Frequently Asked Questions

Academics

Do you offer support for students with learning differences?

Yes, our Learning Support Services (LSS) equip students with mild to moderate learning differences through targeted resources and accommodations, including dyslexia screening and English Language Learner (ELL) programming. However, as we are not a specialized therapeutic school, we do not have the clinical staff to support severe cognitive or profound behavioral needs.

How does Maranatha prepare students for college and beyond?

Our rigorous academic program offers a college-preparatory experience designed to meet the highest benchmarks. We focus on helping students think critically, communicate thoughtfully, and lead with integrity, ensuring a Maranatha diploma opens doors for their future.

How does MCA integrate the Portrait of a Graduate into daily learning?

These six profiles are woven into our curriculum, spiritual life, and student activities across all grade levels. Students are guided to apply scriptural wisdom to real-world challenges, practice design thinking, collaborate on solutions, and lead with integrity and compassion both inside and outside the classroom.

How do MCA students develop as "Impactful Innovators" and "Critical Thinkers"?

We encourage students to observe complex needs in a changing world, ask probing questions, and use design thinking to build creative solutions. By pairing intellectual curiosity and rigorous academics with Scripture (such as Proverbs 4), students learn to evaluate information deeply, learn from failure, and build the grit innovation demands.

How is faith integrated into your academic curriculum?

Faith is at the center of everything we do and is not confined to just one class period or chapel. We provide a college-preparatory curriculum grounded in a Biblical worldview, meaning faith naturally shapes how students engage with literature, science, history, and more.

Is Maranatha Christian Academy accredited?

Yes, Maranatha is fully accredited through Cognia and the International Christian Accrediting Association (ICAA). These accrediting bodies are recognized by both the Minnesota Department of Education and the United States Department of Education.

What does it mean to be a "Kingdom Community Builder" and "Compassionate Problem Solver"?

Rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus, our students are equipped to foster a campus and community culture where everyone experiences a sense of belonging. They learn to listen deeply first, view others through the eyes of Christ, and bring kindness and truth to every situation they encounter.

What is a "Spirit Driven Leader" in MCA's student framework?

A Spirit Driven Leader is a student of integrity who seeks God's guidance in decisions, uses their influence to reflect Christ in how they speak and serve, and leads with humility and biblical character (rooted in principles like John 14).

What is the "Portrait of a Graduate" at Maranatha Christian Academy?

Our Portrait of a Graduate is a framework defining the core character traits and competencies we strive to instill in every student. It outlines six distinct profiles—Spirit Driven Leaders, Impactful Innovators, Critical Thinkers, Kingdom Community Builders, Courageous Change Agents, and Compassionate Problem Solvers—grounded in biblical truth and academic excellence.

What is your academic philosophy?

We are deeply committed to academic excellence and continual improvement, aiming to shape the whole student beyond just grades and test scores. The Maranatha academic experience is defined by four core commitments: Christian Education, Character, Community, and Calling.

Admissions

Are there academic or character standards for admission?

Maranatha is a community built on shared faith and mutual commitment—and we take that seriously from the very beginning. New students are expected to meet three standards:

Spiritual Commitment: At least one parent is a committed follower of Jesus Christ, actively involved in a Christ-centered church, and in alignment with our faith statement
Academic Readiness: A student's history demonstrates consistent progress and the ability to thrive in our learning environment.
Character and Community: Students are in good standing at their current school and demonstrate behavior—in and out of school—consistent with our Values and Culture in Action

We don't view these as barriers. We view them as the foundation of something worth belonging to.

Can our child visit and experience a school day before applying?

Absolutely—and we highly encourage it!

Shadow days give prospective students in Grades 1–11 the chance to spend a full day alongside a current student in the same grade, experience our community firsthand, and enjoy a complimentary lunch with new friends. We think the best way to know whether Maranatha is right for your family is to simply show up.

Does Maranatha offer financial aid or scholarships?

We believe a Maranatha education should be accessible to families who are the right fit. Our Financial aid program is a need-based program for students entering grades K-12 (full-time on-campus students only).

