Harvest Christian Academy

1000 North Randall Road

Elgin, IL 60123

23 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK-12
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by other on October 01, 2024

The school does not care about your mental health and does not understand your situation, even if they are a nurse. I was asked to leave because of my unwanted mental health issues.I was asked to leave the school because I was a safety hazard. I dealt with severe depression and was told to express my feelings to the nurse. I was allowed to talk freely about my problems and unwanted thoughts; that is until I expressed an unwanted thought, that was not going to be acted upon towards friends in my class. I was then told to leave the school due to my behavior. I am still emotionally scared and have to try to learn to trust others, thanks.
Submitted by other on June 05, 2023

This was the most uncomfortable experience my family and I have been in. The administrator Katy is the complete opposite of what a Christian non judgmental women should be. Treated us terribly and I would never give a cent to a school who treats ANYONE like this. Do yourself a favor and believe the few honest ratings because I’m sure they do remove the negative ones.
Submitted by parent on December 04, 2018

HCA has been such a blessing to our family. When we moved here 3 years ago we knew only two family members in the area and HCA became our family. When we came to visit HCA we were nervous to move somewhere so cold but after going to an HCA chapel, we could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit so strongly we knew this was where the Lord wanted our kids to attend school. Our kids have grown so much in their walk with the Lord through the powerful chapels, encouraging teachers, and close friendships they have formed at HCA. They have also grown so much in their academics and love for fine arts and sports through the amazing programs at HCA. Always a Lion! We love HCA!
Submitted by parent on December 01, 2018

This is my third attempt at posting a review - pretty sure greatschools is biased at negative reviews . We were here for 3 years and had a terrible experience with this school . The principal is terrible , and the environment at this school is hostile . If you are not part of the church - then you are defintely an outsider . My kids didn’t learn much at HCA either . It is absolutely not worth the money - the only thing this school has going for it is the nice campus . That’s it ! Bullying is also prevalent at this school . Beware !
Submitted by parent on January 31, 2017

Our children have been there since the door so opened. While there has been many changes at the school, it's too keep up with the many changes in education itself and to make our school competitive. The relationship part of the school is the part that can't be compared to a public school education. Teachers pray for their students and encourage them to create lasting relationships. They also encourage students to have a closer walk with God and to see him at work in their daily lives.
Submitted by other on October 15, 2016

How can you possibly compare excellent teachers who are motivated by something inside them versus good teachers who are motivated by tenure and a secure pension? I have heard very good things about certain public schools around me – Jacobs high school for one – But, as one with a masters degree and who loves academics, critical thinking, and well-rounded educational experiences, I am so grateful for this wonderful school and for what it's giving my child. After homeschooling K-5 with co-ops and other enrichments like Elgin Centre homeschool gym&swim, this is my child's first all day school experience. His teachers have bent over backwards and helping him make this transition while also recognizing his challenges with ADHD - and they really do not have to do this. No one is mandating them from the state to help my child. They simply are driven from within. They care about him not because he is lovable but because of something within them. That is truly not something that can be measured by the world's standards. And yet, by the world's standards, he's getting a supberb education. He has a science teacher who left the math and science academy to teach here, A seasoned history teacher who is teaching him the Cornell note-taking system and implements a notebooking system that will set him up for life and keeping his thoughts organized, a literature and language teacher who is passionate about literature, grammar, engendering critical thinking-teaching them HOW to think not WHAT to think, and art teacher who follows the history genre in teaching art techniques and skills while supporting what he's learning in history, a concert-worthy violin teacher with a thriving private practice of her own who patiently and encouragingly gives him devoted extra time to learn his first instrument and who has transferred her passion for violin to him, a kindhearted, no nonsense, athletic and strong man who teaches Bible as the historically accurate document it is, an absolutely fabulous math teacher who exhibit passion for her subject and teaches the Singapore math concepts which are the best in the world, and an encouraging PE teacher who somehow got this football-hating boy to finally love playing football! From my perspective – there aren't enough stars to rate the school.
Submitted by parent on February 17, 2015

