News
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
National Merit Commended Matthew Bower and Benjamin Oommen are National Merit Commended Scholars.

Congratulations to two Prestonwood Christian Academy seniors who placed in the 2021 National Merit competition. Matthew Bower and Benjamin Oommen were named National Merit Commended Scholars based on their results of the fall 2020 PSAT. In addition, Kimberly Beeman, Abram De Armas (Class of 2023) and Monica Spooner have been named College Board National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars. Maia Brown, Sydney Brown, Rihanna Nesru and Jackson Shuler are College Board National African American Recognition Program Scholars.

About 34,000 Commended students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. They placed among the top 50,000 scores of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

The College Board, which administers the PSAT and SAT among its activities, recognizes academic excellence through its National Recognition Programs. Students selected for this prestigious honor can cite it on their college and scholarship applications. In turn, colleges use the listing of this honor as a way of identifying students from underrepresented groups—i.e., ethnic minorities and/or those who attend school in rural areas or small towns—who have excelled on their PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, or AP Exams and in their classwork.

"We are incredibly proud of these bright students who excel academically and are involved as leaders on our campus,” said Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent of PCA School System. “Each of these faith-filled Lions is able to articulate their biblical worldview in a culture of opposing ideas. These nine students represent Prestonwood Christian Academy well, and they showcase how a student can shine at a liberal arts school where faith is intentionally integrated with learning resulting in a distinctive environment and community."

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is a ministry of Prestonwood Baptist Church and made up of six schools serving more than 2,000 students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. Schools include PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 11th Grade), PCA Hybrid (Kindergarten through 2nd and 5th through 6th) and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered more than $154.6 million in scholarships for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are enrolling.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
For 25 years, Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) has been investing in the lives of its students by helping them intentionally build their lives on Kingdom foundations and a biblical worldview.

“As we reflect on 25 years of impact, let’s be reminded that God has orchestrated every step along the journey,” said Dr. Michael Goddard, superintendent of Prestonwood Christian Academy System of Schools. “From small beginnings to the new expansions, we continue to daily hear stories of Christ’s impact on the lives of our students, teachers, alumni and community. We are grounded in proud traditions and are roaring forward into God’s gift of future opportunities.”

Since its humble beginning in 1997 at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, PCA has expanded into a system of six schools serving more than 2,000 students in preschool through 12th grade: PCA Plano in Plano, Texas, St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano, Texas, PCA North in Prosper, Texas, The King's Academy in South Dallas, Texas, PCA Hybrid and PCA Online. At each campus, students are offered an education that encourages spiritual growth, character building and academic excellence so they are equipped to live strong, empowered lives for Christ.

“The word ‘Christian’ in our name is not just a label. The mission of the church is the mission of the school: introduce Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord to as many people as possible, using the most effective means,” said Dr. Jack Graham, Pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church. “Over the last 25 years, with the blessing and favor of God, Prestonwood Christian Academy has grown to become an unstoppable force for education and the gospel.”

Over its two-and-a-half decades of existence, Prestonwood Christian Academy has reached the following milestones:

  • Nearly 5,000 students, parents and guardians have made professions of faith in Jesus Christ.
  • More than 400 PCA 7th-12th grade students take part in mission trips each year through the “Minimester” program, and more than 800 7th-12th grade students, faculty and staff serve their local communities annually on Service Project Day. 
  • Since 2002, PCA graduates have been awarded more than $154 million in college scholarships.
  • $38 million in financial aid has been provided for students who otherwise would not be able to attend PCA through the Sponsor-A-Child tuition assistance program.
  • PCA has graduated more than 2,000 alumni, 15 of which are on staff in the PCA System of Schools. 

“At Prestonwood Christian Academy, learning will always be more than an education. It's an investment that is establishing students for life,” Dr. Michael Goddard said. “We greatly look forward to the next 25 years.”

