on tree galls and the unique relationships behind them. Students had the opportunity to see real-world examples and gain insight into how these interactions play out in nature. 🌳

#ucathunder #ucahighschool
4 days ago, UCA
science teacher in the front of the classroom introducing her guest speaker
arborist speaking in the front of a classroom
arborist speaking in the front of a classroom
students passing around a sample of a tree gall
arborist speaking in the front of a classroom
arborist speaking in the front of a classroom

🎓 Senior Spotlight 🎓

We’re excited to celebrate our graduating seniors as we lead up to their exciting milestone. We hope you enjoy these reflections from our students as they share about their experiences, growth, and the impact UCA has had on their lives:

“UCA has strengthened my confidence and identity in Christ by helping me understand that I am a child of God.”
“I've learned to view everyone as valuable, because they are made in God's image.”
“UCA has strengthened my knowledge about the faith and enabled me to understand why I believe what I do.”
“After high school, I am going to Evangel University in Missouri to pursue a degree in accounting, and hopefully specialize in forensic accounting.”
“Thank you for supporting a school that helps students understand who they are, by teaching them whose they are.”

Join us as we honor the Class of 2026 and the incredible individuals they’ve become! 💜
Congratulations, Lacey! 🎉 👏

#ucathunder #ucahighschool #ucaclassof2026

4 days ago, UCA
senior girl standing by a tree in a field of grass
Our kindergarten students spent a special time with their 5th grade buddies, reading together in blanket tents lit by flashlights and a “campfire.” There’s something magical about slowing down, sharing stories, and learning side by side. 📚 🔦

These special moments build friendships, grow confidence, and create a sense of belonging across grade levels. 💜

This time together was made even sweeter with s’mores bars to enjoy together! 🔥🍫

#ucathunder #ucaelementary
5 days ago, UCA
5th grade and kindergarten students reading books together by flashlight
5th grade and kindergarten students reading books together by flashlight
5th grade and kindergarten students reading books together by flashlight
5th grade and kindergarten students reading books together by flashlight
a pan of s'more dessert bars
campfire projected onto a whiteboard
Our 3rd grade students spent time in pairs while working on their Groves material. They are practicing skills, encouraging one another, and building confidence. 📚✨

Using the Groves Reading and Phonics curriculum, our Kindergarten–3rd grade students learn to break down the rules of phonics, grammar, spelling, and more.

By 3rd grade, all the skills they’ve been building since kindergarten really start to come together, helping them read and write with greater confidence and understanding. 💜

#ucathunder #ucaelementary
8 days ago, UCA
teacher standing next to a student at her desk, looking at her work
two students writing in their workbooks
student sitting in a reading tent working on school work
two students working on a worksheet together
two students sitting at a table working on a project with their teacher standing behind them
three students sitting on the floor working on a project together
students sitting at their desk working with teacher walking around the room
two students sitting at a table and two other students working on the floor
student sitting in a reading tent working on school work
teacher crouched down next to a student while he works on an assignment
Today, we had the honor of recognizing our elementary, middle school, and high school Student of the Quarter winners for the third quarter! These outstanding students were selected by their teachers for consistently demonstrating the House Essentials—integrity, helpfulness, respect, compassion, and more. 🏆 🌟

Congratulations to:
Esme C - PreK - Christo House ❤️
Gloribel Z - 8th grade - Fide House 💛
Evan G - 10th grade - Fide House 💛

We are so proud of your dedication to excellence both in and out of the classroom. Congratulations!

#ucathunder #ucahousesystem
8 days ago, UCA
preschool student holding a certificate she was awarded and her teacher standing next to her
middle school student holding a certificate and standing next to a teacher
high school student holding a certificate and standing next to a teacher
House system shield logo including logos for each of the four houses and the slogan "Soli Deo Gloria"
preschool student holding a certificate she was awarded and her teacher standing next to her
middle school teacher handing a certificate to a student
high school teacher handing a certificate to a student
🍀 Leprechaun Hunt! 🍀

Our kindergarten students had a magical time on their St. Patrick’s Day hunt! They discovered mysterious leprechaun stones and couldn’t wait to find out what was inside.