Financial aid is available on a need-based basis through our partnership with FACTS. We encourage families to apply early, as assistance is awarded on a rolling basis.

We do not offer merit-based or athletic scholarships. Our admissions team is happy to walk you through all the options available to your family.

Explore Financial Aid

Does Maranatha provide transportation?

Families residing in School District 279 may opt into morning bus service.

Students are routed through the nearest high school and arrive at Maranatha around 7:30 am.

After-school busing is not available, though many families coordinate carpooling through our family directory.

Do new students need to take a placement test?

Testing requirements vary by grade.

Kindergarten applicants complete a Readiness Assessment during their admissions interview with our Principal and Dean.

Students entering Grades 1–10 who haven't taken the NWEA MAP Assessment in the past year will be invited to campus for a shortened version—giving us a helpful snapshot of their strengths in language, reading, and math so we can set them up well from day one.

Is there an admissions deadline, and what if we miss it?

Maranatha offers three enrollment windows each year:

Priority Enrollment (Oct 1–Dec 31): Apply early for first-round acceptance
Open Enrollment (Jan 1–Jun 30): Applications accepted while space is available
Late Application (Jul 1–Aug 1): Reviewed individually based on space and timing

Miss a deadline? Your application can be reviewed individually or rolled forward to the next enrollment year without additional fees.

We never want a calendar to stand between a family and the right school.

Apply now

What are school hours, and do you offer extended care?

Preschool–Lower School: 8 am–3 pm

Middle and High School: 8:15 am–3:10 pm

Before-school care begins at 7 am for all grade levels.

After school, we offer:

X-Tended Day (Preschool–Grade 4) until 5:30 pm
X-Tended Experience (Grades 5–6) until 5:30 pm
Supervised Study Space (Grades 7–12) until 5:30 pm
Enrichment Programs (Preschool–Grade 4) featuring after-school clubs and classes, including cooking, coding, Spanish, pottery, Math Club, golf, and more.

Learn more about X-tended Day

What are the possible admissions outcomes?

Acceptance: The student and family meet all MCA admissions criteria, and space is available in the applicant's grade.
Wait Pool: The student qualifies but no space is currently available; families are contacted directly when an opening occurs.
Denial: When a student or family does not meet admissions criteria, a personal phone call is made before any written communication.

What does the student body look like?

Maranatha welcomes students of every race, color, national origin, and ethnic background—our student body is 43% students of color, representing more than 100 churches across the Twin Cities.

What unites our community isn't background or zip code—it's a shared belief that every student is made in the image of God and deserves an education that reflects that truth.

What fees are involved in the admissions process?

Application fee: $75 non-refundable per child, submitted with your online application
Financial aid application: $45 fee through our partner, FACTS
Enrollment deposit: $500 non-refundable upon acceptance—applied directly toward tuition
Annual re-enrollment fee: $75 during the priority window; increases to $150 on March 1 and $200 on May 1

Alumni

Can alumni give back to specific programs at the school?

Absolutely. As an alumnus, you can partner with us to impact the next generation by directing your financial support toward specific areas like student scholarships, athletic programs, or the arts.

Does Maranatha host alumni reunions?

Yes, and the best way to make sure you receive invitations to upcoming reunions and networking events is to keep your contact information up to date with us.

How do I share a life update or achievement with the school?

We want to celebrate your milestones with you! You can submit personal updates—like landing a new job, getting married, or welcoming a new baby—through the "Share What's New" form on our Alumni page to be featured in our upcoming newsletters.

How do I update my contact information if I’ve moved?

You can easily update your contact details directly on our Alumni page. This ensures you stay in the loop regarding campus news, upcoming reunions, and networking opportunities.

Where can I read stories about other Maranatha graduates?

You can find features and updates about alumni making an impact around the world by clicking here.

Arts & Music

Do you offer individual music lessons on campus?

Yes, in addition to our larger ensembles, we offer individual instrument lessons. We have dedicated fine arts teachers who provide tailored instruction for piano, violin, guitar, drum, and bass guitar.

How robust is the theater program?