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
PCA Hybrid Middle Students

Yesterday as part of Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System’s 25th anniversary, PCA Hybrid officially opened the doors of its new school and welcomed 48 students in grades Kindergarten, 1, 2, 5 and 6. Additional grades will be added as students advance. In addition, five new faculty and staff members have joined PCA Hybrid from both public and private schools in the area.

PCA Hybrid operates at the PCA Plano Campus and provides a unique design for families who desire additional flexibility in their schedules by offering a hybrid of Blended Learning and Project-Based Learning. These instructional platforms are incorporated within a three-day-a-week school classroom schedule and include a two-day-a-week “satellite classroom” learning design. The school model furthers PCA’s ability to expand Kingdom education and provide an additional high-quality Christ-centered educational model for the North Dallas community. 

“We are so thankful and excited about PCA Hybrid,” said new PCA Hybrid mom, Emily Ha. “Our boys had a great first day at school and can’t wait to go back. We loved having both homeschool and family time on our hybrid day. This is such an incredible opportunity to be more hands-on in our kids’ schooling, have more time with them while also attaining a Christian education!” 

Principal Bill Wendl brings a passion for Christian education and more than 37 years of experience to PCA Hybrid, most recently serving as the Middle School principal at Prestonwood Christian Academy in Plano from 2006 through 2019. 

“PCA Hybrid is designed for students and families who not only desire a Kingdom education, but also see the opportunity to leverage the flexibility of the hybrid schedule. In addition, they recognize the importance of a real-world application of knowledge,” said Wendl. “We encourage parents to evaluate all of their options and prayerfully consider the best opportunity for their child to grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.”

PCA Hybrid is an extension of Prestonwood Christian Academy School System which also consists of PCA Plano, PCA North in Prosper, PCA Online, St. Timothy Christian Academy and The King’s Academy. Prestonwood Christian Academy launched a new website in support of its transition to a system of schools. The school system launched a new website on Aug. 19 which features a homepage for the Prestonwood Christian Academy School System and allows users to navigate to any of the four PCA schools and two affiliate schools. PCA Hybrid continues to accept applications for the 2021-22 school year. Interested families should call 972-930-4009 to set up a tour.

Prestonwood Christian Academy School Systemis a ministry of Prestonwood Baptist Church and made up of six schools serving more than 2,000 students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. Schools include PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 11th Grade), PCA Hybrid (Kindergarten through 2nd and 5th through 6th) and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered more than $154.6 million in scholarships for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are enrolling.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Dr. Clarence Williams Dr. Clarence Williams joins the PCA School System as Chief Vision Officer.

Dr. Clarence Williams has been named Chief Vision Officer, Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System, a ministry of Prestonwood Baptist Church. Dr. Williams currently serves as the Executive Director of Support Services for the Frisco Independent School District. Effective July 1, Dr. Williams will assume leadership for the successful implementation of the PCA School System strategic plan and vision as well as oversight of  Academics, Campus Ministry, Biblical Worldview Institute, Communications, Co-curriculars and Campus Administrators. 

“Dr. Williams is an incredible educator with a history of effective leadership, problem-solving and cognitive agility. He is motivated by the challenge of equipping children with a quality and inspiring education in a rapidly changing world,” said PCA School System Superintendent, Dr. Michael Goddard. “That motivation undergirded by his love for the Lord will have a powerful influence on our students, faculty, staff and administration. I am thrilled to have him on our team!”

Dr. Williams’ professional experience of 27 years includes 10 years with Frisco ISD in various roles. He was recognized by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP) as Principal of the Year for personal excellence, outstanding leadership and commitment to student success. Dr. Williams is currently an Adjunct Professor for Texas A&M University-Commerce within the Educational Leadership department teaching doctoral level classes. Before entering administration, he spent 12 years investing in students in the classroom as a teacher and instructor.

