Mountain View Christian Academy

Winchester, VA 22602

Phone: (540) 868-1231
Fax: (540) 869-8976

NR

GreatSchools Rating

private • Grades KG,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 • 184 students

Mountain View Christian Academy, a private school located in Winchester, VA, serves grades K-12 in the .

Mountain View Christian Academy is a private school located in Winchester, VA. 184 students attend Mountain View Christian Academy.

Posted: March 31, 2023

This is the largest private k-12 school in the Winchester area, and the size is what my children were looking for. MVCA offers sports, extracurricular activities, diversity amongst students, and a large welcoming campus with all the amenities that they need to thrive, play, and learn. My husband and were looking for Christian values, a safe environment, quality education, and a school that felt like family. MCVA exceeded all of our expectations and more. They do BIG things with limited resources and many loving staff that donate countless hours back to the school so that students can enjoy enriching opportunities. We do not attend the church affiliated with the school (although we likely will in the future!) and have never felt pressured to do so. Without hesitation, and from a former public school family, I would 100% recommend MVCA.

Posted: March 31, 2023

Posted: March 31, 2023

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Posted: March 24, 2023

In my experience with MVCA, they are a big school with small numbers. They strive to provide everything a child needs to have a well-rounded learning experience. The teachers for the most part are very good. It's obvious with what they are paid that they have a desire to be there, teaching and connecting with children in a Christian environment. The school lacks the same funding you see in public school, but they typically overcome funding obstacles and achieve their goals. They have a learning resource center for kids that need a little extra help as well as offering competitive sports.

One of the things we love the most is the strong involvement from families and the community. MVCA is a family learning environment where parents can easily be connected with the teachers and intimately involved with the student's curriculum, learning, grades etc. I strongly recommend this school as a great alternative to public schools.

Posted: March 24, 2023

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Posted: August 12, 2022

The kids here seem to be much happier and friendly than public schools (in general; I know there's exceptions). These kids are quick to admonish others that pick on others. Bullying is not tolerated here by the students themselves. The staff do a better job of handling special needs kids than public schools IMO (patience, communications, parental interaction); that's important if you have an autistic or ADHD kid. The academic standards seem to be on par with the local public schools. Kids feel safe here it seems. Wish there were more extracurricular (football, marching band, softball), but at least if a kid wants to play sports, they all get the chance at this school (maybe not first string, but nobody is rejected including special needs kids). I'm overall happy with this school, the atmosphere here and the cost. I will enroll my kid here for another year.

Posted: August 12, 2022

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Posted: August 15, 2021

My child has attended this school for one year and it was a great change for her and my husband and myself. There is a 100% change in her attitude and desire to go to school.

Posted: August 15, 2021

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Posted: February 21, 2020

I think that they do their best attempting to mold a child’s character but can often times be overbearing about it

Posted: February 21, 2020

I think that there is strong leadership taught in this school but sometimes I feel the actual leadership is in denial of how their students really feel about going there

Posted: February 21, 2020

Posted: February 21, 2020

Most of the kids are fairly accepting of each other and stand up for each other

Posted: February 21, 2020

Overall, it is still a better alternative than many of the local public schools. I think that most of the teachers truly care whether your child succeeds. For the cost, the education could be a little better. The sports program is lacking but only because their are not volunteers to help with it. I believe that the school needs to be careful too about making it sound like you should be attending the church connected with the school just because you go to school there. My son has wanted to leave and go back to public school because of this.

Posted: February 21, 2020

If a child uses their time wisely, enough time is afforded in each class to complete homework, other than projects.

Posted: February 21, 2020

The first three years my son was a student there, he had exceptional math teachers but I feel this school lacks in keeping qualified math educators for what you pay.

Posted: February 11, 2020

Exceptional. They may not be perfect at everything, but for a small K-12 school with limited resources I love the contributing citizens my children have become through their growth in this school

Posted: February 11, 2020

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Posted: February 11, 2020

This is in their core values. I love the type of character that they have developed in my children

Posted: February 11, 2020

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Posted: October 22, 2019

MVCA is a try hard private school that lacks the same funding and resources a public school offers their students. The teachers and curriculum are limited and you would be selling your child short by sending them here over public school if you value education. Also, their "Christian" morales are often situational, again I state they would not have admitted a known felon had he not had an elite basketball talent. Nor would the amount of sexual misconduct by staff been allowed.

Posted: October 22, 2019

Homework by grade is inconsistent at best. One year my student had 16 to 20 projects plus nightly homework. Other years it was like all they did was have a substitute since his full time teacher was always "out sick".

Posted: October 22, 2019

Posted: October 22, 2019

The leadership is very biased towards what is best for the school or families tied to the school, meaning a teacher or administrators child gets preferred treatment over students of parents who are not teachers. In addition, athletes that perform at a high level get special treatment. They admitted a known felon who was expelled from public school and also several athletes involved in another scandal that caused them to forfeit their entire sports season at a public school. However, those students were admitted even though MVCA has "core values" that wouldn't allow most students, especially those who play sports, an opportunity for an education.

