Spring Continuation Plan | Coronavirus Updates

Download PCA Re-opening Plan

Beginning School

What time is dismissal?

*Students (K4–Gr. 6) enrolled in ESD may remain as late as 5:30 p.m. on any school day.

May I walk my child to class?

For the health safety of students and staff, parents should remain in the car while staff guide children from the designated drop off zones to their classroom. Parents who have children new to the Academy should plan to utilize Orientation Day to familiarize them with their classroom location and arrival procedures.

How should I pick up my child?

If you need to pick up your child during the school day, sign them out from the front lobby.

After school, children may be picked up at the designated areas below:

• K4–K5—Doors 2, 3, 4, 5 (playground) Door 2 (bus side)
• Grades 1–6—the playground gate on the west (Palafox) side of the Academy
• Grades 7–12—front of the building under the awning

Note: Grades 1–12 may also be picked up at St. John gate, located on the north side of PCA on St. John Street.

Class Information

How will students be socially distanced in classrooms?

Each student in K4–Grade 12 will have his own desk for class. Class sizes have been reduced, and desks have been separated to accomplish social distancing.

Will there be recess/PE?

Because students need sunshine, fresh air, and the opportunity to exercise, recess and PE will be part of the school day schedule. To reduce the potential spread of germs, students will avoid interaction with other classes and will sanitize their hands before and after equipment use.

In grades 7–9, PE will meet three days per week (weather permitting) to allow for smaller class sizes and groupings within the class. Students will be provided a cooldown time prior to entering the locker room at the end of class, and groups will be limited to approximately 10 at a time in the locker room. The locker room will be sanitized between each class.

Note: In grades 7–8, parents concerned about their child’s health may opt for an additional study hall instead of PE. Since PE is a graduation requirement in high school, parents of students in grade 9 may choose to defer their child’s PE credit to grade 10. Requests for grade 7–9 PE changes should be submitted to the principal by Tuesday, August 11, to allow time for the appropriate schedule changes to be implemented.

Will there be assemblies?

The September assemblies for grades 1–12 have been canceled, and future assemblies will be decided at a later date.

I’d like to send birthday treats for my child’s classmates on his birthday. Is this OK?

Parents sometimes choose to send treats or baked goods for the class to celebrate their kindergarten or elementary child’s birthday. To protect everyone’s health, food should be delivered in the store/restaurant’s original, unopened packaging. We are unable to accept homemade baked goods for distribution at this time.

Music

Will choirs still meet?

Yes. Choir sizes will be limited so social distancing may be achieved in the choral room. For maximum social distancing while actively singing, alternate locations will be utilized when the entire group sings together.

Will band still meet?

Yes. Prior to participation, students will be instructed in best practices regarding instrument handling, breathing, and social distancing to create a safe performing environment.

How will social distancing be accomplished for in-person private music lessons?

Due to the nature of private music instruction, social distancing is not always feasible; therefore, teachers will wear a mask during private instruction.

Are remote music lessons available?

Yes, a limited number of online remote music lessons in the evening and on weekends will be available. Contact the music office if you are interested.

Health and Safety

What do I do if my child has a fever?

Anyone exhibiting symptoms of illness (cough, sore throat, fever, etc.) must remain at home. Do not send your child to school unless his temperature is lower than 100.4°F without a fever reducing medicine.

Will students be screened daily?

Every classroom teacher will be provided a touchless thermometer, and a daily health screening will be conducted for each student before school begins. During this screening, a temperature check will be done and a visual assessment (appearance and breathing) will be checked. If a student exhibits illness, they will be sent to the school nurse for further assessment.

How will restrooms and drinking fountains be protected?

• Restrooms—Helpful markers will be placed on the floor to help students stay socially distanced between others in line. Hand washing will be required. Each restroom will be sanitized multiple times throughout the day.
• Drinking fountains—To limit drinking fountain use and the germs associated with them, students will need to bring capped, clear water bottles to fill at filtered water stations in the school.

Will children be required to wear masks?

Students and teachers are strongly encouraged to wear masks or cloth face coverings, particularly when social distancing is not feasible. There may be some close or confined spaces (class changes, Driver’s Ed, biology lab, etc.) where a mask is necessary due to the inability to be distant from others. Specifics will be noted at Orientation.

How will I be notified if my child gets sick?

