ABOUT US
Welcome to Riverside Christian Academy, a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). It is a great privilege to join with the church and with your family to create an environment where, working together, we can nurture today’s children and develop tomorrow’s Kingdom leaders. Author and educator, Glen Schultz, has defined “kingdom education” as “a life-long, Bible-based, Christ-centered process of leading a child to Christ, building a child up in Christ, and equipping a child to serve Christ!” (Kingdom Education, 1998, p.29).
At RCA, we are committed to academic excellence; but we further desire to provide the distinctive where every student may know Jesus Christ as Savior, be continually transformed into the image of Christ, and be fully equipped to serve Christ in everyday life. Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” If we seek to put God first in our children’s lives, every single thing our children need to fulfill His perfect plan (not our plan – but God’s plan) for their lives will be given unto them. This is God’s promise! I look forward to answering your questions and working with your family to nurture and develop tomorrow’s Kingdom leaders.
In His Service,
Dr. Lin Wheeler, Ed.D
Superintendent
Founded: 2014
Mascot: Royals (Lion)
Colors: Reflex Blue, Black, Silver & White
School Verse: 1 Peter 2:9 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
Mission Statement: RCA provides a challenging, Christ-centered education and prepares students to fulfill their divine calling.
Vision Statement: RCA students are prepared to impact their world for Christ one by one.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy: Riverside Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in admissions policies, athletic and other school-administered programs. Riverside Christian Academy reserves the right to select students on the basis of academic performance, religious commitment, lifestyle choices, and personal qualifications including a willingness to cooperate with Riverside Christian Academy administration and to abide by its policies.
Superintendent: Dr. Lin Wheeler
Type of School: Non-Denominational Ministry.
Grades: Pre-K3-12.(Fall 2019 will have Grade 12), graduating our first senior class in May, 2020.
Full-Time Faculty: Degreed, ACSI certified/credentialed
Average Class Size: Small Class Sizes
Accreditation: AdvancEd/SACS/CASI/ACSI
Curriculum: The RCA curriculum will focus on STREAM...Science, Technology, Relationships/Reading/Writing, Engineering, Arts, Math
All of our curriculum is based on National Standards with Biblical Integration and is a focus within the entire structure. The STREAM will flow through the word of God!
Philosophy: The philosophy of Riverside Christian Academy is based on a God-centered view that all truth is God’s truth and that the Bible is the inspired and the only infallible, authoritative Word of God that contains this truth. God created all things, and He sustains all things. Therefore, the universe and humanity are dynamically related to God, and they have the purpose of glorifying Him. Because humans are sinners by nature and choice, they cannot glorify or know God. A person can do this only by choosing God’s free gift of salvation through His Son, thereby committing his or her life to the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Our aim in the social domain is to provide a Christian perspective on life and the world. This perspective will produce a balanced personality and a proper understanding and acceptance of one’s role in life at home, at work, at play, and at worship—all grounded in the Christian concept of love.This philosophy channels our energies toward promoting high academic standards while helping students to achieve skills in creative and critical thinking and to integrate academic subjects with a biblical worldview. The objective of our instructional program is to enable students to become productive citizens, leaders, and family members, and to pursue the post secondary education of their choosing, whether in college, university, or vocational training.
Spiritual Growth
Riverside Christian Academy seeks the following:
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To teach the Word of God as truth, to understand and apply Christian principle(s) as the foundation for learning Psalm 86:11
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To encourage students to respect and love God's Word Psalm 119:172
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To equip the student to fulfill the Great Commission Matthew 28:19-20
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To integrate Christian faith into all academic disciplines Proverbs 10:17
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To foster emotional and physical well-being in a safe, loving, structured, and Godly environment Psalm 821:5-8
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To equip the student to discern worldviews not based on God's Word Galatians 5:16-17
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To encourage the development of a servants- heart directed toward home, community, and church Galatians 5:13
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To serve the Christian home and be an evangelical outreach to non-Christian families Matthew 28:19-20
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To guide the student in knowing, comprehending, and applying the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith in order to apply them to all future life decisions 1 Corinthians 11:1
To nurture the students’ relationship with God in such a way that they will know His will for their life Jeremiah 29:11
Riverside Christian Academy seeks the following:
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To create in the student an awareness of God's supreme authority over all creation 1 Chronicles 29:10-12
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To provide a Christ-centered education Proverbs 2:6
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To provide the student with high academic standards maintained by a challenging and accelerated curriculum Romans 9:3,5
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To teach the student the fundamental processes used in communicating: such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening Proverbs 16:23
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To provide state-of-the-art technological skills Proverbs 22:29
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To encourage an appreciation for the fine arts and to provide an opportunity to express gifts and talents in this area 1 Corinthians 6:20
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Ty motivate students to recognize and develop their innate gifts and talents to his greatest potential Ecclesiastes 10:107
To develop a work ethic mandated by God's Word. Colossians 3:22
In October 2014, Riverside Christian Academy was established with the support of Fayetteville Community Church. In March of 2015, the first class was opened, beginning with a combination 3 and 4-year-old preschool class.
