When you walk into Mr. Jeremiah Rich’s classroom at Cascade Christian Academy, it doesn’t take long to sense his passion—for science, for students, and for sharing how faith and learning intertwine.
Mr. Rich teaches middle school and high school science, and his journey into education began as a natural extension of his work in youth ministries. “I knew that I enjoyed working with young people and was searching for the right niche when I began teaching,” he says. “I’m inspired to continue by my current and former students. Seeing them go out into the world and succeed in various trades and academic pursuits gives me a strong sense of satisfaction.”
Finding a Home at CCA
After completing his master’s degree in education, Mr. Rich began looking for a full-time teaching position and discovered CCA. “During the interview process, I got to meet some of the students in the gym and played basketball with them,” he recalls with a smile. “The students and the facilities here at CCA are both top-notch and won me over quickly.”
That first impression has proven true. Mr. Rich continues to be impressed by the people and the purpose that define the CCA community. “My experience here was exceptionally positive,” he says. “The individuals I encountered and the quality of the facilities, including the science lab, really stood out.”
Teaching with Purpose
As a Christian educator, Mr. Rich values the freedom to integrate faith into every part of his teaching. “It’s important to me that I can discuss God openly with my students and have prayer with them,” he shares. “Being able to teach students about the creation worldview and the scientific evidence for it is also important to me.” That same desire for faith-based learning extends to his family. “I wanted a quality Christian education for my children,” he says. “I love the small class sizes and the positive culture as well.”
Lessons Beyond the Lab
For Mr. Rich, teaching science is about more than memorizing facts or equations—it’s about shaping how students think and approach life. “They may not all love science or use every concept I teach,” he explains, “but I believe that the critical thinking skills developed in my classes will influence their lives positively regardless of the career path they choose.”
And while he admits it’s impossible to pick a single favorite memory from his time in the classroom, his students’ unique personalities and humor make every day memorable. “Each class and individual student has unique quirks, many of which lead to hilarious moments and stories,” he says. “If you spend any time around me, you’ll inevitably hear a few of them!”
The CCA Community
When asked what makes CCA special, Mr. Rich doesn’t hesitate. “CCA places a larger-than-usual emphasis on community,” he says. “Older students interact positively with younger ones—our elementary students look up to our high schoolers and give them high fives in the hallways. The support I feel from student families is unmatched in my experience. This community takes care of its own, welcomes others, and generously shows appreciation.”
A Final Word
If he had to sum up CCA in just a few words, Mr. Rich would choose: “Fun, Safe, and Excellent.” And his advice to any family considering CCA? “Do it! You will not regret sending your child to our school. Joining this community is an excellent choice and provides your student with opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere.”