We treat our Fine Arts theater program as a rigorous, elevated production company that demands deep script analysis and exceptional performance execution. For students who prefer being behind the scenes, we also offer hands-on training in set design, construction, and stage management.

What types of music ensembles are available for students?

Our comprehensive, Fine Arts music program includes Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Strings, advanced Choral groups, and a Student Worship Team (Chapel Band). These premier ensembles regularly represent the academy at state-level adjudications and community events.

What visual arts courses can older students take?

Our visual arts curriculum offers a progressive suite of courses. Students can take everything from foundational drawing and painting to advanced classes in ceramics, digital photography, graphic design, and Studio Art.

When do students first start participating in art and music classes?

Art integration and foundational music education begins as soon as Early Ed. As students progress into Middle and High School, they can expand into specialized visual art elective tracks and audition for premier musical ensembles.

Athletics

At what age can my child start participating in school sports?

We offer Athletics opportunities starting with our younger students, including recreation-level leagues and sports camps. Depending on the sport, students as early as 5th grade may have the opportunity to participate on our middle school competitive teams.

Do you offer athletic training and conditioning for students?

Yes, our Athletics program offers a dedicated Sports Performance program grounded in sound physiological principles. The program focuses on injury prevention, flexibility, and building strength to safely enhance athletic performance.

How does Maranatha incorporate faith into its athletic programs?

Athletics is a training ground for life. Our coaches focus on the heart just as much as athletic skill, teaching discipline, teamwork, and resilience. We challenge our student-athletes to compete at the highest level as an act of worship, rather than just for personal accolade.

What sports do you offer, and what conference do you play in?

Maranatha Athletics offers a wide variety of competitive sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and baseball. Our high school teams compete as members of the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) and are affiliated with the Skyline Conference.

Where do I find team schedules, rosters, and sports registration?

Middle and upper school students can register for sports through our dedicated MCA Athletics website. This site also serves as the central hub for families to find active team schedules and rosters.

Business, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship

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Campus & Facilities

Are there training facilities for student-athletes?

Yes. In addition to Inspire Field and our gymnasium, "The Stable"—which features a newly upgraded sound system—we have a dedicated weight room specifically designed to help our student-athletes build strength, endurance, and teamwork.

Have there been recent upgrades to the classrooms?

Yes, our campus is continually growing to support our students. We recently added eight new upper school classrooms and four new lower school classrooms. We have also remodeled existing lower school spaces and installed new Smartboards across campus to foster interactive, creative learning.

How does Maranatha ensure campus security?

Student safety is our top priority. We maintain a highly secure environment featuring full-time security officers, comprehensive camera monitoring across the campus, and a strict Raptor security check-in system that screens all visitors before entry.

What outdoor facilities do students have access to?

Students enjoy Inspire Field, our new, dedicated green space. It provides a safe, versatile outdoor environment specifically designed for sports, physical education classes, and school community events.

We also have an all-new outdoor playground with state-of-the-art playground equipment surrounded by a high-grade fence.

What specialized spaces are available for STEM and the arts?

We feature a dedicated Fabrication Lab equipped with drones and 3D printers for hands-on technological exploration. For the arts, our campus includes beautiful birch wall gallery spaces and a newly dedicated Lower School Music Room.

Clubs & Organizations

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College & Career

Are there opportunities to gain real-world job experience?

Absolutely. The CCC facilitates high school internships, mentorships, and job shadowing. These opportunities allow students to test out a career and gain firsthand experience in different fields before making long-term commitments.

Can students earn college credit while in high school?

Yes. Through our College Accelerator program, students can take on-campus Advanced Placement (AP) courses, utilize Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO), and even earn a full Associate of Arts (AA) degree before graduating high school

How does the school assist with the college application process?

The CCC hosts targeted workshops and events designed to equip students for college admissions. These include College Fairs, a Common Application Workshop, College and Career Week, and on-campus visits from college representatives.

How do students figure out which career path is right for them?

The CCC works with students in 6th through 12th grade using School Links, a career readiness software. This tool uses personality and aptitude assessments to help students identify their unique strengths, skills, and interests.

