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Dear Providence Christian Academy Family,
As January comes to a close, it has certainly reminded us that winter is in full force. The recent snowstorm brought with it a thick, fresh blanket of snow and a renewed appreciation for the many provisions of the LORD that we often take for granted. We are grateful for warm classrooms, heat and shelter, and for the dedicated individuals working behind the scenes who cleared parking lots, outdoor stairways, and walkways early and often, making it possible for school to continue safely. Their quiet diligence, along with the patience and flexibility of our families and staff, is a true gift and a reminder of the many ways our community cares for one another.
Read on for a glimpse into some of the learning, movement, and moments that shaped our January.
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Serving Others with Kindness
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As part of this month’s Fruit of the Spirit focus on kindness, students across multiple grade levels found intentional and creative ways to serve others within the school community.
In Grade 7 and 8, students participated in a “random act of kindness” activity with their advisor, Mrs. Lashtur. One expression of that kindness took place in the classroom, where students worked together to prepare yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit parfaits. These were thoughtfully delivered to faculty and staff as a simple but meaningful gesture of appreciation, reflecting a willingness to serve without seeking attention.
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Kindness was also practiced in quieter, everyday moments. On several mornings throughout the month, different Grade 7 and 8 students took turns greeting classmates at the front door as they arrived at school, a role typically carried out by the principal. By offering warm welcomes and friendly smiles, students helped create a positive start to the day for their peers.
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As another expression of kindness, Grade 7 and 8 students visited the K5 classroom to read with younger students. This act of kindness created a beautiful time of connection as children shared stories together. The kindergarten students also had the opportunity to proudly demonstrate their growing reading skills, while the older students modeled patience, encouragement, and attentiveness. Everyone involved was truly enriched by the experience, reflecting the joy that comes from serving and learning alongside one another.
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Grade 6 students also contributed to the school-wide emphasis on kindness by creating a bulletin board filled with “kindness mugs,” each highlighting practical ways to show kindness to others. This fun and creative project encouraged reflection and conversation, supporting students’ social growth while reinforcing the spiritual importance of living out kindness in daily interactions.
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Together, these intentional efforts served as a reminder that kindness is not limited to big gestures, but is often shown through consistency, hospitality, creativity, and a readiness to serve others.
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Observing Plants at Work in Grade 2
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In Mrs. Bagirova’s Grade 2 classroom, science lessons are coming to life as students explore how plants grow and function.
As part of their study of plant structure, students learned that a stem works much like a highway, carrying water and nutrients from the roots up to the leaves. To see this process in action, the class conducted a simple but fascinating experiment. Two vases of water were prepared, one with red food coloring and one with blue, and white carnation flowers were placed in each. Over several days, students carefully observed the changes. By the third day, they were delighted to see delicate shades of color tracing through the leaves, making the movement of water through the plant clearly visible.
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Alongside this experiment, students also took on the role of gardeners. Each student planted grass seeds in their own cup and learned that plants need four essential things to grow: soil, water, sunlight, and air. By the fourth day, early signs of growth appeared, much to the students’ excitement. Watching the grass begin to sprout helped reinforce what they had learned, and students were proud to take their planting projects home.
Through observation, hands-on experiments, and patient waiting, Grade 2 students gained a deeper appreciation for how plants are designed to grow and thrive, and for the joy of discovering science in action.
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PCA Wolverines Shine at Youth Eastern States Wrestling Tournament
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Our PCA Wolverines athletes competed with grit and determination at the Youth Eastern States Wrestling Tournament in Somers, New York, and they made us proud.
Mark M., a fifth-grade student, had an outstanding showing and earned the championship title in his division. He also competed in a custom tournament singlet created for the event, marking a memorable win.
Nathaniel G., a second-grade student, also wrestled with focus and perseverance, placing third in his bracket. A strong performance and a great accomplishment at such a competitive event.
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We are proud of our wrestlers for representing PCA with excellence and sportsmanship. Thank you to Mr. Daniel Ghitman and the assistant coaches, whose dedication, guidance, and commitment to our athletes played an important role in their success on and off the mat.
