PCA Podcasts

Welcome back to Mondays with Mike, a podcast aimed at fostering wisdom and partnership within the PCA community, including our students, faculty, staff, and parents. In this episode, we delve deep into the power of reading in the digital age.

With the surging influence of AI, how do we preserve the proven tradition of reading that has shaped thoughtful and well-rounded individuals through generations? Our guest, Susan Arico, a PCA ...

Welcome to another episode of "Mondays with Mike," where we embark on a journey to elevate our perspective as we prepare the next generation with wisdom, faith, and courage. Mike Runey, a seasoned leader with a deep military background, initiates a thought-provoking four-part series that challenges us to look deeper into the future, much like he did in his former role anticipating global security shifts.

This episode dives into the...

Welcome to a special episode of Mondays with Mike, where we dive into the rich tapestry of American history as our nation steps into its 250th year. As we reflect on Independence Day and the remarkable journey that has brought us to this historical milestone, we explore the profound idea that history is more than just names and dates - it is a form of discipleship and an opportunity to pass on our values to the next generation.

In...

Welcome to an insightful episode of "Mondays with Mike," where Mike Runey, head of school at Portsmouth Christian Academy (PCA), wraps up a significant four-part series. In this episode, Mike discusses the comprehensive feedback received from the Spring Parents Survey, student surveys, and staff and faculty surveys, which reflect the perspectives of the broad PCA community.

With over 300 parents responding, representing nearly 40% ...

In this engaging episode, join host Jordan Heckelmann as he sits down with key members of the STEM team at the upper school. Featuring life science teacher Jesse Graustein, math educator Bekah Shoemaker, and chemistry expert Ethan Littlefield, the discussion delves into the growth and accomplishments of students over the past year. Each educator shares inspiring stories of students overcoming challenges and thriving in various scie...

Join Jordan Heckelmann as he converses with pivotal members of the Upper School team at PCA, who, though not always in classroom roles, have a profound impact on student growth and leadership development. In this insightful episode, meet Ellen Sporko, the Leadership Development Coordinator; Amy St. John, the indispensable Administrative Assistant; and Brianna Young, the enthusiastic Academic Advisor.

Discover the dynamics of leader...

Join Jordan Hecklemann from PCA's Upper School in this insightful episode as he engages with a panel of dedicated faculty members reflecting on the remarkable growth observed during the 2024 school year. The conversation kicks off with introductions from Steve Foley, Ray Gamble, Joy Eisner, and Adam Abood, each sharing the unique courses they taught and the challenges they faced.

Dive into inspiring stories of student development, ...

In this enlightening episode, join Harley Tuttle, the dedicated preschool director at Portsmouth Christian Academy Preschool, affectionately known as PCAP, as she explores the incredible stories of growth and development witnessed in preschoolers. Accompanied by the fantastic PCAP faculty and staff, Harley delves into the world of three-year-old students making the significant transition from home to school environments.

The episod...

This episode takes us into the heart of PCAP's Pollywogs class, guided by the experienced teacher Ms. Beth, who shares her reflections on her students' remarkable journey of growth throughout the year. With almost two decades at PCA, Ms. Beth witnesses firsthand the profound development in her students, particularly in their social-emotional skills.

Under Ms. Beth’s care, the children showed amazing progress in becoming socially an...

In this episode, join Miss Betsy Hickey as she takes us on a heartfelt journey through her teaching career, from her time as a kindergarten teacher to her current role in preschool education. With a passion for social-emotional and academic growth, Miss Betsy shares her insights on the incredible development that occurs within a single school year, especially focusing on the foundational skills of reading.

Discover the magic of ear...

In this heartwarming episode, Ms. Sue, a dedicated aide at the preschool since it opened its doors 25 years ago, shares her insights on teaching faith in the classroom. This year has been a milestone in witnessing visible growth in the children's understanding of worship and their identity in God's eyes.

The episode highlights the diverse starting points of faith among the students. While some children come in with a foundational ...

Welcome, PCA community! In this episode, we dive into an intriguing conversation with Nate Paul, whom many of you might know as the mastermind behind PCA’s engaging social media presence. Nate, often behind the lens, joins us today to share his journey and the artistry involved in capturing the essence of our school.

Beyond his love for God, Nate shares his passions in life - his beloved wife, Hannah and their daughters; and his lo...

Welcome PCA families! In this insightful four-week series, we delve into the academic growth witnessed at PCA over the past year, highlighting our mission to nurture students in a world often focused solely on performance. In the first episode, we focus on the encouraging academic advances made by our students, as captured through detailed NEWA assessments. Our discussion includes how we've worked to meet and exceed growth standard...

In this episode of Mondays with Mike, we pay tribute to the remarkable Class of 2025 as they prepare to graduate from PCA. Host Mike reflects on the unique attributes of this senior class, highlighting their spiritual, academic, and personal growth. Each year, Mike conducts exit interviews and surveys with the graduating class to understand their experiences and perceptions about their education journey at PCA.

Overwhelmingly, the...

Join us in a special Memorial Day episode as we connect with two inspiring PCA graduates, Ivan Sturgis and Connor Hickey, as they share their remarkable journeys in leadership and service. Both belonging to the class of 2024, Ivan and Connor have embarked on distinguished paths, contributing to their communities and country in significant ways.

Ivan Sturgis, now a rising sophomore at Boston University, provides insights into his ex...

Join us for an inspiring episode as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of PCA's graduating class of 2025, lovingly referred to as the 'Faithful 40.' As the school year comes to a close, we reflect on the incredible growth these students have demonstrated in their faith, knowledge, and skills.

Discover the unique qualities that set the Class of 2025 apart. From taking on challenging courses to earning college credits, these tr...

Join us for a captivating episode as we get an exclusive inside look at the Fine Arts Week at Portsmouth Christian Academy. With the much-anticipated debut of "Music Man" in the school's gymatorium, the atmosphere is electric. In this episode, we sit down with three talented sixth graders—Signe, Emily, and Kaylee—who share their inspiring journey as part of the Elementary Honors Choir.

These young vocalists reflect on their experie...

Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of PCA's musical week, featuring a behind-the-scenes look at their upcoming production of 'Music Man.' In this episode, we welcome four talented cast members who are part of a dynamic ensemble of over 30 performers. They share their experiences, from mastering challenging roles to managing the demands of a busy rehearsal schedule.

Discover how Anna Tolley embodies the serious yet endearing...

Welcome to a special episode of "Mondays with Mike" dedicated to Teacher Appreciation Week. Join us as we hear heartfelt messages of gratitude from students, celebrating the incredible educators at PCA who are making a positive impact in their lives.

In this episode, students from various grades express their appreciation for teachers who have gone above and beyond in shaping their educational experiences. From Mr. Littlefield's e...