What support does the College and Career Center (CCC) offer?

The CCC provides dedicated, full-time support to guide students through life after high school. Staff members offer resources and guidance to help students make decisions that align with their passions and strengths while seeking God's direction.

What types of colleges and universities do Maranatha graduates attend?

Because of our rigorous academic preparation and College Accelerator opportunities, our graduates are consistently accepted into some of the nation's top institutions. Students have been accepted to and frequently enroll at a wide variety of prestigious private, state, and Christian universities across the country. These include Duke University, Grand Canyon University (GCU), Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Minnesota, Bethel University, and more.

Community

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Early Ed

What are the age and readiness requirements for Preschool and PreK?

Preschool is for children who have turned 3 by September 1 and are potty trained. PreK is for 4 and 5-year-old children.

What are the daily school hours and extended care options?

The regular school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Extended care is available in the morning from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM and in the afternoon from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

What is the student-to-teacher ratio in early education classrooms?

The Preschool and PreK classrooms maintain a strict 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

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What subjects and special classes do Early Ed students take?

Students participate in daily core studies like Math, Language Arts, and Bible time, along with specialist classes that include PE, art, music, library, and STEM.

What weekly schedule options are available?

Families can choose from a 2-Day (Tuesday, Thursday), 3-Day (Monday, Wednesday, Friday), or 5-Day (Monday–Friday) weekly structure.

Experience Maranatha

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Faith

How are community service and character formation connected?

Character formation is modeled daily, and service is woven into that formation as a natural overflow of faith. From PreK through graduation, students learn to look beyond themselves, cultivating the empathy and responsibility needed to faithfully respond to the needs of others.

How is faith integrated into the classroom?

Faith is not confined to a single class period or weekly chapel—it is at the center of everything. Faith in Jesus Christ actively shapes how students engage with literature, explore science, analyze history, and ask hard questions.

Is Maranatha the right fit for every family?

Because of our shared commitments, our educational model may not be the right fit for everyone. We partner best with families who are fully aligned with a Biblically grounded, Christ-centered approach to daily living and who are eager to collaborate respectfully in their child's spiritual and academic journey.

What does developing a "biblical worldview" mean at Maranatha?

It means developing a living framework that shapes how students understand truth, make decisions, and engage culture. We equip students with a resilient faith they can defend and a living knowledge of Scripture that will outlast their time in our hallways.

What does it mean to partner with parents?

Partnership is central to student success. We work hand-in-hand with families to guide children through both academic and personal growth. We view our role as an active partner in your child's discipleship and learning, rather than the primary or sole provider.

What kind of leaders does Maranatha aim to develop?

We equip students to be Spirit-Driven Leaders, Courageous Change Agents, and Compassionate Problem Solvers. Our ultimate goal is to launch graduates who are grounded in Christ, lead with integrity, and are ready to step into the specific mission God has prepared for them.

Families

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Grandparents

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High School

Are there flexible or online learning options for high school students?

Yes. Through Maranatha Christian Online, we offer a premier, 100% virtual college preparatory education. This program provides the exact same academic rigor and foundational biblical worldview as our on-campus experience, delivered with the flexibility required by highly driven, independent students.

Can students earn a college degree while still in high school?

Yes. Through our College Accelerator program, highly motivated juniors and seniors have the opportunity to earn a two-year Associate of Arts (AA) degree by the time they graduate high school. In partnership with the University of Northwestern (UNW), students can take Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) classes taught by university faculty right on our campus or online. This provides a significant academic and financial advantage by allowing students to complete their high school diploma and an AA degree simultaneously.

Do you have a Business and Innovation program?

Yes, our Business, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship programs are specifically designed to help students think critically, build practical business acumen, and develop leadership skills. We focus on preparing students to confidently step into the modern professional world as ethical leaders and innovators.

How does Maranatha integrate faith into the high school experience?

Faith is not confined to one class period or chapel; it is at the center of everything. High school students take core Bible courses each year—such as Apologetics and Biblical Truth & Worldview—while faith in Jesus Christ seamlessly shapes how they engage literature, explore science, analyze history, and ask hard questions.