Posted: October 22, 2019

Posted: October 22, 2019

Posted: July 11, 2018

homework is relevant and not the primary focus but used to reinforce topics

Posted: July 11, 2018

Teachers establish a good relationship with the parents and use instructional time wisely and affectively.

Posted: July 11, 2018

This school has its roots in the Bible and instills these values every minute of everyday

Posted: July 11, 2018

The principal shows a true concern for the students and the school and leads the school in a godly manner.

Posted: July 11, 2018

We have had a couple issues with this problem and it was immediately addressed.

Posted: July 11, 2018

Fantastic, I highly recommend this school to everyone - Our children are being raised in a good Christian environment with top notch teaching.

Posted: July 7, 2018

Communication is key and the leadership at this school effectively communicates policies, news, and changes. The parent-teacher partnership is important to this school and it shows. Parents' input is welcomed and valued.

Posted: July 7, 2018

Posted: July 7, 2018

Any issues that arise are addressed immediately between all parties involved: students, parents, and school staff. The staff communicates very well to parents.

Posted: July 7, 2018

Posted: July 7, 2018

Teachers are Christians in action, not just on paper. They are consistent, loving, and knowledgeable.

Posted: July 7, 2018

I frequently am complimented on how different my children are from public school children in their general attitudes, respectfulness, and honesty.

Posted: July 7, 2018

I've had an excellent experience in the 9 years my children have been at this school. I did much research before sending them here and am so happy I did. The school far exceeds the other options for public and private schools in the area. I've never seen a place that "practices what they preach" more than this school. They are not just saying they are Christian. They exude Christ's love through every facet of the school and I'm so blessed to have my children learning in this environment. Truly, it has made a huge difference in their growing personalities. I see the difference every day at home, in how earnest their prayers are; in how honest they are about everything; in how they treat their siblings and friends. You won't regret sending your children here!

Posted: June 13, 2018

We will have had all of our children go from Kindergarten through to High School graduation. I am convinced that our children are kinder, more confident, and better edcuated than they would have been had they gone through the public school system. The tired argument that public schools are real life, and private schools are not, is not accurate. In your work life you don't have to (I hope) deal with some of the issues that growing children have to deal with in the public school system. A lot of the things children have to struggle with in public school lead to prison or a life of missed opportunities. Mountain View sets the foundation for a decent and impactful future, and allows children to grow and develop personally, academically, and physically as they should.

Posted: June 13, 2018

There is a good balance and never an overload. The school focuses on projects as a part of developing the students' skillsets.

Posted: June 13, 2018

At Mountain View you form a real partnership with the teachers, and can ensure that you understand and are fully informed and involved with the education that your children are receiving.

Posted: June 13, 2018

This school is exemplary in this aspect, and students at the school become leaders in this area.

Posted: June 13, 2018

Dr. Hardman is a true leader and deeply cares about the students and their development.

Posted: June 13, 2018

Posted: June 13, 2018

There is a zero tolerance policy, and as a student body such issues are extremely rare.

Posted: June 12, 2018

Posted: June 12, 2018

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Posted: June 12, 2018

I have two sons that attend MVCA. One just finished 10th grade and the other 5th grade. My younger son has numerous learning disabilities and SPD. The school has gone above and beyond to help him. They are so patient and caring. They keep me informed of how he is doing academically as well as emotionally. Which is very important when you have a child with high functioning autism and SPD. The middle and high school teachers are phenomenal. They care about their students and are always available to help. They go above and beyond for their students! Both my sons are getting an excellent education at MVCA. I love that God and religion are infused in each subject. I thank God for guiding me and my children to MVCA.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Excellent as the day we walked through the doors in 2015, and until our last graduation in 2022

Posted: June 5, 2018

Teacher’s and Administrators encourage responsibility., and ownership.

Posted: June 5, 2018

As a parent seeing the interaction between theses teachers and not one but 2 of my daughters, was amazing how they felt almost immediately after transferring to MVCA.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Seeing the transformation of my neohew, as well as my once shy daughter to the adults they are today. Their friends that they remain friends with still like family are making their mark in the world. Such wonderful pride I have in all of them!!

Posted: June 5, 2018

Minta Hardmin along with a host of support and Leadership have been at this for over 25 yrs. That says a lot in itself.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Posted: June 5, 2018

Posted: June 5, 2018

My son has a learning disability and two emotional disabilities that impact his ability to function in a classroom effectively. The school has worked with us as we've traversed new diagnoses, testing, medications, and hormones (which throw everything out of wack)! They have always been up-front and honest about what they can and can't do because they want what's best for the student and not just to take your money and make empty promises. It is a small school, they don't have all of the resources a public school will, however, they have offered us more personalized support and accommodation than I believe we would get anywhere else. Carol Morgan, who is the learning resource coordinator is fantastic! A teacher with over 30 years of experience in both public and private school, she is creative and resourceful in working with each individual child and family to create a plan for their educational needs. Cindy Hollenden, Rachel Mengel, and the other teachers/aides that work with students that need additional help are also phenomenal!

