North Hills Christian School has earned a strong reputation for its Christ-centered education and biblical worldview. What is sometimes less known, however, is the school’s commitment to academic excellence and the measurable results that come with it.

Recent standardized testing data reveal that North Hills students not only perform above national averages, but that those who have been part of the school community for several years, known as legacy students, demonstrate especially high levels of academic achievement.

Legacy students are defined as those who have been enrolled since early foundational years: beginning in Junior Kindergarten for today’s 1st–2nd graders, Kindergarten for 3rd–4th graders, and 3rd grade for students currently in 5th–12th grades.

“We believe the combination of a nurturing Christian environment, consistent curriculum, and strong teacher relationships builds momentum over time,” said Rebecca Pierce, Coordinator of Curriculum & Assessment. “Legacy students benefit from years of cumulative academic growth that aligns with our mission and methods.”

The numbers tell a compelling story.
By the end of 7th-grade, the majority of North Hills students, both legacy and non-legacy, were scoring well above the national average, which is measured at the 50th percentile. Among 8th graders, legacy students tested approximately a full grade level above their peers in both English and Math.

In high school, that growth continues to accelerate. Ninth-grade results show both groups performing significantly ahead of national norms, with general students scoring in the 82nd percentile for English and the 72nd percentile in Math. Legacy students performed even higher, at the 83rd percentile in English and 79th in Math.

By senior year, legacy students continue to lead the way. The most recent data places 12th-grade legacy students in the 88th percentile for English and 78th percentile for Math, a strong indicator of college readiness. Even general students, who joined North Hills later in their academic journey, outperformed national averages with scores in the 63rd percentile for English and 54th percentile for Math.

“We’re proud of all our students,” said Dr. Crabtree, High School Principal. “These results show that a Christ-centered education and academic rigor aren’t mutually exclusive; they’re mutually strengthening.”

And today, that Christ-centered education is more accessible than ever. Thanks to the North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship, families across the state, regardless of income, now have the opportunity to choose a private Christian education for their children.

“The Opportunity Scholarship has been a game changer,” said Jeannie MacKay-Ogg, Admissions Director. “It’s allowing families from a variety of backgrounds to experience an education that nurtures both faith and excellence. We’re seeing lives changed, not just through academics, but through the gospel lived out in our classrooms.”

Faculty believe the consistency of the school’s academic philosophy, along with small class sizes and personal relationships, allows students to flourish both spiritually and intellectually.

“Our goal has always been to equip hearts and minds to impact the world for Christ,” shared Maria Lowder, Executive Director. “Strong academics are part of that mission. When students grow up in a culture of excellence, rooted in truth, they leave here ready to lead.”

At North Hills, the data makes one thing clear: faith and scholarship go hand in hand. And for students who grow within that environment from an early age, the results speak volumes, not just in test scores, but in character, confidence, and lifelong impact.