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PCA 2018-19 Yearbook PCA's 2018-19 Yearbook, Lion's Lair, focused on the theme of "On the Horizon."

The Prestonwood Christian Academy yearbook staff has been recognized by Balfour Yearbooks with the Featured recognition for its outstanding contribution to scholastic journalism. The Prestonwood Christian Academy yearbook is featured in Balfour’s 2020 Yearbook Yearbook. The yearbook adviser is Aubrey Pasant. 

“Congratulations on creating a book that documents the history of your school while telling the unique stories of your students,” Mark Goshgarian, General Manager of Publishing and Digital Assets said. “Your inclusion in this 34th edition of The Yearbook Yearbook allows your outstanding work to serve as inspiration for staffs across the nation.” 

Yearbooks published by Balfour for the 2018-19 school year were evaluated in one or more of the following areas: theme development, layout design, photo content, secondary packages and cover design. The 2020 Yearbook Yearbook showcases 2019 yearbooks. Prestonwood Christian Academy’s inclusion in the 2020 Yearbook Yearbook reflects their commitment to journalism excellence and creativity. Balfour honors fewer than 5 percent of yearbook staffs with this distinction. 

Since 1913, Balfour has been recognized as the source for fine scholastic and recognition products. Balfour serves high schools, universities, sports organizations, and corporations worldwide. Balfour provides unrivaled quality and personalized service and is known as a market leader in design innovations. Balfour connects students to the most meaningful moments of their lives with exceptional products like class rings, yearbooks, letter jackets, photography and graduation products. For more information on Balfour, visit the company's web site at http://www.balfour.com. 

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at five campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 9th grade) is celebrating its sixth school year with more than 240 students and is now enrolling through 10th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment in its virtual academy and part-time students, and has been serving students for more than 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. The King’s Academy in South Dallas opened its doors to PreK-4 through 1st Grade students on Aug. 19, 2019.

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country. Each school places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health, scholastic endeavors, and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its spiritual development plan, and intentional biblical worldview training, is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. Prestonwood Christian Academy’s class of 2019 was offered $16.5 million in scholarship for achievement in scholastics, athletics and the arts. Since the first graduating class of 2002, PCA graduates have been offered more than $126.7 million in scholarships and have matriculated to universities near and far. PCA is currently accepting applications for the 2020-21 school year. Interested families are invited to contact pcaadmissions@prestonwoodchristian.org.

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Sarah Sign Family

Today Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) held a virtual signing day ceremony to honor student athletes who intend to play their sport at the collegiate level.

“I am proud of these student athletes that we are honoring today,” said PCA’s Athletic Director, Chris Cunningham. “They are not only athletically talented, but they are great students who have hearts for the Lord, and we are excited to see them represent Prestonwood Christian Academy at these fine universities next year.”

Senior Jake Burton signed to play college baseball at Hendrix College. He has been a three-year starter on the Lions Varsity Baseball team and an integral part of PCA’s success. Last season, Burton was voted to Second Team All-District and Kingdom Athlete by his peers. Additionally, he was an Academic All-State selection. 

“Jake is a true leader in every sense of the word. There are leaders who lead out front and those who lead from the back - Jake is the latter, always pushing and challenging his teammates to work harder by the example he sets by his work ethic,” said Head Baseball Coach Mike Maack. “Jake’s walk with Christ is also very evident. There are those who talk the talk, but don’t walk the walk. Jake does both and isn’t ashamed or afraid to share his faith!  Hendrix is not only getting a really good baseball player, but they’re getting an even better person and leader in Jake Burton!  It has been an honor and privilege to coach Jake during his time at PCA.” 

Senior Nathan Galloway will play men’s basketball at Hendrix College next year. Galloway was a team captain his Senior season, as well as being named Second Team All-District, TAPPS Academic All-State, and was a starter for the 2019 Regional Final team. Galloway received Honorable Mention All-District his Junior year when the Lions were State Runner-Up, and he also played a role on the 2017 State Championship Team. Galloway led the PCA team in charges this season which, according to Head Varsity Basketball Coach Jeff Clarkson, “…is the most unselfish play in basketball!”

