What can we help you with?
These are answers to a variety of commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions, please send us a note through our "Send Admissions a message" on our Welcome page. Or you can reach out to our Admissions Team by calling 403-948-5100.
Why Choose ACA?
At Airdrie Christian Academy (ACA), we offer more than just a school - we partner with families to provide a Christ-centered education that nurtures students spiritually, academically, and personally. Our mission is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to know, love and serve Jesus Christ in every area of life, guided by a biblical worldview and a commitment to discipleship.
What makes ACA distinctive?
What makes ACA distinctive?
- Christ-Centered Learning
Every subject is taught through a biblical lens, helping students integrate faith and learning in meaningful ways. We build character and worldview alongside academic understanding. - Academic Excellence
We follow the Alberta Program of Studies while intentionally integrating Scripture and Christian perspective throughout the curriculum. Our accredited teachers support students as they grow in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking. - Caring, Family-Oriented Community
ACA is a community where students feel known, supported, and encouraged. Smaller class sizes and personal relationships help teachers maximize each child’s potential. - Partnership With Families & Church
We value strong partnerships between home, church, and school - working together to nurture faith, character, and a lifelong love of learning. - Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
From service learning and athletics to arts and leadership experiences, students are encouraged to develop their gifts, serve others, and live out their faith in real-world contexts.
What is a discipleship-based education model?
Although we are a Christian school, we are not a church - and that distinction matters when we describe what discipleship looks like in an educational setting. Discipleship simply means helping students follow Jesus. In a church environment, this may take more direct, structured forms. At ACA, we practice a holistic, everyday discipleship that is woven naturally into school life.
Walking with Christ is integrated into our speech, habits, routines, relationships, and learning. The line between “secular” and “sacred” becomes beautifully blurred as students engage in their studies. In Math, Science, and History, they explore God’s created world and the order He built into it. In creative work, they reflect their identity as image-bearers of a creative God. Even moments on the playground become opportunities to practice Christ-like character.
Alongside this organic, day-to-day formation, students also participate in regular Bible classes and weekly Chapel services. Together, these intentional and natural practices form a discipleship-based educational model aimed at shaping both minds and hearts.
Walking with Christ is integrated into our speech, habits, routines, relationships, and learning. The line between “secular” and “sacred” becomes beautifully blurred as students engage in their studies. In Math, Science, and History, they explore God’s created world and the order He built into it. In creative work, they reflect their identity as image-bearers of a creative God. Even moments on the playground become opportunities to practice Christ-like character.
Alongside this organic, day-to-day formation, students also participate in regular Bible classes and weekly Chapel services. Together, these intentional and natural practices form a discipleship-based educational model aimed at shaping both minds and hearts.
Do you need to be a Christian to apply to ACA?
At ACA, we require that at least one parent / guardian in each family be a Bible-believing Christian, regularly participating in the life of a Christian church, who can also agree to our full statement of faith. A non-Christian parent must be able to whole-heartedly support the Mission and Vision of the school, and uphold the moral standards as outlined in the ACA’s Moral Conduct Policy (available for review with the application). There is also the expectation that in the case of Secondary students (Grades 7 to 12), the student will be able to testify to a sincere and growing relationship with Christ.
Are ACA teachers required to be Christians?
Yes. All of our teachers, staff, and guest-teachers are in agreement with our Statement of Faith, participate in a local Christian church, and are committed to upholding our Moral Conduct Policy outside of school hours.
Does ACA teach Alberta Curriculum?
As an Accredited Private Independent School, our long range plans, unit plans, and lessons follow the Program of Studies provided by Alberta Education, and our graduates earn an Alberta High School Diploma. We are also intentional to integrate Scriptural truths throughout all curriculum and texts, regardless of grade level.
What is Continuous Enrollment?
Because vast majority of our families continue with us each year, students are automatically enrolled for the following year. This makes things easier for our parents, and keeps our processes running smoothly.
Does my child need to be fluent in English to apply?
All of our teaching, textbooks, and classroom work are done in English, therefore it is necessary for all of our students to have strong English proficiency.
What is the expectation around parent involvement at the school?
At ACA, our heartbeat is to partner with Christian parents in both the education and spiritual formation of their children. Because of this, we deeply value regular parent involvement in the life of the school.
Volunteer opportunities are shared in our weekly newsletter, and parents are free to sign up for roles that fit their skills, interests, and schedules. We also welcome parent voice in school governance. All parents are invited to join the ACA Society, which gives them the opportunity to vote for board members and participate in key decisions at our annual AGM.
Kindergarten families participate in a unique way: each family is asked to volunteer in the classroom 4-5 days throughout the school year, supporting both teachers and students in a hands-on environment.
Volunteer opportunities are shared in our weekly newsletter, and parents are free to sign up for roles that fit their skills, interests, and schedules. We also welcome parent voice in school governance. All parents are invited to join the ACA Society, which gives them the opportunity to vote for board members and participate in key decisions at our annual AGM.
Kindergarten families participate in a unique way: each family is asked to volunteer in the classroom 4-5 days throughout the school year, supporting both teachers and students in a hands-on environment.
What is a Waitpool? How does this differ from a waitlist?
Waitlists are organized on a first-come, first-served basis: if a spot opens in a grade, it goes to the next student in line. ACA uses a waitpool which works differently - there’s no ranking. When space becomes available, the Admissions Team selects from the pool based on a variety of factors.
Do you accept International students?
We don’t offer a formal international student program, but students don’t need to be Canadian citizens to attend our school. As long as applicants can provide the required immigration documents and have strong English proficiency, they’re welcome to apply.