HIGH SCHOOL
9th-12th Grade
High school at Joshua Christian Academy is here to help Des Moines urban teens reach their fullest potential through affordable Christian education.
At JCA, we understand that a strong education goes beyond academics. We set our students up for success by prioritizing a sound Biblical and academic foundation, while caring for our students as a whole. Our teachers have a passion for nurturing our students’ hearts and supporting our families every step of the way.
JCA South
Grades 8-12 are located at JCA South. This building is also home to Kindergarten- 5th grade classrooms.
JCA South opened in 2022 as the newest addition to our JCA family. It is located at 1000 Wade Street, across from Blank Park Zoo.
To increase our accessibility to students located throughout the Des Moines ares, we currently provide bus transportation to and from JCA Main to JCA South before and after school.
Curriculum
Our christ-centered curriculum at Joshua Christian Academy has been developed to provide our students with a strong educational background while equipping them with a sound Biblical foundation. We have implemented both BJU Press and Abeka curricula into all classrooms at JCA. In addition to receiving a Biblically-integrated curriculum, students will learn full passages of Scripture in English, Spanish, and ASL.
Our high-school student teacher ratio is 10:1, meaning smaller classes enable us to tailor to the needs of each student.
To best serve our students’ individual educational needs, we test each student throughout the year, evaluating areas of growth and extra support. From there, our teachers and staff provide individualized resources to best fit the student’s needs to reach the next goal.
Daily View
Each day at JCA starts with the Lord. Our students attend Chapel every morning with worship, prayer, and a message.
Throughout the day, students will travel from class to class to attend their core and specials classes, such as English, math, art, and Bible. Students in grades 10-12 have the opportunity to enroll in classes through Central Campus, receiving college credit.
We currently do not have the in-house capability to prepare lunch at any of our locations. We rely on the generous hearts of volunteer groups and individuals to provide meals. On the days not covered by a volunteer group, the students are asked to bring lunches from home.
We understand the importance of a positive social environment for our secondary students. Our high school students have free social time after lunch each day.
Learn About our Amazing South Staff
Our teachers are asked to sign a Statement of Faith and have a college degree. They are committed to walking side by side with each student to help them develop a personal relationship with Jesus, their classmates, and members of the community.
Clint Luscombe
JCA South High School Math
Mr.Luscombe is a two-time graduate of Iowa State University. He has a B.S. in Psychology and a Master of School Mathematics. He began his career by teaching both American History and World History. After adding a certification in Mathematics, he began teaching part-time at MATHNASIUM in West Des Moines. Mr. Luscombe has also coached numerous high school sports teams.
“I thank the Lord for the opportunity to teach at JCA. It is indeed a blessing to be here.”
Kalonni Sommers
High School Math & History Teacher
Ms. Sommers came to JCA because God led her here in His perfect timing. She came to JCA with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from University of Missouri-Columbia and 22 years of previous teaching experience. JCA has given her the opportunity to know students from many backgrounds and with many amazing gifts.
“The Lord led me here and showed me what a good fit it is for me. These kids have won my heart. I believe in the way we daily learn God’s Word, worship together, and have an opportunity every day to share the gospel.”
“The Lord is my strength and my song. He has become my salvation.”
Isaiah 12:2
Lori Anderson
JCA South Campus Office Assistant
Mrs. Anderson grew up just outside of Pella, Iowa and is a proud alumna of Pella Christian. Mrs. Anderson has worked and served at church in various capacities. She finds joy in building connections with young people that last a lifetime, watching them grow into family and spiritual leaders. Mrs. Anderson started at Joshua Christian Academy in August of 2024 and it was a natural fit from Day 1. God has prepared her for this new journey by blessing her with many connections to JCA. She and her husband, Fred, have been married for almost 29 years. Together they have a son, Joshua, and a daughter in heaven with Jesus. They have two dogs whom they love to spoil. They call Trinity on Fifth in Altoona their church home.
“My prayer is that every student comes to know, love and accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. I will love, mentor, and encourage them as God allows me. Thanks be to God for this opportunity!”
Non-Discrimination Policy
Joshua Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin. Subject to the United States Constitution, and all applicable state and federal laws, JCA does not discriminate in its employment or admissions practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy, please contact the school’s Equity Coordinator, Joseph Jackson, Head of School, 1740 Garfield Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316, 515-265-0603, jjackson@jcadm.org. JCA reserves the right to institute hiring and enrollment practices based on the school’s mission statement and philosophies.