In the fall of 2015, RCA added the academy with grades kindergarten through 8th grade. RCA had 71 students enrolled during the 2015-16 school year.
In the fall of 2016, RCA added the ninth grade and had an enrollment of 91 for the 2016-17 school year. During the winter of 2018, RCA was granted the status of being a sole entity and as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational and religious organization through the state of NC and the federal government of the United States of America.
In the fall of 2017, RCA added the tenth grade and had an enrollment of 128 for the 2017-18 school year.
In the fall of 2018, RCA added the eleventh grade and had an enrollment
of 149 for the 2018-19 school year.
In the fall of 2019, RCA added the twelfth grade and had an enrollment of 161 for the 2019-2020 school year. The seven seniors (Sarah Edge (valedictorian), Katie Oler (salutatorian), Andrew Prentice, Matthew Lee, Tristan Plesser, Anthony MCNeill, and Kaleb Sessoms) of the class of 2020, was the first graduating class of Riverside.
In the fall of 2020, RCA had an enrollment of 294 for the 2020-21 school year. The four seniors (Sarah Lee (valedictorian), Reagan Kinlaw (salutatorian), Mason Donahue, and Trinity Hood) of the class of 2021 were the second graduating class of Riverside.
In the fall of 2021, RCA had an enrollment of 281 students for the 2021-22 school year. The five seniors (Amelia Edge (valedictorian), Aunisty Belcher (salutatorian), Abigail Lewis, Nicholas Shambach, and Adam Schell) of the class of 2022 were our third graduating class.
In the fall of 2022, RCA had an enrollment of 275 students for the 2022-23 school year. The ten seniors (Hayes Wheeler (valedictorian), Zachary Barbour (salutatorian), Will Lee, Tristan Browarek, Gracie Draughon, Hayden Kelly, Codie Sessoms, Logan Rockwell, Angel Antonio-Escatel, and Madison Ivansek) were our fourth graduating class.
In the fall of 2023, RCA had an enrollment of 275 students for the 2023-24 school year. The nine seniors (Kassidy Edge (valedictorian), Raegyn Paul (salutatorian), Nicole Avignone, Angel Buie, Christian Morley, Ana Paro, Shannon Scogin, Chri Houghton, and Tim Machado) were our fifth graduating class.
In the fall of 2024, RCA had an enrollment of 281 students for the 2024-25 school year. The ten seniors (Nicholas Ball, Jenna Campbell, Cain Hollis, Charles Jackson, Savanna Marshburn, Jayme MCCaffity, Cheyanne Palacios, Allen Peterson, Mayanie Slater, and Madison Willetts) will be our sixth graduating class.
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We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative, inerrant Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).
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We believe there is one God, eternally existent in three persons--Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:1, Matthew 28:19, John 10:30).
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We believe in the deity of Christ (John 10:33); His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:35); His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15; 7:26); His miracles (John 2:11); His vicarious and atoning , death (1 Corinthians 15:3, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 2:9); His resurrection (John 11:25, 1 Corinthians 15:4); His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19); His personal return in power and glory (Acts 1:11, Revelation 19:11).
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We believe in the absolute necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the exceeding sinfulness of human nature; and that men are justified on the ground of faith alone for salvation (John 3:16-19, John 5:24, Romans 3:23; 5;8-9, Ephesians 2:8-10, Titus 3:5).
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We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; those that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and those that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation (John 5:28-29).
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We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, Galatians 3:26-28).
We believe in the manifestation of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (Romans 8:13-14, 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19-20, Ephesians 4:30, 5:18).
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We believe that all human life is sacred and created by God in His image. We believe human life begins at conception and an unborn child, at any stage of development, is a human being and should be treated as such. Human life is of inestimable worth in all its dimensions, including pre-born babies, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through natural death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value all human life (Ps. 139).
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All members of the RCA Board of Directors, the RCA School Board, administration, and staff of Riverside Christian Academy believe that the Bible is the written Word of God, without error in all its teachings. Because of our understanding of the Bible, our school teaches these core family values: Colossians 3:16
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It is unacceptable for Christians to teach hatred against any group or individual
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Human life begins at conception and an unborn child at any stage of development is a human being and should be treated as such
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Premarital or extramarital sexual intimacy is morally wrong.
