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PCA School System Announces Personnel Changes

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System announced a reorganization of principals at three campuses to be effective after the 2022-23 school year concludes. The approaching retirement of PCA Plano Middle School principal, Mrs. Cindy Galloway, prompted the changes.

Current PCA Plano Lower School Principal, Dr. Katie Chretien, will become the PCA North Lower School Principal. Current PCA Plano Lower School Assistant Principal, Mrs. Jan Jeffcoat, will be promoted to Principal of PCA Plano Lower School. Current PCA North Lower School Principal, Ms. Kristan Williams, will become the PCA Plano Middle School Principal.

“I couldn’t help but think of Proverbs 16:9: ‘The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps,’ when the opportunity came to deepen the Kingdom Impact for these three incredible leaders,” said Dr. Michael Goddard, PCA School System Superintendent. “Katie, Kristan, and Jan all love Jesus, love their church, love families, love teachers and staff, and use all those foundational principles to cover the students with all that love. We are excited to see what God has planned for each of these leaders in the days and years ahead.”

The school system recently announced two new assistant principals for the 2023-24 school year: Mr. Bill Doar at PCA Plano Middle School and Mrs. Becky Knight at PCA North Lower School. The school system will immediately begin a search for a new assistant principal in the Plano Lower School and continues to interview qualified candidates for a Plano Upper School assistant principal.

Dr. Katie Chretien has a wealth of experience having been in the field of education since 1998 after receiving her bachelor’s degree in Arts Secondary Education from Louisiana State University. She completed her master's in Education at LSU in 1998 and received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2007. Over the past 26 years, Chretien has served at the elementary, middle, and high school levels in various capacities in both private and public school settings. In addition to various classroom instructor roles, she served as Assistant Principal at Vivian Elementary Middle Magnet School in Shreveport, LA; Academic Dean, Classroom Teacher, Department Head, and High School Team Lead at Leadership Prep School in Frisco, TX; and Assistant Principal at Boyer Elementary in Prosper Independent School District. Chretien was appointed the Principal of PCA Plano Lower School in 2021.

Mrs. Jan Jeffcoat will soon celebrate her 20th school year at PCA Plano after spending 12 years as a 3rd Grade teacher and team leader and six years as Assistant Principal. Jeffcoat earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M Commerce and a Masters of Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University. 

Ms. Kristan Williams began her career as a Science and Math Lab teacher at Frisco ISD’s Vandeventer Middle School and quickly became a Team Leader and Student Achievement Committee Chairperson. She was appointed principal of PCA North’s Lower School last year after serving as Assistant Principal at Maus Middle School. Prior to serving in that capacity Williams was a Science Instructional Coach and Teacher for three years in addition to being the school’s Campus Improvement Team Chairperson and National Junior Honor Society Sponsor. At the district level, she was a curriculum writer for five years. She also served on the district’s Improvement Team and Diversity Task Force. Williams holds Texas Principal, Texas Teacher Evaluation Support System Appraiser, and Texas Superintendent certifications. Williams is a member of the Texas Association for Secondary School Principals, Texas Association of School Administrators and Phi Delta Kappa Honor Society. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas Tech University and a Masters of Education from the University of North Texas (UNT). She is currently pursuing a doctorate from UNT.

Prestonwood Christian Academy is made up of six schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 2,000 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA Hybrid (a three-day in classroom/two-day at home program) and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2022, graduates have been offered more than $169 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. PCA is accepting applications for the 2023-24 school year. Go to prestonwoodchristian.org/admissions for more information.

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System (PCA) announced that beginning with the 2023-24 school year, Mr. Phil Armstrong will focus his efforts as the new full-time International Student Program Director. Armstrong has been splitting his time as the Plano Middle School Assistant Principal and the international program for the past seven years, during which the program has seen major growth, necessitating a full-time leadership position.

