Upper School at NLA prepares students for college, career, and life while helping them make the most of their high school years and create lasting memories.
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Academics
Because every student’s goals are different, we offer flexible academic pathways. Students can challenge themselves through Honors and AP courses or earn up to 16 college credits per semester through on-campus PSEO classes. College counseling begins in ninth grade to help students plan for college, career, and beyond.
Community Groups
Upper School Community Groups foster connection, growth, and belonging. Students meet weekly after chapel in either their home group or a club-based group to build relationships, explore new interests, and develop skills for life beyond high school.
Electives & Clubs
Through electives and clubs, students can pursue their interests, develop new talents, and build lasting friendships. Guided by teachers and advisors, students gain valuable skills and experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Opportunities include electives such as Choir, Band, Photography, News, and Journalism, as well as clubs and extracurriculars like Model UN, Robotics, Drama, and National Honor Society.
Athletics
With 40 teams in 16 sports, NLA Athletics offers students opportunities to compete, belong, and grow. Guided by Christian coaches and rooted in biblical values, our programs develop character, teamwork, perseverance, and faith. While we strive for excellence in competition, our ultimate goal is to help students become confident leaders who honor Christ both on and off the field.
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A Roadmap to Success
NLA graduates leave ready for what’s next, equipped for college, prepared for life, and confident in the unique calling God has for them. Throughout high school, students receive guidance and support to make intentional choices, pursue their goals, and prepare for the future.
The Academic, College, and Career Counseling Office partners with students throughout high school, providing academic, social, and emotional support as they prepare for what’s next. Juniors and seniors can also explore career interests and gain hands-on experience through NLA’s Internship Program.
Whether students are headed to college, a trade, the military, or a gap year, NLA equips them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take their next step and pursue God’s calling for their lives.
Interest assessments and student profiles help students identify their strengths, interests, and goals. Students can pursue honors courses and advanced math and science pathways while receiving guidance on academics, extracurricular opportunities, and planning for life after high school.
As students begin exploring postsecondary options, they can meet with college representatives during the school day and receive personalized guidance from counselors. Early college and PSEO opportunities are introduced to help students plan their academic pathway.
As students begin narrowing their postsecondary plans, they gain valuable experience through internships, Teacher’s Assistant opportunities, and community service. College and trade school visits, college fairs, and the ACT help students explore options and prepare for next steps after high school.
As graduation approaches, students receive personalized support as they apply to colleges, explore scholarship opportunities, and prepare for life after high school. Through class trips, retreats, and leadership opportunities, students strengthen community. Many also gain real-world experience through internships, Teacher’s Assistant positions, and part-time employment.
New Life offers a unique high school experience that you wouldn’t get anywhere else. It offers you challenging academics and a solid faith background. The teachers are not only teachers, but role models and mentors. They genuinely want the best for you and are there to serve you. The community of friends is amazing and the school size is perfect allowing many opportunities and the ability to know everyone personally. It was a blessing to have those connections.
NLA ALUMNI
Mentorship for the Road Ahead
The high school years are a time of significant growth as students develop academically, build meaningful relationships, and begin planning for the future. At NLA, every student is known, loved, and valued so they can thrive in all areas of life.
Nurturing Teacher Relationships
Small class sizes allow teachers to build meaningful relationships with students, providing spiritual mentorship, academic support, and encouragement both inside and outside the classroom. Through the Teaching Assistant program, students also grow in responsibility and servant leadership under the guidance of faculty mentors.
Encouraging Authentic Relationships
Through extracurricular opportunities and grade-level retreats, students deepen their faith, serve alongside their peers, and build meaningful friendships. Rooted in shared experiences and a common faith in Christ, these relationships often become lifelong connections.
Growing in Christ
At NLA, faith is woven into every aspect of the Upper School experience. In the classroom, on the field, on the stage, and beyond, teachers, coaches, and staff invest in students as spiritual mentors, pointing them to Christ through encouragement, prayer, and biblical truth. Through chapel, Bible classes, service opportunities, and meaningful relationships, students grow in their faith and discover God’s purpose for their lives.
A Safe Place to Belong & Grow
A strong sense of belonging starts with a safe and supportive environment. At NLA, students learn and grow on a secure campus where they are known, loved, and valued. Multiple layers of security, including locked exterior doors, a secure visitor check-in process, security cameras, and interior safety doors, help ensure students remain safe throughout the day.
Beyond physical safety, students experience a welcoming community built on intentional relationships with teachers, staff, and peers. Whether connecting with friends in common areas, gathering together in the coffee shop, or engaging with teachers and staff, students enjoy a sense of belonging that helps them thrive.
See for Yourself
See firsthand why families choose New Life Academy for their teens.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can students take AP or dual enrollment classes?
Yes, New Life Academy offers both AP (Advanced Placement) and dual enrollment courses for Upper School students who are ready for college-level work.
