Discover purpose through learning
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Discover purpose through learning *
Serving students in 3rd through 8th
in Paris, Illinois. Our program
offers a meaningful learning
experience rooted in faith and growth.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a faith-based educational environment where students can grow academically and personally while discovering their God-given purpose. We aim to support students who may not thrive in traditional systems by offering meaningful learning experiences through a project-driven approach.
Hope Christian Academy provides a faith-based, project-driven learning environment designed for students who may not thrive in traditional public school settings. With certified teachers and a focus on meaningful learning experiences, the program offers an alternative approach within a small community. Families seeking something different from existing local options will find a distinct educational path here. The school is built on the belief that every child has a purpose and deserves the opportunity to discover it.
Faith-Based Foundation — Students learn within a program grounded in a biblical worldview.
Alternative to Public School — Designed for families seeking a different option than traditional public school settings.
Small Community Setting — Located in a close-knit community with limited private school options.
Faith-Based Learning
Our program is rooted in a biblical worldview, helping students grow in both knowledge and purpose.
Project-Driven Approach
Students engage in project-based learning experiences designed to deepen understanding and application.
Certified Teachers
Instruction is led by certified teachers committed to supporting students with diverse abilities and strengths.
Meet Our Founders
Natalie Hernandez
God has given me the privilege of being the mother of three wonderful, loving boys, a wife to an amazing, supportive husband, and a teacher with 20 years of experience. I love to sing worship to God at church and act in our yearly Christmas play. I enjoy making stuffed toys through crochet. After working with students with all kinds of abilities and strengths, I realized that the public school system was holding them back. After I saw my own son struggle to prove his value at school, I knew I wanted to provide a different option for other students that may not fit into the public school system. I am confident that God has placed each child on Earth for a purpose, and I look forward to teaming with you to help your child discover that purpose.
Shara Schutter
As a mother of two and a wife of 18 years, my transition from Business Administration to a Master’s in Education was driven by a deep desire to advocate for families. Nine years into this journey, I’ve found that the reality of teaching—often dominated by paperwork and large class sizes—diverges from my original vision. However, my core passion remains unchanged: I am dedicated to guiding students beyond the standard curriculum, helping them develop the essential life skills they need to navigate the world with a biblical worldview.
