PCA Leaders Honored with Statewide Awards for Excellence in Christian Education

Two members of Portsmouth Christian Academy’s faculty and staff were recently recognized by the Granite State Christian Schools Association (GSCSA) for their exemplary leadership and dedication to Christian education. Mrs. Sarah Leavitt, PCA’s Chief Financial Officer and Human Resource Director, received the 2025 GSCSA Leadership Award, while Mrs. Alicia DiTommaso, Lower School teacher, was honored with the Comenius Award for excellence in Christian pedagogy.

A smiling woman in a dress standing in front of trees, representing a Christian school.

Sarah Leavitt — 2025 GSCSA Leadership Award

This award honors a board member, pastor, or community leader who has provided exceptional service to the cause of Christian education. Recipients demonstrate a life of faith in action—leading with humility, wisdom, and integrity while strengthening their school community through vision, stewardship, and servant leadership. The award recognizes those whose influence extends beyond their formal role, impacting students, families, and colleagues in lasting ways–and Mrs. Sarah Leavitt’s name could not be more fitting for that distinction.

As PCA’s CFO and Human Resource Director, Sarah carries dual responsibilities with excellence, embodying servant leadership and steadfast faith in every task she undertakes. Her journey at PCA began as a parent seeking Christ-centered education for her sons—both of whom graduated as strong contributors to their classes. From her early volunteer work to her years as Volunteer Coordinator and now senior leadership, Sarah’s heart for PCA has been unmistakable.

Known for her open door and open heart, Sarah offers wise counsel, discernment, and grace to colleagues across the school. She holds professional certifications in both finance and human resources and continues to pursue excellence that strengthens every facet of the school. Her dedication far exceeds the measure of a work week—offering her time, expertise, and joy in service to the Lord and the PCA community.

Sarah and her husband, Stephen, have long modeled faith-filled service to PCA’s mission. Her example reminds us that true leadership is not about position, but about purpose, humility, and a heart fully devoted to God.

A smiling woman in a dress standing in front of trees, representing a Christian school.

Alicia DiTommaso — 2025 GSCSA Comenius Award

Named after John Amos Comenius (1592–1670)—a pioneer of Christian education often called the Father of Modern Education—this award celebrates an educator who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of Christian pedagogy. Honorees embody the belief that all truth is God’s truth, uniting academic rigor with spiritual formation. The Comenius Award recognizes teachers who inspire students to love learning, think deeply, and see every subject through the lens of Scripture.

For more than 27 years, Mrs. Alicia DiTommaso has done just that—pouring her heart, mind, and faith into her students at Portsmouth Christian Academy.

Generations of families know that a year with Mrs. DiTommaso means a year filled with curiosity, conviction, and joy in learning. Her classroom blends academic rigor with biblical truth, creating a space where students are challenged to think deeply, reason carefully, and take ownership of their learning. Long before “motivational interviewing” became an educational trend, Mrs. DiTommaso was engaging students through Socratic dialogue—helping them discover wisdom through reflection and Scripture.

A lifelong learner herself, she continuously studies, adapts, and innovates to serve her students better. Beyond the classroom, she leads with prayerful support, steady guidance, and grace for her colleagues. Whether dressed in costume to bring Bible stories to life or crafting lessons that link faith and academics, Mrs. DiTommaso’s teaching leaves a lasting legacy of faith and wisdom for generations to come.