Mondays with Mike: We Got the Spirit

Happy Homecoming!

I don’t know about you, but the energy and community connection from last week are still with me as I write this. I hope the same for you. The dress-up days, pep rallies, sporting events all week, bonfires and lock-ins, and Dig Pink all brought our school community together. Thanks to all the many volunteers who surged to make it happen. 

As I watched and sensed what was happening among our students, I thought that hearing the voices our students–six 8th, 9th, and 11th graders–would paint an even more full picture of the school spirit side from the inside, and why PCA’s distinct school spirit blesses and benefits all your kids/our students in every season and every activity.  Enjoy!

Key Takeaways

  1. Inclusive School Spirit: PCA’s school spirit is more than just cheering at games—it’s about fostering a strong sense of community where all students, regardless of their activities or friend groups, feel valued and included.
  2. Christian Values in Action: School spirit at PCA reflects the school’s Christian foundation, with students showing respect, humility, and grace both in victory and defeat, on and off the field.
  3. Cross-Activity Support: Whether it’s sports, theater, or other events, PCA students and staff rally together, creating a close-knit, supportive environment across all areas of school life.
  4. Widespread Community: PCA’s school spirit connects students from over 50 towns, demonstrating the power of unity within a diverse and wide-reaching community.
A cheering crowd in a gym with a scoreboard showing Eagles 24, Guest 20, in the second period.

“1 more point!” PCA student section stands to cheer on their team to close out the set–this one would go to 5 sets in the  win! Go Eagles!

Homecoming bonfire is a beloved tradition full of fellowship, music, and celebration–one alums recall as the a highlight of their days as an Eagle.

Children walking in a line indoors, with one child in front wearing a neon outfit and sunglasses.

Lite-Brite or Neon Day at the Lower School

Fictional Character Day–Middle School Camaraderie

A group of teenagers play a lively game of musical chairs indoors. They are dressed casually, some in pajamas, and appear to be enjoying the activity.

Pajama Day and Class Competition at Upper School


Learn more by listening below or diving deeper in the extended summary. Go Eagles!

Summary of Podcast

Welcome to another engaging episode where we dive into the vibrant school spirit at PCA, right after an exhilarating homecoming week. This episode brings together a dynamic group of student leaders who share their personal experiences and insights on what makes school spirit at PCA so unique and inspiring.

Meet Donovan, Juliana, Bowen, Andrew, Bea, and Marion as they take turns introducing themselves and recounting their favorite moments of school pride. From thrilling basketball championships to energetic pep rallies and themed dress-up days, these students paint a vivid picture of how school spirit manifests at PCA.

A person with long brown hair smiling slightly, wearing a blue shirt, against a gray background.

Julianna

A young person with short, light brown hair wearing a dark shirt, posing against a gray background.

Bowen

Portrait of a person smiling, with braided hair, wearing a floral top and a necklace, set against a gray background.

Bea

A young person with short, light hair and a teal shirt smiles slightly against a gray background.

Donovan

Portrait of a person with long blonde hair, smiling slightly, against a gray background.

Marion

A person with short, dark hair wearing a light blue collared shirt smiles against a gray background.

Andrew


Discover how PCA’s school spirit goes beyond the athletic fields, fostering a sense of unity and pride that permeates every corner of the school. The students share heartfelt stories about the supportive and inclusive environment that PCA cultivates, where everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their interests or activities.

Listen in as the students reflect on the importance of school spirit in creating long-lasting memories and building a close-knit community. They discuss how PCA encourages a spirit of humble winning and respectful competition, emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and mutual support.

Join us in celebrating the dedication and enthusiasm of these student leaders as they share their vision for sustaining and nurturing school spirit throughout the year. From athletic events to theater productions and beyond, they highlight the various ways the PCA community comes together to support one another and create a positive, encouraging atmosphere.

As we wrap up this inspiring episode, we look back on a week full of excitement and camaraderie, and we look forward to continuing this tradition of school spirit, unity, and pride at PCA. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community journey.

A volleyball team in maroon uniforms is celebrating on the court. Five players are visible, with a crowd cheering in the background.

PCA Spirit as seen Friday evening: team and fans together, with faith and humble courage, as one community! PCA is indeed a BIG smaller school: BIG is spirit and impact, smaller to enable connection and opportunity. Special thanks to Michael Griffin Photography. 


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