PCA Podcasts

Celebrating PCA's Class of 2025: Faithful Forty

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 trailblazers have not only excelled academically but have also dedicated over 8,400 hours in community service, embodying the spirit of service and leadership that PCA values.Through heartfelt testimonials from students, we get a glimpse into the supportive community at PCA, where teachers and coaches have inspired growth and resilience. As these seniors step into their next chapters—some heading to prestigious institutions, others joining the workforce or serving in the military—it's evident that they carry with them the values and strengths fostered during their time at PCA.We also extend a fun challenge to younger students to achieve their growth goals, encouraging camaraderie and excellence. With incentives like pizza and ice cream on the horizon, the spirit of friendly competition is alive as we conclude a memorable year.This episode is a tribute not just to the graduating class but to the entire PCA community, whose efforts and dedication continue to make a profound impact. Here's to celebrating achievements and the bright futures ahead!

Young Voices Shine at Portsmouth Christian Academy's Fine Arts Week

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 experiences, from early musical beginnings to the exciting opportunity of participating in the Honors Choir. With heartfelt and candid insights, they reveal how teamwork, dedication, and a little sacrifice—like giving up recess for choir practice—made their musical dreams come alive.
Emily, Signe, and Kaylee describe the joyful chaos of preparing and performing with students from across New Hampshire at a packed venue in Concord. They share memorable moments, including the thrills of singing "Defying Gravity" loud and proud with hundreds of other voices. The trio goes on to discuss how they balanced melodies with simpler parts, adapted to challenges, and drew on their faith for support and guidance throughout their musical journey.
From rehearsals with their supportive music teacher, Mrs. Schifano, to balancing schoolwork and practice schedules, the girls encapsulate the essence of harmony both in music and camaraderie. Their experiences offer a beautiful blend of music, faith, and teamwork, showcasing the power of young voices uniting. Don't miss this enchanting episode that celebrates young talent and the arts!

Behind the Curtains: Meet the Stars of PCA's 'Music Man'

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 role of Marion, while Grace Whack brings humor to the stage as Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn. Meet Donovan, who takes on the intriguing twist character Charlie Cowell, and Owen, the comedic Marcellus Washburn. Each actor delves into the journey that brought them to theater, the influence of their mentors, and the lessons learned along the way.
More than just a performance, this musical is a testament to the students’ commitment, creativity, and faith. Listen as the cast reflects on personal inspirations, the role of God in their artistic pursuits, and the invaluable support from their teachers and community. Whether you are a theater enthusiast or curious about the transformative power of performing arts, this episode offers a delightful and insightful glimpse into the making of a captivating show.

Celebrating Our Heroes: Teacher Appreciation Week Special

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 engaging physics classes to Mrs. G's patient guidance in biology, each testimonial highlights the dedication and care these teachers bring to the classroom.
Listen in as students share touching stories of how their teachers have inspired them, supported them through challenging times, and created a nurturing learning environment. From teaching complex subjects with ease to attending extracurricular activities, our teachers' commitment to education and student well-being shines through.
We hope these stories encourage teachers to continue their incredible work and remind parents of the wonderful educators shaping their children's futures. Celebrate with us as we honor the unsung heroes of education during this special week.

"Spring Awakening at PCA: Celebrating Community and Growth"

Join Mike as he returns to PCA's podcast, sharing gratitude for the support and prayers he received during his recent recovery from surgery. As 'Mondays with Mike' surpasses 5,000 downloads, it speaks volumes about the community's interest in the stories of students, teachers, and God's work at PCA.Reflecting on the recent Easter celebrations, Mike highlights the timeless message of hope and renewal that it brings to PCA families. The campus is abuzz with the arrival of spring, as vibrant forsythia and freshly mowed lawns signal the awakening of nature.During his recovery walks with Penny, the copper-colored golden doodle, Mike shares delightful encounters with wildlife on PCA's expansive campus, where 70 acres of land and half a mile of riverfront are coming to life.As the school year enters its final stretch, it's an incredibly eventful time at PCA. From the National Day of Prayer gathering to celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week, the PCA community is buzzing with meaningful events. Parent volunteers are actively preparing the campus for upcoming celebrations, while a spirit of gratitude envelops the collective effort.Students are busy with diverse activities, from working on capstone projects like Sea Perch STEM projects to preparing for final assessments and AP exams. Mike shares the optimism of seeing the growth and achievements being celebrated within the PCA classrooms.The Music Man, PCA's spring musical, promises to be a grand affair, involving nearly 100 students from various grades. At the same time, spring sports are in full swing, offering students unique opportunities for character development and teamwork.Amid this bustling period, Mike extends a hand of encouragement to families, urging them to finish the school year with faith, joy, and community spirit. As the season progresses, PCA remains a hub of activity and growth, united in anticipation of closing the year on a triumphant note.

Unveiling the Power of Prayer: A Journey with the Altar Prayer Club

Welcome to this special podcast episode as we start exploring the significance of the National Day of Prayer, set to happen in early May. Today, we have the privilege to hear from members of the Altar Prayer Club, an incredible group dedicating their efforts to deepen prayer lives and strengthen spiritual communities within their school. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journeys, witnessing how they've experienced God's work and the profound impact their club has had on their peers.
We'll begin with their club sponsor and mentor, Miss Amy St. John, who discusses how this amazing initiative came to life, emphasizing prayer's role in personal growth and community support. Students of various grades share their perspectives, detailing innovative ways they've integrated prayer into daily life, such as breath prayers and liturgies, and the creation of a prayer board to support peers facing everyday challenges and emotions.
Through heartfelt dialogues, these young women express how prayer has transformed their small groups and personal lives, leading to greater trust, peace, and a more connected relationship with God. Their candid stories provide valuable insights for anyone eager to understand prayer's profound, personal, and communal impact. Prepare to be inspired by their journey and consider how their practices might influence your own prayer life.