Galloway excels in the classroom as well having been named to the 2019 and 2020 Principal’s Honor Roll Award with a 4.0 GPA his Junior Year and Senior Year. He was on the Academic Honor Roll in 2017 and 2018 and was named the 2019 Pre-Calculus Student of the Year Award and the 2017 Geometry Student of the Year Award for having the highest average. Galloway has been a member of the National Honor Society for three years and was recognized in 2017 as a Top Ten Student. In addition to basketball and his studies, Galloway has completed 1000 hours of service during Upper School at schools in Dallas metroplex, adult memory care for Alzheimer’s care, annual Special Friends basketball game, and international missions in the Dominican Republic and the Amazon.

Senior PCAplus student Sarah Sign signed today to become a student athletic trainer at the University of Mississippi. Sign came to PCAplus as a Sophomore, and according to PCA’s head athletic trainer, Mr. Danny Nafey, “Sarah has a wonderful servant’s heart and has become one the best student athletic trainers I’ve had – and I’ve been doing this for more than 37 years.” Each Saturday, the training team prepared an injury report for coaches, and that report became Sarah’s prayer list for the week. “She would remind us often, that it’s not just what we do in the training room that helps our players perform,” said Nafey, “but how often we pray for them as well.”

Sign worked as one of only two high school student trainers at the Manning Passing camps where she received the Rookie of the Year award. Prior to the Coronavirus outbreak, Sign could be found on the sidelines of the XFL Dallas Renegades helping as a student athletic training assistant. Sign is a national merit qualifier, has the highest GPA in the PCAplus program and has been awarded academic scholarships including Ole Miss Chancellor’s Leadership Class. Sign is an award-winning artist often portraying football prominently in her art.  One of her football pieces depicting football as an icon of American Culture was to go to State competition next month.  Finally, Sign also enjoys volunteering at a local retirement center in Plano.

Senior Jordan Webster* will play women’s basketball at University of California-Riverside. Webster is one of the most decorated athletes in PCA basketball history, and this year she surpassed all scorers and accomplished leading scorer in PCA basketball history as she surpassed Julius Randle for the leading spot and finished with a total of 2,340 points. Webster broke her own single game scoring record of 36 points this season when she scored 39 points in a preseason game.

Webster led the Lady Lions to State all four years while in Upper School. She was a State Runner-Up her Senior and Freshmen seasons, and State Semi-Finalist her Sophomore and Junior seasons. Webster was named a McDonald's All-American Nominee this season, the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches All-State Team her Senior and Junior years, 6A TAPPS First Team All-State her Senior, Junior, and Sophomore seasons, and was named TAPPS 6A Newcomer of the Year and Honorable Mention All-State her Freshmen year. She was also named to the 6A TAPPS State All-Tournament Team her Senior, Junior, and Sophomore seasons. Webster was named District 2-6A Most Valuable Player this season while averaging 20 PPG, 8 RPG, 3 SPG, 3 APG, and 4 DPG, and was ranked #1 in District. She was also named District 2-6A Offensive Player of the year as a Junior. She has won First Team All-District all four years while in Upper School. Webster was named Team Most Valuable player her Senior, Junior, and Sophomore seasons, and Offensive Player of the Year her Junior and Freshman seasons. She was also named to the Dallas Morning News All-Area First Team, VYPE DFW Girls Private School Basketball Player of the Year finalist, and DFW Inside High School Sports MVP finalist this season. Jordan was named to multiple All-Tournament teams throughout Upper School, including the MVP of the KSA Tournament in Florida, as well as MVP of the Craig Bowers Tournament as a Junior. Webster was a captain for the Lady Lions both her Senior and Junior seasons. Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach Holly Mulligan said, “We are beyond proud of Jordan’s accomplishments, perseverance, and the legacy she left at Prestonwood Christian Academy!”

“These students have made such an impact on our school,” said Upper School Principal Wendy Morris. “Not just by winning in their respective sports, but in our hallways and among their peers. These students care about their grades and are involved with activities at PCA. We are going to miss them next year, but we are looking forward to seeing all that they achieve at the collegiate level!”

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at five campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 9th grade) is celebrating its sixth school year with more than 240 students and is now enrolling through 10th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment in its virtual academy and part-time students, and has been serving students for more than 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. The King’s Academy in South Dallas opened its doors to PreK-4 through 1st Grade students on Aug. 19, 2019. 

