October 2024

Creating a Sense of Community in an Academic Setting

Jennifer Williams, Dean of Academics

The mission of Prince Avenue Christian School is to partner with Christian families to provide scripturally based discipleship while pursuing excellence in academics, fine arts, and athletics from a biblical worldview. At PACS, we believe that a strong academic foundation is not just about grades; it's about creating a community where students, teachers, and families come together to help students grow in their learning and spiritual development. As the academic dean, I am excited to share how we create this sense of community by partnering with parents in our academic programs and initiatives.

We recognize that parents are essential partners in their child’s education.  Our Educational Student Support (ESS) Center plays a crucial role in this partnership, offering tutoring services that help students strengthen their skills and build confidence. By offering this support during the school day, we offer parents a resource that helps their child succeed.

We also conduct one-on-one registration meetings for high school students, allowing families to discuss course selections, academic goals, and college readiness. We are proud to offer 12 dual enrollment courses in different content areas taught right here in our building by our adjunct professors. This unique opportunity allows high school students to earn college credit while receiving personalized instruction from teachers they already know and saves our families thousands of dollars in tuition costs once their student begins their collegiate studies. This personalized attention helps students and parents feel informed of all available opportunities as they navigate the important transitions in their education.

To ensure that parents are well-prepared for their child’s academic journey, we host informational meetings for rising 6th graders, 9th graders, and 12th graders.  These sessions cover essential topics, such as curriculum, course offerings, high school expectations, and college planning, providing parents with the knowledge they need to support their children effectively. We encourage open dialogue during these meetings, allowing parents to ask questions and share their insights.



We also believe in celebrating both individual and collective achievements. Throughout the year, we host events that highlight student accomplishments, from academic awards to performances and art auctions. These celebrations foster school spirit and pride, bringing together families, staff, and students in a shared appreciation of hard work and dedication.

We encourage parental involvement through various academic events, including lower school parent conferences held twice a year. These conferences provide an opportunity for parents to meet with teachers, discuss their child’s progress, and gain insights into the curriculum. By working together, we create a united front that prioritizes student success.

At Prince, we are committed to creating a thriving academic community where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn. Through our partnership with parents, we work together to build a strong foundation for our students’ futures.

Thank you for being an essential part of the PACS family. Together, we can create an enriching academic community that benefits all our students.