Mondays with Mike: Celebrating Growth, Gratitude, and Wonder

This week we wrap up the third quarter, and I want to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable growth we’ve seen in your children—spiritually, academically, and in character. Whether they’ve stretched themselves in the classroom, stepped onto the athletic field, or served others with joy, it’s been a blessing to witness their progress.

Spring athletics tryouts are in full swing, and our Upper School drama team has returned from festival competition—thank you for encouraging and supporting them. We’re also grateful for the overwhelming generosity shown through our school auction. Your gifts strengthen our mission and bless students and faculty alike—thank you. Finally, we are now about a third of the way through the Easter season (Lent), and I pray this is an enriching time for you and your family—a season of reflection, hope, and deeper faith as we look to the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This Week’s Highlight: The Great Kapok Tree
This week belongs to our youngest students as they step into the spotlight for The Great Kapok Tree, a beloved PCA tradition now in its 24th year. This production is more than a performance—it’s a culmination of joyful learning, creativity, and spiritual growth. Rooted in Lynn Cherry’s children’s book, it connects directly to our September focus on creation, teaching children that God made the world with care and purpose and calls us to steward it well. Through hands-on roles and vibrant storytelling, preschoolers gain confidence, delight in wonder, and participate in a community tradition that draws in families, volunteers, and even alumni. It’s a beautiful example of how we seek to glorify God by inspiring students to grow into their God-given potential.

📌 Key Takeaways: Kapok Tree Week

• Students connect to God’s creation and learn the joy of stewardship, wonder, and teamwork.
• Kapok Tree is a 24-year preschool tradition connecting learning, faith, and wonder.
• Preschoolers step into bold new roles, growing in confidence through dramatization.
• Parents and volunteers bring the production to life, reinforcing community and shared purpose.

Harlee Tuttle: Growth Through Wonder and Boldness

Harlee, our Preschool Director, shared how the Kapok Tree brings learning full circle—from September’s focus on creation to this springtime celebration of growth, confidence, and joy. She highlighted how students step into this experience with palpable excitement, taking ownership of their learning and embracing their roles with boldness and curiosity. Even reserved students find courage, growing into their potential as they declare their parts on stage. Harley described this as a hands-on, wonder-filled experience that helps students see God’s design and grow in confidence and community—planting seeds that will bear fruit now and in years to come.

Sue Long: Community Through Shared Gifts and Service

Sue, who has faithfully served at PCA for 34 years, emphasized the power of community behind the production. From volunteers sewing costumes to families donating materials, Sue shared how the Kapok Tree becomes a school-wide labor of love. She highlighted the joy of tapping into parents’ gifts—from crafting to set design—and giving them meaningful ways to serve. One highlight was sending a video of the production to author Lynn Cherry, who responded with gratitude and encouragement. Sue’s reflections show how God knits together a community of service and shared purpose, blessing our students in the process.

Beth Slater: Celebrating Student Growth and Milestones

Beth, who has been part of PCA for 25 years, reflected on the academic and personal growth she sees in each student. She highlighted how the production offers a unique moment to celebrate their development, from early struggles with letters and numbers to confidence in reading, counting, and performing. Using documentation and photos, she shares this progress with families, bridging school and home. Beth noted that many older students still vividly remember their roles in the play—a milestone experience that gives them confidence and joy in learning. She sees lasting impact—not just in the moment, but shaping hearts and memories for years to come.

🌟 Final Wrap-Up

The Kapok Tree production is a living picture of our mission—to glorify God by joyfully inspiring students to maximize their God-given potential. Through faith, community, and creativity, we see even our youngest students grow in wisdom, confidence, and wonder. Thank you for walking with us in this journey and for your continued partnership, generosity, and prayer. May this week encourage you as we together shape students—rooted in Christ, joyful in learning, and ready to serve the world for good. 

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