The History of Unity Christian Academy
2014-2017
Conversations started
In 2014, a group of local clergy, business professionals, educators, parents, and community leaders began meeting to discuss the future of Christian high school education in the South Suburbs of Chicago. Important questions such as “what does the future of Christian education look like?” and “what does this community want from its high schools?” were asked. From these discussions, an initial steering committee was established. This committee spent several months conducting extensive market research and community listening.
Out of the steering committee, a Board of Directors was formed. This founding board was composed of men and women from various denominational and professional backgrounds. This group worked tirelessly over the next several years to start what would eventually be named Unity Christian Academy.
2018-2019
The Doors Opened
In August 2018, the doors of Unity Christian Academy were opened for twenty-three freshmen, the first class in UCA’s history (the Class of 2022). A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at 16341 South Park Ave in South Holland, IL (the home of Calvary Community Church). Mrs. Loukisha Smart-Pennix served as founding Head of School from 2018-2020.
2019-2020
Second Class Welcomed
In August 2019, UCA welcomed our second freshman class (the Class of 2023). By God’s grace, our numbers grew to forty-one total students. On July 1, 2020, Mr. Neil Okuley began serving as Head of School.
2020-2021
third class welcomed
In August 2020, UCA welcomed our third freshman class (the Class of 2024). Fifty-three students filled our halls and Zoom rooms during this year. In February 2021, Unity Christian Academy was fully recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education and received membership into the Illinois High School Association.
2021-2022
First graduation ceremony held
In August 2021, UCA welcomed our fourth freshman class (the Class of 2025), growing our student body to 81 students. On June 10, 2022, we celebrated the graduation of our founding class of students, the Class of 2022, in a magnificent commencement ceremony held as the first public event on our new campus at 700 E. 170th St. in South Holland, Illinois. View photos of this historic event here.
2024
WE move into our new location
February 26, 2024, was UCA’s first day of school at our new building, located at 700 E. 170th St. in South Holland. The site was the former home of Holy Ghost Church an School, and is a beautiful 10-acre lot that UCA will continue to grow into for years to come.