In the event your child gets sick, a school nurse will contact you by using the numbers submitted with your child’s enrollment. To update phone numbers, go to Change Emergency Contact Info after logging in to PensacolaChristianAcademy.com.

Will the entire class be notified if a child has COVID-19 symptoms?

As symptoms are not always an indicator of illness, notifications to parents will be made when a student or staff member in their child’s class tests positive for COVID-19. The personal identity of the positive COVID-19 cases will be protected.

What happens when someone in the school tests positive for COVID-19?

The area occupied by the individual who tested positive will be immediately vacated for sanitization following CDC guidelines. Students and staff normally occupying that space will be provided an alternate location to continue until it is safe to return. Parents with students in that class, team, group, or bus will be notified, and contact tracing will be performed in coordination with the Florida Department of Health. Those determined to have been in close contact with the infected student or staff member will need to self-quarantine for 14 days from the last date of contact.

Will the entire class have to quarantine if a student or teacher tests positive for COVID-19?

PCA will work closely with the Florida Department of Health to perform contact tracing immediately following news of a positive case. Only students and staff identified by the tracing as a close contact will be required by FDOH to self-quarantine. To mitigate the potential number of close contacts within a class, teachers will limit seating assignment changes and student mobility during the day. Students will convene in an alternative location until the classroom has been sanitized following CDC guidelines.

What does “close contact” mean?

Close contact is defined by the CDC as any individual who has been within 6 feet of an infected individual for more than 15 minutes since 2 days prior to symptoms or 2 days prior to test if asymptomatic. Close contact would also include those who had direct physical contact or transferred saliva (sharing of eating/drinking utensils, kissing, etc.) or respiratory droplets (sneezing, coughing, etc.).

How will lunch be handled?

Most students will eat lunch in their classrooms to allow for social distancing. Pre-plated hot lunch choices will be available for purchase in a grab-n-go disposable container, or students may bring lunch from home. Hand sanitizer will be available at multiple locations.

How will absences be handled?

If a child is quarantined or isolated at home due to COVID-19 exposure, PCA will make video streaming available so that student does not fall behind in his studies. Students who participate daily in their video streaming and complete the assigned work will be counted present. Students who do not participate during their quarantine will receive excused absences for illness and may be required to make up the work when they return.

What protective health measures have you installed?

• Upon arrival each day, each student and staff member will have his temperature checked.
• Students will have frequent designated times to wash their hands, and hand sanitizing stations are widely distributed throughout the building and encouraged to be used.
• Distance in waiting lines (restrooms, library, bookstore, etc.) will be increased using ground marking to identify distance intervals.
• Frequently touched surfaces will be cleaned multiple times during the day, and overall cleanings will be conducted at the conclusion of every day.
• Plexiglas dividers will be installed for physical separation in customer service areas where social distancing cannot be maintained.
• A commercial cleaning company has been retained to provide professional disinfecting as needed.

What kind of air filtration system do you have?

PCA has invested in one of the best filtration systems in the industry. The BioCelVXL MERV-16 filters are the same grade used in hospital operating rooms. These filters have an efficiency of 99.99% on particles that are 1 to 5 microns in size and 97.9% on particles as small as 0.3 microns. Viruses typically travel through the air riding in or on particles called droplet nuclei, which range in size from 1 to 5 microns.

Services

How will PCA libraries be maintained?

After books are turned in, they will have a three-day quarantine period and sanitization prior to being returned to the shelves. Elementary classroom teachers will coordinate time in the lower library for their students later in the semester. Although the upper library will be available for browsing before and after school, high school students will be encouraged to order books online through PCA’s holdings system. The books will be available for pick-up from the library the following school day. Hand sanitizer will be available in the libraries.

Will there be bus transportation?

Yes, bus service is available for most parts of Pensacola and the surrounding area.

Will temperature checks be taken at the bus stop when students are boarding?

No, temperature checks at boarding present a potential safety hazard while students wait to board. Parents will need to ensure their child exhibits no symptoms of illness without the aid of fever-reducing drugs before he boards the bus each morning. Temperatures will be checked before the students begin class.

What health precautions will be taken for bus riders?

Students will have assigned seats, sitting near siblings or members of the same household when possible. Bus seats are high, providing a physical barrier between students in front and behind. Weather permitting, drivers will open windows and roof vents to increase the fresh airflow through the bus during the route. Air conditioners may continue to be used while windows are open.