Dr. Williams’ passion for education and continuous learning is evident in the certifications he holds and his active participation in key organizations. Dr. Williams holds certifications in Texas Superintendent EC-12, Texas Principal EC-12, Texas Teacher 8-12, Texas Principal Evaluation, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Mid-Management Certification, Texas Principal Evaluation Support System (TPESS) and Texas Teacher Evaluation Support System (TTESS). He is active in the Texas Association for Secondary School Principals, Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Texas Association of School Administrators, The Texas Association of School Business Officials, and assists the Dissertation Committee for doctoral students at Texas A&M University-Commerce of North Texas.

Dr. Williams earned his Ed.D. in educational leadership (2018), and his Ed.M. with an emphasis in training and development (1997) from Texas A&M University-Commerce and his B.S. in business administration from Northwestern State University (1982).  He is a member of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Prosper, Texas where he serves as Deacon Chairman.

“I am delighted to be joining Prestonwood Christian Academy as Chief Vision Officer. And grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role. I look forward to partnering with the team and parents in providing a Christ-centered education to students who are in pursuit of excellence, to be the best, fully committed to become tomorrow’s leaders. I am confident that we can make a significant impact for the Kingdom,” Dr. Williams commented.

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 11th Grade adding a grade through the first graduating class of 2023), PCA Hybrid (starting in fall 2021) and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered $152 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are now enrolling for the system’s 25th school year in 2021-22. 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Coach Ryan Mitchell

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) in Plano announced that Lovejoy High School’s Ryan Mitchell will take over as the Lady Lions Head Varsity Volleyball Coach. Coach Mitchell was recently named National Coach of the Year, State Coach of the Year (for the fifth time) and won a National Championship and his seventh State Championship in 11 years.

“Ryan Mitchell is not only one of the premier volleyball coaches in the nation, but one of the strongest Christian coaches I’ve ever known,” said Dr. Mike Goddard, Prestonwood Christian Academy Superintendent. “He lifts everyone he influences up to new levels of accomplishment. I’m thrilled to be able to call Ryan teammate once again.” 

Coach Mitchell comes to PCA from Lovejoy High School having won back-to-back State championships in 2019 and 2020 in which his team completed a perfect season at 26-0 in 2020 and won the PrepVolleyball National Championship. In 2020, Coach Mitchell won Dallas Morning News Coach of the Year honors along with AVCA Regional Coach of Year. 

From 2014 through 2017, Coach Mitchell was the Head Coach for Southlake Carroll where he amassed an 84% winning percentage and took his team to the Regional Tournament two times. Coach Mitchell opened up Lovejoy High School in 2006 and led the program to its first State championship in 2008 where he would go on to win five State championships in a row. Coach Mitchell's seven State Championships put him among the most elite high school coaches along with his overall record of 563-79. He has been named District Coach of the Year 12 times, Dallas Morning News Coach of the Year three times, NFHS National Coach of the Year, and Texas Sports Writers Association Coach of the Year twice. 

"Prestonwood Christian Academy Athletics has a storied tradition of excellence throughout all the programs and especially the history of the PCA Volleyball team and it's State Championships,” said Coach Mitchell. “I am thrilled to be a part of such a program and hope to make the Prestonwood Volleyball Team the premier volleyball program in the country. The goal to combine championship athletics with a Kingdom mindset is one that can ignite the passions in both the athletes and coaches in the volleyball program.  I am looking forward to the journey together!" 

Coach Mitchell started his head coaching career at Irving Nimitz in 2004 and also served five years as an assistant at Hebron. He played setter on the Dallas Baptist University volleyball team and spent one year as a student assistant at DBU before starting his career in 2001. In addition to his high school coaching, Mitchell works for Skyline Juniors Volleyball Club where he has been head coaching for 11 years. He and his wife Kaitlin live in Lucas with their four kids:  Reid (16), Eli (14), Tatum (5), Brock (3).