The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country. Each school places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health, scholastic endeavors, and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its spiritual development plan, and intentional biblical worldview training, is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. Prestonwood Christian Academy’s class of 2019 was offered $16.5 million in scholarship for achievement in scholastics, athletics and the arts. Since the first graduating class of 2002, PCA graduates have been offered more than $126.7 million in scholarships and have matriculated to universities near and far. PCA is currently accepting applications for the 2020-21 school year. Interested families are invited to contact pcaadmissions@prestonwoodchristian.org.

 

 *Not present for the signing.

 

---END---

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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Feb. 28, 2020-- PLANO, TX —Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) today celebrated the opening of a new 60,000 square foot Middle School at the school’s Plano campus. The $20 million building will soon be the home for the campus’ fifth through eighth graders.

PCA and Prestonwood Baptist Church leaders ceremoniously cut a ribbon celebrating the new building. “The learning that will take place here over the years for our Middle School students will have a far-reaching impact,” said PCA’s Head of School, Dr. Larry Taylor. “From STEM to outdoor learning, to the arts and collaborative spaces, our students will be challenged to use their minds in a rigorous way in an effort to bring glory to the Lord.”

The building will provide full programming for over 400 Middle School students and create visible unity and community for students as well as greater faculty collaboration. (PCA's four grades of Middle School students have previously been split between two buildings, sharing space with PCA’s Lower and Upper School students.) PCA’s Middle School students begin classes in the new building on March 16, when they return from Spring Break.

 “Our vision, our heart, has been one Middle School division under one roof providing unity, community, security and identity for our Middle School students,” said Leesa Trout, Sixth Grade English Teacher.

The new building not only creates more physical unity for Middle School students and faculty but provides opportunity for broader curriculum needs as well through collaboration space, innovation labs, a new media center/library, two technology labs and outdoor learning space.

In 2018, through the school’s EQUIP Campaign, Prestonwood Christian Academy secured funding to move forward with construction of its new Middle School building and the renovation of the Fine Arts facility. The renovated Fine Arts center, which opened in August 2019, meets the growing demands of PCA’s robust, award-winning program. The approximately 20,000 square feet of space includes a black box theatre, Fine Arts gallery hall showcasing student artists, new band hall, choir space with practice rooms and a mock trial courtroom.

“We want to thank our donors for helping us raise the millions of dollars needed to provide this state-of-the-art building,” said Dr. Taylor. “The PCA family responded generously to make our plan a reality in order to avoid incurring any long-term debt.”

Lead EQUIP Campaign donors who were recognized at the ceremony are Tim and Peggy Horner, Jim and Pamela Hillhouse, Emery and Amy Petrof and Bill and Trisha Ruzynski, in addition to several anonymous donors.

“This is now one of the most premier places on the Prestonwood Campus with the beautiful view of the lake and the Divine Servant statue,” said Pastor Graham. “But the real beauty is the Kingdom education that will take place here—a partnership between a family, the church and our school.”

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at five campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 9th grade) is celebrating its sixth school year with more than 240 students and is now enrolling through 10th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment in its virtual academy, and part-time students, and has been serving students for more than 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. The King’s Academy in South Dallas opened its doors to PreK-4 through 1st Grade students on Aug. 19, 2019. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country. Each school places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health, scholastic endeavors, and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its spiritual development plan, and intentional biblical worldview training, is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. Prestonwood Christian Academy’s class of 2019 was offered $16.5 million in scholarship for achievement in scholastics, athletics and the arts. Since the first graduating class of 2002, PCA graduates have been offered more than $126.7 million in scholarships and have matriculated to universities near and far. PCA is currently accepting applications. Interested families are invited to take a campus tour or attend an upcoming School Preview to learn more! Details and registration are available at prestonwoodchristian.org/preview.

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Today Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) honored three student athletes who signed Letters of Intent to play football at the collegiate level.

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

Linebacker Graham Hill will play football at Georgetown University this fall. Graham was named a captain 2019 Lions Football Program and was 1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-State and Academic All-State in TAPPS Division 1. Graham’s statistics for the 2019 season included 128 tackles, 23 tackles for a loss, two interceptions, two touchdowns and two forced fumbles. He was also the Defensive Player of the Week for the Dallas Morning News and Hero of the Week as well.