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Marriage should be an exclusively heterosexual institution
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All members of the RCA School Board shall be born-again believers and shall agree without reservation with Articles II (Statement of Faith) and Article III (Philosophy of Education) of the RCA Bylaws. Members of the RCA School Board shall be members in good standing of a local, evangelical church whose doctrine is in agreement with Article II (Statement of Faith) of the RCA Bylaws. The responsibility of the RCA School Board is to review and approve the school’s academic affairs and shall include, but not limited to: reviewing and approving policy, matters of personnel, and tuition and related fees. A paramount responsibility is promoting Christian education in the community, and praying for the ministry of the school. 1 Timothy 4:12, Matthew 5:16
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ACADEMIC THINKING (AT):
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are well prepared in all academic disciplines, and are skilled in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking. Proverbs 22:29
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are proficient in mathematics and science. Proverbs 22:29
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have a knowledge and understanding of people, events, and movements in history (including church history) and the cultures of other peoples and places. Proverbs 22:29
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appreciate literature and the arts understanding how these areas express and shape beliefs and values. Proverbs 22:29
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value intellectual inquiry and are engaged in the marketplace of ideas (open honest exchange of ideas). Proverbs 22:29
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have an appreciation for the natural environment and practice responsible steward of God’s creation. Proverbs 22:29
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WORLDVIEW ORIENTATION (WO):
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have a critical appreciation of languages and cultures of other peoples, dispelling prejudice, promoting interethnic harmony, and encouraging biblical hospitality for the “alien” or “stranger.” Colossians 2:6-7
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are committed to lifelong learning. Colossians 2:6-7
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understand the worth of every human being as created in the image of God. Colossians 2:6-7
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can articulate and defend their Christian worldview while having a basic understanding of opposing worldviews. Colossians 2:6-7
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possess apologetic skills to defend their faith.Colossians 2:6-7
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embrace and practice justice, mercy, and peacemaking in family and society. Colossians 2:6-7
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understand that work demonstrates dignity as an expression of the nature of God. Colossians 2:6-7
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SPIRITUAL FORMATION (SF):
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personally respond to carrying out the Great Commission locally and around the world in a culturally sensitive manner. John 15:5
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understand and commit to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. John 15:5
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know, understand, and apply God’s Word in daily life. John 15:5
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are empowered by the Holy Spirit and pursue a life of faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. John 15:5
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treat their bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit. John 15:5
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are actively involved in a church community, serving God and others. John 15:5
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respect and relate appropriately with integrity the people they work, play, and live with. John 15:5
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SKILL DEVELOPMENT (SD):
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know how to utilize resources, including téchnology, to find, analyze, and evaluate information. Exodus 35:10
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have the skills to question, solve problems, and make wise decisions. Exodus 35:10
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understand, value, and engage in appropriate social (community) and civic (political) activities. Exodus 35:10
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are prepared to practice the principles of healthy, moral family living. Exodus 35:10
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are good stewards of their finances, time (including discretionary time) and all other resources. Exodus 35:10
Business Ethics and Conduct
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Ethical conduct is expected of all Riverside Christian Academy employees. The reputation and the success of Riverside Christian Academy is affected by the ethical conduct of its employees. Riverside Christian Academy, Inc. requires employees to carefully follow all laws and regulations and have the highest standards of conduct and personal integrity.
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Continued success of the Academy depends on the trust of parents. Employees have a duty to Riverside Christian Academy, our students, and parents to act in ways that will earn the continued trust and confidence of the public.
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As an organization, Riverside Christian Academy, Inc. will comply with all applicable laws and regulations. All board of directors, board members, administrators, and employees are expected conduct business in accordance with the letter, spirit, and intent of all relevant laws and to refrain from any illegal, dishonest, or unethical activity.
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Good judgment and high ethical principles will result in right decisions. However, if an employee is not sure if an action is ethical or proper, the matter should be openly discussed with the superintendent or appropriate administrator.
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It is the responsibility of every Riverside Christian Academy employee to comply with Riverside Christian Academy’s Inc. policy of business ethics and conduct. Employees who ignore or do not comply with this standard of business ethics and conduct may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including possible termination of employment.
RCA uses Gradelink as its online grading portal. Parents are able to access their child’s grades and information. This is used primarily for third grade and above.
Gradelink keeps parents totally involved in their child's academic progress. A parent can easily view class grades, assignment grades, due dates, upcoming homework and more. Parents and students can download file attachments posted by the teacher including worksheets, permission slips, study guides, and the class syllabus.
Login Link Below:
The Parent/Teacher Fellowship (PTF) is an organization of parents and teachers who seek to promote the general welfare of the school. It meets periodically and provides opportunity for parents to join with teachers and administration in furthering the goals of the school. All parents are encouraged to participate in the PTF and to help with its various projects. Teachers are required to attend all PTF meetings.
*Some of the ongoing projects include:
A Winter Gala that consists of dinner and a live and silent auction where each grade level creates a project to be auctioned off.
Spring Fling – A carnival with games, competitions, food, and fun with proceeds going the the Academy.
*Some of our activities include:
Teacher Appreciation Luncheon and Daily Gifts for teachers – The PTF provides a luncheon for the teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week and thoughtful gifts and cards during Teacher Appreciation Week.
A large needs project as determined by a PTF vote – The PTF plans to provide large needs for RCA. Each year it is determined by a vote what the greatest needs are for the year. Some ideas include: an Activity Bus, computers, iPads, playground equipment, and special classroom needs.
RCA uses Gradelink as its online grading portal. Parents are able to access their child’s grades and information. This is used for K-12. Gradelink keeps parents totally involved in their child's academic progress. A parent can easily view class grades, assignment grades, due dates, upcoming homework and more. Parents and students can download file attachments posted by the teacher including worksheets, permission slips, study guides, and the class syllabus.
Login Link Below: