Charleston's Independent School Directory 2018-19

www.CharlestonsPrivateSchools.com | www.CharlestonSchoolDirectory.com | www.ed.sc.gov ISD INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Palmetto Christian Academy Achieving Excellence through Faith-Based Education S ummer is here. Long days at the beach and barbecues have replaced homework and SAT prep for high school students across the Lowcountry. For graduates of Palmetto Christian Academy, the future is remarkably bright. Since the school’s inception in 1992, PCA has been a place where students develop the intellectual skills needed to be successful in college and in today’s workforce, while developing a deeper faith and understanding of God’s purpose for their lives. Every student is encouraged to cultivate his or her unique talents and interests through numerous extracurricular offerings. In recent years, the school has produced accomplished humanitarians, full academic scholarship recipients and award- wining athletes. We spoke with recent graduates and the school’s headmaster about how PCA fosters greatness in its student body. “One aspect of PCA that really sets it apart is its ability to prepare the students for life beyond high school,” said Valedictorian Sam Biggerstaff, who plans to attend Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, and pursue a career in physical science. “The courses are challenging, and, despite the small size of PCA, they have many connections to many colleges which have helped me in my college search and attaining scholarships.” At PCA, individualized attention is given to each student, allowing his or her talents to come to the forefront. “Because class sizes are fairly small, it allows all of the students an opportunity to form a close relationship with their teachers,” said Biggerstaff, whose school activities varied from swimming to piano. “Beyond just being academic resources, the teachers have been great mentors for me.” Students feel challenged, inspired and engaged. Getting to uncover their passions and strengths early on opens them up to fully reach their potential. While a large focus is put on developing their own gifts and talents, there is also a significant emphasis on helping others. From mission trips to Puerto Rico to volunteering at the local VA Hospital, PCA students’ charity efforts reach far and wide. “The most rewarding part of attending PCA for me has been the opportunity to learn more about God and to serve others,” said Shelby Muirhead, who plans to attend Clemson University in the fall to obtain a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. “PCA students are enriched spiritually through weekly chapels and worship sessions, as well as Bible classes, and we are given the opportunity to serve people by participating in a substantial amount of community service.” The individuals PCA hires is a testament to the school’s desire to foster community. “Students can expect everyone they interact with, from the PCA faculty and staff to East Cooper Baptist Church youth pastors, to teach them that they are loved by God and that He has created them for a purpose that only they can fulfill,” said Headmaster JD Zubia. “A PCA education is not only one of spiritual instruction but also one that encourages a love for learning and expects excellence through strong effort in all endeavors.” “We want our alumni to have a well-rounded education that allows them to participate in the marketplace of ideas armed with both the truth of the Gospel and the intellectual learning that is needed to represent God well in whatever field of study and careers they choose,” Zubia added. For more information, v isit www.palmettochristianacademy. org, or call 843-881-9967. By Kalene McCort Photo courtesy of Palmetto Christian Academy.