What are the expectations for student character and conduct?

Maranatha is a community built on shared faith and mutual commitment. We expect our high school students to reflect Christ's character, practice humility, and choose integrity. Students must be in good standing and demonstrate behavior consistent with our Values and Culture in Action both in and out of school.

What college-preparatory and advanced courses do you offer?

Maranatha offers a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum with nearly 100 courses available to upper-level students. To ensure our students are academically challenged and prepared for higher education, we provide multiple Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP English Literature, and AP Computer Science.

What fine arts and elective options do high schoolers have?

Because excellence matters across all disciplines, we offer a wide array of fine arts and electives to develop the whole student. Options include Digital Photography, Graphic Design, Theater, Cinema & Film Production, AP Art History, as well as general electives like Psychology, Speech, and Leadership Skills Development.

What is Mustang Enterprises and who can participate?

Mustang Enterprises is a custom fabrication shop that teaches juniors and seniors how to run a real-world business. Through this hands-on program, students gain practical business experience, earn professional engineering certificates, and even sell their handcrafted items through a local boutique.

What kind of college counseling and career preparation do you provide?

Education here is inseparable from preparation. Through our Capstone and Leadership programs, alongside dedicated college and career guidance, we help students discover how God uniquely made them and the mission He has prepared for their lives. Our graduates leave equipped and are regularly accepted into prestigious universities across the country.

What STEM, Robotics, and Technology programs are available?

Our high school features an advanced STEM curriculum and an award-winning Robotics program. Students can dive deep into specialized technology electives such as Mobile App Programming, Game Design, Foundations of Programming, and AP Computer Science A to build highly sought-after technical skills.

International Students

Are college and/or advanced courses available?

At Maranatha, we offer several Advanced Placement (AP) courses. We also partner with local colleges to provide classes on-site, which allows our students to take university courses and earn college credit while remaining at Maranatha's campus.

In addition, we work with universities such as Harvard, Berkeley, MIT to offer online courses.

Can international students participate in athletic programs?

International students are allowed to participate in junior varsity level or below athletic (according to the Minnesota State High School League policies).

Students are also able to participate in clubs and activities such as Robotics, Strategy Games, Adventures Club, Gaming Club, and many more options.

Is academic counseling provided?

Maranatha's Academic Counseling program engages students early, so they can plan for a successful transition from high school to select universities across the country.

During orientation, the Director of International Student Academics meets with students to map out a course for success based on each students' goals and needs. This plan is reviewed each semester to ensure the student is on track.

The Dean of Academics and Career Counseling works with each student to prepare them for top-level universities and help them stay on task as they work toward their goals.

Is there an ESL or ELL program?

International students are enrolled in ELL class to help with the cultural transition to an American high school and develop academic English and vocabulary proficiency. Language assistance is offered throughout the student’s time at MCA.

The Director of International Student Academics is available for ongoing support, especially in essay writing and high-level reading comprehension, as well as to assist students in their preparation for postsecondary education.

Is tuition assistance available?

Tuition levels for international students take into consideration many factors and may vary depending on the inclusions of the program. Please contact the school if you have questions or concerns.

Questions can be directed to admissions@mcamustangs.org

What colleges or universities do Maranatha graduates attend?

Below is an example of the universities and colleges our recent international student graduates have been accepted for enrollment.

Northeastern University
Purdue University - West Lafayette
Rutgers University
Texas A&M University
University of California - San Diego
University of California - Irvine
University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
University of Sidney
University of Southern California
University of Washington
University of Wisconsin - Madison

In addition to the above list, students graduating from Maranatha have been accepted at some of the nation's best universities:

Brown University
Carlson School of Management-University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Cornell University
Dartmouth University
Duke University
Johns Hopkins University
Harvard University
Northwestern University - Evanston, Illinois
Pepperdine University
Rensselaer Polytechnic University
And more...

What housing arrangements are available?

Maranatha has experienced host families, most of which have students of their own who attend our school.