Will the school bus be cleaned and disinfected prior to picking up the students?

Yes, school buses will undergo disinfection with an electrostatic sprayer between each route. Hand sanitizer will be provided for students to use.

Will Extended School Day (ESD) be available?

Yes, each group will spend as much time outside as possible, following a schedule, which minimizes equipment sharing and interaction with other groups.

Will high school athletics be offered?

Yes, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) moved the start date for fall sport tryouts to August 24 to accommodate parts of the state under heavier COVID-19 restrictions. Under FHSAA guidelines, PCA continues to offer summer conditioning until tryouts begin on Monday, August 24.

Will fans be allowed to attend athletic events?

Yes, spectators are encouraged to wear face coverings. Temperatures will be checked for indoor sporting events. Social distancing and facility capacity guidelines will be followed.

School Operations

If the district closes schools, will PCA close?

PCA is not part of the Escambia County School District, and is therefore unconnected to decisions and guidelines of the district. While great consideration is given to the direction the district takes, PCA will make decisions in coordination with the Florida Department of Health but independently of the district. We will communicate accordingly with parents.

If I begin the school year with Abeka Academy, when can I return to PCA?

Pending available classroom space, we will make a transition from ABA to PCA as smooth as possible when parents are comfortable with their child returning to in-person instruction. Contact our Admissions Office to begin the process.

PCA classes begin Mon. August 17, for Gr. 1-12, and Thurs. August 20, for Kindergarten.

Local school districts have announced tentative plans to delay their start date, primarily to prepare for remote instruction. Because PCA serves families who desire in-person instruction, school can start on time without additional preparation time. We will continue to monitor local health conditions and respond accordingly. If a change is needed, the Academy is prepared to transition to an alternative delivery format at any time.

Fall 2020 Plans

For information on fall 2020, please review the COVID-19 Guidelines Re-opening Plan.
(Updated: Tuesday, July 14, 2020)

Governor DeSantis has declared Florida to be in the beginning of Phase 2 of the “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step” recovery plan and recommends that schools reopen in the fall. Following guidance from government and health agencies, we plan to resume K-12 classroom instruction this fall with proactive attention to healthy practices.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected each family in the PCA community, our commitment to your child’s education has not changed. We remain focused on providing a safe, affordable, excellent education.

What about activities this summer?

• Gr. 7-12 summer school will be provided virtually. Gr. 1-6 summer school will be available on campus with reduced class sizes to allow for social distancing.
• Music lessons are available online as well as in person.
• High school sports practices are voluntary with a focus on individual drills rather than close contact scrimmages.

Will there be an in-person graduation ceremony for seniors?

Seniors enjoyed a virtual graduation ceremony on May 21. The in-person graduation is scheduled for August 8 at 7 p.m. in the Dale Horton Auditorium on the campus of Pensacola Christian College.

What precautions are being taken to protect student health?

Proactive measures will continually be taken in response to current conditions and local health department advisement including:

• Healthy hygiene practices through frequent hand washing
• Increased cleaning frequency with a special focus on disinfecting high-touch surfaces
• Appropriate social distancing
• Required health screenings
• Personal protective equipment such as face masks as needed
• Activities, events, and facility maximum capacities modified based on current health advisories

How should I plan financially for this fall?

PCA realizes that you and your family may have been impacted financially during the pandemic, and we are committed to providing an affordable education. Our tuition rates already average less than 50% the cost of Pensacola-area private schools, but we want to do more to help.

• Tuition Freeze
  The 2020–2021 school year tuition will not increase, but will remain frozen at the 2019-2020 regular tuition rates. The tuition freeze does not apply to individual service or class fees. Detailed information will be available in the 2020-2021 Parent Handbook available later in June.
• Textbook Credit
  We understand that textbooks and supplies can be a large expense, so we are giving a $100 book/supply coupon at Orientation to students in grades 1-12. It will be redeemable at the Academy Orientation Textbook and Supply Sale.

How can my child get back on track academically?

PCA has a reputation for academic excellence. We also have a plan to help those who are concerned that their child may have fallen behind the last couple months.

• Academic Pace
  We will adjust the academic pace at the beginning of the school year to help acclimate the students back into a traditional school setting.
  