Dayton Toney signed to play football at the University of Hawaii. Dayton is a three-year varsity letterman and a two-year, two-way starter who was selected to the TAPPS District 2, 2nd Team All-District Team as a receiver this season. He was also selected to be a captain for the 2019 Lions Football Program. This past season, Dayton had 29 receptions for 400 yards and two touchdowns, 311 yards in kick returns with another touchdown and 23 tackles at safety.

Riley Wilson will play football at the University of Hawaii this fall. Riley has been a three-year varsity starter and was a captain for the Lions Football Program in 2019. He has been a force on both sides of the ball playing linebacker on the 2017 State Championship Team, and then making 1st Team All-District and TAPPS 2nd Team All-State at receiver in 2018. In 2019, before the season started, Riley won the MVP Award for receivers at the Nike Opening in Dallas. An injury in the Lions’ sixth game of the season forced Wilson to miss all of the district games, but through the first six games he had 26 receptions for 433 yards and five touchdowns along with 27 tackles, six tackles for losses and two interceptions with a return for a touchdown. He returned to lead his team into the playoffs amassing more than 200 additional yards receiving and three more touchdowns!

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at five campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 9th grade) is celebrating its sixth school year with more than 240 students and is now enrolling through 10th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment in its virtual academy, and part-time students, and has been serving students for more than 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. The King’s Academy in South Dallas opened its doors to PreK-4 through 1st Grade students on Aug. 19, 2019. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country. Each school places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health, scholastic endeavors, and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its spiritual development plan, and intentional biblical worldview training, is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. Prestonwood Christian Academy’s class of 2019 was offered $16.5 million in scholarship for achievement in scholastics, athletics and the arts. Since the first graduating class of 2002, PCA graduates have been offered more than $126.7 million in scholarships and have matriculated to universities near and far. PCA is currently accepting applications. Interested families are invited to take a campus tour or attend an upcoming School Preview to learn more! Details and registration are available at prestonwoodchristian.org/preview.

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PCA Signing Day L to R: Ryan Patterson, baseball Baylor University; River Ridings, baseball Texas Christian University; Caroline Stogner, volleyball The University of Alabama at Birmingham; Luke Savage, baseball Texas Christian University; and Jack Walton, baseball Colorado School of Mines

 Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) honored five athletes and PCAplus, PCA’s online school, celebrated three athletes, all who will play their sport at the university level.

Head of School, Dr. Larry Taylor, commended the students for their achievements. “At Prestonwood Christian Academy our goal is that students would enter the classroom or athletic field being challenged to go above and beyond. I am very pleased to be a part of the ceremony today and want to commend the students, parents, faculty and coaches as we celebrate the next step of the journey for these students.”

Earlier in the day, PCA held a signing ceremony for five student athletes:

Senior Caroline Stogner of Lewisville signed to join the University of Alabama at Birmingham volleyball program next year. Stogner has excelled on PCA’s Volleyball Team, playing in the State Championship title game in 2017 (State Championship Runner-Up), 2018 (State Championship) and 2019 (State Championship Runner-Up.) She was named First Team All-District in 2017, 2018 and 2019 and was the District MVP in 2018 and 2019. Stogner was named to the All-State Tournament Team in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Ryan Patterson from Carrollton has committed to play baseball at Baylor University. In the 2019 season, the team named him Co-Offensive Player of the Year, and in District he was named Offensive Player of the Year, second ranked player in the district and was 1st Team All-District and 1st Team All-State. In 2018, Patterson was named 1st Team All-District and was named the Lions’ MVP and Offensive MVP. In 2017, he was the Co-Defensive Player of the Year for the Lions. 

River Ridings of Carrollton committed to play baseball at Texas Christian University as a sophomore, and today he officially signed the paperwork. He was named PCA’s 2019 Co-Defensive Player of the Year, and in District play, he was the Pitcher of the Year, fourth ranked player in the district, 1st Team All-District and 1st Team All-State. In 2018, Ridings was the team’s Co-Defensive MVP and was named to the 1st Team All-District. In 2017, Ridings received Honorable Mention All-District.

Luke Savage of Dallas also committed to play baseball at Texas Christian University during his sophomore year. Last season he was the Lions’ Team Co-Offensive Player of the Year and MVP. Savage was named the District MVP, first ranked player in the District, was on the 1st Team All-District and 1st Team All-State, as well as being named Academic All-State. In both 2017 and 2018, Savage was the team’s Co-Defensive MVP and named to 2nd Team All-District.