Maranatha's administration personally visits each host family. Host families attend an orientation that sets expectations for their role in nurturing and assisting an international student in adjusting to American culture.

Our families contribute to an international student's well-being and success, including personal guidance, transportation to and from school, and encouragement in academics and activities/socializing.

What is the Duolingo English Test (DET) score requirement?

A minimum DET score of 85 or above is required for academic enrollment.

For applicants scoring a DET of 80 or below, an alternative English Language Academic Pathway Program is available.

Please contact the ISP Director at InternationalAdmissions@mcamustangs.org for more information.

When does the school year begin?

The 2026–2027 school year will begin on Monday August, 24, 2026 and end on May 29, 2027.

New international students should arrive in Minnesota no later than August 16, 2026, approximately 10 days before the start of the school year. During this time, international students will acclimate to their host homes, adjust to the time change, attend a 3-day orientation (8/18–20) and a get-acquainted outing, take placement tests for math and English, choose course schedules, prepare for classes, and attend back-to-school events.
Returning international students should arrive in Minnesota no later than August 19, approximately a week before the start of the school year. If a returning student is playing athletics, they will need to arrive by August 16. Returning international students still need a few days to adjust to the time zone, move back into their host homes, prepare for school, and attend back-to-school events, including an orientation on August 20, 2026.

Kindergarten

What age does my child need to be to start Kindergarten?

Children need to be 5 years old by September 1 of the year they begin Kindergarten.

Does my child need to be fully potty trained before starting Kindergarten?

Yes. To ensure our teachers can focus fully on classroom instruction, students must know how to go to the bathroom and wash their hands entirely independently.

What basic academic skills should they know before day one?

Every child is unique and learns at their own pace, but we look for foundational language and listening skills. Your child is generally ready if they can follow multi-step directions, speak in sentences of four to six words, and focus on a task for at least five minutes.

Do they need to know how to read or write yet?

Not at all! We will teach them how to read by the end of the school year.

In terms of fine motor skills, we simply look for the ability to correctly grip a pen or crayon, grasp scissors, and trace dotted lines.

What if my child is nervous or struggles with separation anxiety?

Emotional readiness is a common concern for many parents. While our caring teachers are excellent at helping students adjust, a key indicator of readiness is that your child can separate from their parent or caregiver without strong emotions and communicate their basic needs.

What self-help skills are expected in the classroom?

Mastering independent skills translates into a much smoother experience for your child. We ask that students know how to ask for help when confused, blow their own nose, put on their own coat, and dress independently, including zipping, buttoning, and tying shoes.

Lower School

Are younger students involved in community service?

Absolutely. Service learning is a core, celebrated component of our Lower School culture. Through age-appropriate, hands-on projects, we teach students the profound value of empathy, stewardship, and community impact, showing them early on that their gifts are meant to bless others.

Do students take specialist classes in addition to their core subjects?

Yes, forming the whole child is a priority. Alongside their core academics, every Lower School student participates in regular specialist classes in STEM, Library, Art, Physical Education, and Music, giving them dedicated space to create, move, and discover their gifts.

How do you approach academics in the early elementary years?

Our Lower School academic philosophy is built on "joyful rigor." Instead of rushing students toward the next milestone, we focus on building deep, durable foundations by weaving together rich literacy, hands-on math, and STEM exploration to develop strong readers and confident problem-solvers.

How is the Christian faith incorporated into the Lower School classroom?

In the Lower School, the Christian faith is not treated as a separate, isolated subject. It is the cohesive lens through which we explore God's world, featuring biblical integration that is naturally woven into science, reading, history, and daily classroom rhythms.

What is the student-to-teacher ratio in the Lower School?

Our Lower School maintains a deeply relational environment with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio. This smaller class size ensures that your child won't get lost in the crowd and allows our teachers to genuinely connect with and mentor each student.

Middle School

Are there advanced academic options available?

Yes, as Middle School students mature, our academic approach challenges them to go deeper. We offer honors coursework and STEM opportunities to help students build academic confidence and prepare for high school rigor.

Are there flexible or online learning options for middle school students?

