Vision of Hope Harbor Academy

This academy is an outreach of Hope Harbor Church designed to meet a perceived need in the area of academically excellent, unwaveringly Biblical Christian education for our region.

Meet the Team

  • Grace Plenert

    LEAD TEACHER - PRIMARY SCHOOL

    Grace is a native of Louisville, KY who fell in love with Murray during her undergraduate program in elementary education. She is a state-certified teacher who has training and experience spanning all elementary grade levels in a variety of institutions. She also serves as the children’s ministry director for Hope Harbor Church and teaches for Harbor Kids Learning Center in the after-school and summer programs. Grace is well known for her joy and laughter.

  • Bryce Norris

    DIRECTOR OF SCHOOLS

    Bryce is a graduate of Murray State University. He received his undergraduate degree to teach high school math; afterward he completed his master’s degree and researched mathematical epidemiology. During his college years, Bryce became a follower of Jesus which sparked a passion for helping those around him realize their potential. While teaching at the university level, Bryce dreamed of creating an educational movement that emphasized academic excellence rooted in the truth of the Gospel.

Philosophy of Education

  • Our mandate is to create lifelong learners and equip our students with the tools necessary to grow, develop, and problem solve in every area of their lives.

  • We will not compromise the values and teachings found therein.

  • We treat parents as an integral part of our team regarding individual and corporate student growth. Consistent feedback and open dialogue play a pivotal role in encouraging students to explore the world they inhabit. As such, we believe in providing opportunities for collaboration at school, and at home.

  • Education is a process rather than a goal, and that process should be designed to help the individual achieve all they are capable of. Two pivotal components of this process is the art of playing, and the importance of responsibility. Imaginative play is integral to learning, whereas responsibility coincides with growth. Alongside other values, our students are encouraged that taking responsibility is the surest path to leadership and success.

  • It often works best when built into the student’s routine without fanfare. The more we are able to create a culture centered around learning and growth, the less personal value is tied up in performance. This allows students and staff to circumvent unnecessary frustration, stress, and anxiety that reduces the capacity for creative problem-solving.