Posted: June 5, 2018

We had an issue where my daughter was being bullied by another student and brought it to Dr. Hardman's attention. It was dealt with immediately and effectively. Bullying is not tolerated at MVCA, and their Christian foundation comes through strongly in how they react and take corrective actions in this area.

Posted: June 5, 2018

We have three children at MVCA and it has been a wonderful opportunity for all three of my children to learn and grow here -- academically, spiritually, and athletically. The secondary (middle/high) program is hands-down the best offered in Winchester/Frederick County by a private school. The academics are rigorous and students are held to high standards. The Christian foundation is woven through every element of the school. The opportunities are amazing -- yearly mission trips to the Dominican Republic, a senior trip to Europe, off-site leadership and service retreats, STEM programs/activities, competitive athletics program offering over 15 different teams (boys/girls, middle/high) in 8 different sports, etc. I have no doubt my children are in the right place.

Posted: June 5, 2018

With some small exceptions, homework is primarily studying for tests, working on projects, or finishing up classwork not completed in school. For subjects that require extra practice to master a concept, like math, there is also occasionally extra work. But I don't find it to be overwhelming and on the few occasions we've had a night where it's been too much, I have communicated to the teachers why my child couldn't finish (elementary level teachers) and they were always understanding and allowed more time. In high school students have study hall 2-3 times per week and my high school usually gets her homework done then.

Posted: June 5, 2018

All of the teachers we have worked with have shown a genuine love of the students and they teach at Mountain View because they believe in the benefits of Christian education. Of course, no school is going to have a faculty where every teacher is loved by every student or parent. It's just human nature. But I have found all of the teachers to be well-qualified, experienced, and open to communication from students and parents. Because it's a small school students in 7-12th grade will get the same teachers for each subject year after year, which I think is a bonus because it allows them to form strong bonds, and for the teachers to really get to know the students and their strengths and weaknesses.

Posted: June 5, 2018

The Christian foundation is woven throughout every class lesson, extra curricular, and sporting event. Students are held to very high standards, but they are also forgiven, shown grace and mercy, and loved through all of their mistakes. Of course, no school can do it alone, they need the parents to parent and remember character development begins at home.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Dr. Minta Hardman is very responsive, caring and takes action quickly when an issue arises. Gary Bordelon is firm but loving, and truly one of the most amazing human beings. Both of them care deeply for the students and want to partner with the parents. Heather Harbin, who is both office administrator and athletic director (and earning her PhD -- how many schools can say that about their office admin and athletic director?) is amazing on every level. I've had minimal interaction with the BOD or the church leadership, but believe the mission and vision of the school is consistent in all areas.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Posted: June 5, 2018

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Posted: June 5, 2018

My experience putting three children through MVCA (from K-12) was a very positive one throughout. The true partnership that the school/administration offers is priceless in a time when family units are struggling for a consolidated front. I always knew I had a voice at the school, and an ear to hear me there. Yes, the school is small, and some of the resources can seem somewhat 'limited' at times, but that closeness between teacher and student and the attention that each student is afforded with teacher/student ratios what they are is by far more important. All three of my children went on to college and excelled (Dean's listed over their 4 yrs at various State and Private Universities). They were more than prepared academically to enter the college scene. But beyond the academics, MVCA helped to form Good, Christian-living, morally grounded, intelligent young people that were better equipt to go out into the world and know their place in making a difference and living their life for Christ.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Posted: June 5, 2018

Posted: June 5, 2018

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Posted: June 5, 2018

We can't say enough about MVCA and the education our son is receiving and has been since he was a monkey in Carol Morgans Kindergarten class. It's hard to believe he was potty trained on the daycare side of the school at the age of 2 and is now averaging 97 or better in all of his 7th grade classes. We are truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful Christian Family. If interested, please don't hesitate to contact my sister in Christ Minta Hardman the director.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Great faith based School. Builds character and teaches students the importance of have God in your life

Posted: June 5, 2018

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Posted: March 25, 2018

They are aware but struggle to accommodate.

Posted: March 25, 2018

Hard to say. Punishment was definitely severe but the "problem kids" still persisted.

Posted: March 25, 2018

Not challenging and mainly busy work I'd say.

Posted: March 25, 2018

Some were in my time while others were not. Overall as an institution, I'd say no.

