New Life Academy is a Christ-centered school serving families from Preschool through Grade 12. For nearly 50 years, we have partnered with parents to provide education that nurtures faith, character, and a love for learning. Founded in 1977 as a ministry of New Life Church, New Life Academy began with a vision to share God’s Word and Gospel truth with the next generation. That vision continues today, shaping an education that is grounded in God’s Word and guided by a biblical worldview. Through strong academics, close-knit community, and engaging extracurriculars and athletics, our students flourish as they discover and develop the gifts God has given them.
Covenant Partnership with Families
A strong partnership between the school and families is essential to the spiritual, academic, and personal growth of each student. Parents and guardians must commit to working collaboratively with teachers and the administration to cultivate an environment where students thrive through a united school-family relationship.
Parents as Primary Disciplers
God has given primary responsibility of discipling and teaching children to parents (Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Ephesians 6:1-4, Proverbs 22:6, Psalm 78:1-7). The Church and Christian school exist to come alongside parents in the journey to help equip, strengthen, confirm, and reinforce Biblical teaching at home.
A Shared Commitment
Parents partner with NLA and their local church to teach what it means to be a Christ-follower and how to live that out in their daily lives. As part of this covenant with our community, NLA requires that at least one parent comply with our statement of faith, agree with our social positions, and commit to actively living them out in their lives.
What Partnership Looks Like
Our covenant partnership is lived out through mutual commitment and shared trust:
Shared Mission
Parents affirm their support of NLA’s mission to educate students spiritually, academically, socially, and physically through a biblical worldview and nurture faith at home and school.
Active Communication
Families commit to regular, respectful, and transparent dialogue with teachers, administrators, and staff that fosters trust and understanding.
Supportive Environment
Parents model and encourage a positive attitude toward the school’s values, policies, and community standards both at home and in the broader community.
School Involvement
Families engage in school events, volunteer opportunities, and spiritual activities that reinforce and contribute to the sense of community that defines NLA.
Conflict Resolution
In the spirit of Christian unity, parents commit to resolving concerns or misunderstandings in alignment with biblical principles and the school’s established communication guidelines.
Honest Disclosure
Parents are expected to fully and accurately disclose any known learning differences, developmental delays, behavioral/social/emotional needs, health concerns, or special needs their student may have to ensure the school can provide appropriate support and foster a successful learning environment.
Our Mission
To educate students and help them flourish in a Christ-centered community where they are known, loved, and valued.
Our Vision
To educate faith-filled, future-ready leaders that will influence the world for Jesus Christ.
Statement of Faith
We believe that the Bible is the Word of God.
We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, fully inspired and without error in the original manuscripts, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and having supreme authority in all matters of faith and conduct.
We believe in the Trinity.
We believe that there is one living and true God, eternally existing in three Persons, who are equal in every divine perfection and who carry out distinct yet harmonious roles in the work of creation, providence, and redemption.
We believe in God the Father, an infinite personal Spirit, perfect in holiness, wisdom, power, and love. We believe that He concerns Himself mercifully in the affairs of men, that He hears and answers prayers and that He saves from sin and death all who come to Him through Jesus Christ.
We believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son, conceived by the Holy Spirit. We believe in His substitutionary atoning death, bodily resurrection and ascension into heaven, His ongoing intercession for His people, and His personal, visible return to earth.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, to convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and to regenerate, sanctify, and empower all who believe in Jesus Christ. We believe that the Holy Spirit dwells in every believer in Christ and is an abiding helper, teacher, and guide.
We believe sin separates us from God.
We believe that any thought, word, or action that does not reflect God’s character or align with His Word is sin. When we sin, we distance ourselves from God and harm ourselves and others. We believe that all men are sinners by nature and by choice and are, therefore, under condemnation. There are no good deeds that a person can do to free himself from condemnation. We believe all people are sinners in need of God’s forgiveness (Romans 3:23).
