Crossgate Christian Academy Brings 21st Century Learning to Hot Springs

In 1951, Second Baptist Christian School opened its Kindergarten doors to become one of only a handful of entities offering such innovative classes in Hot Springs, Arkansas. That same pioneering spirit has driven this school to evolve into Crossgate Christian Academy one of the premier learning centers in the region.

CCA maintains it 56-year dedication to excellence by being the only K-12 school in the region accredited with the Association of Christian Schools International, the largest Christian school association in the world, and with the Arkansas Non-public Schools Association.

Consistently, CCA's achievement scores are significantly higher than comparable local, state, and national averages. In 2005, CCA student Stanford Achievement Test averaged one year and four months above grade level. Our teachers are major factor in this advanced level because they act upon their belief that our students deserve the best education possible.

Superintendent Bill Vining credits those test scores to the schools having moved into 21st century learning, which is that of letting the students "out of the box". "We've taken education beyond the traditional classroom, inviting them to experience life and life application learning first hand. Going beyond the textbooks and gaining practical knowledge that can be used in their day to day lives."
After all, what value is knowledge if the student does not know how to apply what they have learned? Critical thinking skills, valuing physical fitness, responsible financial stewardship, and self-confidence are all results of application learning.

Last year, Crossgate launched it's School of Entrepreneurship. SoE teaches students business ethics and employment principals in a way no other school in Arkansas makes available. CCA High School students create and run their own businesses; profits from these various businesses fund scholarships and local community projects and events. And these projects aren't just selling candy bars.