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 10th Grade), PCA Hybrid (K-2nd and 5th-6th Grades) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered more than $154.5 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are now enrolling for the system's 25th school year in 2021-22.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
PCA student athletes sign to compete at college From l to r: Summer Sexton, Roland Frank and Jaden Mathews

PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY HONORS THREE STUDENT ATHLETES DURING SIGNING DAY CELEBRATION

 

May 10, 2021 -- PLANO, TX — Today Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) honored three student athletes who signed Letters of Intent to play sports at the collegiate level.

“We are so grateful for these students and all they poured into PCA and our athletics program,” said PCA’s Athletic Director Chris Cunningham. “I look forward to all that God is going to continue to do in and through their lives at the next level.”

Roland Frank will play basketball at Kansas Wesleyan this fall. Point guard for the Lions, Frank made a big impact in his first and only season at PCA. “Roland made an immediate impact as a new member of our team,” said Varsity Head Basketball Coach Jeff Clarkson. “He was an offensive threat, but his biggest impact was his toughness and unselfish mentality. Roland took 35 charges this season which shows his selfless mentality on the court. He gave his full effort and energy every day to help his team win.” Frank finished the season Second Team All-District and TAPPS Academic All State.

Jaden Mathews signed to run track at Lipscomb University. Mathews has been a member of the Lions All State relays, and this year was a member of the State Champion 4x200 relay. She was also State runner-up in the Long Jump, 4x400 relay, and bronze finalist 4x100 relay. “We are truly proud to witness Jaden blossom into such a mature, dedicated, and hardworking young lady,” said Varsity Track Head Coach Sheila Stoutmire. “She has always been a versatile athlete competing in Long Jump, Sprints, mid-distance, and long-distance events. Jaden has a servant’s heart, always giving, a team player, and a spiritual mentor. I have no doubt Jaden will continue to excel in her sport and academically at Lipscomb University. She has so much more room for development to grow and progress at Lipscomb and we pray all the best for Jaden!”

Summer Sexton will compete at Baylor University next year on the 2021-22 Songleaders Dance Team. Sexton has trained extensively in ballet, contemporary, and jazz and spent her high school years training in pom and other various genres. Sexton became a member of the PCA Pom team her sophomore year and quickly rose to a role of prominence as an excellent technician and performer. As a Junior she served as an officer and then was named Captain for her Senior year. She has won many awards for her solos throughout her three seasons on the team and has gone on to lead the team this year in some of PCA's highest award-winning routines. Sexton competed against almost 100 dancers to gain a spot on the Songleaders team. “Summer is an incredibly hard-working student who has been dancing from a very young age,” said Head Pom Coach Jennifer Amburn. “Baylor has won many outstanding contest awards this year for their jazz and pom routines, and we all know Summer will contribute even more to their ability to continue to be an award-winning team. Congratulations Summer from all of our PCA Pom team members, PCA school staff and students, and your family and friends. Best of luck at Baylor next year!”

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 10th Grade), PCA Hybrid (starting in fall 2021) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered $154.5 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are now enrolling for the system’s 25th school year in 2021-22. 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
James Vilade

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System (PCA) announced Wednesday that Miami Marlins scout James Vilade was named Varsity Head Baseball Coach at the Plano campus.

“James has had a profound impact on many young lives as a coach, scout and mentor, and we know that God will use him in a powerful way here at PCA as he leads our baseball program forward in excellence,” said Dr. Mike Goddard, PCA Superintendant.

Vilade comes to PCA Plano from the MLB’s Miami Marlins franchise where he is currently in his second stint as a scout. "I want to thank Derek Jeter, Kim Ng and Gary Denbo for the opportunity to serve the Marlins for the last two years,” said Vilade. “This was an amazing experience to work alongside the best in Major League Baseball.  The personal advancement and work experience I received under the leadership of DJ Svihlik and Ryan Wardinsky was life changing.  They are examples of loyalty, hard work, knowledge and love for the game.  They treated everyone in our scouting department with an amazing care and push for excellence.  This culture and environment made us all compete, enjoy our work and absolutely love the Marlins."

