Dads at the Doors Echoes 5th Grade Caroling as Students Display Their Gifts

We believe that learning isn’t just about mastering facts—it’s about growing in character and faith while discovering unique gifts. In December, students put this idea into action by spreading holiday cheer around Fergus Falls. Armed with carols (and plenty of smiles), they visited local businesses and nursing homes, sharing joy and lifting spirits in the process.

Being “smart” goes far beyond what happens in a classroom. Singing carols, connecting with different people, and leading with kindness are all ways these students practiced their unique learning strengths. By stepping out of their comfort zone, they grew in compassion, courage, and an understanding of how to build up their community—a big deal for students figuring out who they are and who God is calling them to be.

But it’s not just students who are leading the way. When school started today, a handful of Hillcrest dads stood at the doors to welcome everyone with high fives. This “Dads at the Doors” practice is a simple act that has a huge impact—showing students they’re valued, loved, and supported, replete with dad humor and lots of joy and laughter. It was an instant morale boost as students returned to classes after Christmas break.

Learning isn’t simply impacted by framing space for creativity, inventiveness, and knowledge. Students grow, and adults mature when there is discovery in vitality, joy, humor, and playfulness. A strong school community, like what students experience at Hillcrest, leads students to places where they experience joy and love, not only in learning but in forging a community culture.

At Hillcrest, we celebrate a well-rounded approach to education. Yes, we want strong academics and a solid faith foundation, but we also recognize how vital it is to live out joy, service, and community. Whether belting out Christmas carols around town or getting a morning high five from a Hillcrest dad, each act reminds us that authentic leadership is about using our God-given gifts to bless others. And, as our students discover, that’s the heart of the classical model at Hillcrest: learning that leads to serving, all while growing deeper in a relationship with Jesus Christ.