We believe God offers eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Though sin leads to death, God offers eternal life through Jesus Christ (Romans 6:23). We are called to repent and seek forgiveness. Scripture promises God will forgive and cleanse us when we confess (1 John 1:9). We believe that those who receive Jesus Christ as Lord and trust in Him by faith as the only way to salvation are regenerated by the Holy Spirit. Jesus’ death fully paid for our sin, and His resurrection shows His victory over sin and death (1Corinthians 15:55–58; Romans 3:21–26).
We believe in freedom from sin.
Because we have been forgiven and set free, we are not to continue in sinful patterns (Romans 6:1–2, 12–13; Galatians 5:1). As followers of Jesus, we are called to live in a way that honors God (1 John 2:6; 1 Corinthians 10:31). With the help of the Holy Spirit, we seek to live in the truth of Scripture and follow Jesus, who is full of grace and truth (John 1:14). Out of gratitude for God’s great love (Romans 5:8), we desire to live for Him and reflect His character. When we sin, we are called to repent and turn away from it (Acts 3:19). God calls His people to live holy lives because He is holy (1 Peter 1:14–16; 1 Peter 2:24).
We believe in standing firm on truth.
We believe we must guard against efforts in the world to distort God’s truth (2 Timothy 4:2–4). Rather than conforming to cultural pressures, we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:1–2). The Holy Spirit renews us as we live according to God’s Word.
We believe in the return of Jesus.
We believe in the personal and visible return of the Lord Jesus Christ to the earth and the establishment of His Kingdom. We believe in the resurrection of the body, the final judgment, the eternal peace and joy of the righteous, and the endless suffering of the wicked.
We believe in the universal church.
We believe in the universal church: a living spiritual body of which Christ is the head and all regenerated persons are members. We believe in the local church: consisting of a company of believers in Jesus Christ, baptized on a credible profession of faith, and associated for worship, work, and fellowship. We believe that God has laid upon the local church the primary task of giving the gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost world.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What grade levels does the school serve, and what ages can apply?
New Life Academy serves students from Early Education through 12th grade, welcoming children as young as 31 months in Preschool Prep. Here’s a quick guide by age and grade:
- Early Education: Preschool Prep starts at 31 months. Preschool requires children to be potty trained and 3 years old by September 1. Pre-K is for 4- and 5-year-olds.
- Kindergarten: Children must be 5 by September 1.
- Lower School: Kindergarten through 5th grade.
- Middle School: Grades 6–8.
- Upper School: Grades 9–12.
Learn more about our Early Education, Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School programs.
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What kinds of academic facilities does the school have on its campus?
New Life Academy’s campus features age-appropriate academic facilities that support hands-on learning and creativity at every stage. Early Education and Kindergarten classrooms emphasize face-to-face learning with limited screen time. Lower School students enjoy an Innovation Center for weekly STEAM activities and specialist classes such as Art, Music, Spanish, and Makerspace. Middle and Upper School students have access to advanced STEAM labs with robotics, 3D printing, and engineering tools, plus specialized classrooms for arts and technology.
Explore more about our academic approach.
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What kinds of performing and visual arts facilities does the school have on its campus?
New Life Academy’s campus features dedicated facilities for both performing and visual arts. Our Theatre program includes spaces for full-stage musicals, competitive productions, and middle school performances. Visual arts classrooms are equipped for painting, sculpture, digital media, and more. Music facilities support band, choir, and private lessons with spaces for practice and performances.
Explore more about our Fine Arts offerings.
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What kinds of athletic facilities does the school have on its campus?
New Life Academy offers excellent athletic facilities for all ages. Our campus includes two gym spaces, a rock wall, and a weight room. Younger students enjoy two Lower School playgrounds and a separate gated Early Ed playground. Seasonal highlights include a large hill for winter sledding. Students also have access to a large soccer field and an outdoor disc golf course.
Learn more about our athletics program.
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What transportation options are available for students?
New Life Academy offers bus transportation for families living within South Washington County (District 833). If you qualify, you can opt in for safe and convenient busing to and from school. For details on routes, eligibility, and registration, please visit the South Washington County Schools transportation website.