• Robust Curriculum
  Abeka textbooks build on concepts students already know, incorporating helpful review and application into lessons. Key principles are reinforced from subject to subject and from year to year. Teachers are aware that students missed many weeks of traditional classroom interaction and are prepared to tailor the curriculum to the needs of the students.
  
• Tutoring and Help Class
  In kindergarten– Gr. 2, teachers will work with students individually while communicating helpful tips with parents. Free help classes will be offered in the core skill subjects in Gr. 3-9, and a teacher-guided peer tutoring program will be available in Gr. 10-12 in addition to individual teacher conferences.

Governor DeSantis has declared Florida to be in Phase 1 of the “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step” recovery plan. Following guidance from government and health agencies, we are optimistic regarding the ability to resume K-12 classroom instruction this fall.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected each family in the PCA community, our commitment to your child’s education has not changed. We remain focused on providing a safe, affordable, excellent education.

What about activities this summer?

• Gr. 7-12 summer school will be provided virtually. Gr. 1-6 summer school will be available on campus with reduced class sizes to allow for social distancing.
• Music lessons are available online as well as in person.
• High school sports practices are not being conducted at this time. We will e-mail parents as soon as practices resume.

What precautions are being taken to protect student health?

Proactive measures will continually be taken in response to current conditions and local health department advisement including:

• Healthy hygiene practices through frequent hand washing
• Increased cleaning frequency with a special focus on disinfecting high-touch surfaces
• Appropriate social distancing
• Required health screenings
• Personal protective equipment such as face masks as needed
• Activities, events, and facility maximum capacities modified based on current health advisories

How should I plan financially for this fall?

PCA realizes that you and your family may have been impacted financially during the pandemic, and we are committed to providing an affordable education. Our tuition rates already average less than 50% the cost of Pensacola-area private schools, but we want to do more to help.

• Tuition Freeze
  The 2020–2021 school year tuition will not increase, but will remain frozen at the 2019-2020 regular tuition rates. The tuition freeze does not apply to individual service or class fees. Detailed information will be available in the 2020-2021 Parent Handbook available later in June.
  
• Textbook Credit
  We understand that textbooks and supplies can be a large expense, so we are giving a $100 book/supply coupon at Orientation to students in grades 1-12. It will be redeemable at the Academy Orientation Textbook and Supply Sale.

How can my child get back on track academically?

PCA has a reputation for academic excellence. We also have a plan to help those who are concerned that their child may have fallen behind the last couple months.

• Academic Pace
  We will adjust the academic pace at the beginning of the school year to help acclimate the students back into a traditional school setting.
  
• Robust Curriculum
  Abeka textbooks build on concepts students already know, incorporating helpful review and application into lessons. Key principles are reinforced from subject to subject and from year to year. Teachers are aware that students missed many weeks of traditional classroom interaction and are prepared to tailor the curriculum to the needs of the students.
  
• Tutoring and Help Class
  In kindergarten– Gr. 2, teachers will work with students individually while communicating helpful tips with parents. Free help classes will be offered in the core skill subjects in Gr. 3-9, and a teacher-guided peer tutoring program will be available in Gr. 10-12 in addition to individual teacher conferences.

Governor Ron DeSantis has recommended that all Florida schools extend closures through the remainder of the semester. To protect the families we serve, PCA will continue to provide instruction remotely through the end of the school year.

To help you plan during this time, the following questions and answers are provided:

Will tuition be adjusted again?
Tuition will continue to be reduced by 50% for virtual school days. Please contact the office if you have any questions regarding your account.

What is the last day of school?
Teachers will continue to provide lesson plans following the original school calendar. All assignments to be graded must be submitted to teachers by May 20.

What about music lessons in May?
Parents can choose for their child to continue virtual lessons at the regular lesson rate.

What about high school graduation?
We are planning an online virtual graduation event for May 21 at 6 p.m. and an on-campus event later in the summer when conditions permit.

Are the offices still open?
Academy offices are open Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., to ensure parents have support needed by phone or in person.

Is the Bookstore open?
Beginning Monday, May 4, the Academy Bookstore will be open Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m., with limited capacity.

How do I pick up my child’s medications?
Stop by the office anytime Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. If you call ahead, we will have it ready to be delivered to your car.