Vilade also served as an assistant coach at NCAA Division I Oklahoma State University for four seasons after six years working for the Texas Rangers Double-A affiliate Frisco RoughRiders. With Oklahoma State, Vilade helped guide a College World Series appearance in 2016 and a pair of Big 12 Conference Tournament championships (2017 and 2019). During his tenure, the RoughRiders qualified for the Texas League Playoffs four times and appeared in the Texas League Finals twice. The RoughRiders were named Minor League Baseball Team of the Year at the conclusion of the 2008 season, which is the highest team honor in Minor League Baseball. Vilade has worked with many major leaguers, including several current Rangers. Vilade also served as DFW area scout for the Rangers.

"Thank you, Pastor Jack Graham and Prestonwood Christian Academy leadership team for the opportunity to represent Prestonwood, PCA and the baseball team,” said Vilade. “This is an opportunity to be a part of all that represents the principles and values embraced in Christian education. I am excited to join the Athletic Department along with the players who represent our PCA Baseball Family. Our entire family is excited about extending our existing relationship with Prestonwood to the baseball field and beyond."  

Vilade has a passion for baseball and the game of life. Over the past 20 years, he has delivered a powerful motivational message to thousands. He has served as a speaker for The Boys and Girls Club, University of Texas System, Texas GED program, Special Olympics, The Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association, high schools, universities and many other great organizations.

Chris Cunningham, Prestonwood Christian Academy Athletic Director is looking forward to Vilade joining the team at PCA.  "I can’t tell you how excited I am about Coach Vilade leading the PCA baseball program. His resume speaks for itself, but it can’t come close to telling the whole story of who this man is and what he does with the cultures of the teams he leads and works with. That story is told through changed lives, and I look forward to all that God is going to do in the lives of our baseball families through Coach Vilade.”

Prior to professional baseball, Vilade spent 12 years as a college coach, serving as head coach for 11 of those seasons. Vilade had the opportunity to start two NCAA baseball programs from the ground up: he was the head coach at the University of Dallas for the first four seasons of its reinstated baseball program before guiding the University of Texas at Tyler through the first seven years of its program. In between running these programs, Vilade was an assistant coach at Oral Roberts University, where he helped ORU capture the Mid-Continent Conference championship and a berth in the NCAA Division I Baseball Tournament.

In his 11 seasons as a head coach, Vilade compiled a career record of 348-117.  His .748 career winning percentage makes him one of the winningest coaches in the history of NCAA baseball and the second-winningest coach in the history of NCAA baseball in Texas, where he trails only Cliff Gustafson, the former University of Texas coach. From 2000-2010, Vilade was the winningest NCAA baseball coach in the state of Texas. In 2007, Vilade coached the University of Texas at Tyler to a 37-1 record, which is the best single season record in the history of NCAA baseball in the Lone Star State and second-best nationwide. Vilade’s historic 2007 team is featured in the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. A total of 112 of the college players Vilade coached were selected to All-Conference teams, and another 65 players were named to All-Academic teams. Vilade coached 16 All-Americans in his 12 year-career, and more than 60 players that Vilade coached have gone on to play professional baseball.

Vilade played college baseball at Baylor University where he helped the Bears win the 1993 Southwest Conference Championship, defeating the University of Texas Longhorns while advancing to the NCAA Division I Baseball Tournament. A team captain and academic scholar-athlete, Vilade received his Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunications from Baylor in 1995.  Vilade also earned his Master’s Degree in Sports Management from the United States Sports Academy in 2003.

Outside the game of baseball, Vilade remains active in community affairs and humanitarian work. Vilade founded Keeper of The Game Foundation in 2014, an organization that supports children with special needs and disabilities in and around baseball. The organization also promotes servant leadership among players and coaches. Vilade is involved with organizations such as Special Olympics, The Miracle League, The Frisco RoughRider Foundation, The Children’s Advocacy Center and Mike Coolbaugh’s Diamond Dreams. Vilade has spent more than 20 years focusing on community service, during which time he has directed more than 200 community service events and humanitarian efforts reaching both local communities and foreign countries. Vilade and his wife, Jennifer, are active members at the north campus of Prestonwood Baptist Church have three children: Ryan, who plays in the Colorado Rockies organization, Trent and McKenzie.

