"Connecting" has been the word of the week for us at the school: parents connecting with teachers at the end of the 1st quarter conferences; citizens connecting with veterans on November 11th, the 1st high school leadership retreat at Brookwoods--2 days of team building and casting vision; and the return of the 4th and 5th grade--so good to connect with them again.

Veterans Day was a particular highlight. Our commemoration was the result of a lot of extra work this year. Our musicians accelerated training to sing, play, and perform well ahead of normal schedules; our tech team recorded, edited, and produced the artists' work. The tech team then broadcast a high-quality on-site-off-site program. The entire school reorganized calendars and schedules to make this work under COVID protocols. And, of course, many of you joined us virtually. We are so thankful to Lt. Col. Stephanie Kerrigan, a proven military leader as well as a PCA mother of two incredible boys, for her inspiring and challenging message about commitment, courage, and commitment to relationships. Read more about and watch the chapel HERE.

We also received some great news. For the second year in a row, PCA was named "Best Private School in the Seacoast" in the annual Best of the Seacoast Awards, sponsored by Seacoast Media Group. The Best of the Seacoast recognizes top businesses in a range of categories-- from professional services and education to entertainment and health. Even with various changes happening due to COVID, you have continued to stand by us and believe in the work we are doing to continue carrying out our mission of maximizing each child's potential. We praise God as it is a tremendous honor to receive this recognition for yet another year, especially when considered alongside two other renowned and excellent schools: Philips Exeter Academy and St. Thomas Aquinas High School. Read the full announcement HERE.

Health Highlights:  Rapid and continued spread of COVID is leading many institutions and businesses to modify their schedules and practices. PCA continues to adapt our approaches, maintaining safety while also maximizing the quality of your child's education. As of today, we have been able to hold 100% of scheduled classes without cancellation; 97% of these were held on-campus. Let us remain vigilant both on campus and off.  Please note the most recent data below:

Governor Sununu just issued updated travel guidance, which pertains to all of us. It will cause some of our timelines to be modified. More to follow at the Health and Safety Update on MON, 5:30 PM. Link is HERE. Topics will include finalized travel guidance, health protocols, and health initiatives (e.g. voluntary use of NIRA wearable thermometer).

Hope Highlights: In these days, I continue to be greatly encouraged when I reflect on God's faithfulness and kindness to me, to us. In a world that is often at odds, frustrated, or down, God's word reminds me that He is kind. Isaiah 60: 2-3 says:

    and thick darkness the peoples;

    and His glory will be seen upon you. 

    and kings to the brightness of your rising."

Despite the darkness, we will have hope in the Lord. As the days darken, my prayer for us is that the Lord's light will rise upon you.

Congratulations to the Womens Cross Country Team which ran well in the NH Meet of Champions - in spite of “record heat” for this time of year. For the 2^nd year in a row, the team qualified for this meet which hosted 120 of the fastest runners in all divisions in NH. The women were led by Brianna Malone (sophomore) who placed 9^th overall (in a time of 19:31) at this meet held at Nashua South High School. She improved her place from last year’s 13^th place.

A very generous donor has organized an Appreciation & Christmas Luncheon for all of the PCA faculty and staff next month. The Friday before Christmas vacation begins will be an Early Dismissal day. We will not be offering aftercare so that we can truly honor and appreciate all employees who have worked diligently for the school this year, including our Aftercare employees. We have worked hard to ensure all staff and faculty's safety during this event to include social distancing, masking, seating by "houses," extra filtration units, and limited movement. We are so thankful for each of our families and appreciate all the support and care you've given to us all year. Please enjoy this jumpstart on your Christmas holiday season with your family!