Will summer school be offered?
No decision has been made at this time regarding summer school.

Will school open on time in the fall?
We anticipate classroom instruction resuming as planned this fall, and grades are filling quickly. Enroll as soon as possible to reserve space for your child.

Governor Ron DeSantis has recommended that all Florida schools extend closures through the remainder of the semester. To protect the families we serve, PCA will continue to provide instruction remotely through the end of the school year. To help you plan during this time, the following questions and answers are provided:

Will tuition be adjusted again?

Tuition will continue to be reduced by 50% for virtual school days. Please contact the office if you have any questions regarding your account.

Will I receive more materials?

Yes, we will mail material packets on Tuesday, April 28. The packet will be similar to the one you received earlier this month with worksheets, quizzes, and tests, and should be opened only by parents.

What is the last day of school?

Teachers will continue to provide lesson plans following the original school calendar. All assignments to be graded must be submitted to teachers by May 20.

What about music lessons in May?

Parents can choose for their child to continue virtual lessons at the regular lesson rate.

What about high school graduation?

We are planning an online virtual graduation event for May 21 at 6 p.m. More information will be sent to seniors and their parents.

I purchased a yearbook. How will I receive that?

Those who ordered a yearbook will receive it with materials to be mailed April 28.

Are the offices still open?

Academy offices are open Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., to ensure parents have support needed by phone or in person. The Academy Bookstore is closed until further notice. Needed supplies may be purchased in the school lobby.

How do I pick up my child’s medications?

Stop by the office anytime Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. If you call ahead, we will have it ready to be delivered to your car.

Will summer school be offered?

No decision has been made at this time regarding summer school.

Will school open on time in the fall?

We anticipate classroom instruction resuming as planned this fall, and grades are filling quickly. Enroll as soon as possible to reserve space for your child.

The Florida Department of Education has extended statewide school closures through at least May 1. Please know that PCA will continue to serve your family through this time; and regular classes will resume as soon as reasonably safe to do so. To help you plan during this time, the following questions and answers are provided:

Will tuition and fees be adjusted?

Tuition has been reduced by 50% for virtual school days and will return to regular rates once face-to-face instruction resumes. Because the April statements were prepared with April 16 as the anticipated date to resume classes, the credit for the remainder of the April pay period will be added to your account within the next few days. Please contact the office if you have any questions.

What calendar changes are coming?

Take a break on Good Friday, but, in order to complete the school year in a timely fashion, we recommend continuing virtual instruction on all other weekdays.
Many upcoming events were dependent upon classes being in session. As a result, the following events have been canceled:

• Junior-Senior Banquet
• Elementary and Secondary Awards Concerts
• Kindergarten and Elementary Parent Days
• Warrior Sports Banquet
• Music Recitals
• K5 Graduation

At this time, no decision has been made regarding high school graduation. You will receive notification as changes are made.

What about sports?

All sports activities are canceled for the remainder of the semester. Uniforms should be clearly labeled and dropped off at the Academy office by April 10.

What about music lessons and groups?

Parents may choose for their child to continue lessons virtually at the regular lesson rate. Regrettably, performing groups are unable to continue in a virtual setting. Performing groups will resume when students return to school.

Are the offices and bookstore still open?

The school offices are currently open Monday thru Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., to ensure parents have support needed by phone or in person. The Academy Bookstore is closed, and will remain closed until the “Safer at Home” order has been lifted. Needed supplies may be purchased in the school lobby.

How do I pick up my child’s medications?

Stop by the office anytime Monday thru Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. If you call ahead, we will have it ready to be delivered to your car.

What about returning library books and copies of music?

Library books and music scores should be dropped off at the office.

The Florida Department of Education has extended statewide school closures through at least May 1. Please know that PCA will continue to serve your family through this time; and regular classes will resume as soon as reasonably safe to do so. To help you plan during this time, the following questions and answers are provided:

Will tuition and fees be adjusted?

Tuition has been reduced by 50% for virtual school days and will return to regular rates once face-to-face instruction resumes. Because the April statements were prepared with April 16 as the anticipated date to resume classes, the credit for the remainder of the April pay period will be added to your account within the next few days. Please contact the office if you have any questions.

What calendar changes are coming?

