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Confident and Grounded in Christ: Mia’s Journey at ACS
What began as a quiet step of faith became a story worth telling — a Christian school experience where Mia found success.
When Mia first mentioned Ambassador Christian School, her family wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But she knew she was ready for something different: a place where she could grow and step into her future as the young woman God is calling her to be.
They took a leap of faith, and what followed was something beautiful.
In less than a year, Mia’s journey has become a testimony of her own determination and what a Christian high school can offer when it’s deeply committed to helping students thrive. At ACS, she didn’t just find a strong academic foundation or many opportunities to discover her gifts. She found a community that gave her the space to grow in confidence, all while staying grounded in Christ.
A School That Saw Mia’s Potential
For Michelle Callipari, watching her daughter Mia grow into a more engaged and spiritually grounded student has been both surprising and deeply meaningful. But the journey didn’t begin with a school tour or an admissions event. It started with Mia herself.
She was the one who found it through a social media post,” Michelle says. “We walked into the Ambassador’s Open House, and I saw the excitement in her eyes. That’s when I knew this was something she really wanted.”
Mia had been searching for a different kind of high school experience. She wasn’t looking for a spotlight, just a place where she could continue to grow even more. From the moment she visited Ambassador Christian School, it felt different. The environment was Christ-centered, grace-filled, and full of ways to connect and grow.
“I loved that everyone had a place,” Michelle shares. “It didn’t matter what grade you were in or what your background was. The culture made her feel like she belonged.”
For her family, ACS offered a blend of structure and freedom — a space that encouraged personal ownership while also providing meaningful support. In a season when many are searching for the best Christian high school for athletes, academics, and leadership, Mia found a school that met her where she was and gave her room to explore.
A Year of Tremendous Growth
In less than a year, Mia began stepping into roles that once felt outside her comfort zone. She became Team Manager for the basketball team, joined the National Honor Society, and volunteered through Young Life and school-led service opportunities.
“In the past, it’s not often I see her in multiple leadership roles,” Michelle reflects. “But now she’s doing things like preparing for interviews and being nominated for the Prefect program. It’s amazing to watch.”
By removing cost as a barrier, we make sure that performance never comes at the expense of safety. And with VICIS choosing ACS to become part of a national ad campaign, the message is clear: we’re a school that puts student-athlete protection front and center.
The shift didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of being immersed in a school culture that builds trust and provides the tools students need to thrive. Through personal responsibility time, after-hours review sessions, and a community of caring mentors, Mia learned how to manage her schedule and own her experience.
“The teachers go above and beyond,” Michelle says. “They engage in conversations. They invest in the kids. That kind of dedication makes a huge difference.”
Mia also explored new areas, including STEM-focused projects such as the Kit Car Class — a hands-on experience in project management and teamwork. Whether she was volunteering with young children, managing equipment on the basketball court, or tackling academic challenges, Mia discovered how capable she really was.
Explore the opportunities available for your teen at Ambassador.
A Community That Sees the Whole Student
One of the most meaningful parts of Mia’s experience at ACS, Michelle explains, has been the way teachers and coaches speak life into their students. They invest in character. They make sure faith is beyond a conversation topic — it’s lived out.
“As a parent, it’s powerful to hear the things coaches say to your daughter,” Michelle says. “They called her organized, a leader, a pleasure to be around. That kind of affirmation means a lot to every student.”
Spiritually, Mia began taking initiative as well. She now participates in Young Life, a Christian youth group she joined on her own. From chapel to classroom discussions, Mia’s faith is being nurtured in an environment that doesn’t separate learning from belief.
“They teach… and model what the Bible says,” Michelle says. “Pastor Theo speaks with authenticity, and the staff keeps Christ at the center of everything.”
For families seeking a private high school with strong academic programs and a commitment to spiritual development, ACS has shown that it’s possible to excel in both.
A Parent’s Perspective
Looking back, Michelle admits there was some hesitation at first. ACS was new to them. The commitment was significant. But she trusted her daughter, and that decision changed everything.
“There was a moment where I just said, ‘Okay, we’re going to do this,’” she recalls. “It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.”
The changes in Mia were noticeable not just to Michelle but to their entire family. Mia’s younger brother noticed it too, and now they’re hopeful he’ll follow in her footsteps.
This is a place where kids grow. They’re seen. They’re supported. They’re challenged in all the right ways,” Michelle says. “It’s not always easy to let go, but this school is preparing her for what’s next. And as a mom, that’s all I could ask for.”
– The Callipari Family
For other families considering Ambassador Christian School, Michelle offers this:
If you’re looking for a school where your teen can thrive academically, spiritually, and socially, you won’t regret choosing Ambassador. Have that dialogue with your family. Change can be good, and in our case, it’s made all the difference.”