Part 2: From Humble Beginnings to a Beacon of Christian Education

This episode, the second part of the interview with Headmaster Emeritus Dennis Runey, takes you on an inspiring journey through the remarkable growth of Portsmouth Christian Academy. Starting from its early days with minimal infrastructure, the academy has transformed into a flourishing campus, serving as a lighthouse for Christian education in New England. The conversation delves into the challenges and divine interventions that paved the way for rapid developments, including the construction of new facilities and the expansion of student enrollment.
The narrative explores the strategic decisions made to sustain growth and maintain a robust educational environment despite initial doubts and geographical shifts. The discussion highlights the significance of strategic financial planning and community support that turned the vision of a high-quality Christian education facility into reality.
Listeners will gain insights into the broader cultural and legislative headwinds faced by Christian schools and how PCA uniquely navigated these challenges. With a focus on the future, the episode addresses the promising developments in school choice legislation and the potential for increased financial accessibility for more families.
The heart of the episode captures the enduring legacy of the school's graduates, demonstrating the long-term impact of a PCA education on individuals, families, and communities. With personal anecdotes and reflections, the story of PCA becomes a testament to the dedication of its educators and the divine providence believed to guide its mission.
Join this captivating discussion on the transformative impact of Christian education and the relentless pursuit of excellence at Portsmouth Christian Academy.

Part 1: A Journey of Faith: Dennis Runey's PCA Legacy

In this special episode, join us as we sit down with Dennis Runey, a pivotal figure in the history of Portsmouth Christian Academy (PCA), to explore his personal journey and the evolutionary tale of PCA. Dennis, a retired army serviceman, recounts how his transition to New Hampshire led him to an unexpected path: shaping the future of Christian education on the Seacoast.
Discover how Dennis's initial challenges and humble beginnings at Bethel Christian Academy turned into a story of perseverance, innovation, and growth for PCA amidst financial constraints and changing landscapes. His narrative takes us through crucial early decisions, such as establishing a rigorous academic and spiritual curriculum, expanding to high schools, and finding homes for the quickly growing student body in elusive buildings.
This episode highlights Dennis's strategic leadership in navigating PCA through various infrastructural and organizational challenges, including their miraculous acquisition of the current PCA campus in 1999. Listeners will gain insights into the dedicated community of teachers, parents, and leaders who relentlessly pursued quality education grounded in Christian values.
Dennis's reflections serve as a testament to the power of faith and collaboration in overcoming adversity and building a lasting educational legacy. Whether you're familiar with PCA's story or new to its history, Dennis Runey's experiences and insights offer encouragement and inspiration for the PCA community and beyond.

Inside the Magic of the Kapok Tree: A Preschool Tradition

Welcome to the PCA community as we kick off Kapok Tree Week! This engaging episode features a deep dive into the beloved preschool tradition of the "Kapok Tree" play, a captivating production based on Lynn Cherry's children's book. Join Mike as he sits down with Harley Tuttle, Sue Long, and Beth Slater, who share their experiences and insights on this cherished event.
The episode unravels the origins and evolution of the Kapok Tree play, which started back in 2001. Initially performed within the preschool, the magic has now been elevated to the school's main stage, thanks to the collaboration and support of passionate parents and volunteers. Listen as the guests recount heartwarming stories of creativity and community, from costume-making to set design, highlighting the immense effort poured into this annual spectacle.
More than just a play, the Kapok Tree production entwines learning with faith, reinforcing the curriculum's focus on creation and nurturing a sense of wonder in young minds. The discussion highlights how this event is not just an educational milestone but also a memorable journey for the children, fostering connections that resonate throughout the PCA community.
As the episode unfolds, discover the plans for the 25th anniversary of the Kapok Tree, aiming to bring together alumni and former participants for a grand celebration. The hosts offer a heartfelt invitation to all listeners to witness the enchantment and joy of this year's performance.

Behind the Scenes of the 30th Annual PCA Auction

Welcome PCA community to a special episode recorded just before the exciting 30th Annual PCA Auction! In today's episode, we sit down with two remarkable members of our dedicated auction team, Kirsten Schultz and Liz LaJoy, who share their heartfelt journeys and crucial roles in making the auction possible. Both Kirsten and Liz started as volunteers, deeply connected by their families' experiences with PCA's community and variable tuition program, eventually stepping into more substantial roles to bring this cherished event to life.
Learn about the intricate preparation involved in organizing the auction, from marketing and graphics to coordinating with numerous volunteers and even the crucial procurement team connecting with local businesses. Discover the touching and inspirational stories behind the event and how each paddle raised during the "Sponsor a Child" moment represents prayer and hope, contributing directly to making PCA accessible for families in need.
This episode also sheds light on the tireless efforts of every staff member, volunteer, and even the city of Dover in supporting PCA's mission. As Kirsten and Liz reflect on the past years, they share aspirations for future auctions, envisioning a more connected and inclusive community both within PCA and spanning wider, fostering compassionate connections that enrich everyone's experience.
Whether you're part of the 450 families in our community or a friendly neighbor in Dover, this episode is an invitation to appreciate the unity and support that make our annual auction a heartfelt testament to the power of collective effort and God's enduring provision. Listen in and be inspired by the immense impact every small contribution can create in our thriving PCA community.