Take a break on Good Friday, but, in order to complete the school year in a timely fashion, we recommend continuing virtual instruction on all other weekdays.
Many upcoming events were dependent upon classes being in session. As a result, the following events have been canceled:

• Junior-Senior Banquet
• Elementary and Secondary Awards Concerts
• Kindergarten and Elementary Parent Days
• Warrior Sports Banquet
• Music Recitals
• K5 Graduation

At this time, no decision has been made regarding high school graduation. You will receive notification as changes are made.

What about sports?

All sports activities are canceled for the remainder of the semester. Uniforms should be clearly labeled and dropped off at the Academy office by April 10.

What about music lessons and groups?

Parents may choose for their child to continue lessons virtually at the regular lesson rate. Regrettably, performing groups are unable to continue in a virtual setting. Performing groups will resume when students return to school.

Are the offices and bookstore still open?

The school offices and Academy Bookstore are currently open to ensure parents have support needed by phone or in person.

• Office: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
• Academy Bookstore: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

How do I pick up my child’s medications?

Stop by the office anytime Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. If you call ahead, we will have it ready to be delivered to your car.

What about returning library books and copies of music?

Library books and music scores should be dropped off at the office.

In response to COVID-19, the Florida Department of Education has directed that schools not commence with face-to-face instruction until at least April 16. Accordingly, the Commissioner of Education authorized schools to be prepared to extend the school year to as late as June 30 to compensate for lost instructional days.

Educators and parents across the state understand the importance of keeping students engaged with their academics in an effort to maintain good progress. So that students can stay on track with their learning, PCA will join other schools in providing remote virtual instruction beginning March 30 and will continue until it is safe to resume normal operation. We believe this is in the students’ best interest, and it helps to reduce the potential extension of the school year into the summer.

With daily input from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and guidance from the Department of Education and the Department of Health, it is our intention to resume regular classes as soon as reasonably safe to do so.

We are committed to your child’s complete and successful education this year. We recognize that every family is making sacrifices. PCA is here to help.

The following information contains essential details pertaining to the transition to video instruction.

Are the offices and bookstore still open?

The school offices and Academy Bookstore are currently open to assure parents have support needed by phone or in person.

• Office: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
• Academy Bookstore: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

How will academics work?

Lessons missed in March will be delivered—either by video or face-to-face—in April and May. Our goal is to limit the number of extra days beyond the planned school year; however, students must successfully complete their coursework in order to progress to the next grade.

Classroom lessons have been pre-recorded by PCA teachers and produced by Abeka. The easiest way to access these lessons is by streaming them online. If you do not have internet access, we have the same lessons available on DVD for most classes.

Homeroom teachers will contact parents to find out whether online or DVD options are preferred. Regardless of delivery format, teachers will be in continual contact with parents by way of daily e-mails supplemented by regular phone calls to give guidance, tutoring, and assessment of mastery.

PCA will provide course materials by paper and electronic means. Completed quizzes, tests, and projects to be graded by the teacher can be uploaded to the parent portal, dropped off at PCA, or mailed. Teachers will quickly grade the items, post the grades to the parent portal and app, then follow up with additional guidance over the phone.

Parents may stop by the school Wednesday or Thursday, March 26 or 27, according to the schedule below to pick up textbooks and supplies. At that time we will also give printed information and materials specific to each child to get started with the virtual school process.

What about tuition and fees?

Optional service fees (ESD, bus, and music) will be prorated to March 13 and a credit will appear on accounts. Additionally, tuition will be credited to accounts for the days school has not met.

In an effort to help with challenges by having to balance work while caring for children at home, tuition will be reduced by 50% for virtual school days and will return to regular rates once face-to-face instruction resumes. The April statement will reflect these adjustments with the understanding that regular classroom instruction resumes on April 16. If school is suspended further, the May statement will be adjusted accordingly.

What about music lessons and groups?

Private lesson teachers will be calling parents seeking input regarding interest in continuing lessons virtually at the regular lesson rate. Regrettably, performing groups are unable to continue in a virtual setting. Performing groups will be resumed when students return to school.

How do I pick up my child’s books and supplies from school?

Stop by your child’s homeroom or locker anytime between 7:30 a.m.–4:45 p.m. Wednesday or Thursday, March 26 or 27, to pick up all of your child’s materials—books, supplies, musical instruments, identifiable lost & found items, etc. Important: In addition to your child’s belongings, we will provide the necessary information and materials will be provided to assist with starting the virtual school process.

