Hope Academy

🎉 Big congratulations to Mrs. Cervantes and her entire family on earning their NAUI Worldwide Scuba Certification this past weekend with SEAKERS Aquatic Adventures! 🐠🌊

They were absolutely amazing and worked so hard to learn and achieve this certification. On top of being an awesome Spanish teacher at Hope Academy Mrs. Cervantes can now proudly add scuba diver to her resume! 💪✨

We can’t wait to see where their new underwater adventures will take them! 🌍💦

🎓 Senior Spotlight: Asher Patalak – Class of 2026

Asher has been a dedicated member of the HOPE community through Robotics (middle and high school teams and club), Student Council, and High School Soccer. His steady leadership and thoughtful presence have made a lasting impact.

After graduation, Asher plans to attend college to explore various fields of engineering, with hopes of one day working alongside his family.

Psalm 23:1–6 (NIV) has anchored his faith journey:
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing… Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Asher describes his HOPE experience in one word: Challenged. Through meaningful classroom discussions, especially in Literature and Cultural Geography, he learned to wrestle with big questions, strengthen his faith, and thoughtfully engage the world around him.

His yearbook quote reflects that growth:
“Be a critical engager, not a passive consumer.”
He encourages younger students to stay humble and open-minded, remembering there is always something new to learn. His prayer for his younger self? Trust that God’s plan is good and that He will carry you through it all.

From West Fest memories to robotics competitions, and even knowing how to drive a manual car, Asher has embraced every season with curiosity and conviction.

We are proud of the thoughtful, grounded young man you have become, Asher. The future ahead is bright!

💙🧡👑

🎓 Senior Spotlight: Rebekah Shields – Class of 2026

Rebekah has JOYFULLY poured into the HOPE community through Worship Team, S.A.L.T., Student Council, Yearbook, Volleyball, and the stage, performing in Alice in Wonderland, The Jungle Book, The Little Mermaid, and memorably as Gabriella in High School Musical.

After graduation, she will attend UNC Charlotte Honors College to pursue her calling as an Elementary Literacy Specialist.

Her favorite Bible verse, Psalm 86:11–12, reflects her heart: “Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth… I will glorify your name forever.”

Rebekah describes her HOPE experience in one word: Resilient. Through every season, she has grown in wisdom, perseverance, and joy. She encourages younger students to be confident in who God uniquely created them to be and to live for an audience of One.

Inspired by teachers who made her feel seen and capable, Rebekah has especially loved reading with Kindergarten and 1st grade students over the past two years and is already living out her future calling.

We are so proud of your leadership, creativity, and faithful heart, Rebekah. The world is brighter because of what you bring to it!

🧡💙👑

“Give thanks to the Lord for He is good His love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1

Today we pause with grateful hearts and remember that every blessing comes from the goodness of our God.

We are thankful for our students who shine so brightly, our families who we walk alongside, and our teachers and staff who pour out excellence and love each day.

It is a joy and a privilege to serve your children and partner with you in Christian education.

Happy Thanksgiving from HOPE Academy!