AP Courses: Students can take AP classes in a variety of subjects, including AP Language and Composition, AP Literature, AP US History, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Calculus, AP Statistics, AP Psychology, AP Computer Science, and AP Spanish. Passing the AP exam at the end of the course may earn students college credit, depending on the college or university they attend.
Dual Enrollment: NLA partners with accredited colleges to offer dual enrollment options, allowing students to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously. These courses are taken for actual college credit and can provide a meaningful head start on post-secondary education.
Both options allow motivated students to challenge themselves academically, explore college-level content, and potentially reduce their future college costs. Learn more about our Upper School academic offerings.
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How do your school’s SAT scores compare to other schools in the area?
New Life Academy students consistently perform above state and national averages on the SAT. Our students’ average composite SAT score is 1176, which compares favorably to the Minnesota average of 1046 and the national average of 1028. This reflects the strength of our college-preparatory curriculum, dedicated faculty, and students who are well-prepared for the academic demands of higher education. Learn more about our Upper School and the outcomes we achieve for our graduates.
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What college prep programs are offered in high school?
New Life Academy offers a robust set of college preparation programs for Upper School students, including AP courses, dual enrollment for college credit, and a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. Students receive guidance from an Academic Dean who supports college planning, application preparation, and career exploration. We also offer ACT and SAT prep resources to help students perform their best. Honors courses across core subjects allow students to build strong academic foundations, and our Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment helps students identify their talents and articulate them in college applications. Learn more about our Upper School programs.
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What support is available to help students prepare for college?
New Life Academy provides strong college preparation support through our dedicated Academic Dean, who guides students through the college search, application process, financial aid, and major exploration. Students have access to AP and dual enrollment courses to earn college credit, honors classes to strengthen their transcripts, and ACT/SAT preparation resources. We also use the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment to help students identify their God-given talents, which informs both college choices and career direction. Our teachers provide personalized academic support, and our faith-centered environment helps students develop the character and resilience they need to thrive in college and beyond. Learn more about our Upper School.
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How does the school help students get ready for college and future careers?
New Life Academy prepares students for college and future careers through a combination of rigorous academics, faith formation, and personal development. Our college-preparatory curriculum includes AP courses, dual enrollment, and honors classes that challenge students and strengthen their transcripts. The Academic Dean provides individualized guidance on college searches, applications, financial aid, and career exploration. We use the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment to help students discover their unique God-given talents and connect them to future purpose. Service opportunities, mission trips, leadership roles, and internship-style experiences help students build real-world skills and a servant’s heart. Our goal is to graduate students who are academically prepared, spiritually grounded, and ready to make a meaningful impact. Learn more about our Upper School.
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What leadership opportunities can high school students participate in?
At New Life Academy, leadership and character development are woven into every stage of a student’s education.
Upper School: Students can join student-led clubs, serve as mentors, and take on leadership roles in athletics, arts, and spiritual life. The Eagles of Excellence Award recognizes growth in academics, health and fitness, and spiritual development. Mission trips and service opportunities further develop servant leadership.
Across all grades, our teachers and campus pastor model and mentor Christ-like character, helping every student discover their God-given strengths and lead with purpose. Learn more about our Upper School and faith and service.
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How does the school use faith to guide students in their life goals and career choices?
At New Life Academy, we believe every student is uniquely made in the image of God with a specific calling and purpose. We use faith as the foundation for helping students discover who they are and where they are headed. In Upper School, students take the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment to identify their top God-given talents, and teachers and mentors help them connect those strengths to their future direction. Bible classes, weekly chapels, community groups, and retreats all encourage students to seek God’s guidance in their life choices. Our campus pastor, Academic Dean, and teachers walk alongside students in conversations about purpose, vocation, and what it means to live a faith-filled, impactful life. We want every graduate to leave NLA not just with a diploma, but with a clear sense of identity, purpose, and calling rooted in Christ. Learn more about our Upper School and faith and service programs.
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What makes your high school different from others in the area?
New Life Academy’s Upper School stands apart in several meaningful ways. First, we offer a rigorous college-preparatory education — including AP courses, dual enrollment, and honors classes — within a Christ-centered community that prepares students not just for college, but for life. Our students score above state and national SAT averages, and 100% of our graduates are accepted to college. But academic achievement is only part of the story. At NLA, every student is known, loved, and valued by name. Small class sizes mean teachers can invest personally in each student’s growth. Weekly chapels, community groups, retreats, and service opportunities develop faith and character alongside academics. We also use the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment to help students identify their unique God-given talents and connect them to their future calling. This combination of academic excellence, relational depth, and spiritual formation is what sets NLA apart. Learn more about our Upper School.
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What is the college acceptance rate for your graduating seniors?