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In what ways does the campus show or reflect Christian values?
New Life Academy reflects Christian values throughout campus life and academics at every stage.
In the classroom: Scripture is integrated into every subject, with dedicated Bible study, prayer, and weekly chapels. Teachers are certified through the Association of Christian Schools International. Leadership and character-building activities encourage kindness and mentorship.
Outside the classroom: Our campus pastor supports spiritual growth, and students engage in service projects, mission trips, and retreats that put faith into action. Partnerships with New Life Church provide additional opportunities to serve and grow.
Learn more about our faith and service.
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Does the school have chaplains or spiritual leaders, and what role do they play?
New Life Academy has dedicated spiritual leaders who support students and the whole community. Our Campus Pastor, Grant Lilly, provides spiritual guidance and encouragement to faculty, students, and parents. Students engage in weekly chapels with worship and messages, and Middle and Upper School students participate in retreats and service trips focused on deepening their relationship with Jesus.
Learn more about our faith and service programs.
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What steps does the school take to keep the campus secure?
New Life Academy keeps our campus secure with multiple layers of safety. Exterior doors remain locked during school hours, and all visitors must check in at the front desk. After hours, key card access controls entry. Security cameras and interior safety doors add additional protection throughout the building.
Staff conduct regular safety drills and follow a comprehensive five-year safety plan developed in partnership with the Woodbury Police Department. Staff undergo thorough background checks and hold first-aid and CPR training. Online safety is a priority, with monitored device use and digital citizenship education.
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How does the school keep students safe on campus?
New Life Academy prioritizes student safety at every stage with locked exterior doors, visitor check-in, security cameras, and interior safety doors. Staff undergo thorough background checks and are trained in first aid and CPR. We conduct regular safety drills—including weather and lockdown drills—in partnership with local police.
Online safety is emphasized through monitored device use and digital citizenship lessons. Families can also participate in workshops to support safety at home and at school.
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How does the school prepare for emergencies or unexpected situations?
New Life Academy prioritizes emergency preparedness with a secure campus, regular safety drills, and a five-year safety plan developed in partnership with local police. A dedicated safety committee meets monthly to review ongoing needs. Our full-time Registered Nurses manage individualized health and emergency action plans updated annually.
Digital safety is emphasized through monitored technology use and age-appropriate instruction. Learn more about our health services.
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What is the school’s approach to handling bullying and peer conflict?
At every age, we prioritize a safe, respectful environment where bullying and peer conflict are addressed with care and clear expectations. We believe every person is created in the image of God and holds great worth. God calls us to treat one another with respect, honor, and love as we pursue unity together (Mark 12:29–31; 1 John 4:19–20; Ephesians 4:1–3).
Our School Counselor actively supports students’ social skills and self-regulation, intervening when needed. We teach kindness and respect through character education and mentoring relationships that help students grow in empathy and responsibility. Families partner closely with us to reinforce these values at home.
Learn more about our Faith & Service programs.
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What are the mission, vision, and values of the school?
Our mission is to educate students and help them flourish in a Christ-centered community where they are known, loved, and valued. We envision raising faith-filled, future-ready leaders who will influence the world for Jesus Christ. At every stage, we partner with families to nurture faith, character, and academic growth rooted in biblical truth.
Learn more about our mission and vision.
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Is the school affiliated with a specific Christian denomination?
New Life Academy is a Christ-centered school grounded in biblical truth, but is not affiliated with a specific Christian denomination. We embrace the universal church, recognizing all believers in Jesus Christ as part of one spiritual body. Our community includes families from over 66 different churches.
Learn more about our faith and service.
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How does the school address different theological beliefs among students?
At every stage, we nurture faith within a Christ-centered community where students are known, loved, and valued. Our Bible classes, weekly chapels, and service opportunities help students grow spiritually and explore their faith personally. We partner closely with families who support our Statement of Faith, creating a unified environment grounded in biblical truth that encourages respectful dialogue and personal faith development.
Learn more about our statement of faith.
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Does the campus include facilities or special spaces for worship or prayer?