With a little science experiment, they dropped the stones into vinegar… and watched as they fizzed, fizzed, and bubbled! As the stones dissolved, each student uncovered a hidden gold coin! 🧪✨

The students then traded in their coins and were rewarded with a pot full of “gold” candies! 🌈

#ucathunder #ucaelementary


9 days ago, UCA
students looking at "stones"
students watching a science experiment with a cup of bubbling solution sitting on their desk
a student watching a science experiment with a cup of bubbling solution sitting on his desk
a student trading in a gold coin for a whole pot full of gold candies
a student finding a clue on a scavenger hunt
a student watching a science experiment with a cup of bubbling solution sitting on her desk
students watching a science experiment with a cup of bubbling solution sitting on their desk
a student watching a science experiment with a cup of bubbling solution sitting on her desk
a student watching a science experiment with a cup of bubbling solution sitting on his desk
a pot of gold treasure that students were hunting for
We’re so proud of our 5th and 6th grade students who were nominated to participate in this special Honor Band experience, hosted by Minnesota Junior Winds, this past weekend! 🎶 🥁

These students represented our school with excellence. They embraced this day as an opportunity to grow in their musical abilities while playing alongside students from other schools in the metro area.

It’s an incredible opportunity to be recognized for their hard work and talent. Congratulations students! 👏 🎺
10 days ago, UCA
group photo of 5th and 6th grade students who participated in an honor band
photo of an entire band on stage
students playing their instruments during a band rehearsal
students playing their instruments during a band rehearsal
photo of an entire band on stage
students playing their instruments during a band rehearsal
students playing their instruments during a band rehearsal
photo of an entire band on stage
photo of an entire band on stage
group photo of 5th and 6th grade students who participated in an honor band with their director

What if your child were equipped to impact the world for Christ?

At UCA, students are prepared to influence culture rather than simply be shaped by it. They gain the tools to navigate the world with conviction. They learn to love others radically, stand for truth, and serve with humility.

Surrounded by adults who model these values every day, our students grow confident in their calling and ready to make a difference for God’s kingdom. 💜

Enrollment is open for next fall. Join us at our Open House to learn more.

Register at: ucathunder.org

#ucathunder

12 days ago, UCA
students singing worship songs in a chapel service
Due to the Blizzard Warning in effect, wind gusts as high as 45 mph with widespread blowing snow, slippery road conditions, and continued cold temperatures, UCA will be closed tomorrow, 3/16. Please note that some metro districts, including Bloomington Public Schools, are currently on spring break, so their closures may not appear on school closing reports. All UCA after school activities including the College and Career Night will be cancelled. Students participating in a co-op sport should check directly with their coaches regarding practices.
12 days ago, UCA
branded graphic to announce no school
One performance down....one to go!

We hope you'll join us tonight at 6:30 pm for this impactful ministry performance. It is a must-see!

#ucathunder #ucafinearts
15 days ago, UCA
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
students acting in a Robin Hood play
🌟 Every student at UCA has an incredible story — unique, inspiring, and full of potential! 💜

We’d like to celebrate those students who shine. From personal achievements to acts of kindness, creative talents, and leadership in or out of the classroom, each student makes a difference and brings something special to our community! 🙌 🎓

Shoutout to 4th grader, Luke W, who was nominated by Mr. Geselle:

“Luke has truly stood out this year as an exceptionally intentional student. He consistently seeks opportunities to greet and engage in meaningful conversations with adults throughout the building. His positive attitude and genuine motivation to connect with others reflect a friendly, welcoming, and caring young man who goes above and beyond each day.”

