FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is PHA located?
PHA is currently renting space from a church located in Hillsboro, OR. For more details, please call and schedule a tour.
When does PHA meet?
PHA meets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8am until noon. School goes from Labor Day in September until Memorial Day in May. Winter and Spring breaks follow the Hillsboro public school district schedule. There is no school the entire week of Thanksgiving. Summer break is from June until August.
Who are the teachers?
PHA staff is comprised of volunteers, usually parents of students, using mainstream Christian curriculum. At PHA we believe that parents are divinely responsible for the education of their children and our teachers are dedicated to assisting in that responsibility. As PHA is a membership based organization, teaching is one of the ways that membership obligations may be met.
Do I have to teach?
No. While the academy is run strictly by volunteers, not all parents are required to teach.
I'm interested in teaching, but I have young children at home. Do you have child care?
There is not currently a child care option for teachers.
Can I afford PHA?
The monthly membership dues at PHA are $200 per student. Membership dues are discounted for multiple students attending from the same family. There is also a 10% discount if dues are paid annually or a 5% discount if paid biannually. Each student is also expected to purchase their own curriculum each year. The average cost is $75- $150 per student, depending on the grade.
Is financial aid for membership dues available?
No financial aid is available at this time.
Do I have to volunteer?
Yes. PHA is parent-run and all families are expected to be involved as part of their membership. There are many different volunteer opportunities that you can choose from to accommodate your family’s lifestyle. Some of those opportunities include teaching, field trip organization, recess/hall monitor duty, volunteer coordination, student council mentor, yearbook supervisor, facilities committee, teacher appreciation specialist, events committee, technology specialist, and teacher’s aid.
What is expected of parents?
In addition to volunteer responsibilities as a member of PHA, parents are expected to support their students in completing all assignments in a timely manner. They are encouraged to communicate regularly with teachers to facilitate the success of their child.
What is the homework load like?
PHA students will have more homework than traditional school students. Our model is based on university-style teaching. The classroom time is limited to 12 hours per week and is primarily for instruction, while application work will need to be completed at home.
-Younger students should expect to complete around 3 to 5 hours of homework each week.
-Upper elementary students average 8 to 10 hours per week.
-Junior high and high school age students may have between 10 to 15 hours of homework per week.
There are only 12 hours of school a week! What does my child do with their extra time?
Homework and the rest is up to you! The Academy's hours open up your family’s schedule to participate in the many classes available in the area. Their time could be filled with music lessons, sports, and a variety of other extracurricular activities. You can use these opportunities to supplement your child’s education.
What are the transportation options available for getting my child to PHA?
Parents are responsible for getting their children to and from PHA each day. Many of our families carpool together.
Are there restrictions on faith at the school?
Pioneer Heritage Academy is not sponsored or affiliated with any specific church or religion. However, we do promote Christian values and standards as taught by the Bible and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Families of all faiths are welcome.
How do I register?
Contact our administrator, Valerie Knaupp. to schedule a time to observe our school to make sure it is a good fit. Then submit a $25 registration fee per student, along the online student application form or print, fill out and mail this application form.