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Mondays with Mike: Student Leaders Shaping PCA

Chloe and Marion’s Story

September 15, 2025

Dear PCA Families,

We could not have asked for better weather as the school year settles in. Every day your children are outside enjoying God’s creation while inside they are showing strong early results on our fall benchmarks (NWEAs). These assessments set the starting line for growth this year individually and by grades. Already we are encouraged by what we see. In other news, playground construction is on track, classrooms are alive with energy, and there is so much to give thanks to God for.

This week’s podcast lifts up two of our senior leaders, Marion and Chloe, alongside Mr. Jordan Heckelmann. They speak about what it means to lead their peers, how God has shaped them through athletics, worship, and service, and why Brookwoods Day on Wednesday is such a turning point for the Upper School. I am confident you will be encouraged by their stories.

With gratitude,

Mike Runey
Head of School
Portsmouth Christian Academy

Key Takeaways from this Week’s Podcast

Student voices at the center. Chloe and Marion share how they are leading in the arts and athletics—through worship, captains’ devotions, and building community.
Leadership tested, not just taught. Mr. Heckelmann explains why we give students opportunities to actually lead—to run events, shape culture, and take initiative—because nothing forms character and leadership like responsibility.
Brookwoods Day matters. On Wednesday, 170 Upper School students will spend the day together in worship, competition, and community. And the remarkable part: our aim is for the day to be led by students from start to finish.
A picture of PCA’s difference. You will hear confidence, joy, and humility in action—young men and women already leading now, not someday. This is what sets PCA apart and why I thank the Lord for each and all of them.