
THE RISING SUN
You may have noticed a new addition to the exterior of our new auditorium: the rising sun sculpture installed on the western side of the building. This symbol holds special significance and reflects the mission and vision of Heritage Academy.
The Story of the Rising Sun
During the long, difficult months of debate at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin often looked at a carved image of a sun on the back of George Washington’s chair, which Washington used while presiding over the convention.
Franklin later explained that he had frequently wondered whether the sun was meant to be rising or setting. Given the uncertainty, disagreements, and tension among the delegates, Franklin feared it might represent a setting sun, symbolizing the possible failure of the new nation.
However, when the Constitution was finally agreed upon and signed, Franklin said:
“I have often in the course of the session, and the vicissitudes of my hopes and fears as to its issue, looked at that sun behind the President without being able to tell whether it was rising or setting; but now at length I have the happiness to know that it is a rising and not a setting sun.”
The rising sun on our new auditorium invites all who visit our campus to reflect on the ideals and values of those who helped found our nation. As we honor their service and sacrifice, may we be inspired to serve our families, community, and country with the same sense of purpose.
The rising sun sculpture on the auditorium was designed and created by April and David Tornquist of Mesa, Arizona. https://swayengineers.com/
Submission contributed by: Barry Halterman & Alan Daniels

Just a friendly reminder to use the cell phone lot for scholar parking and drop-off/pick-up.
We sincerely thank Our Lady of Grace for generously allowing us to use their property as our cell phone lot. Please be respectful of the space, as continued use depends on our care and courtesy.
Please do not park, pick-up or drop-off scholars in the NO PARKING AREAS or on the neighborhood streets.

12/23 – Ms. Sorenson
12/23 – Mr. Creighton
12/27 – Ms. Fairbanks


The International Thespian Society’s Nightmare Before Christmas event was a success! We want to thank anyone who came and supported us, as well as a special shout out to Sadie Barnum, the Steen Family, and Mrs. Mrosko for all they did to make this event possible! THANK YOU!!





HERO SPORTS

Congratulations to our high school wrestlers! The team placed 3rd out of 8 in their tournament on Saturday 12/13!
Highlights:
- Reagan Fonner won his first 2 matches by pin and his third by a technical fall, 19 points to 3.
- Aiden Behnke won his first 2 matches by pin and his third by technical fall, 20 points to 5.
- Andrew Miller lost his first match but came back to win his next 3 matches, all by pin. He was the only wrestler to wrestle 4 times and the only wrestler to win with 3 pins.



Photos By: Andrea Miller

OUR 2026-2027 DRAFT Calendar is now available CLICK HERE
We are thrilled to announce that Heritage is going to PUERTO RICO over Spring Break! 

This unforgettable educational experience is open to all high school scholars, and it offers a unique blend of science, culture, language, and adventure in one of the most vibrant and historically rich destinations in the U.S.
Imagine your sscholars exploring rainforests, coastal ecosystems, and historic Old San Juan, all while practicing Spanish in an immersive, real-world setting and engaging in scientific discovery firsthand!

COLLEGE CORNER

Heritage Academy offers advising to every scholar on campus. Mrs. Bocchinfuso will coach them along their college prep path, get them enrolled in college while in high school, and set up for future success!
Parents and scholars….. Do you have questions regarding college or high school planning?
Below is a list of topics that you may want to consider.
- High school course selection
- Early College Program – Dual enrollment, AP & CLEP
- Earning an Associates Degree at Heritage Academy
- ACT/SAT/PSAT (Which test and when?)
- Financial Aid (Scholarships, Grants, Loans & FAFSA)
To schedule your appointment with Michele Bocchinfuso, please visit: https://calendar.app.google/75WKneekcUckLS3v8

If you would like to share any community events happening, please email them to thoffman@heritageacademyaz.com.
























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