Impacting Generations,
Shaping Futures
Since 1994
Our school has played a pivotal role in educating thousands of students in Prineville and the broader Central Oregon region. As High Desert Christian Academy, we honor our rich history while embracing the future with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence in Christian education. We continue the legacy that began in the 1990s, prepared and inspired for such a time as this.
1994: Origins Established
Initially founded as Crook County Christian School at The First Assembly of God church with the beloved late Pastor Duane Jordan, the school laid the foundation for what would later become HDCA.
1997: First Building
Our first dedicated building was constructed to accommodate growing enrollment and enhanced learning experiences.
2013: Founder's Farewell
Our beloved founder, Sue Uptain-Gillham, relocated, passing on leadership while keeping her vision and dreams for our students alive and strong.
2015: Independence
In 2015, we formally separated from the First Assembly of God Church. We established our own nonprofit 501(c)(3), formed a new school board, and changed our name to High Desert Christian Academy.
2017: Cognia Accreditation
All thanks to our committed team and efforts we kept the academic & facility standards to be accredited by AdvancED (Cognia), affirming our mission to educational excellence and continuous improvement.
2022: Bold New Chapter
In response to unforeseen challenges, God directed a new path for HDCA. With God's leading, our friends at Grace Baptist Church, Eastside Church and Calvary Baptist Church graciously opened their doors to provide us a temporary home.
2023: Our New Home!
In 2023, HDCA secured the former Pioneer Memorial Hospital as our new campus. Set on a hill overlooking Prineville, this site offers vast potential for growth and innovation in education. Glory be to God! "...for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" - Romans 8:28