“Phil Armstrong has brought a heart of service and discipleship to our international student program over the years,” said PCA School System Superintendent, Dr. Mike Goddard.  “The program has grown to a size now that we need a person to focus their full attention on meeting the needs of our international students, sponsors and parents. Phil brings an expertise to working with Christian International students who attend PCA. His focus is to grow each student in Christ and disciple them to make a Kingdom Impact all over the world.”

Armstrong brings a wealth of experience having been in the field of education since 1992 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in Theology from Baptist Bible College in MO. He completed his MAT in Science Education from the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD). He obtained his Texas Teaching Certificate from UTD and a Texas Secondary Education Principal Certification from Texas A&M Commerce.

Prior to joining Prestonwood Christian Academy in 2004, Armstrong taught for 12 years in the Plano Independent School District as an 8th grade science teacher and department head. During his 19-year tenure at PCA, Armstrong has served as a science teacher, Middle School science department head, Middle School Assistant Principal. He also served as the International Student Program Director for seven years during his tenure as Assistant Principal.

“The Lord has blessed our International Student Program so much since we started seven years ago,” said Armstrong. “One exciting aspect is how our program fits so well with PCA’s mission statement—we ARE making a difference for eternity! I am really looking forward to improving our international program in a healthy way that will have a positive impact on our students and strengthen our school.”

Armstrong has been married to Annette for 40 years, and the couple has two adult children, Blake and Kaylynn.

Prestonwood Christian Academy is made up of six schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 2,000 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA Hybrid (a three-day in classroom/two-day at home program) and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2022, graduates have been offered more than $169 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. PCA is accepting applications for the 2023-24 school year. Go to prestonwoodchristian.org/admissions for more information.

 

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System announced new administration roles at two of its campuses to be effective after the 2022-23 school year concludes. Mrs. Becky Knight has been appointed Assistant Principal of the PCA North Lower School and Mr. Bill Doar has been named Assistant Principal of the PCA Plano Middle School.

“Mrs. Knight will bring an array of experience in supporting our youngest learners while coming alongside parents to support our continued partnership. Her Godly leadership has had a huge impact at North and it is evident that God has called her to this role,” said Dr. Shannon Cole, PCA School System Chief Academic Officer. “In addition, we are excited to welcome Mr. Doar to his new role where he will continue to support and encourage students through his spiritual mentorship and Godly wisdom. As department head he has demonstrated leadership and is highly respected by our entire PCA community.” 

Knight has been named the first PCA North Lower School Assistant Principal after serving at Prestonwood Christian Academy North for seven years as a Pre-K 4 and Pre-K-5 teacher during which she was Team Leader and Chapel Coordinator. Knight was named the 2021-22 PCA School System Teacher of the Year. Prior to PCA, she spent 13 years at various Christian schools in North Texas in roles such as 4th Grade Teacher, 5th/6th Grade Science & Bible Teacher and Curriculum Director.

“It is with great excitement that I get to welcome Mrs. Knight into the role of assistant principal at PCA North Lower School,” said PCA North Lower School Principal Kristan Williams. “She brings a skill set that is unmatched as well as a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Mrs. Knight is a champion for children and a strong spiritual leader who exemplifies Christ in all aspects of her life. I look forward to working with her in this new capacity.”

“While I have experienced PCA as both a teacher and a parent, the purposeful discipleship of students stands out as the thing I appreciate the most,” said Knight. “To teach academic subjects not devoid of God, but with Him purposefully integrated into each area with our students is such a privilege and joy. That Biblical worldview as their foundation allows them to question, reason and defend their faith with educators that will continue to point them to Scripture and God as the source of their answers. I believe we are discipling students to view their future as more than just seeking success or temporal happiness, but God’s calling on their life.”

Knight and husband Jeremy are the parents of Ella (5th Grade), Jude (3rd Grade) and Eden (Kindergarten) who all attend PCA North. The Knights have attended Prestonwood Baptist Church North Campus for 15 years. They are active in the Redeemed Life Group and Knight serves on the vocal team.