Do middle school students participate in community service?

Yes, Service Learning is built into the course load for every Middle School student. We believe in helping students learn who they are, whose they are, and how they can make a positive difference in the world around them.

How is character and faith developed during these years?

We equip students to move from a borrowed faith to a personal conviction. In addition to daily Bible classes, we have a weekly Character Hour that gives Middle School students a dedicated space to connect with trusted adults around faith, identity, and character growth.

What elective and specialist classes can students take?

Middle School students participate in specialist classes like STEM, Spanish, Art, and Foundations of Tech. They can also choose from a wide range of optional electives, including Band, Choir, Orchestra, Robotics, Rocketry, Theater, and American Sign Language (ASL).

What grades are included in the Middle School?

Our Middle School program bridges childhood learning and high school rigor, serving students in grades 5 through 8.

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Staff & Teachers

Do teachers partner with parents?

Yes, at Maranatha, we don't walk alone. Our community is a special mix of families, teachers, coaches, staff, and students who operate as active partners in a shared pursuit of student success.

Click here to read stories about our amazing teachers.

How does the staff approach faith in the classroom?

Our teachers are mission-aligned professionals who view their work as a stewardship of students' hearts. They ensure that faith and spiritual formation are woven into every aspect of the classroom experience.

How do teachers connect with students?

Our teachers demonstrate genuine investment by building authentic relationships and making sure every student is truly known. The culture in our hallways is one of approachability, where staff and faculty are deeply committed to the success and well-being of every child.

Click here to read stories about our amazing teachers.

What is the focus of the administrative leadership team?

Our administrative team is dedicated to faithfully stewarding the vision of our school. Guided by theological clarity and a commitment to academic rigor, they ensure that the academy remains firmly anchored in Christ.

What kind of teachers does Maranatha hire?

We seek highly qualified, mission-aligned professionals who are dedicated to both excellence in education and the spiritual formation of our students.

Click here to meet the team and click here to read staff & teacher stories!

STEM & Engineering

Are there hands-on options for students interested in engineering and design?

Absolutely. In addition to our computer-based classes, STEM students can take courses like Applied Design & Engineering, where they actively experiment with disciplines like graphic design in a practical, project-based environment.

Does Maranatha offer an Aviation program?

Yes, our Foundations of Aviation course serves as Maranatha's entry point into flight and aerospace. The program provides students with a solid introduction to aviation history and aerospace engineering.

Do you offer classes in Cybersecurity?

Yes, our PLTW Cybersecurity course allows students to use virtual labs to discover key concepts in the field. It focuses on ethical computing behavior and equips students with the skills to safely navigate and protect modern cyber-infrastructure.

Is STEM just a single class at Maranatha?

No, STEM is an entire track that students can build a high school career around. From writing their first line of code to completing a finished CAD model, students tackle real problems using the same tools found in college engineering and computer science programs.

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Is there a STEM track for students interested in healthcare?

Yes, our STEM program offers PLTW Medical Interventions, which serves as a hands-on introduction to biomedical science. Students explore the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease through practical activities like designing a prosthetic arm.

What does the Computer Science pathway entail?

We offer an industry-recognized, College Board-aligned PLTW Computer Science pathway that includes AP Computer Science A. It emphasizes object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language.

What hands-on opportunities are there for students who want to build and create away from a screen?

We offer Industrial Arts, which is a hands-on, year-long STEM course focused on practical skills like woodworking and home maintenance.

What is Mustang Enterprises?

Mustang Enterprises is a unique opportunity where students run an actual student-led promotional products business. Because it operates as a real business, students must apply, interview, and be selected to participate.

What is Project Lead The Way (PLTW)?

Project Lead The Way is a nationally recognized program offered at Maranatha that provides hands-on, real-world learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to prepare STEM students for college and high-demand careers.

Summer Programs

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Theatre

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Tuition & Financial Aid

Are financial aid awards automatically renewed each year?

Financial aid is awarded annually for one school year and families need to reapply each year.

Renewal is not automatic or guaranteed, as available funds and a family's financial situation can change from year to year.