We are new at Harvest this year (2014-2015) and I have been very impressed. My children have been welcomed in with open arms and have had very personal care. I believe not only are my kids getting a solid education but they are building closer lives with Christ! Both my children state that they learn more about the Bible at HCA than at all the countless Sunday school classes. They are not saying they didn't learn there too:), they just really emphasize what Harvest has done for their knowledge and understanding of the Bible. My daughter, who is in all advanced classes, thinks some of the curriculum could be more challenging We came from a highly ranked public school with many opportunities and options for advanced kids and she is comparing to that. I believe that as new kids to the area and to the school, my kids have been able to adjust and fit right in at Harvest! I am so thankful for all the teachers and staff who have a heart for Christ and for kids! You are making a huge difference in lives whether you realize it or not! You have changed our lives! Thank You!
Submitted by parent on February 03, 2015

My three children started their school careers at Harvest and have been attending since 2009. My husband and I have been impressed with the academics and over all dedication and commitment of this schools staff and administration. From the moment we walked into the hallways we felt extremely LOVED! The class sizes are small and every year each of my children have had EXCELLENT teachers who not only teach the academics but also care for them and pray with them. My children really look forward to chapel every week. The Bible base education is outstanding. We feel truly blessed to be able to attend Harvest Christian Academy and would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone!
Submitted by parent on January 31, 2015

Our daughter began going to HCA this year, transferring from another Christian school. When we went to the open house last year, we were immediately impressed by not only the sincere care that Marc had for the students, but also the interest and genuine support that the teachers and staff have as well. Also, the facility and top-notch gym were appealing. The positive attitude of the teachers towards the students is refreshing; they really want the students to succeed and do well. They have the posture that expresses an expectation that they will do the right thing, instead of waiting to reprimand them when they fail. The education is excellent and as my daughter says about the teachers, "they're devoted." The food service is even good. I only have positive things to say about the school and would highly recommend it.
Submitted by parent on January 30, 2015

What a breath of fresh air HCA has been for our family. After homeschooling all his life, my son is now a freshman at Harvest. He made excellent friends before he even walked through the door. The staff has been extremely welcoming and accommodating as my son has transitioned from being home to going in to a classroom setting. Academic learning struggles were detected in him about 5 years ago. Harvest has listened, exhibited beautiful grace in his academic struggles, and are more than willing to walk this road with us as we find the ways my son learns best. We have not experienced any political or negative. No place is perfect. We all have places to improve and grow. I am thankful my son is in an school where this is acknowledged and God's will and plan for improvement is always sought.
Submitted by other on December 07, 2014

It WAS a good school... but all Good things come to an end. In the beginning it was great, fun field trips great teachers good friends and horrible food :) but as time went on politics got involved and there were some questionable decisions "higher up" in the church. Soon there must have been money issues because our 5th grade out door ed got canceled and our field trips were not good. On one of our field trips we went to an actual mall but the worst thing of that trip was we couldn't buy anything! The kids were great I miss my friends and the teachers but I'm so glad I left. If you want nice friends with a little drama and good teachers go to this school, if you want a decent education don't...
Submitted by other on September 14, 2013

This is an excellent school where I have been able to grow in my faith and build a good community of other believers to influence me
Submitted by parent on May 03, 2013

We have two children at HCA since 2008. They are elementary and junior high age now. A day doesn't go by that we thank the Lord for this school, for it's teachers,staff and administration. We wouldn't be in a place if our kids weren't genuinely loved by their teachers and staff. When teachers are allowed to pray with your child, what an impact that has on them! The quality of education is exceptional, challenging them, preparing them for high school and college. The classrooms and Barton reading program has been a constant place of encouragement. The growth in the Athletics program has been phenomenal, competing in new conferences this year. Our kids are getting a first rate education and competitive athletic exposure. When you add in the component that our kids are learning about how the Lord would have them live, being discipled by their teachers and the pastors at the church, our hearts are extremely grateful to be at this school.
Submitted by parent on February 27, 2013

