North Heights Covid-19 Transition Plan

NORTH HEIGHTS
Covid-19 Transition Plan

North Heights Christian Academy, Celebrate Dance Academy and North Heights Christian Karate

All current guidelines remain for the balance of the school year to June 11, 2021 including:

• Wearing face masks
• Social distancing of six feet remains

North Heights Church

As we navigate back to normal, some individuals are comfortable wearing masks and others are not. North Heights welcomes and respects both preferences.

Phase 1: May 7, 2021

• Face masks are recommended for individuals who are unvaccinated
• Room limits are removed
• Social distancing of six feet remains
• Seating at North Heights remains at every third row at both campuses

Phase 2: May 28, 2021

• Social distancing of six feet is removed
• Seating at North Heights moves to every other row at both campuses
• Face masks are recommended for individuals who are unvaccinated
• Room limits are removed

Phase 3: June 6, 2021

• Coffee and cookies will be served at both campuses
• Social distancing of six feet is removed
• Seating at North Heights moves to every other row at both campuses
• Face masks are recommended for individuals who are unvaccinated
• Room limits are removed

Phase 4: June 13, 2021

• Seating restrictions lifted at both North Heights campuses
• Coffee and cookies will be served at both campuses
• Social distancing of six feet is removed
• Face masks are recommended for individuals who are unvaccinated
• Room limits are removed

Phase 5: July 1, 2021

• ALL COVID-19 restrictions removed
  • No face masks recommended
  • No social distancing
  • No room limits
  • No seating restrictions
  • NO COVID-19 Plan or Administrator required
• Coffee and cookies will be served at both campuses

Breaking News

North Heights is pleased to announce that Josh Thurston has been hired as the new Principal for North Heights Christian Academy. Josh Thurston will begin his new role as Principal on June 14th.

Over the past 9 years, Josh has served at Fridley Public Schools. He has held a variety of roles including teacher and alternative learning center program director. He is currently the Dean of Students and Activities/Athletic Director for over 850 5th-8th grade students. In his role he has worked to create unity with the students, families and staff to ensure a high level of academic achievement. Josh holds a B.S. in Social Studies Education from Metropolitan State University, a M.A. in Curriculum and Instructional Design from St. Thomas University and a K-12 Administrator’s License from Hamline University.

Along with his educational background, Josh graduated from a local Christian K-8th grade school in Blaine, MN and high school at Concordia Academy in Roseville, MN. Christ-centered education has been Josh’s foundation and a big part of his life. He married his high school sweetheart from Concordia Academy, Ria (Lenzen) Thurston who is an alumna of NHCA. They now have the joy of sending their two children to North Heights Christian Academy. Currently Jude is in 3rd grade and Ruby is in the three-day Kindergarten class.

It is with great honor and prayer that Josh steps into this role. Josh & Ria felt this was a call directly from the Lord. Out of obedience, Josh applied and walked through this open door. Through the incredible interview process, it was made very clear that Josh was called by God. Please pray for Josh, Ria and their children as they transition into this new role of leadership. As well, please lift up Fridley Middle School students and staff, with whom Josh has worked closely. Josh has created rapport and relationships with the students, families and staff. It will also be a transition for them. Josh desires to end that season well and do what he can to help it be a seamless transition for the new Dean replacing him.

Josh is eager to serve the students, staff and families at North Heights Christian Academy and is looking forward to meeting everyone!

Principal Search Team,

Mary Fonken-Holden                         Chair, Council Member
Gunnar Unger                                     Grandparent, Council Member
Ralph Tellefsen                                   School Board Member
Dave Weber                                        Parent, School Board Member
Jane Tramm                                       Teacher, 13 years
TJ Anderson                                       Senior Pastor, Council Member