The beginning of a new school year always carries a sense of anticipation and excitement. The buzz at Hillcrest Academy is heightened this year, thanks to a two-for-one celebration taking place at the school on Thursday, August 17. 

For starters, the 2023-24 academic year will see the first class of sixth graders walking the halls of Hillcrest Academy. Tonight’s event includes an open house for these students and their parents, where they will have the chance to explore and tour the new Middle School space. Hillcrest Academy plans to expand the Middle School to include seventh and eighth graders in the coming years. As Hillcrest Academy Principal, Dwight Gingerich, tells KCII, “I think there’s a really good sense of momentum at this time and a lot of support in the community for what’s happening here. We’re excited to see where it takes us this next year with all the changes that are happening and looking forward to it.”  

In addition to the open house, Hillcrest Academy plans to honor its ninth principal and class of ‘62 graduate, Wilbur Yoder and his wife, Helen. To recognize their service to the school and community, the atrium between Celebration Hall and Hillcrest Union will officially be named the Wilbur & Helen Yoder Atrium. 

The public is invited to attend and celebrate the Yoders, along with their classmates, family, and friends tonight at 7 p.m. in the Hillcrest Academy atrium, followed by the tour of the Middle School.