New Life Academy’s campus includes a dedicated Worship Center that provides a special space for regular worship and prayer. Weekly student-led chapel services create a welcoming atmosphere to grow in faith. Bible classes from Early Education through Grade 12 and community groups after chapel further nurture spiritual growth.
Learn more about our faith and service programs.
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What are the school hours?
School hours vary by division. Middle and Upper School begin at 8:00 AM, while Early Education and Lower School begin at 8:05 AM. Early Education and Lower School dismiss at 2:30 PM; Middle and Upper School dismiss at 3:00 PM.
Before-school care is available starting at 7:00 AM at no charge for Early Education through Lower School. After-school care (Academy Adventures) runs until 5:30 PM for an additional fee. Learn more about our Early Education and Kindergarten schedules.
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What are the beliefs held at NLA?
At New Life Academy, we believe the Bible is the inspired, trustworthy Word of God and the ultimate guide for faith and life. We affirm the Trinity—God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and that Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection offer forgiveness and eternal life. We value living in obedience to God’s Word, growing in holiness, and standing firm in biblical truth.
Our mission is to glorify God in all we do as we nurture the spiritual, academic, and relational growth of every student. Learn more about our Statement of Faith and Mission & Vision.
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Does NLA provide transportation to and from school?
New Life Academy does not provide general transportation. However, busing is available for families within South Washington County (District 833). Visit the South Washington County Schools transportation website for routes, eligibility, and registration. Before-school care starts at 7:00 AM at no charge, and after-school care (Academy Adventures) runs until 5:30 PM for an additional fee.
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How does NLA ensure student safety and security?
New Life Academy prioritizes student safety with locked exterior doors, visitor check-in, key card after-hours access, and staff background checks. Regular safety drills and a five-year safety plan are developed in partnership with the Woodbury Police Department. Small class sizes and caring teachers ensure every student feels known, valued, and supported.
Learn more about our commitment to student safety.
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What is the current enrollment?
Our current enrollment is over 820 students, spanning Early Education through Grade 12. Each level provides a nurturing, faith-centered environment with small class sizes designed to support your child’s individual growth. Learn more about our programs at every stage.
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What is the average class size?
Our average class sizes vary by grade level to ensure personalized attention:
- Early Education: Maximum of 15 students, with a full-time licensed teacher and a teacher’s aide.
- Lower School: Typically 18–22 students.
- Middle and Upper School: Varies by course; core classes are generally larger, electives smaller.
- Graduating classes: Usually about 55 students.
Learn more about our Lower School and Early Education programs.
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What is the uniform or dress code policy?
Students in grades K–12 follow a uniform policy that promotes a consistent and respectful learning environment. Uniforms can be purchased through Donald’s Uniform in St. Paul or at our campus store. We also host a used uniform sale each July to support families.
See our uniform and dress code policy for full details.
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Does NLA offer a hot lunch program?
Yes, NLA offers a hot lunch program available for purchase daily, featuring freshly prepared, nutritious meals. Middle and Upper School students can also visit our on-campus Eagle Café for snacks, drinks, and salads. Students are welcome to bring lunch from home, and microwaves are available. Please note NLA does not participate in the federal free and reduced lunch program.
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What is the student body diversity?
New Life Academy welcomes students of every race, color, national, and ethnic origin, providing equal access to all programs and activities. Our student body includes about 17–18% students of color. Families come from more than 66 different churches, creating a rich, faith-centered community from Early Education through High School.
Learn more about our Admissions.
Social Positions
At New Life Academy, we approach cultural and social questions through a biblical lens, aiming to follow Scripture faithfully while partnering with families in a spirit of grace and clarity. We hold these beliefs because we have conviction that God’s design makes sense of the world both spiritually and practically. We believe that God’s commands flow from His character and His love and it is for His glory and our good.
Truth of Scripture
We believe the Bible is our final authority for understanding God, ourselves, and the world. Scripture guides how we approach every issue of life, and we seek to apply it with wisdom, faithfulness, and compassion.
