Academy Experience

Diploma Endorsement Opportunities

At Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School, our diploma endorsement programs empower students to explore their God-given passions while preparing for college, careers, and lives of service. Students investigate real-world industries through specialized courses such as Molecular Genetics, Architecture, Trial Advocacy, Entrepreneurship, Cinematic Arts, Theology & Vocation, Hospitality & Tourism Management, Flight, and more, while gaining hands-on experience through internships, competitions, mentorship, and research opportunities. Along the way, they receive guidance in building professional résumés and portfolios, positioning them for future success. Once requirements are met, Academy graduates earn a distinctive endorsement on their transcript and diploma, along with a medallion at graduation in recognition of their advanced preparation. Students are invited to apply during the second semester of their 9th or 10th grade year.

The Business & Entrepreneurship Academy empowers students driven by creativity, innovation, and leadership to excel in the dynamic world of business. Through project-based learning and a rigorous curriculum including Entrepreneurship, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Finance and Investing, or AP Economics, students gain real-world skills in strategy, finance, and effective communication. Graduates develop the confidence and entrepreneurial mindset needed to lead with character in college, career, and beyond.

Questions? Email us at BE@FLHSemail.org!

  • Graduates earn a distinguished endorsement in one of three pathways: Business, Entrepreneurship, or Hospitality. These are noted on both the transcript and diploma, signaling to universities that students have met a high standard of excellence in business, leadership, and industry-specific skills.

  • Students engage in hands-on, real-world experiences including competing in DECA at the regional and state level, developing and pitching business plans for professional review, and either founding their own ventures or working alongside local industry leaders. Students who choose to launch their own businesses complete a capstone project assessing a firm’s specific business need, where they formulate, present, and defend practical solutions.

  • Each student completes an internship or entrepreneurial experience specializing in areas such as marketing, management, accounting, finance, hotel operations, food and beverage, tourism attractions, or entertainment. These experiences immerse students in industry environments and career pathways.

  • Frankie Napolitano ’24 and Daniel Shahryari ’24 earned State DECA Championships in Buying and Merchandising, while Tyler Vander Veldt ’24 placed 5th in the DECA International Virtual Business Challenge in Hotel Management. Today, Frankie is studying Finance at Texas Christian University, and Daniel is pursuing Biology on a Pre-Law track at the University of California, Los Angeles.

The Christ Academy of Theology and Ministry guides students toward intentional growth in their Christian faith, deeper understanding of Biblical theology, and to consider the vocations to which God has called them — perhaps even a career in full-time Christian ministry. Foundational courses like Faith I through Faith IV, Applied Christianity, and the Capstone Theology and Vocation course challenge students to reflect on their own vocations and equip students to consider the many ways they can fill that role in the Church.

Questions? Email us at ChristAcademy@FLHSemail.org!

  • Graduates receive a distinguished Christ Academy Endorsement, noted on their transcript and diploma. This reflects their completion of rigorous theology coursework, including at least five theology credits: Faith I, Faith II, Faith III, Faith IV (or Applied Christianity), plus the Capstone Theology and Vocation course demonstrating spiritual growth and Biblical conviction.

  • Christ Academy students deepen their faith through experiences that extend beyond the classroom. They travel to conferences such as the Y4Life Leadership Conference and the Concordia Leadership and Service Summit, and they hear from guest speakers representing a variety of full-time ministries. Students also visit colleges and vocational programs to explore paths into professional ministry, and they are encouraged to attend unique opportunities like Vocatio at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis or the Crosswise Institute at Concordia University Irvine. Together, these experiences challenge students to think deeply, engage with cultural issues through the lens of Scripture, and prepare to bring a thoughtful Christian perspective to their communities.

  • Students complete and present an approved ministry experience, such as serving in a leadership role on a mission trip or completing a 50-hour church internship under a full-time minister. This hands-on assignment culminates in a reflective presentation, allowing students to connect their Biblical learning with ministry practice.

  • Several Christ Academy graduates have continued on to pursue full-time church work. Emma Mathes ’21 and Ceiveon Watkins ’22 are studying ministry at Concordia University Irvine, while Ardin Mignea ’23 and Alison Stepanek ’24 are preparing for church vocations at Concordia University Nebraska. Their journeys reflect the Academy’s mission to inspire and equip students for lives of service in Christ’s church.

At Faith Conservatory of the Fine Arts, students don’t just take classes. They step into a world where creativity, faith, and passion come alive. Every rehearsal, every performance, and every project is designed to help young artists discover their God-given gifts and learn how to share them boldly with the world.

