News

Launching Into Space Exploration In Lower School STEM

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, our Lower School STEM classes engaged in a special project celebrating the groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina astronaut in space. Students learned about Dr. Ochoa’s significant contribution to the development and control of a robotic arm that helped astronauts to walk in space. Then, they got to work on their own project, building a robotic hand. The lesson provided a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms involved in space exploration and the vital role that technology plays in advancing scientific endeavors. 

Beyond the science and technology, Lower School STEM Coordinator, Ellen Peek, led meaningful discussions about the creative gifts and abilities that God has given each one of us to use for His glory. She also shared how God has marked out specific times for us to live in, and how we each have a purpose to fulfill in our lifetimes.

 Acts 17: 26 "From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands."

Seeking God Wholeheartedly In A Circle Of Prayer & Praise

The rain that trickled down onto the roof of the SLC did not stop the many parents, students, teachers, and staff from gathering together to celebrate this year's “See You at the Pole.” 

“See You at the Pole”, is a global event that is held on the fourth Wednesday of September each year, where school communities gather together, joining their hands and hearts, to lift up their school, community, and nation in prayer.

This year's theme was “Wholeheartedly” from Jeremiah 29:13 NLT “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” 

PCA embraced this gathering with their whole heart. New Director of Student Activities and Culture, Abby Best, helped orchestrate this beautiful event, “Getting to be a part of See You At The Pole was so encouraging. It is special to see the PCA family come together and spend time in prayer and worship. We are so proud of our students for stepping out in faith and praying for their classmates, teachers and our community. It is a joy to be a part of what the Lord is doing here.”

The event started with Mr. Zubia explaining how “See You At The Pole” originated before leading the event in an opening prayer.

Flag bearers from last year, now sixth graders, Hunter Tisdale, Kassy Cameron, and Solomon Jarvis brought the flags to the center of the gym as the choir, directed by Dr. Jo Hethcox, sang the national anthem.

Afterwards, 5th graders Eloise Sherrill and Carsten Spear led everyone in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Pledge to the Bible. 

Then, one by one, members of our school’s various student organizations came up to the microphone to pray over the nation, our city and first responders, and to pray over PCA’s teachers, students and families.

“It was very special for me to pray for our leaders,” said senior Autumn Benton. “I think it is amazing to have the whole school together gathered in prayer. It was such a privilege to pray with everyone!”

The event ended with the choir singing a medley of, “Down to the River to Pray and Shall We Gather at the River” before students went off to school and parents, off to their days, with a sense of gratitude that we can gather as a school family to pray and seek Him above all else.