Jack Walton of Carrollton, PCA's Varsity second baseman, will join the Colorado School of Mines baseball team next year.

Later, PCAplus held a signing day ceremony for three students who participate in high-level gymnastics outside of school. The flexibility of online classes via PCAplus has helped these athletes maintain their rigorous training schedules.

Madison Benson, from Coppell, a four-time Junior Olympics (JO) National Qualifier (2016-2019) will attend North Carolina State University. In 2019, she achieved second on the floor and tenth in All Around (AA) at the Junior Olympics. Benson was a 2019 State Champion Level 10 State AA as well as a Regional Qualifier, Vault Champion, fourth on floor and third in AA.

Chae Campbell of Carrollton will attend the University of California at Los Angeles. Campbell has been nominated for the 2019 Junior Olympics National Gymnast of the Year Award, is a 2019 JO National Team Member and attended the 2019 Women's Junior Olympic National Championships in Indianapolis where she placed second in Floor Exercise and third in All Around. She also competed at the 2019 Level 10 Texas State Championships placing first in Vault, third in Bars, second on Beam, second on Floor and second All Around. She competed at the 2018 Level 10 Texas State Championships placing first in Vault, and first on Bars. In 2017, Campbell competed internationally in France and helped the team place third and she placed first on Vault individually.

Isabel Mabanta of Frisco will attend the University of Denver next year. She is the 2019 Regional Level 10 All Around Champion and the Regional Beam Champion. In 2018, Mabanta was the JO National Beam Champion, and at 2017 International Competition in Belgium, she was in the Top 15 All Around out of more than 20 countries.

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FPSPI Grand Champion Scenario Winner Davis Works and coach Susan Ellis

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) sent more than 10 students to the Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) Conference at Massachusetts Amherst from June 6-9, 2019, where the school took top honors.

At the International competition, PCA students had the strongest showing across all the competitions that Texas has ever had in its nearly 40-year history with the program. More than 23,000 students from 13 different countries (such as Turkey, New Zealand, China, Korea, Israel, Norway) compete at state or regional levels throughout the school year. More than 2,500 problem solving champions from the most successful teams and individuals convened at the International Conference to recognize their accomplishments and compete at the highest level.

In the Global Issues competition, Prestonwood Christian Academy teams made Texas history by having two teams place in the top five of the Senior team Global Issues competition. PCA teams placed second (Courtney Brooks, Ishwania Christopher, Bryson Franks, Sean Lee) and fifth (Katy Jacobs, Hunter McCall, Anna Murray, Davis Works) only placing behind the first-place team from Singapore. That team also placed fourth in the Presentation of Action Plan competition. Senior Davis Works placed first in the Scenario Performance competition. And, in the Community Problem Solvers competition, eighth grader Jade Hernandez (PCA-Middle Division) placed second.

PCA also competed in the MAGIC competition, in which students are placed on a team of four with students from other states or countries to complete the problem-solving process as well. Senior Paloma Diaz-Minshew placed first in this competition with her teammates. Gaby Goonetilleke, also a Senior, placed second with her team members.

"I am incredibly proud of this talented group of students. Unlike the team qualifiers, each of these winners was given the task to compete on a team comprised of students they did not know—adding to the challenge," said Shannon Lichty, PCA's Upper School FPS coach and Pre-AP English I teacher. "The Creative Problem Solving Process taught by FPSPI is invaluable in that it teaches critical thinking and writing skills in a timed setting which helps students excel in high school and college classes and the professional world."

The Future Problem Solving Program was founded in 1974 by Dr. E. Paul Torrance to stimulate critical and creative thinking skills, encourage students to develop a vision for the future and prepare students for leadership roles. FPSPI involves thousands of students annually from all over the world.

Each year, PCA continues to excel in this higher-level education program by competing against gifted and talented students from across the state for a chance to compete at the International level.

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at five campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 9th grade) is celebrating its sixth school year with more than 220 students and is now enrolling through 10th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment in its virtual academy, and part-time students, and has been serving students for more than 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA's School System in 2017. The King's Academy in South Dallas opened its doors to PreK-4 through 1st Grade students on Aug. 19, 2019. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country. Each school places great value on the growth of students' spiritual health, scholastic endeavors, and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its spiritual development plan, and intentional biblical worldview training, is PCA's rigorous Liberal Arts academic program.