100% of New Life Academy’s graduating seniors are accepted to college. Our graduates attend a wide range of colleges and universities across the country, from large state universities to small Christian liberal arts colleges. This outcome reflects the strength of our college-preparatory curriculum, the personalized guidance of our Academic Dean, and the character and faith our students develop throughout their time at NLA. Learn more about our Upper School and the outcomes we achieve for our graduates.
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What clubs, sports, or organizations can high school students get involved in?
High school students at New Life Academy have a wide range of opportunities to get involved beyond the classroom.
Athletics: Upper School students can participate in over 40 teams across 16 sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, football, baseball, softball, golf, track and field, lacrosse, tennis, hockey, skiing, and more. Many sports offer no-cut teams to encourage broad participation.
Arts: Students can join choir (including advanced ensembles like Adonai and Morningstar), band, theater productions, Studio Art, Digital Photography, and other fine arts offerings.
Clubs and Student Organizations: Options include National Honor Society, Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Robotics Team, Model UN, Drama Club, and more. Upper School students can also participate in community groups that meet after chapel for fellowship and spiritual growth.
Service and Faith: Mission trips, service projects, and community group involvement give students meaningful ways to lead, serve, and grow in faith.
Learn more about our clubs and activities and athletics.
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What advanced courses (AP, dual credit, honors) are available?
New Life Academy offers a strong lineup of advanced coursework to challenge and prepare Upper School students for college and beyond.
AP Courses: Students can take AP classes including AP Language and Composition, AP Literature, AP US History, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Calculus AB/BC, AP Statistics, AP Psychology, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP Spanish Language. Passing AP exams may earn students college credit depending on the institution they attend.
Dual Enrollment: NLA partners with accredited colleges to offer dual enrollment options, allowing students to earn both high school and actual college credit simultaneously.
Honors Courses: Honors-level courses are available across core subjects for students who want additional academic challenge and rigor.
These options allow students to customize their academic path, build strong college transcripts, and potentially reduce future college costs. Learn more about our Upper School course offerings.
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How does your school support faith and character development in the teen years?
New Life Academy understands that the teen years are a critical time for identity formation, and we are intentional about walking alongside students through this season. Faith and character development are woven into every part of Upper School life. Weekly chapels feature student-led worship, inspiring speakers, and space for students to encounter God together. After chapel, students gather in community groups led by faculty for deeper fellowship, prayer, and discipleship. Bible is a required course each year, and students engage with Scripture in ways that connect to real-life questions and decisions. Retreats and mission trips give students transformative experiences that deepen their faith and build lasting friendships. Our campus pastor and teachers are genuinely invested in each student’s spiritual journey, offering mentorship and encouragement. Learn more about our faith and service programs and Upper School.
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How do you support college planning and applications?
New Life Academy provides comprehensive college planning support through our dedicated Academic Dean, who works one-on-one with Upper School students beginning in their sophomore or junior year. Support includes help with college search and selection, application essay guidance, transcript and recommendation management, understanding financial aid and scholarships, and navigating acceptance decisions. Students take the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment to help them articulate their unique strengths and connect their gifts to potential majors and career paths. We also offer access to AP and dual enrollment courses to strengthen transcripts and earn college credit. Our goal is to ensure that every senior leaves NLA confident, prepared, and accepted at a school that is the right fit — academically, personally, and spiritually. Learn more about our Upper School.
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Do you offer mission trips, service projects, or internships?
Yes, New Life Academy offers meaningful mission and service experiences for Upper School students that connect faith with real-world impact.
Mission Trips: Junior students participate in life-changing mission trips that take them beyond the classroom to serve others and grow in their relationship with God. These experiences are often among the most formative of a student’s time at NLA.
Service Projects: Upper School students engage in service through community groups, clubs, and partnerships with local organizations. Students have opportunities to serve through initiatives like food drives, community outreach, and events connected to New Life Church.
Internship-Style Experiences: While NLA does not offer a formal internship program, students can pursue independent study projects and explore career interests through elective courses, dual enrollment, and mentorship connections. Our focus on strengths discovery through the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment also helps students align their interests with future vocational exploration.
Learn more about our faith and service opportunities and excursions.
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Do you offer career exploration or vocational tracks?
While New Life Academy does not offer formal vocational tracks, we do provide meaningful career exploration opportunities integrated into our Upper School experience. Students take the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment to identify their top God-given talents and begin connecting those strengths to potential career paths. The Academic Dean works with students on college and career direction, helping them explore majors and vocations that align with their interests, skills, and calling. Elective courses in STEAM, arts, business, and technology allow students to explore areas of interest before college. Our dual enrollment partnerships also give students early exposure to college-level coursework in fields they may want to pursue. Faith-centered conversations around vocation, purpose, and calling are woven throughout Bible classes, chapels, and mentorship. Learn more about our Upper School.