In an effort to protect the health of others, please follow the schedule below and limit the size of your group to one adult with children and do not come to the lobby if you or anyone in your household is sick. If you or a household member is sick, or if you are uncomfortable entering the building, please reply to this e-mail with your child’s name as well as a specific day and time and we will deliver to your car.

Last Name begins with Day Date Time
A-E Wednesday 3/25 7:30 a.m. - 12 noon
F-K Wednesday 3/25 12 noon - 4:45 p.m.
L-R Thursday 3/26 7:30 a.m. - 12 noon
S-Z Thursday 3/26 12 noon - 4:45 p.m.

How do I pick up my child’s medications?

Stop by the office anytime Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. If you call ahead, we will have it ready for to be delivered to your car.

What about returning library books and copies of music?

Library books and music scores should be dropped off when you pick up your child’s books and supplies. Late fees have been waived. If your child currently has a book checked out for a project, drop it off once the project is complete.

What calendar changes are coming?

Take a break on Good Friday, but, in order to complete the school year in a timely fashion, we recommend continuing virtual instruction on the weekdays before and after Good Friday. This follows the pattern of local schools.

It is impossible to predict when students will be able to return to PCA, but it is our desire to resume face-to-face instruction on April 16. There are numerous upcoming events—including recitals, banquets, and graduations—which are dependent upon the resumption of activities. Calendar adjustments and event cancellations will be sent in future correspondence.

What about sports?

All sports activities are canceled at least until on-campus activities resume. A decision regarding the remainder of the season will be made at a later date. In preparation for a possible cancellation to the sports season, sports uniforms should be dropped off when picking up books and supplies. Please be sure to have returned items labeled.

COVID-19, the Florida Department of Education has directed that schools not commence with face-to-face instruction until at least April 16. Accordingly, the Commissioner of Education authorized schools to be prepared to extend the school year to as late as June 30 to compensate for lost instructional days.

Educators and parents across the state understand the importance of keeping students engaged with their academics in an effort to maintain good progress. So that students can stay on track with their learning, PCA will join other schools in providing remote virtual instruction beginning March 30 and will continue until it is safe to resume normal operation. We believe this is in the students’ best interest, and it helps to reduce the potential extension of the school year into the summer.

With daily input from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and guidance from the Department of Education and the Department of Health, it is our intention to resume regular classes as soon as reasonably safe to do so.

We are committed to your child’s complete and successful education this year. We recognize that every family is making sacrifices. PCA is here to help.

The following information contains essential details pertaining to the transition to video instruction.

Are the offices and bookstore still open?

The school offices and Academy Bookstore are currently open to assure parents have support needed by phone or in person.

• Office: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
• Academy Bookstore: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

How will academics work?

Lessons missed in March will be delivered—either by video or face-to-face—in April and May. Our goal is to limit the number of extra days beyond the planned school year; however, students must successfully complete their coursework in order to progress to the next grade.

Classroom lessons have been pre-recorded by PCA teachers and produced by Abeka. The easiest way to access these lessons is by streaming them online. If you do not have internet access, we have the same lessons available on DVD for most classes.

Homeroom teachers will contact parents to find out whether online or DVD options are preferred. Regardless of delivery format, teachers will be in continual contact with parents by way of daily e-mails supplemented by regular phone calls to give guidance, tutoring, and assessment of mastery.

PCA will provide course materials by paper and electronic means. Completed quizzes, tests, and projects to be graded by the teacher can be uploaded to the parent portal, dropped off at PCA, or mailed. Teachers will quickly grade the items, post the grades to the parent portal and app, then follow up with additional guidance over the phone.

Parents may stop by the school Wednesday or Thursday, March 26 or 27, between 7:30 a.m.–4:45 p.m. to pick up textbooks and supplies. At that time we will also give printed information and materials specific to each child to get started with the virtual school process.

What about tuition and fees?

Optional service fees (ESD, bus, and music) will be prorated to March 13 and a credit will appear on accounts. Additionally, tuition will be credited to accounts for the days school has not met.

In an effort to help with challenges by having to balance work while caring for children at home, tuition will be reduced by 50% for virtual school days and will return to regular rates once face-to-face instruction resumes. The April statement will reflect these adjustments with the understanding that regular classroom instruction resumes on April 16. If school is suspended further, the May statement will be adjusted accordingly.