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2017 HS Team State Champions Avery Powell, Jordan Gile, Natania Christopher and Lexi Colan moved on from being State champs to compete at Internationals in 2017.

For the 20th consecutive year, Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) is sending multiple teams of students to the Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) Conference. In April 1999, PCA’s first FPS team placed at state and advanced to the international competition, and this year, PCA is sending 19 students to the 2019 International Conference on June 5 at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

PCA’s students will join Future Problem Solvers from around the globe to celebrate the final round of their competitive season at the FPS International Conference. About 2,500 problem solving champions advance to the international level from the more than 23,000 students who compete at local and regional levels throughout the school year from 13 different countries.

PCA places great importance on the FPS program, which begins at the school’s Plano campus in sixth grade and at the Prosper campus in fifth.

“PCA is focused on preparing students for the future,” said Head of School Dr. Larry Taylor. “In addition to advanced technology and innovative learning spaces we want to cultivate the 21st century skills of Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication and Collaboration.  The Future Problem Solving Program is essential to developing these skills.”

The success of FPS at PCA has continued to grow throughout the past 20 years thanks to Shannon Lichty, PCA’s Upper School FPS coach and Upper School English teacher, who started the program at the school in 1998. “I am incredibly proud of our talented FPS students,” she said. “The creative problem-solving process taught by FPSPI is invaluable in that it teaches critical thinking and writing skills in a timed setting which helps students excel in high school and college classes and the professional world.”

Each year, PCA continues to excel in this higher-level education program by competing against gifted and talented students from across the state for a chance to compete at the international level. Alumni regularly return to PCA to validate that their time in the school’s FPS program was a difference-maker after high school.

“FPS isn’t just a school competition, it is a valuable tool that has taught me how to think critically and problem solve in a logical yet creative manner,” said Josh Anil, PCA Class of 2017, a biochemistry major at Rice University. “The six step-problem solving process is not an arbitrary creation but is the way that my professors, researchers, and bosses expect me to think. Furthermore, the ability to work in a team setting has been invaluable in the next stage of my life. From consulting to scientific research, problem solving, and teamwork are everywhere, and my participation in FPS has left me well-prepared not only for college but for my professional life ahead.”

According to a press release from FPSPI, students will compete in the following events with the theme of de-extinction at the International Conference:

“Global Issues Problem Solving and Scenario competitors arrive equipped to tackle potential de-extinction problems set in the near future. These teams and individuals must research all aspects of the topic to be prepared for competitive events where a futuristic scenario will be analyzed and addressed. Community Problem Solving projects will be a highlight of this event as well. Student-driven, they identified a unique need in their community and implemented a plan of action through service to solve these issues and enhance the world for a brighter future.”

“As the students arrive at the International Conference, they bring enthusiasm and creativity ready to tackle the world’s toughest problems,” said April Dennis, FPSPI Executive Director. “They are equipped with critical and creative thinking skills and ready to collaborate with others from around the globe. Their energy is contagious. The promise of tomorrow that these students bring is a highlight to the year of work behind their efforts. We are proud of all the work these students, and their coaches and parents perform throughout the year. With all the negativity in the world today, these students highlight the positive futures that are attainable.”

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at three campuses: Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 8th grade) and PCAplus Virtual Academy. PCA North is celebrating its fifth school year with more than 180 students and is now enrolling through 9th Grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023!  PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment and has been serving students for 10 years. PCA has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. The school 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. Since its first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2019, graduates have been offered more than $126 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning.

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Dylan Cadwallader signs with Dartmouth.

On Feb. 5, 2019, Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) honored six student athletes who signed Letters of Intent to play football at the collegiate level. Four other PCA players had signed on Dec. 19, 2018, during Early Football Signing Day, making this the school's largest football signing class in its history.

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

Quarterback Dylan Cadwallader of Frisco signed to play at Dartmouth College next year.  He transferred to Prestonwood in the spring of his Junior year and was voted Captain by his teammates based on his leadership qualities before 2018 season began. Cadwallader, an AP Scholar with distinction, was 2018 TAPPS D1 District 2 First Team All-District Quarterback, District 2 Offensive Player of the Year, Second Team All-State Quarterback and Academic All-State. Cadwallader was also named Ford Built Tough Player of the Week during the season, which resulted in him passing for 3,325 yards and completing 38 touchdowns.  

