Located in the heart of Thousand Oaks, Hillcrest Christian School is a preschool through 12th grade community devoted to partnering with parents to raise the next generation to impact the world for Jesus Christ. For almost 5 decades, Hillcrest students have been known individually, loved sacrificially and equipped intentionally. Students are prepared not only for academic success but also for a lifelong walk with Christ.
At Hillcrest, teachers are more than educators—they are disciplers who build genuine relationships with their students and model the grace and compassion of Jesus in every interaction. This commitment shapes the atmosphere of every classroom, from the joyful energy of preschool and the engaging elementary environment to the rigorous college preparatory setting of high school.
A School for All Ages
In preschool, children are welcomed into a nurturing environment that includes a beautiful new playground where caring teachers help them grow in the love of Jesus. Students learn through song, play and hands-on exploration as they develop fine motor skills, grow physically, build social and emotional confidence and develop early foundations in math, reading and writing. Every moment, from morning circle to outdoor play, gives children an opportunity to understand that they are uniquely gifted and loved by God.
In elementary school, students flourish through strong academics, encouraging teachers and learning experiences that bring content to life. They benefit from enrichment classes taught by specialized instructors in art, music, Spanish, computers, library, physical education and afterschool sports. Students study eight master artists each year in art, learn four instruments in music and participate in field trips that extend learning beyond the classroom. Lessons are creative, purposeful and rooted in a Christian worldview, allowing students to discover and develop their God-given gifts.
In middle school, students are personally known by their teachers. They are supported as they grow in identity, purpose and calling. A meaningful part of this experience is weekly small groups after Wednesday chapel. Students meet to discuss and apply chapel teachings, pray for one another and offer accountability and encouragement. These groups create a safe place where students can be vulnerable, ask questions and build relationships with teachers who consistently point them to Christ. This is one of the ways Hillcrest partners with families to ensure students are hearing the same message at Home, Church and School.
In high school, families partner with a dedicated college counselor, and students choose academic pathways that reflect their interests, strengths and goals. Hillcrest offers dual-enrollment courses taught on campus by adjunct professors, along with Advanced Placement and Honors courses. Students can explore passions in fine arts, world languages, technology, leadership and many other areas. This well-rounded experience prepares them to become confident, thoughtful graduates equipped for the next chapter of their lives.
“I met people who would never leave my side on my spiritual journey,” shares a Hillcrest Christian high schooler. “Waking up every day and putting on my uniform is such an honor to me, and my friends will one day be my bridesmaids.”
An alumni parent also reflects on Hillcrest’s enduring impact.
“My son was challenged academically and grew deeply in his walk with Christ. Hillcrest helped shape the man he is today. He is centered on God’s will, confident in his calling and surrounded by friendships that still last.”
Fully accredited through the Association of Christian Schools International and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Hillcrest consistently celebrates academic excellence across all grade levels. Graduates are accepted to excellent colleges and universities, often receiving significant scholarships and substantial college credit earned at Hillcrest.
“At Hillcrest, education is discipleship. It is a joy and privilege to partner with families in nurturing each child’s faith and equipping them to confidently use their God-given gifts to build up God’s kingdom and help make Heaven crowded,” says Head of School Dan Vande Pol. “Here, children are known, loved and equipped for every good work, as written in 2 Timothy 3:16-17.”
To learn more about Hillcrest Christian School, visit HillcrestCS.org or call 805.497.7501.
“At Hillcrest, education is discipleship. It is a joy and privilege to partner with families in nurturing each child’s faith and equipping them to confidently use their God-given gifts..."