Read more details about Hillcrest Lutheran Academy on their 2025-26 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
Hillcrest has many strengths, but two stand out specifically. First, the faculty and staff are incredibly responsive and focused on the spiritual and academic development of the students. Our adopted son is a first year student at Hillcrest and has already been greatly impacted by the teachers, coaches, and mentors he's encountered. Second, the diversity at the school creates a great multicultural environment that exposes the students to a wide array of perspectives and life experiences.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
Hillcrest has challenged our son to consider what his purpose in life is and how he can make an impact on others around him.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
We arrived sight unseen on campus for move-in weekend. The staff was so accommodating over the phone, we felt comfortable just arriving. If you get a chance to visit, that would be good.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
Hillcrest is who it represents itself to be on its website. They are focused on educating and equipping the students for a life of purpose. We haven't regretted the experience a single day.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Enjoy the experience.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
The academics are rigorous and relevant. Our son participates in the ESL program along with regular classes. He is constantly challenged and encouraged to push himself to both learn and apply what is taught. We appreciate the Christ-focused approach that makes the Bible applicable throughout a variety of courses.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Our son has participated in both football and basketball. There is a great camaraderie around the sports programs, and the student body is engaged in supportive the different teams. While they work to be very competitive, there are also great opportunities for involvement by individuals of varying skill and experience levels. The coaches are knowledgeable and focused, but also encouraging and inspiring.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
Our son has really connected with his fellow students at Hillcrest. He participated in the Thanksgiving trip to the Mall of America and thoroughly enjoyed his time as part of that group.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Dorm life is lively and seems more like a big family. The guys are able to build great friendships and also have dorm deans to oversee everything and mentor them as they grow into young men. For our son, this is a great experience as he draws closer to life after high school.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The cafeteria area is very well designed and allows for a social aspect to the meals. It's proximity to everything else is very convenient, especially on days when the temperatures are on the chilly side.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Fergus Falls is a quiet, friendly town. There are some dining options as well as access to Target and Walmart. We feel our son is in a safe and healthy environment while being so far from home.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
The best part is just hanging out with friends from different parts of the world. There is a genuine sense of joy on the campus.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
7:30 AM
Out of the dorm and off to breakfast and class
Weekend
11:00 AM
Brunch with friends
Read more details about Hillcrest Lutheran Academy on their 2025-26 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Hillcrest is full of history, a legacy of education and impact has already been established. Being a part of this historical and impactful institution gives you a sense of belonging and purpose for something great. . .
Hillcrest Lutheran Academy combines a unique blend of classical Christian education in a rural American setting yet with a dynamic multicultural student body. A dormitory in a community this size is quite unique and provides. . .
Hillcrest Lutheran Academy Alumni #3
Class of 2011
5.00 8/26/2025
Minnesota state university moorhead
Class of 2011
5.00 8/26/2025
Minnesota state university moorhead
Hillcrest is a Christian classical education boarding school. They teach students to think critically about the things they hear.The teachers care about the spiritual growth and faith of their students.Hillcrest’s school building looks like. . .
Show more reviews (2 reviews)
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