Laura Dancek
Port Charlotte Adventist School (PCAS) is celebrating 50 years of Christian education. This golden anniversary celebration began on March 6 with a warm welcome by Sandee Lawrence, event organizer, school board chair, and holder of a school record for 30 years of teaching at PCAS.
On the platform for a special Sabbath School program were past students and principals who shared significant, sometimes humorous, memories of their time at PCAS. Todd Lang provided a rich and unique background of the school, having been one of its first students. He and his three siblings represented almost 40% of the total beginning enrollment. Alumnus Kevin McNeill and past principals Ed Dancek, 1984-1989; Kathy Trumper, 2009-2017; and Theresa Martinez, 2017-2019, recounted the history of the school.
As history and experiences were shared, it became apparent that PCAS has consistently grown and improved over the years through God’s blessings. Almibar Cruz, current principal, gained applause with the announcement that, within the next two school years, PCAS hopes to offer 11th and 12th grades, which will be a first in the history of the school!
During the worship service, the congregation was blessed with praise music by two alumni, Ingrid Suero and Jafet Baxter; and the school’s marimba band and chime choir. Frank Runnels, vice president and superintendent for education in the Florida Conference, shared stories of faith and answers to prayer to remind the listeners of the school’s eternal impact on all the children who have attended. The 50th anniversary commemoration closed with the uplifting song, “I Am a Promise,” sung by all of the school’s current students.
The school has survived turnovers in staff, Hurricane Charley in 2004, roof leaks, and much more. PCAS has thrived through many obstacles because it is God’s school. This program was very much a celebration of God’s great blessings on Adventist education in Port Charlotte.
Florida | July 2021
Comments are closed.