Four-year varsity starter Austin Rodriguez of Carrollton signed to play at Augustana University. He has attended Prestonwood since his Sophomore year and helped the Lions make the playoffs all three years, while playing different positions each season. During those three years, Rodriguez was part of winning two District Championships and two State Championships. In 2018, he was named First Team All-District Center and First Team All-State Center.

Easton Reeves of Frisco signed with The University of Oklahoma. After succeeding in offensive positions at his former high school resulting in 80 receptions for 1,291 yards and 15 touchdowns, Reeves transferred to Prestonwood for his Senior year and was asked to take a defensive role for the team. He received Honorable Mention All-District Linebacker and will play defense at OU.

After suffering a season-ending injury in PCA’s first 2018 scrimmage, Ben Blakeman of Allen signed to play at Hardin-Simmons University next year. He was a varsity letterman for the University Interscholastic League 6A State Championship Team prior to transferring to Prestonwood.

Michael Daniel of Highland Village is a three-year letterman and two-year varsity starter at defensive tackle who has signed to play at Southern Nazarene University. He was part of PCA’s 2017 State Championship Team, and in 2018, Daniel was named First Team All-District and First Team All-State.

Three-year varsity letterman Ryan Jackson of Plano signed with Drake University after starting as defensive end for the Lions for the past two years. Jackson led the district in sacks during his Junior year when the team won the State Championship. He received 2018 All-District Honorable Mention.

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at three campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 8th grade) is celebrating its fifth school year with more than 170 students and is now enrolling through 9th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment and has been serving students for 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. Through a collaborative effort with community ministries and programs, Prestonwood Christian Academy recently announced that The King’s Academy will open its doors in Bonton/South Dallas in the fall of 2019 serving students in PreK-4 through 1st grade. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. Each school 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.

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PCA Football Players From left to right, Jonah Brewster, Virdel Edwards, Austin Stogner and Solomon Turner sign letters of intent to play football at D-1 universities.

On Dec. 19, 2018, Early Football Signing Day, Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) honored four student athletes who signed Letters of Intent to continue their education and play football at the collegiate level.

Head of School, Dr. Larry Taylor, commended the students for their achievements. “At Prestonwood Christian Academy our goal is that students would enter the classroom or athletic field being challenged to go above and beyond. I am very pleased to be a part of the ceremony today and want to commend the students, parents, faculty and coaches as we celebrate the next step of the journey for these young men.”

Jonah Brewster, 6’7’’ and 280 pounds, secured two awards in his football career. He was recognized as Second Team All-District for Offensive Line in 2017 and Honorable Mention All-District in 2018. He will attend Louisiana Tech University.

Virdel Edwards, 6’3’’ and 190 pounds, was recognized as a Defensive Back three years in a row. He was named Honorable Mention All-District in 2016, Second Team All-District in 2017, and First Team All-District and First Team All-State in 2018. Edwards made it to the playoffs four straight years, three of which were as a Bi-District Champion. In 2015 and 2017, he was part of the State Championship team. Next year, Edwards will attend Iowa State University.

Austin Stogner, 6’6’’ and 240 pounds, has earned a list of accolades during his time at PCA. In 2016, he was named Honorable Mention All-District for Defensive End and Honorable Mention All-District for Tight End. He was recognized for Tight End on the First Team All-District and First Team All-State in 2017 and 2018. Stogner also made it to the playoffs four years in a row, was a Bi-District Champion three years, State Semi-final Champion, and State Champion in 2015 and 2017. Stogner is currently ranked as a Top 3 Tight End in the nation and is ranked as 72nd recruit nationally. In November, Stogner was presented with the All-American Bowl Jersey and will play on the All-American team Saturday, January 5, at 1:00 p.m. in San Antonio. He will attend the University of Oklahoma in January.

Solomon Turner, 6’3” and 210 pounds, has a record which reflects his versatility as a player. He was recognized in 2017 as Second Team All-District for Defensive Back. This season, he earned the impressive title of District 2 Most Outstanding Player, as well as First Team All-District for Wide Receiver, Second Team All-District for Defensive Back, and First Team All-State for Wide Receiver. With teammates, Edwards and Stogner, he made it to the playoffs four years in a row, was a Bi-District Champion three years, State Semi-final Champion, and State Champion in 2015 and 2017. He will attend Baylor University in January.