I have three children in the school and have been here since the beginning in 2004. We wouldn't stay if we didn't believe that the teachers and curriculum were not preparing our children to be all that the Lord has planned for them. We are thankful for the teachers who teach, love and disciple our children. We are thankful for the administrative leaders who take to heart their calling to lead and grow this school. Athletics is growing strong and quickly and under a leader who is passionate about using sports to make courageous, disciplined young leaders of Jesus Christ. Academics are rigorous and college preparatory. Arts program is growing too. LS added a strings program this year. Theater Department will be putting on a large scale production of Willy Wonka in the Worship Center.
Submitted by parent on June 30, 2012

Well unfortunately this site will not allow me to post the truth about this school as it has removed my post twice. Someone from HCA must be running this site. Horrible experince not with just one child, but three...for several years. Post dated June 4th is DEAD ON ACCURATE!
Submitted by other on June 04, 2012

I am a former student and I had a terrible experience. If your parents aren't involved in the church, you get treated as less. Everything revolves around politics - the theater, the extra-cirricular classes, etc. I went to Harvest to get away from bullying, but it happened here, too. I know that there's no perfect school, but they set up the appearance of being "christian" when there was so much closed-minded bigotry in the school. I couldn't speak my mind.
Submitted by parent on April 16, 2011

HCA is a fantastic school. I have 3 kids, one in lower school, one in middle school and one in HS. They all love it! This is their 2nd year here - they were previously in the public school system. I can honestly say there is no other school that I know of that the student/teacher relationship is more caring. The teachers do all they can to see success both academically and socially in their students. Mary Martin, the Upper School Principal, is top-notch. Nothing but deepest respect for her. She loves the kids and is their biggest cheerleader. They just hired a full time Athletic Director who is going to continue to grow their sports program. They certainly have the facility to make that happen. Spiritual mentorship in the kids is incredible
Submitted by parent on April 16, 2011

Three of my children attend Harvest however I would like to address the Upper School. After moving around the country and experiencing several of the best private and public educational environments, I am thrilled that my children have the privilege of attending this school. There are not enough hours in the day for my child to take ALL the classes she would like to take. My other child cannot wait to being Junior High (who can say that?) I love the individual attention students receive and the intentionality to see each student reach their full potential. I love the college prep experience that is offered here! I also appreciate the push to work out problems that kids have with each other. Although it may be difficult and uncomfortable, it is a life skill that will benefit them as adults. HCA is not for everyone but if you are looking for an evangelical college prep experience for your family, this may be it.
Submitted by parent on April 07, 2011

I actually agree with both good and bad comments posted here. I have 2 kids in HCA lower school, and I'm extremely happy with it. I'm a bit disappointed in the lack of some academic programs originally contemplated during preconstruction planning of the school. I'm also a little disappointed with jumps in tuition. However, I'm very pleased with the school's academics. Much, much more importantly though, the teachers and administration LOVE the Lord! Our priority as Christian parents are foremost to make sure our kids learn from a firm Bible based worldview, and also that they are protected from dangerous and even anti-God worldviews put forth in most public schools. HCA isn't a perfect school - I do have doubts about their upper school, which appears way too laid back. I would be happier if the kids in HS wore uniforms and were in an environment that seemed more serious about school - maybe they are, but I don't see it from my perspective. Ultimately I want them to be most serious about the Gospel anyway, but I thnk that happens best in a more serious atmosphere. However, HCA is a good Gospel centered school, whose teachers and administrators truly are sold out to Christ.
Submitted by parent on March 18, 2011

We have had all of our children attend Harvest since it opened. We have loved the Christ centered atmosphere created at Harvest. The academic program is less than I would have expected for an "academy", but the Christian atmosphere is far more important. We have experienced some wonderful teachers and administrators who genuinely care and pray for the children at the school. The academic program is on par or slightly above local public schools. Having said that. We have noticed unsettling changes in the school over the last two years. There is a large increase of familial relations working at the school. I know at least 31% of the staff members have a spouse, father, mother, daughter, or son working at either the church or in the school.In addition, the tuition has continued to climb, but classes for the lower school have been cut or reduced and the electives for the high school are limited. Harvest is a good school, but like anything else on this earth, it is not perfect. I would recommend that anyone wanting to enroll to prayerfully consider if this is the right place for your kids or does God have another plan for their education.