The Legacy of the Lion Scholarship was created in 2024 in memory of the founder of the Black Hills Christian Academy, Kathie Letellier, and will provide a financial gift to students with a heart for Christ. 

Kathie Letellier founded the Black Hills Christian Academy, formerly known as the Belle Fourche Christian School, in 1992 and continued to be a proud supporter of the school throughout her lifetime. She was a devoted follower of Christ and leaves behind an enviable legacy of faith, love, and compassion. “She never met a stranger, and she was a friend to everyone.” Kathie reached the inevitable conclusion of her earthly journey on February 22, 2024. She will be remembered for her many skills and accomplishments, but her legacy is the countless friendships she made as a result of her genuine interest and care for others. The Black Hills Christian Academy is grateful for the opportunity to honor Kathie by establishing the Legacy of the Lion Scholarship. 

The Black Hills Christian Academy’s Legacy of the Lion Scholarship was created through memorial funds honoring pillars of our community and devout believers of Christ. The Legacy of the Lion Scholarship serves as a symbol of faith, hope, and love—offering a pathway for students to radiate the light of Christ and shine brightly.

The purpose of these funds is to provide an opportunity for preschool through twelfth grade students to experience a Christ-centered education at the Black Hills Christian Academy and to provide the necessary developmental tools to impact the world for Christ.

Eligibility: Preschool through twelfth grade applicants who are committed to radiating the light of Christ are eligible. The applicant’s decision to attend the Black Hills Christian Academy must align with our Statement of Faith, principles, policies, and requirements set forth in BHCA’s Handbooks.

Submission Requirements: Please provide a one-page essay describing your interest in attending Black Hills Christian Academy and explaining your financial need. Applications must be submitted or postmarked by July 15th. Applications are available below.

Selection Criteria: A review panel composed of a minimum of one Black Hills Christian Academy Board member and one teacher will review the applications based on essays, faith, passion, and the financial need conveyed.

Awards: Legacy of the Lion Scholarships are awarded to one or more students every year, as funding permits. Recipients receiving an award will be notified prior to July 31st and a financial gift will be credited to their Black Hills Christian Academy account. If an applicant is awarded the Legacy of the Lion Scholarship, but chooses not to enroll or unenrolls, the financial assistance awarded will be absorbed back into the Legacy of the Lion Scholarship general fund.

Would you like to support the Legacy of the Lion Scholarship and invest in excellence? Memorial funds gifted to the Legacy of the Lion Scholarship reflect the Christian values and qualities of loved ones who treasured a relationship with God and encouraged others to walk with purpose and faith. An educational gift is an admirable way to honor legacies while also contributing to the education of future leaders and innovators. The Black Hills Christian Academy is a 501(c)(3) and funds gifted to the Legacy of the Lion Scholarship are tax-deductible.