Doar’s professional experience of 13 years in education has taken place in the Middle School setting, with the last four years as PCA Plano’s 5th Grade Math Teacher followed by serving as the 6th grade Math Teacher. Doar is currently the 6th Grade Team Leader and Math Department Chair as well as New Teacher Mentor. Earlier this year he served as PCA Plano’s Middle School Interim Assistant Principal. Doar is taking the place of Mr. Phil Armstrong, who will lead PCA’s growing International Student Program full time following the 2022-23 school year.

Doar graduated from Grove City College with his bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 2010. Additionally, he earned his M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction from The University of Mississippi in 2012 and M.Ed. in Administration & Supervision from The University of Virginia in 2019.

“Bill is a leader willing to take on responsibilities beyond the scope of his role as a teacher, department head, and team leader,” said PCA Plano Middle School Principal, Cindy Galloway. “Bill is known by others as a leader who seeks to resolve conflict by listening to others before making decisions and who is willing to trek through new paths to create the best learning experiences for students.”

Doar and his wife of 12 years, Jenny, have been members of Prestonwood Baptist Church for four years. They are active members in their Life Group, Community, where Mr. Doar regularly teaches. In addition, he serves in Prestonwood Kidz and helps coach PSO Sports. Their oldest three children Will (2nd Grade), Tay (1st Grade) and Addie (Kindergarten) are in the Hybrid Program at Prestonwood Christian Academy. Their youngest daughter, Grace is four years old and will soon be a PCA Lion as well.

 

PCA Announces Personnel Changes

PCA Promotes Angie Gray to Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer
and Hires Maria Bower as Director of Spiritual Development

Jan. 06, 2023 -- PLANO, TX Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System announced that Mrs. Angie Gray has been named Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer. In addition, PCA also announced that Mrs. Maria Bower has been appointed Director of Spiritual Development. Both appointments are effective on Jan. 9, 2023.

“As we continue to build the best private Christian school team in America, the increased impact of Angie Gray should come as no surprise to anyone who interacts with her,” said Dr. Mike Goddard, PCA School System Superintendent. “Angie brings a sense of calm and commitment in the admissions process and now will be an even stronger Christ-centered influence on our communication and admissions process from a systemic standpoint. She is one of the best in the industry. “ 

Gray’s professional experience of 21 years in education includes various roles including teacher, assistant principal and principal, all at National Blue Ribbon Schools. Gray has served for the past seven years at PCA as Senior Director of Admissions, overseeing enrollment at PCA Plano, North, Hybrid, and Online. In her new role, Gray will oversee the PCA School System’s enrollment, marketing, communications and event functions.

Gray earned her M.Ed. in Educational Administration (1996) and BS in Interdisciplinary Studies (1993) from University of North Texas. She holds multiple certifications including Mid-Management Administrator, Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education.

“Serving at Prestonwood Christian Academy is the highlight of my professional life, and I am humbled and honored to take on an enhanced leadership role in the PCA School System,” said Gray. “I am excited to have a greater opportunity to make a positive impact for Christ and to contribute to the pursuit of excellence that is a difference factor at PCA.”

Gray and her husband of 22 years, Terry, have been members of Prestonwood Baptist Church for more than 15 years. Their children Madelyn (11th Grade) and Mason (8th Grade) have attended Prestonwood Christian Academy Plano since Kindergarten.   

Mrs. Maria Bower will oversee the spiritual development of students in the PCA School System.

“Maria Bower has a true heart to serve,” said Goddard. “Her commitment to Christ and growing others to deeper faith is a perfect partnership for PCA. Her role as a parent, mentor, biblical counselor and Godly wife will help strengthen our parents, students and staff in their walk with Christ. Our spiritual development program is a distinguishing quality of what we do, and Maria will ensure we lead well in Christ first in the days and years ahead.”

Bower’s professional experience began in 1990 as a U.S. Navy Health Information Systems Officer (American College of Healthcare Executives Certified) and White House Military Social Aide. She received her MBA in Business Administration from The George Washington University in 1992 and received a BS in Business Administration from Jacksonville University in 1990. Bower completed Biblical Counselor certificates from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. Bower is a public speaker sharing her “Christian Public Health Message” emphasizing spiritual health as the key to unlocking physical and emotional well-being, based on her Faith Vs. Weight series.