Posted: March 25, 2018

Maybe with some who agree with the school's mission but are also active in pursuing Jesus. Many came and went and have nothing to do with the church anymore. Perhaps the school isn't to blame for that but many of those kids weren't interested in God while they were there.

Posted: March 25, 2018

Out of touch with reality. Legalistic and uncompromising with that. Gossip is a problem.

Posted: March 25, 2018

A corrupt place that's lost its way.

Posted: March 21, 2018

Some were good, most had a difficult time keeping order in the classroom and demanding respect from students

Posted: March 21, 2018

Tried to, didn’t have much influence on students. I think the school has accepted many children and teens with emotional needs and difficult home-lives that staff aren’t able to accommodate, which is potentially a massive disadvantage for those students, the staff, the parents, and other regular students

Posted: March 21, 2018

No male leadership when I was a student; administration pleaded for students to rise up and lead but we weren’t supported when we did step up

Posted: March 21, 2018

Tries to, but I don’t think all students with learning disabilities or other disabilities were completely realized

Posted: March 21, 2018

Lots of bullying when I was there, to differing degrees but across the board, no strong policy against it when I was a student

Posted: March 21, 2018

I have a handful of fond memories, as these were my formative years spent at MVCA, but I often wish I could have gone to a public high school for better academics, more community opportunities with students like marching band or student clubs, and could’ve saved my parents a lot of money from tuition

Posted: March 21, 2018

Each class had very different loads and levels of homework, but it didn’t always correlate with class material

Posted: September 11, 2017

Rating my overall experience at this school is tough. If I was to rate the first year or two it would be 5 Stars and flying colors but what this school did was show me the reality and the reality is, sending your kid to a christian school won't make them a better or worse person inherently. They will know right from wrong and if they need a religion to tell them well that is problematic. That's why I sent my child to MVCA I was convinced that a Christian school would be volumes better than the public schools and I was convinced that my child would grow up to have higher morals and be held to a generally higher standard but it turns out that you don't need to send your kid to a christian school to instill good views in them. So for my experience at MVCA I'd say it was overall negative but the moments that weren't when things weren't bad it was really really good and I wish desperately that my review had only positive things to say but alas that is not the reality.

Posted: September 11, 2017

If an effective approach to homework is mandatory busy work than they have it in the bag. The type of hw you will get at mvca isn't brain exercise its busy work plain and simple.

Posted: September 11, 2017

Posted: September 11, 2017

Well the Hardman's what can I say. They are good people but they don't know what they are doing when it comes to running a school. They still have not been able to fire Teresa Sederstrom who notoriously has been unable to teach due to physical illness.

Posted: September 11, 2017

The school can handle learning difference probably to some degree but if your kid has something diagnosed and you know he/she has a learning disability I would continue the search because to an extent they can help but from there its "we will pray them better" and I believe in the Lord but when something simply isn't working maybe it is time to look for other answers.

Posted: July 26, 2017

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Posted: July 26, 2017

Academically it's great, the sports program not so great.

Posted: July 26, 2017

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Posted: July 26, 2017

Our 3 children have attended MVCA for 10 years. They absolutely love it! They provide a safe and loving environment for students to excel in academics, sports and empathy for each other!

Posted: April 16, 2015

I cannot recommend this school to anyone and highly advise parents to look further for a Christian based curriculum. I find the school to be hypocritical, cliquish and the headmaster is never to be found. The fourth grade teacher is a screamer, to the point of making the students cry, and practices a project based curriculum, which includes no less than 16 projects throughout the year. Trust me when I tell you, it will be the worst experience of your life!

Reviews provided by GreatSchools

# Name Type City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Galyn Manor Neighborhood/Subdivision Brunswick MD 34.9 mi
2 Villages of Piedmont Neighborhood/Subdivision Haymarket VA 35.8 mi
3 Somerset Crossing Neighborhood/Subdivision Gainesville VA 37.8 mi
4 South Riding Neighborhood/Subdivision Chantilly VA 38.7 mi
5 Franklin Glen Neighborhood/Subdivision Fairfax VA 45.4 mi
6 Fox Mill Estates Neighborhood/Subdivision Herndon VA 45.6 mi
7 Fox Farm Neighborhood/Subdivision Great Falls VA 46.9 mi
8 Little Rocky Run Neighborhood/Subdivision Clifton VA 47 mi
9 The Townes Neighborhood/Subdivision Manassas Park VA 47.8 mi
10 Lewis Park Neighborhood/Subdivision Fairfax VA 48.7 mi
11 Water's Landing Neighborhood/Subdivision Germantown MD 50 mi
# Name City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Gainesville, Haymarket, Bristow Gainesville VA 38.6 mi
2 Ashburn Ashburn VA 38.7 mi
3 Chantilly Chantilly VA 44.1 mi
Base Distance
Shepherd Field 23.3 mi.
NRO Chantilly 43.4 mi.
Fort Detrick 47 mi.
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