Vilade takes over for Coach Mike Maack, who announced his retirement yesterday. "There have only been two previous head coaches at PCA, Mike Maack and Todd Cash,” said Vilade. “I want to thank them both for the time they have poured into our school and program.  This is something that is extremely meaningful for us as a program and our future."      

 

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 10th Grade), PCA Hybrid (starting in fall 2021) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered more than $153 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are now enrolling for its 25th school year in 2021-22.

 

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Katie Chretien Dr. Katie Chretien to become PCA Plano's new Lower School Principal

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System announced that after an extensive search, Dr. Katie Chretien has been appointed as Lower School Principal at the Plano campus effective with the opening of 2021-22 school year.

“Prestonwood Christian Academy is committed to preparing students for college and beyond,” said Dr. Mike Goddard, PCA Head of Schools. “PCA strives to establish students for life through a very intentional Kingdom education that equips them academically and spiritually in partnership with the family and church. I am excited to add Dr. Katie Chretien to the excellent leadership team at PCA. She is passionate about investing in the lives of students and fully embraces our vision of developing courageous Christian influencers who will impact the culture for Christ for generations to come.” 

Dr. Chretien brings a wealth of experience having been in the field of education since 1998 after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Education, Social Studies from Louisiana State University. She completed her master's in Education at LSU in 1998 and received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2007. Over the past 22 years, Dr. Chretien has served at the elementary, middle and high school levels in various capacities in both private and public school settings. In addition to various classroom instructor roles, Dr. Chretien served as Assistant Principal at Vivian Elementary Middle Magnet School in Vivian, LA; Academic Dean, Classroom Teacher, Department Head and High School Team Lead at Leadership Prep School in Frisco, TX; and most recently has been the Assistant Principal at Boyer Elementary in Prosper Independent School District.

As a Christian educator, Dr. Chretien is looking forward to joining the PCA leadership team. “It is with great joy that I will be joining the PCA family in the fall as the Lower School Principal,” said Dr. Chretien. “I look forward to continuing to grow our students for their Kingdom purpose while holding true to the core values of academic excellence in all we do. As a product of Christian Education, it is my honor to join the amazing team of educators at Prestonwood Christian in continuing to prepare and equip our students for what God has called them to be!”

Dr. Chretien has been married to Larry Chretien for 23 years, and the couple have two children, Laryn Kate and Zennie. The Chretiens are active members at Prestonwood Baptist Church North in Prosper.

            Dr. Chretien will assume the position currently held by long-time PCA Plano Lower School Principal, Mrs. Paige DeLeon, who is moving to a new role this summer as Director of Employee Recruitment/Retention and Development for the PCA School System.

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 10th Grade), PCA Hybrid (starting in fall 2021) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2021, graduates have been offered more than $153 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. All PCA schools are now enrolling for its 25th school year in 2021-22.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Tim Tebow Receives Zig Ziglar Award

Prestonwood Christian Academy raised a record $1.45 million and awarded Tim Tebow with its Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award at the 13th annual Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet, Sunday, April 11.

 

The banquet was held Sunday at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco. By the end of the evening, the generous giving of parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of Prestonwood Christian Academy community surpassed expectations, giving over $1.4 million and setting an attendance record of 1,200.

 

All proceeds from the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet directly benefit Sponsor-A-Child (SAC), Prestonwood Christian Academy's tuition assistance program. Each year, 450-500 PCA students receive need-based financial assistance, averaging $7,400 annually, determined by an independent, third-party organization.