“The LORD has given me great enthusiasm (joy of my soul) for the students, parents, and staff of PCA,” said Bower. “I look forward to joining my fellow like-minded staff members, who have immensely blessed our family over the years, in the sacred leadership responsibility of shepherding this generation…that have been so lovingly entrusted to us.”

Bower has been married to PCA Board Member, and fellow Navy Veteran, Mark for 22 years. They are the parents of Benjamin, who is a Junior at PCA, and Matthew, who is a PCA alumnus enrolled in Texas A&M’s engineering program. The Bowers are long-time and active members of Prestonwood Baptist Church.
 

About the Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System

Prestonwood Christian Academy is made up of six schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 2,000 students are enrolled at four campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA Hybrid (a three-day in classroom/two-day at home program) and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the class of 2022, graduates have been offered more than $169 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. PCA is accepting applications for the 2023-24 school year. Go to prestonwoodchristian.org/admissions for more information.

 

 

 

Prestonwood Christian Academy Students Honored for Academic Success at National Level

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) School System is pleased to announce an unprecedented number of students who were honored for their academic success at the national level.  

Twelve students earned recognition by the National Merit Scholarship Program recognition, while 10 more were honored by the College Board National Recognition Program.

“The National Merit Scholarship Program and College Board National Recognition Program awards are affirmation of our students’ academic talents and having a collective commitment to excellence in all things,” PCA School System Superintendent Dr. Michael Goddard said. “We’re extremely proud of our students, as well as our teachers. Students are continuously prepared to go out and change the world for Christ.”

PCA Plano’s Benjamin Anderson, Richard Douglass, Ian Graham and Matthew Huang were named National Merit Semifinalists. They will receive scholarship application materials and their names will be sent to regionally accredited four-year U.S. colleges and universities. Less than one percent of all of the nation’s high school seniors qualified for this prestigious honor.

PCA Plano’s Kathryn Arnett, Bettina Devadoss, Sarah Landers, Isaac Mei, Sydney Nack, Vaughn Scott, Laurel Smurawa and London Yount were honored as National Merit Commended. In recognition of their outstanding academic ability and potential for success in college, these students will be sent a letter of commendation.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is based on the previous year’s Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. More than 1.5 million students across the country participate.

As for the College Board National Recognition Program awards, PCA Plano had students achieve distinction in three different categories.

Carolina Casusol, Jacqueline Dominguez, Arielle Iacovacci, Alexandra Pingsterhaus and Eunice Vera won the National Hispanic Recognition Award. Gerald McAdoo, Shalom Olowu, Selise Phillips and Nicholas Thomas were winners of the National African American Recognition Award. Erica Culbertson took home the National Indigenous Award.

The College Board National Recognition Program requires excellent academic achievements in school and scores on the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 and AP Exams. Students can include these honors on their college and scholarship applications.

For more information about the National Merit Scholarship Program, click here. To learn more about the College Board National Recognition Program, click here.

About Prestonwood Christian Academy School System

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System is made up of six schools serving students across the Dallas Metroplex and virtually throughout the world. More than 2,500 students are enrolled at the system’s campuses: PCA Plano (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA North in Prosper (Pre-K3 through 12th Grade), PCA Hybrid and PCA Online. St. Timothy Christian Academy in Plano serves students with learning differences and The King’s Academy provides a Christian education to students in South Dallas. The PCA School System has been recognized as having one of the strongest Christian education programs in the country providing intentional biblical worldview training and integration. PCA places great value on the growth of students’ spiritual health in addition to their scholastic endeavors and co-curricular activities. Tantamount to its Spiritual Development plan is PCA’s rigorous Liberal Arts academic program. From the first graduating class in 2002 through the Class of 2022, seniors have been offered more than $165 million in scholarship for academics, arts and athletics from universities and other institutions of higher learning. PCA celebrated its 25th school year in 2021-22.