Are there scholarships available?

Maranatha Christian Academy offers need-based financial aid for domestic students entering Grades K–12.

Merit or athletic scholarships are not available.

Are there sibling discounts or other ways to reduce tuition?

Maranatha Christian Academy offers the following discounts for families. These discounts are not available to be combined with financial aid:

Multi-child discount (applicable on 2nd student) — $200
Living Word Member Discount (per student) — $500
Pre-pay full tuition discount by June 25th — 2%

Does Maranatha Christian Academy accept state voucher programs?

Maranatha Christian Academy does not accept state voucher programs.

We do offer need-based financial aid for domestic on-campus students entering Grades K–12.

How are financial aid awards decided?

Maranatha Christian Academy partners with FACTS to process financial aid applications. Following a completed application and tax documentation, FACTS provides our school with a need-based financial analysis, allowing us to allocate our resources wisely and fairly.

All information from FACTS regarding a family's request for financial assistance is kept confidential.

Financial aid ranges from $0 to a maximum of 50% of annual tuition based on the financial need of each student's family. We encourage families to apply as soon as possible after submitting an application for admission.

How do I apply for financial aid?

In order to receive financial aid, a family must first complete and submit the online Grant & Aid Application through FACTS ($45 fee to apply). The application includes uploading several supporting documents including:

W-2 forms
Federal income tax returns

Notes:

Financial Aid applications use prior prior year tax forms. To apply for financial aid for the 2026–27 school year, use 2024 and 2025 W2 and 2024 Income tax returns only.
Families must apply for aid each year. No financial aid awards exceed one school year.
Financial aid is currently available for on-campus traditional school students in Kindergarten–Grade 12. Financial aid is not available for PreK, International, or Online students.

How much financial aid do I qualify for?

Maranatha Christian Academy offers a need-based financial assistance program for grades Kindergarten through 12th. This program adjusts tuition based on family financial need and can cover up to nearly half a year’s tuition. Early Education students are not eligible. Families must apply annually through FACTS, a third-party financial processor, and reapply each year since aid is not guaranteed or automatic. We encourage families to apply soon after submitting their admission application.

For an estimate prior to application, families can use this financial aid calculator. Please note that this calculator is a rough estimate and that a full financial aid application verified using tax forms is required.

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What academic programs qualify for financial aid?

Financial Aid is a need based program for qualifying families applying for Grades K-12 in our traditional on-campus academic program. Financial aid is not available for our Early Ed program, online school, hybrid academic program, or our international student program.

What additional fees are not included in tuition?

Activity fees for athletics, drama, and other extracurricular activities
Annual re-enrollment fee
AP testing fees
Application fee (admissions and financial aid)
Dress code
Instrument rental
Local and global field trips
Lunch
Non-refundable enrollment deposit, applied towards tuition
Summer programs
X-Tended Care

What does tuition include?

Tuition includes your child's core education, including classes taught by licensed teachers in a Christ-centered environment.

Tuition also covers morning care starting at 7 am for all grade levels.

When do we apply for financial aid?

It is important to know that the admission process and the financial aid process run parallel. You must apply for admission and financial aid separately.

Your financial aid information is processed as you take the necessary steps for completing admission. Please note that it can take up to two weeks before your financial profile is sent to the Maranatha Business Office from FACTS.

Contact admissions

When is tuition due and what payment plans are available?

Tuition payments processed through FACTS allows families access to their account information 24/7.

All MCA families will be enrolled in FACTS; a fee of $55/family will be charged for the ten- or twelve-month tuition plans. Payments will be automatically debited from a checking or savings account. Reminder emails will be sent 15 days prior to the tuition withdrawal date.

Automatic pre-pay full tuition by June 5, 20, or 25, 2026
Automatic semester/bi-annual payments on June 5, 20, or 25 and November 5, 20, or 25, 2026 (one-half of annual tuition paid on each date)
Automatic ten (June 2026–March 2027) or twelve-monthly payments (June 2026–May 2027). Payment dates are the 5, 20, or 25 of each month.

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