Foundations and Career Pathways
Foundations Program (9th-12th Grades)
The Foundations Program at Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is a four-year, semester-based curriculum designed to foster spiritual growth and College/Career readiness. This comprehensive program equips students with the tools needed to develop a strong spiritual foundation while preparing for life beyond high school. Each year builds on the previous one, guiding students through personal development, leadership training, academic preparation, and real-world skills. Through a blend of biblical principles and practical experiences, the Foundations Program empowers students to grow in faith while equipping them for future academic and professional success.
Foundations One serves as the starting point for spiritual and vocational exploration. This course focuses on spiritual formation by exploring key spiritual disciplines such as prayer, scripture study, and discipleship. Additionally, students participate in career aptitude assessments to begin identifying their strengths and exploring potential career paths. This foundational year encourages self-reflection and sets the stage for both personal and academic growth, helping students understand how their faith informs their future goals.
​
In Foundations Two, students build on their spiritual and personal growth by developing leadership and public speaking abilities. Through interactive experiences, students learn to communicate effectively and lead with confidence. This year also includes a spiritual gifts assessment, helping students identify and use their God-given talents to serve others. By fostering these leadership qualities and self-awareness, Foundations Two prepares students to become influential, service-minded leaders in their communities and future careers.
​
Foundations Three emphasizes practical preparation for post-secondary education and professional life. This year prioritizes ACT test preparation, resume writing, and interview skills to equip students for the college admissions process and future employment. Alongside these practical skills, students continue their spiritual growth through discussions on faith and its relevance in everyday life. By combining academic readiness with spiritual development, Foundations Three ensures students are prepared both intellectually and spiritually for the challenges ahead.
​
The final year, Foundations Four, focuses on practical life skills and community engagement. Students learn essential personal finance principles, including budgeting, saving, and managing expenses. They also receive guidance on completing college applications and securing scholarships. A key component of this year is the Senior Service requirement, which encourages students to give back to the local community through acts of service. This culminating experience reinforces the program’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically prepared but also spiritually grounded and dedicated to making a positive impact on the world around them.
Career Pathways
Decatur Heritage Christian Academy has expanded its curriculum to include new Career Pathways in several exciting fields. These paths will provide students with diverse academic opportunities to explore their interests and prepare for future career paths. The program will begin with several options and is designed to grow as we continue to see increased growth.
S.T.E.M.- The S.T.E.M. Career Path at Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is designed for students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and aspire to pursue careers in these dynamic fields at the college level. This track offers a rigorous, hands-on curriculum that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Through specialized coursework, laboratory experiences, and real-world applications, students will explore disciplines such as engineering, biomedical sciences, aviation, or advanced mathematics. Rooted in a biblical worldview, the STEM Career Track prepares students to use their knowledge and skills to serve and impact the world through scientific discovery, technological advancements, and engineering solutions. Whether pursuing careers in medicine, engineering, research, or technology, students will graduate DHCA equipped with the foundational skills and ethical framework needed to excel in the ever-evolving STEM landscape.
SOCIETY AND CULTURE- The Society and Culture Career Path at Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is designed for students who are passionate about understanding and shaping the world through fields such as the Arts, Christian Ministry and Missions, Law, Language Arts, Humanities and Foreign Languages. This track offers a diverse curriculum that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the cultural and societal impact a DHCA student can have on the world around them. Through engaging coursework, hands-on projects, and service opportunities, students can explore their interests in a meaningful and substantial way. Rooted in a biblical worldview, this track equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to inspire, lead, and serve in careers that influence society, whether as Artists, Musicians, Pastors, Missionaries, Legal Professionals, Educators, or Cultural Leaders. Graduates will be prepared to use their talents and passions to make a meaningful difference in their colleges, communities, and beyond.
Pathway Track Descriptions
Biomedical
The Biomedical Pathway introduces students to the foundational principles of medical science and healthcare. Courses such as Principles of Biomedical Science, Medical Terminology, and Genetics provide hands-on learning experiences and insight into the fields of medicine, research, and healthcare professions. This pathway prepares students for future studies in biology, nursing, pre-med, and allied health careers by building both academic knowledge and practical understanding of how the human body functions and how medical professionals serve others.
​
Engineering
The Engineering Pathway equips students with problem-solving skills and technical knowledge through a series of hands-on, project-based courses. Beginning with Principles of Engineering and advancing to more complex concepts in Advanced Engineering, students explore mechanical, electrical, and structural systems. This pathway emphasizes innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration, making it ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in engineering, architecture, robotics, or technology.
​
Aviation
The Aviation Pathway offers students a unique opportunity to explore the field of aviation through a four-level course sequence. From basic flight principles in Aviation 1 to more advanced knowledge in Aviation 4, students gain insights into aerodynamics, aviation safety, navigation, and aircraft systems. This pathway is ideal for students interested in becoming pilots, aerospace engineers, or pursuing careers in the aviation industry, and may include opportunities for simulator training and industry certifications.
​
Visual Arts
The Visual Arts Pathway nurtures creativity and artistic expression through structured, skill-building courses. Students begin with Principles of Visual Arts and move into Advanced Visual Arts, culminating in Portfolio Development, where they prepare professional-quality work for college admissions or career opportunities. This pathway fosters technical ability, creative thinking, and personal expression, supporting students interested in careers such as graphic design, studio art, illustration, or art education.
​
Performing Arts
The Performing Arts Pathway allows students to explore their talents in theater and music through a sequence of courses that develop both technical skills and performance experience. Beginning with Principles of Performing Arts/Band and advancing through Advanced Theater/Band to Portfolio Development, students gain confidence, discipline, and creative insight. This pathway prepares students for further study in the performing arts, whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in music education and production.
​
Ministry and Missions
The Ministry and Missions Pathway encourages students to grow in their faith and explore their calling to serve others through Christian leadership. Courses such as Principles of Ministry and Missions, Biblical Studies, Christology, and Ethics deepen students’ understanding of Scripture, theology, and global missions. This pathway equips students for potential careers in ministry, missionary work, Christian counseling, or theological education while fostering a lifelong commitment to Christ-centered service.
​
Foreign Language
The Foreign Language Pathway emphasizes linguistic fluency and cultural awareness through four years of language study and opportunities for advanced placement courses. Students develop skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking while gaining appreciation for global cultures. This pathway prepares students for careers in international relations, education, translation, global missions, and any field where cross-cultural communication is essential.