Go Wolverines!
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Words, Focus, and a Willing Challenge
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Our All-School Spelling Bee
This month, Providence Christian Academy held its all-school Spelling Bee in a written, paper-and-pencil format. Participation was optional, and students who chose to take part did so on their own initiative, preparing independently and rising to the challenge.
From first grade through eighth grade, participating students worked carefully through their word lists, relying on focus, perseverance, and attention to detail. The written format emphasized accuracy and endurance, allowing students to demonstrate their skills in a calm, purposeful testing environment.
We are pleased to recognize our grade-level champions for 2026:
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Grade-level champions advanced to the next level of competition for the All-School Spelling Bee Champion, held on January 30. The All-School Champion will be announced during the first week of February and will have the opportunity to sit for the Scripps National Spelling Bee qualifier round. Look for the announcement in next month’s February Highlights newsletter!
Each of these students demonstrated solid spelling skills, self-motivation, and the confidence to participate in an optional academic event. We commend all students who chose to take part for embracing the challenge and representing their classes with diligence and care.
Thank you to the administrators who helped proctor the Spelling Bee and ensured that the event ran smoothly. The Spelling Bee continues to be a meaningful opportunity for students to stretch academically and celebrate learning together.
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Learning in Motion in Lower School PE
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In Lower School PE, our kindergarten students have been hard at work building coordination, balance, and flexibility through purposeful movement activities. With guidance and encouragement, students practiced moving, stretching, and balancing both independently and with a partner.
These playful exercises invited students to use their whole bodies while developing important physical skills. Just as importantly, they learned to cooperate, take turns, and encourage one another as they worked together.
Movement-based learning supports healthy development and helps young learners stay engaged and joyful throughout the day. It was wonderful to see so many smiles as students learned through motion and play.
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When Germs Glow: A Hands-On
Upper School Life Science Lesson
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There is something about a hands-on experiment that makes learning stick, and Upper School Life Science leaned all the way into that this month. In Mrs. Keiderling’s class, students explored how germs actually spread, how easily they move from surface to surface, and just how effective proper handwashing really is.
Using Glo Germ, a product that mimics the way germs transfer but glows under UV light, students were able to see what is usually invisible. A quick handshake, a shared surface, or a casual touch was all it took for the “germs” to travel. What started on one set of hands quickly showed up on desks, doorknobs, and other students. Cue the surprised reactions.
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Then came the real test. Students washed their hands, checking their results under the UV light afterward. The glow did not lie. Quick rinses left plenty behind, while careful, thorough handwashing made a noticeable difference. It was a clear, visual reminder that how we wash our hands matters just as much as that we wash them.
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Beyond the initial reactions and moments of surprise, the experiment reinforced key Life Science concepts about disease transmission, hygiene, and personal responsibility.It also connected classroom learning to everyday life in a way students will not soon forget.
Messy, memorable, and meaningful, this was science at its best. Real questions, real observations, and real learning happening right in the classroom.
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A Joyful Start to the New Year in Kindergarten
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As the new year began, the Kindergarten classroom at Providence Christian Academy jumped right back into learning with enthusiasm and joy.
January was marked by steady academic growth. Students continued working toward mastery of letter sounds and handwriting, strengthened their number sense by counting to 100, and began learning foundational addition facts. These early literacy and math skills are building confidence and laying a strong foundation for future learning.
Global studies also continued this month as students “traveled” to Canada, Mexico, South America, and now Europe. Along the way, they explored different cultures while learning that Jesus’ love extends to children all around the world. These lessons help nurture both curiosity and compassion in young learners.
One of the highlights of the month was the introduction of new Phonics Reader books. Students are using these readers during small-group instruction at school and practicing at home, supporting growth in fluency, confidence, and a developing love for reading.
As the year moves forward, the Kindergarten team is encouraged by the progress seen each day and grateful for the partnership of families who invest so faithfully in the growth of the school’s youngest students.