#ucathunder #ucastudentswhoshine
16 days ago, UCA
two pictures of a 4th grade student along with the school logo
What if your child’s education didn’t just teach them about faith—but helped them live it out?

At United Christian Academy, students engage in discipleship-driven experiences that connect faith to action. Through service opportunities and hands-on learning, they move beyond simply knowing biblical truth to applying it in real-life situations.

UCA is a training ground for living out the Gospel, where students learn not only about Jesus but also how to live like Him every day. 💜

Enrollment is open for next year. Join us at our Spring Open House to learn more.

Register at: ucathunder.org

#ucathunder
17 days ago, UCA
students at a meal-packing service project
picture of a teacher kneeling next to a student at her desk with information about the open house
From choreography to costumes to powerful moments on stage, our Robin Hood story is coming to life! 🎭 🏹

Our students have been putting the finishing touches on this ministry performance, and it is sure to be both a tear-jerker and a crowd-pleaser. 🥹 👏

📆 March 12 & 13
🕰️ 6:30 pm
📍 Cedar Valley Church
🆓 No admission

#ucathunder #ucafinearts
17 days ago, UCA
students on stage rehearsing a play
students on stage rehearsing a play
teachers working on the set of a play
students on stage rehearsing a play
students on stage rehearsing a play
teacher talking to students backstage
students on stage rehearsing a play
teacher talking to students backstage
students on stage rehearsing a play
students on stage rehearsing a play
🍎✨ It’s time to put the spotlight on one of our incredible UCA staff members — sharing a glimpse into their heart for students, their passion for UCA, and the impact they make every day. ✨ 📚

Today, we’re celebrating Pastor Ashley Abbott, Elementary Chaplain. Here is what a colleague said:

“Pastor Ashley has a special way of connecting with our youngest students. She has a special gift for making big biblical truths accessible to little hearts. Her stories are engaging, memorable, and full of joy. She has a great way of encouraging the students to pray and to ‘talk to God’ together, which helps their faith become real.
We are so thankful for the way she pours into our elementary students, pointing them toward Christ, encouraging them to ask questions, and helping them build a strong foundation of faith.”

Thank you, Pastor Ashley, for the heart and energy you bring to our school community! 🙏

We’re blessed to have you at UCA! 💜

#ucathunder #ucastaff
18 days ago, UCA
teacher feature graphic with the chaplain holding a microphone
What if your child experienced a school where they truly belong?

At UCA, students are welcomed by peers, teachers, and coaches who know and support them. Through meaningful friendships, cross-grade connections, and daily moments of care, they grow in confidence—building an identity rooted in Christ and strengthened by community. 💜

Enrollment is open for next year. Join us at our Spring Open House to learn more.

Register at ucathunder.org

#ucathunder
22 days ago, UCA
group picture of the high school students in the Gratia house.
picture of a teacher kneeling next to a student at her desk with information about the open house

Rooted in Prayer - our theme for March 🙏

This week, our students and staff have been learning about the ACTS prayer method—Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication.

In the elementary chapel, Pastor Ashley helped students understand each part of the prayer model and how they can use it in their own conversations with God. There was lots of participation—and plenty of laughter—when she compared prayer to a bowl of Cocoa Puffs: “It’s so good! And when you’re done, it makes you want more!” 🥣

Our secondary students also spent time growing in prayer during Discipleship groups, where junior and senior leaders guided smaller groups through the ACTS model together.

We're thankful for opportunities like this where students are learning how to talk with God and grow deeper in their faith. 💜

22 days ago, UCA
two high school girls leading a group of middle school girls in a discipleship group
two high school boys leading a group of middle school boys in a discipleship group
first grade teacher praying with one of her students
elementary chaplain holding a microphone to a student as they speak
bookmark with an acronym to help students learn how to pray
middle school boys having a discussion
elementary chaplain speaking on stage during chapel
a  high school girl leading a group of middle school girls in a discipleship group
elementary chaplain speaking on stage during chapel
high school students writing on the white board