North Hills Christian School News Service

SALISBURY — North Hills Christian School is launching a series of academic initiatives that emphasize collaboration, teacher training and comprehensive support for every student, all within a Biblical worldview. Those efforts underscore the school’s commitment to continuous growth and innovation while serving the whole child — mind, body and soul.

One notable recent change is the debut of an organic online curriculum platform that enables teachers to share lesson plans, track student progress and adjust instruction collaboratively across all grade levels.

“Our teachers have an incredible opportunity to learn from each other and streamline their approach,” said Rebecca Pierce, the recently appointed Curriculum Coordinator and Upper School AIM director. “By working together, we’re able to support each student’s spiritual and academic development more intentionally.”

To further enhance instruction, North Hills has introduced a robust teacher training initiative and ongoing instructional coaching. One feature is “Popcorn” Days, when teachers can “pop in” to colleagues’ classrooms for informal observations, gleaning fresh ideas for improved lesson delivery. Teachers also meet in professional learning communities (PLCs) for deeper discussions about challenges, refining curriculum and aligning educational goals.

Academic assessment remains a key priority, with students taking the nationally recognized IOWA tests to measure their progress.

“Our legacy students, those who begin at North Hills by third grade or earlier, are consistently performing one to two grade levels above the national average,” Pierce said. “That growth trajectory continues into high school, where 75 percent of our students are already at or above grade level, and a remarkable 90 percent reach proficiency in English Language Arts. These outcomes showcase the effectiveness of our holistic approach.”

North Hills also offers honors-level classes starting in the fifth grade, an early opportunity for students to aim high.

“Being able to start an honors math class in fifth grade really inspired me,” Mattie Austin said. “It’s challenging, but I love knowing my teachers and classmates are there to support me.”

A part of North Hills’ individualized approach is the Doris Plummer AIM (Academic Individualization and Modification) program, named after the program’s originator and long-time former NHCS instructor.

That program assists students who need extra help in English and math. Beginning in kindergarten, each student in AIM receives an individualized profile, detailing learning needs and accommodations. Advisory times are also available for tutoring, test retakes or extended study. For students requiring more significant academic or developmental support, the Victors Program offers a full-day track in kindergarten through 12th grade, balancing specialized instruction in small groups with opportunities to join peers in subjects like music, art and physical education.

“Our Victors Program empowers students to tackle academic and developmental challenges in a way that meets them where they are,” Lower School AIM Director Jessica Wright said. “By providing small-group instruction and individualized support, we see tremendous growth in both their life skills and their confidence.”

“By implementing the initiatives, an organic curriculum platform, teacher collaboration, early Honors courses, and the AIM and Victors support programs, North Hills aims to equip every student for success, both academically and spiritually,” said a release from the school’s director of marketing and communications, Ray Carter. “With a renewed focus on innovation and shared learning, the school remains firmly committed to equipping the hearts and minds of students to impact the world for Christ.”