“I am proud of these four athletes that we are honoring here today,” said PCA’s Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Chris Cunningham. “They are not only athletically talented, but they have hearts for the Lord, and I am excited to watch them impact the culture and teams at the schools they are going to next year.”

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at three campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 8th grade) is celebrating its fifth school year with more than 170 students and is now enrolling through 9th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment and has been serving students for 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. Through a collaborative effort with community ministries and programs, Prestonwood Christian Academy recently announced that The King’s Academy will open its doors in Bonton/South Dallas in the fall of 2019 serving students in PreK-4 through 1st grade. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. Each school 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.

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The King's Academy Leadership At the announcement ceremony, a group of new board members, supporters and the Head of School gather for photos.

Leaders celebrated the announcement of a new private Christian school called The King’s Academy in the Bonton/South Dallas community today with a reception at Buckeye Commons Recreation Center (formerly known as Turner Courts Recreation Center). In its inaugural year, 2019-2020, the school will welcome students in PreK-4 through first grade and continue to add a grade every year until completion.

 

The King’s Academy will offer families a faith-based education that focuses on the heart, mind and soul of each student. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System, through a collaborative effort with several existing ministries and programs such as Bonton Farms, BridgeBuilders, Prestonwood Baptist Church, has developed strategic partnerships to not only start a school but continue the authentic transformation taking place in the community.

 

“We are humbled and excited about our partnership with The King’s Academy, which will provide a rigorous academic program combined with an effective spiritual and character development plan,” said Dr. Larry Taylor, Superintendent of Prestonwood Christian Academy School System. “Establishing a Christ-centered school focused on a child’s mind and heart is our mission. What an honor it will be to develop these boys and girls into men and women—our future leaders in areas of law, business, medicine, engineering, education, ministry or any assignment in which God calls them to excel!”

 

The school has been years in the making starting with the founding of BridgeBuilders under the direction of Mike Fechner bringing faith, hope and love to the Bonton community. Before Fechner lost his battle to cancer in 2014, he shared his vision to open a Christian school in Bonton. In 2013, Bonton Farms was formed under Daron Babcock providing an agricultural intervention to restore lives, create jobs and ignite hope in South Dallas. One of Bonton Farms’ six pillars to transforming a community is education. In 2017, Norm Miller, Chairman of the Board of Interstate Batteries, contacted Babcock about starting a Christian School in Bonton, still interested in funding Fechner’s original vision. Miller and Babcock met with Dr. Larry Taylor of Prestonwood Christian Academy, and a group formed to conduct weekly strategic planning sessions.

 

In early 2018, Norm and Anne Miller committed to provide start-up funding for The King’s Academy, and the school board was formed. Dr. Shailendra Thomas, a nationally respected educator has been announced as the inaugural Head of School for The King’s Academy. She has more than 30 years of experience in education including serving for 13 years as Head of School at Fellowship Christian Academy under Dr. Tony Evans’ church ministry. Dr. Thomas grew up in Bonton and is looking forward to returning to the place of her childhood.

 

“I believe that education involves more than a child’s intellectual abilities; it should ultimately inspire learners to fulfill God’s purpose in their lives,” said Dr. Thomas.

The King’s Academy’s tuition model is based on a family’s income in order for Kingdom education to be affordable for all children. In addition, breakfast and lunch will be provided for students as well as quality after-school programming from community ministries. Generous donors will make this funding model possible.

 

For more information on how to enroll in or support The King’s Academy, please visit www.tkadallas.org.

 

Prestonwood Christian Academy serves more than 1,600 students enrolled at three campuses as part of its school system. PCA Plano serves Pre-K3 through 12th grade. PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 8th grade) is celebrating its fifth school year with more than 170 students and is now enrolling through 9th grade as it grows to the first graduating class of 2023. PCAplus is celebrating record-breaking enrollment and has been serving students for 10 years. St. Timothy Christian Academy is a K through 12th grade school for students with learning differences which joined PCA’s School System in 2017. Prestonwood Christian Academy School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. Each school 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.