Open to students in grades 9–12, the Conservatory provides a high school experience unlike any other. With majors in instrumental music, vocal music, dance, visual arts, theatre performance, and technical theatre, students are challenged to grow both in artistry and in character. Along the way, they gain mentorship, structure, and encouragement from an award-winning faculty who are deeply committed to their success.

Opportunities stretch far beyond the classroom. From national competitions and honor societies to mainstage plays, musicals, dance showcases, concerts, and visual art exhibitions, our students are constantly creating and performing. Classes span everything from photography and strings to ballroom dance and costume design. (For a full list, visit the Curriculum page.)

The Conservatory is more than a program. It is a community where students learn to create art that reflects God’s love and beauty in a way that resonates across cultures and generations. Here, the mission Everyone Prepared! Everyone Saved! takes on new life as students develop the confidence, discipline, and creativity that prepare them for the finest collegiate programs and a lifetime of artistic expression.

The Film & Broadcasting Academy trains students to become creative leaders in filmmaking, broadcast journalism, and digital media production. Through project‑based learning and access to advanced cameras, drones, and a professional studio, students build strong portfolios featuring short films, 3D animation, visual effects, screenwriting, live broadcasts, and online journalism. They graduate with an impressive body of work and the confidence to pursue college and careers in one of the most competitive creative industries.

Questions? Email us at FB@FLHSemail.org!

  • Graduates earn an endorsement in either Film or Broadcast Journalism, which appears on their transcript and diploma. This distinction, along with their polished digital portfolio, gives students a competitive edge when applying to film schools, journalism programs, or media-related careers.

  • Students refine their craft through specialized courses such as Broadcast Journalism, Live Broadcast Production, News Production Leadership, Art of Filmmaking, Motion Graphics, Directing and Producing, and Cinematic Arts Practicum. They also gain live experience using Faith’s “Newscrewzer” setup at sporting events. Beyond the classroom, students travel and compete in national journalism and film festivals, showcasing their work alongside peers from across the country.

  • Every Academy student undertakes a 50‑hour internship with a film or broadcast partner or produces an independent short film, allowing them to test their skills in authentic, hands-on environments.

  • Charlotte Segal ’24 placed 1st in News Anchoring at the National Scholastic Press Association Competition; Jasmyn Jackson, Abigail Blake, and Athan Ausband placed 1st in Online News Reporting; and Tripp Hayes won the Audience Choice Award for his short film ‘Suicide Watch.’

The Oder Family Flight Academy equips aspiring pilots and aviation technicians with robust training and real-world experience. Through a rigorous sequence of specialized courses—including Flight – Drone/Intro to Flight, Flight I – Private Pilot, Flight II – Instrument, Flight III – Commercial Pilot, and Avionics—students prepare for FAA written and oral exams. Thanks to Faith Lutheran’s partnership with 702-An Aviation Family and its access to North Las Vegas Airport, students train on FAA-approved simulators and aircraft within an aviation lab, giving them a competitive edge in the industry.

Questions? Email us at FLIGHT@FLHSemail.org!

  • Graduates earn a distinguished Flight Academy endorsement, either Manned or Unmanned, that appears on both their transcript and diploma. This endorsement, along with FAA certifications such as drone pilot, private pilot, instrument rating, commercial pilot, or specialized avionics training, signals to future employers and programs their advanced preparation in aviation.

  • Students begin with specialized coursework and lab experiences, including training in the Avionics systems that power modern aircraft. As part of their studies, they also gain hands-on experience using Redbird simulators to strengthen technical and flight skills. The Flight Club complements classroom learning through outside speakers, aviation-specific field trips, and service activities, while also building community and mentorship.

  • To actually become a certified private pilot, students need 40-50 hours of flight time under the guidance of a Certified Flight Instructor outside of the courses taught at Faith Lutheran.  Flight time routinely costs at least $200 per hour and is not a part of Faith's tuition nor is it organized by Faith Lutheran. This flight time is not a requirement of Flight 1, Flight 2 or The Faith Lutheran Flight Academy. If a family decides they want their student to pursue flight training, they will contract that time with the flight school of their choosing.  

  • Eliana Rau ’23 earned her commercial pilot certificate before graduating, after extensive simulator training and mentorship through the Flight Academy. She is now pursuing a career in commercial aviation.