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Learning, Worship, and Kindness
in Third Grade
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Throughout the past month, third grade students have been actively engaged in both scientific discovery and spiritual growth. In science, students explored how God designed plants to reproduce through seeds and spores. They examined a variety of moss plants, carefully identifying the tiny leafy green gametophytes and the threadlike roots known as rhizoids. A favorite hands-on activity involved using mushrooms to create spore prints, giving students a vivid look at how spores are released and spread. With curiosity running high, the class has now begun an exciting new unit on the solar system.
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Alongside their academic studies, third graders have been focusing on this month’s Fruit of the Spirit, Kindness. Through daily lessons and Bible time, students discussed practical ways to show kindness to others as a reflection of Christ’s love. This theme came to life during chapel, when it was the class’s turn to lead worship music. Students
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worked diligently to learn and present two songs for their peers. The first, Jesus Strong and Kind, reminded students that they can always run to Jesus in moments of weakness and trust that He seeks them when they feel lost. The second, Give a Little Kindness, brought energy and joy through movement and song, encouraging everyone to share the love and kindness of Christ by giving to others what He has first given to us.
Together, these experiences have made the past month one of meaningful learning, joyful worship, and growing excitement for what lies ahead.
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Growing Wonder in Grade 1
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In Mrs. Pauli’s Grade 1 classroom, learning came to life this month through poetry and hands-on discovery. Students spent time learning and reciting the poem In the Heart of a Seed by Kate Brown, a gentle piece that helped them reflect on the idea that something small can hold great potential. As they worked through the poem together, students practiced careful listening, expression, and memorization while discussing what it means for growth to begin quietly and patiently.
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That same theme carried into science as students planted their own seeds and began observing the early stages of plant growth. Watching the first signs of life emerge from the seed gave students a tangible connection to the poem they had been learning. They eagerly checked their seeds each day, noticing changes and celebrating the appearance of tiny shoots appearing.
By pairing poetry with hands-on science, students were able to see and experience the connection between words and the world around them. These simple but meaningful lessons helped reinforce curiosity, patience, and an appreciation for how God designed living things to grow, even from the smallest beginnings.
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Learning Choices and Letters in PreK
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In the PreK classroom, students are building important foundations for both learning and character through hands-on, age-appropriate activities.
One focus this month has been learning about good choices and bad choices. These conversations happen often and are woven naturally into the day, helping children understand expectations, practice self-control, and make thoughtful decisions in everyday situations.
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Students also enjoyed a literacy activity that paired learning with play by matching letters to animal figures. This engaging exercise strengthened letter recognition while encouraging focus, problem-solving, and fine motor skills. Through activities like these, PreK students continue to grow academically while developing habits that support positive behavior and a love of learning.
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As we turn the page to February, our focus will shift to our next Fruit of the Spirit, goodness. In the midst of winter’s slower pace, we look forward to intentionally practicing what it means to reflect God’s goodness in our words, choices, and interactions with others. Thank you for your continued partnership, prayer, and faithfulness as we move into the next month together, encouraged to do good, seek what is right, and serve one another well.
Blessings,
Linda Temby
Principal, Providence Christian Academy
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February Prayer Points
February Fruit of the Spirit Focus will be:Goodness (Galations 5:22)
As we move through the heart of the school year, we invite you to pray with us for the fruit of the Spirit to be evident in daily life at Providence Christian Academy. This month, our focus is goodness – a goodness shaped by Christ, expressed through integrity, and lived out in faithful obedience, even when no one is watching.
For hearts rooted in Christlike goodness
Prayer focus:That students, faculty, and leadership would pursue what is good because it reflects Christ’s character, not simply external expectations.
Scripture: “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” Romans 12:9
For wisdom and integrity in decisions
Prayer focus: That God would grant discernment in both large and small decisions, guiding our school with clarity, humility, and faithfulness.
Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
For perseverance in doing good
Prayer focus: That those serving faithfully – often behind the scenes – would be strengthened and encouraged as they continue the good work God has entrusted to them.
Scripture: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches
of His glory in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19
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