 

“A true blessing of the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet is to hear incredible testimonies of how lives have been transformed because of the opportunities provided for Kingdom education here at Prestonwood Christian Academy,” said PCA Head of Schools, Dr. Mike Goddard. “It is a privilege to recognize one of our nation’s most prominent Christian influencers as our award recipient, a gifted athlete who has taken his platform and used it for the greater good of the Kingdom. At PCA we strive to develop courageous faith-filled students, who like our award recipient, Tim Tebow, are not just believers of Christ, but followers of Christ, servant-leaders and Christian life-changers in every sector of society.”

 

The Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award was established in 2009 through the shared vision of Prestonwood Christian Academy and the Prestonwood Foundation, with the purpose of encapsulating the legacy of Zig Ziglar by annually naming a recipient who embodies the very essence of Christ-like servant leadership.

 

"As evidenced by the work of his foundation, Mr. Tebow continues to be passionate about sharing the love of Christ with children around the country and the world," said Pastor Jack Graham, pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church. "His missionary background and training from his parents instilled in him the importance of God’s word, the salvation we have in Jesus and the responsibility we have to give back to others. This same training is highlighted in PCA’s mission of partnering with parents and our church to equip students to model Christ-like leadership to influence their homes, churches and communities for Christ. I can't think of a more fitting recipient for this award."

 

Learn more about the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet and previous award winners, such as Chick-fil-A CEO and president Dan Cathy, Hobby Lobby founder David Green, Hollywood producers Mark Burnett and Roma Downey and Dr. Ben Carson here.

 

Click here to see examples of Tim Tebow's commitment to servant leadership worldwide, including "Night to Shine," an annual prom for those with special needs.

 

Prestonwood Christian Academy is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at three campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 10th Grade) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2020, graduates have been offered more than $140 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. PCA is now enrolling for the 2021-22 school year.

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
PCA Senior Blake Jefferson Dallas resident Blake Jefferson awarded National Honor Society Scholarship.

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) is excited to announce that Senior Blake Jefferson has been selected as a National Honor Society Scholarship semifinalist. Jefferson was chosen from nearly 10,000 applicants and will receive a $3,200 scholarship toward higher education.

Jefferson, who lives in Dallas, is in the top ten percent of his class and in addition to being a member of NHS, he is also a part of the school’s award-winning Future Problem Solving team. He is a National Merit Commended student and in 2020 was accepted for Mensa membership placing him in the top two percent of IQs in the world. Jefferson plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall.

PCA Head of Schools Dr. Mike Goddard commended Jefferson for his selection as a semifinalist for the NHS Scholarship. “At Prestonwood Christian Academy, our goal is that students would strive to go above and beyond in all things for the glory of God. I commend Blake for how he leads at PCA with character and honor in the classroom and amongst his family and peers,” said Goddard.

Since 1946, more than $19 million in scholarships have been awarded to outstanding NHS senior members to support college access and student success. The scholarship program is supported by the parent organization of NHS, theNational Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

In the 100 years since NHS was founded in 1921, members have been making a difference in their schools and communities, and the NHS Scholarship is NASSP’s way of recognizing the most exceptional of these student leaders. Recipients are chosen based on their demonstrated work to support the four pillars of NHS: scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

“We are so very proud of Blake,” said Upper School Principal Wendy Morris. “He is a hard worker, dedicated to the Lord, and willing to serve others.  He is diligent in his studies to use the gifts and talents God has given him.  Congratulations to Blake!”

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of five schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 1,650 students are enrolled at three campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 10th Grade) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2020, graduates have been offered more than $140 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. PCA is now enrolling for the 2021-22 school year. Go to prestonwoodchristian.org/admissions for more information.

The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) is the leading organization of and voice for middle level and high school principals across the United States. NASSP seeks to transform education through school leadership, recognizing that the fulfillment of each student’s potential relies on great leaders in every school committed to the success of each student. Reflecting its long-standing commitment to student leadership development, NASSP administers theNational Honor Society,National Junior Honor Society,National Elementary Honor Society, andNational Student Council.