The Bible teaches that all Scripture is God-breathed and given for teaching, correcting, and training so that God’s people are equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
We affirm that the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments are the inspired and trustworthy Word of God. The Holy Spirit spoke through human authors so that what they wrote is true and without error (2 Peter 1:21).
Because Scripture is true and trustworthy, it is also good. It provides the standard for moral goodness and offers guidance that leads to life and flourishing (Psalm 19:7–11).
Family Structure
We believe that marriage is a covenant designed by God between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4–5). In His goodness, God created both men and women equally in His image, each with immeasurable worth and dignity (Genesis 1:27). In his wisdom and love, He gave husbands and wives unique and complementary roles so that their union would reflect the beauty of Christ’s with His Church (Genesis 2:18; Ephesians 5:22–31).
We also believe that God has entrusted parents with the primary calling to nurture, disciple, and teach their children in the ways of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:4–9; Ephesians 6:1–4; Proverbs 22:6; Psalm 78:1–7). Because of this we see the Church and Christian schools as partners in this journey, coming alongside families to support, encourage, and reinforce the biblical truth being taught at home.
We affirm God’s design for marriage and families and expect families to uphold the covenant partnership. At the same time, we recognize that families come to us from many different circumstances in a broken world (Romans 3:23) and we strive to approach all people with compassion, humility, and care, trusting God’s grace to meet each situation.
Christ-Centered Sexuality
We believe God designed sexuality as a beautiful gift to be enjoyed within the covenant of marriage between one man and one woman (Hebrews 13:4) and that sexual intimacy is meant to be expressed within that covenant alone (Matthew 19:4–5). Sexual relationships or behaviors outside of this design fall outside of what God intends for our good.
We also recognize that in a broken world, we all experience temptations, struggles, and areas where we fall short of God’s design. Scripture teaches that sexual immorality includes behaviors such as adultery, pornography, same-sex sexual behavior, premarital sex, and actions that reject or seek to change one’s biological sex (1 Corinthians 6:9–10, 13, 18–19; Matthew 15:19; Romans 1:26–27).
We share these truths not to condemn, but to lovingly guide one another back to God’s heart. We believe every person is deeply loved by God, created with purpose, and invited into a life of holiness and restoration through Jesus. Our desire is to walk with grace, truth, compassion, and patience as we each pursue the freedom and transformation God offers.
Biblical View of Gender
We believe God created each person uniquely male or female, and that this design is good and purposeful (Genesis 1:26-28). As image bearers of God, every individual has immeasurable worth and dignity. Based on this biblical understanding of gender, students are expected to follow school guidelines that align with their biological sex. This includes clothing, jewelry, makeup, use of bathrooms and locker rooms, and the pronouns used at school. Participation in extracurricular activities is also based on a student’s biological sex.
We recognize that questions of identity can be deeply personal and, at times, difficult. Any attempt to change one’s biological sex or to present oneself in ways that conflict with it falls outside of New LifeAcademy’s conduct expectations. These expectations apply both to how students express themselves and how they interact with and speak about others.
Our desire is to uphold these standards with kindness, clarity, and compassion, supporting each student in their Christian journey as a person loved by God and valued within our school community.
Sanctity of Life
We believe that every human life is a sacred gift from God and carries immeasurable worth because each person is lovingly created in His image. We believe that life begins at conception (Psalm 139:13–16; Isaiah 44:2a; Isaiah 49:5a) and that each person’s days are known and appointed by God (Psalm 139:16; James 4:13–15).
We also affirm that human life remains precious from the very beginning to the final breath, and that every stage of life—infant, child, adult, or elderly—holds dignity, value, and purpose in the eyes of God.
Respect for Others
We believe every person is created in the image of God and holds great worth. Because of this, God calls us to treat one another with respect, honor, and love as we pursue unity together (Mark 12:29–31; 1 John 4:19–20; Ephesians 4:1–3). Bullying, harassment, or treating anyone in a way that does not recognize and respect them as wonderfully made in the image of God goes against God’s design for how we are to care for one another and is considered sin.