Faith Lutheran’s Honors Institute develops higher-level thinking, problem solving and mental strength and stamina, preparing students for leadership in the classroom and the world. Curriculum and training are specifically designed  to equip participants for highly selective programs and universities. What would your future look like with an advantage?

    • 3.85+ unweighted cumulative GPA after the first semester of the 9th and 10th grade years with at least two honors or AP courses

    • 3.75 or greater unweighted GPA throughout high school and graduate with Honors

    • At least 8 honors or AP classes over 4 years

    • Continuous involvement in at least one extra curricular or co-curricular activity all four years

    • Community Crusade service hours dedicated to single cause or theme for four years

    • PSAT preparation class during junior year

    • SAT preparation during junior or senior year is required

    • Additional college coaching specific to highly selective universities during junior and senior years, given by an outside company

    • Leadership seminars offered with guest speakers

    • Capstone event required

    • One time $350 fee due when admitted

The Justice & Advocacy Academy equips students passionate about justice, leadership, and the art of persuasion to explore careers in law, government, and advocacy. Through courses like Trial & Advocacy, Persuasion & Argument, Forensic Science, and Criminal Justice, combined with real-world experiences, the Academy inspires students to think critically, lead with confidence, and prepare for college and civic engagement.

Questions? Email us at JA@FLHSemail.org!

  • Graduates of the Justice & Advocacy Academy earn a distinguished endorsement in one of the following areas: Jurisprudence, Diplomacy, or Criminal Justice. This endorsement is noted on their transcript and diploma, signaling to colleges their completion of a well-rounded and rigorous program focused on leadership, writing, public speaking, and social and political sciences.

  • The Academy provides experiences through Mock Trial, Model United Nations, and We the People teams, where students compete locally and nationally. Students also engage in courtroom simulations in Faith Lutheran’s own courtroom, immersive field trips, and guest-speaker sessions that connect them with professionals in law, government, and advocacy.

  • Every Academy student undertakes a 50‑hour internship with a film or broadcast partner or produces an independent short film, allowing them to test their skills in authentic, hands-on environments.

  • Akash Abraham ’24, a former Mock Trial student, is studying Politics and Economics at Washington and Lee University. He now serves as Managing Editor for The Spectator, is the Political Chair for Mock Convention 2028, and gained professional experience through an internship at Red Rock Strategies.

The STEM Academy at Faith Lutheran empowers students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and math to grow as problem-solvers and innovators. Through a rigorous curriculum of AP-level science, math, and computer science, plus specialized courses such as Molecular Genetics, STEM Research, Engineering, CyberPatriot, and App Development, students gain a strong foundation in research, collaboration, and innovation. They graduate with the skills, creativity, and resilience needed to succeed in college, careers, and a rapidly changing world. Beginning in 2027, the Academy will be housed in the brand-new Hooks Center for Innovation and Technology, a 96,000-square-foot facility dedicated to advancing STEM learning.

Questions? Email us at STEM@FLHSemail.org!

  • Graduates of the STEM Academy earn a distinguished endorsement in one of the following areas: Architecture, Computer Science, Biomedicine, Engineering, Environmental Science, Health Science, Math, or a General STEM Endorsement. This recognition is noted on their transcript and diploma, signaling to universities their completion of rigorous coursework, proficiency in scientific research and collaboration, and advanced preparation for college and future careers.

  • Beyond the classroom, students apply their learning through high-level competitions including VEX Robotics, CyberPatriot, the AIA Design Competition, the Beal Bank Science & Engineering Fair, and the Roseman University Research Symposium. The Academy further enriches the experience through student-directed research, product-development projects, mentorships, field trips, and guest-speakers. Within the Hooks Center, students will have access to specialized labs, collaborative innovation spaces, and cutting-edge resources all designed to elevate hands-on learning and prepare students for careers in emerging industries and innovations yet to be imagined.

  • At its core, the STEM Academy’s Internship Program connects students with hands-on learning through partnerships with UNLV, Southwest Medical, local engineering and architecture firms, tech companies, medical facilities, and environmental agencies, giving them real-world experience and research opportunities in their chosen fields.

  • Since its inception, the STEM Academy has graduated 234 students, including 93 young women who make up 40 percent of our alumni. Among them is Luke Baker ’24, who competed at the VEX Robotics World Championships, presented research with the West Point Robotics Research Center, and is now double majoring in Computer Science and Computer Engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. He also gained industry experience through a summer internship at Raytheon Applied Signal Technology.