What about music lessons and groups?

Private lesson teachers will be calling parents seeking input regarding interest in continuing lessons virtually at the regular lesson rate. Regrettably, performing groups are unable to continue in a virtual setting. Performing groups will be resumed when students return to school.

How do I pick up my child’s books and supplies from school?

Stop by your child’s homeroom or locker anytime between 7:30 a.m.–4:45 p.m. Wednesday or Thursday, March 26 or 27, to pick up all of your child’s materials—books, supplies, musical instruments, identifiable lost & found items, etc. Important: In addition to your child’s belongings, we will provide the necessary information and materials will be provided to assist with starting the virtual school process.

In an effort to protect the health of others, please limit the size of your group to one adult with children and do not come to the lobby if you or anyone in your household is sick. If you or a household member is sick, or if you are uncomfortable entering the building, please reply to this e-mail with your child’s name as well as a specific day and time and we will deliver to your car.

How do I pick up my child’s medications?

Stop by the office anytime Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. If you call ahead, we will have it ready for to be delivered to your car.

What about returning library books and copies of music?

Library books and music scores should be dropped off when you pick up your child’s books and supplies. Late fees have been waived. If your child currently has a book checked out for a project, drop it off once the project is complete.

What calendar changes are coming?

Take a break on Good Friday, but, in order to complete the school year in a timely fashion, we recommend continuing virtual instruction on the weekdays before and after Good Friday. This follows the pattern of local schools.

It is impossible to predict when students will be able to return to PCA, but it is our desire to resume face-to-face instruction on April 16. There are numerous upcoming events—including recitals, banquets, and graduations—which are dependent upon the resumption of activities. Calendar adjustments and event cancellations will be sent in future correspondence.

What about sports?

All sports activities are canceled at least until on-campus activities resume. A decision regarding the remainder of the season will be made at a later date. In preparation for a possible cancellation to the sports season, sports uniforms should be dropped off when picking up books and supplies. Please be sure to have returned items labeled.

Following the Florida Department of Education’s directive, PCA will remain closed through April 15. In light of the extended closure, we will be providing PCA’s instruction remotely March 30 through April 15 so students can stay on track. We are committed to providing educational services to your family for the remainder of the year.

This Friday, please check your e-mail for information regarding our remote online streaming program and the personal telephonic and email support you can expect from your child’s current teacher. If you do not have access to the internet, please let us know so that we can work within your circumstances to provide the best education possible. We will also provide dates and times your child’s books and belongings will be available for pickup. Charges for optional services such as ESD and bus will be prorated to March 13.

Responses to COVID-19 are continually evolving, and we will update you should anything change regarding the school calendar or delivery of content. Rest assured that we are fully committed to your child’s successful completion of this semester. We also understand that school closures across the state affect every home in significant ways; however, as responsible community partners, we are doing our part to contribute to the health of the Pensacola community. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The school website and information phone line, 478-8484, will be updated as needed.

In the continued effort to halt the spread of COVID-19, the Florida Department of Education recommended that schools close for a two-week period. Pensacola Christian Academy will be closed March 16– March 27. Beginning with the March 14 track meet, all sports practices and events are cancelled during this time. Grade programs and PTMs are also cancelled. Regular classes and events are scheduled to resume Monday, March 30. Information regarding additional academic calendar adjustments will be available at a later date.

The school website and information phone line, 478-8484, will be updated as needed.

As the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is monitoring worldwide impacts of the coronavirus COVID-19, Pensacola Christian Academy is proactively following CDC and Escambia County Health Department guidance. We will continue to maintain a healthful school environment through practices designed to prevent the spread of germs.

Your child’s health and safety is of the utmost importance to Pensacola Christian Academy. For the welfare of your child and others in the school, it is important that you keep your child home if he becomes ill and not send him to school.

We ask you to work with us to prevent our school community from the spread of infectious illnesses. Our goal is to avoid the spread of germs by following and encouraging these proactive measures:

• Washing hands frequently for 20 seconds with soapy water
• Using alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available
• Covering cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently-touched objects and surfaces
• Getting adequate sleep and eating well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system

Our prayers continue for those affected by this coronavirus throughout the world, and for health officials overseeing the research and response