About

FAQ

Academics

What does it mean to be a Classical School?

The Classical Trivium describes the learning stages of children as they mature and focuses the educational method in each stage to best develop a knowledgeable, thinking, and articulate student. As its name implies, there are three stages represented in the Trivium: Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric.

What curriculum is used?

We do not use purchased curriculum but rather individual departments and teachers refine their courses of study (along with the Dean of Academics) to meet the needs of the students and adhere to the mission of our school. The classical philosophy of education is reflected in PRCA’s curriculum with its focus on history, classic literature, timeless masterpieces of art and music, and math and science. All subjects are taught from a Biblical perspective so that students may understand that God is the King of everything, from science to music to history, and that His Word is the absolute source of truth.

What are the class sizes at PRCA?

K-5 classes are capped at 18 students. Middle school students have a maximum of 22 students per class and high school classrooms are limited to 24 students.

How is the admissions testing used?

For grades K-12, testing assures that potential students are at grade level. Math and Foreign Language classes are not organized by grade level, and testing determines placement.

Is PRCA accredited?

PRCA is accredited by ASCI (Association of Christian Schools International). Grades 6-12 are also accredited by Cognia.

Does PRCA offer Honors and AP classes?

Yes. High school students may select Honors and/or AP classes in the core curriculum, including English, Math, Science, History, and Foreign Language. Additionally, dual credit is offered for some classes through the University of Arizona and Colorado Christian University.

What are the high school graduation requirements?

The requirements for each student is 4 years of English, Math, Social Science, and Bible, 3 years of Science, and 2 years of Foreign Language and Electives, including a semester of Fine Art. PRCA exceeds the Arizona Department of Education requirements.

How are teachers supported professionally? 

PRCA offers ongoing professional development for all staff. New teachers participate in a three-year induction program that includes over 75 hours of workshops and observations working together on best practices to implement our mission statement.

Professional Development opportunities are regularly offered to all teachers and staff in workshops that are taught by teachers for teachers to learn what happens across the curriculum in order to strengthen our interdisciplinary teaching approaches.

Student Life

What is student life like?

Grammar & South Campus students gather each morning for opening ceremonies. Upper Campus students hear morning announcements where pledges and memory verses are recited. Chapel is offered one day a week at each campus. Students, teachers and staff gather to worship, hear special guest speakers, and often have small group time. High school students participate in the House System. PRCA offers strong fine arts, including performing and visual art offerings. Many students gather to support their classmates at athletic events, concerts, and on the stage.

What extracurricular activities are available?

High school sports are offered through the Arizona Interscholastic Association, and athletes compete in the 3A South region. Middle school athletes participate in the TIAL league. Grammar School students have opportunities to play with classmates in sports leagues throughout the year. Various other clubs and organizations are offered for students. Expeditionary Learning offers trip opportunities for participatory learning.

Is there a dress code; are there uniforms?

While our Grammar and South campuses do not have specific uniform requirements, there is a dress code for each campus. Middle and high school students wear uniforms.

Where do students live/come from?

Our students and their families live all over Pima County, with some from Pinal County.

General Information

How will I know my child is safe?

Our campuses have a dedicated CSO (Campus Security Officer) on the grounds each school day. Security cameras are installed throughout campuses, and we work closely with the local police. 

Does our family need to be Christian to attend?

Referencing the covenantal community in our mission statement, PRCA requires that at least one parent sign our Statement of Faith. Over 80 different churches are represented by our families.

What is the expectation of parent involvement?

We encourage all parents to volunteer throughout the year. There are many opportunities, but no specific requirements.

Is tuition assistance/financial aid available?

89% of our families receive scholarships through ESA or tax credit scholarships.  There are application requirements for different types of scholarships, but all families are able to benefit from the AZ Private School Tax Credit Scholarship.  Parents are encouraged to attend the Tax Credit Workshops offered throughout the year. You may also set an appointment with our Director of Scholarships to receive more information.

What is the cell phone policy?

Cell phones are not to be used on campus, during the school day, or until 4:00 PM. Messages to or from parents may be relayed through the front office. Students are allowed to place a phone call outside the building after the school day ends. We believe this policy encourages fewer distractions and more face-to-face conversations.
The mission of Pusch Ridge Christian Academy is to teach our students to become like Christ through a classical, Christian education within a covenantal community.

Grammar Campus (grades K-5)

6450 N Camino Miraval, Tucson AZ 85718
P: 520.529.7080  F: 520.529.7140
School office hours: 7:45 AM - 3:30 PM

Upper Campus (grades 6-12)

9500 N Oracle Road, Tucson AZ 85704
P: 520.797.0107  F: 520.797.0598
School office hours: 7:45 AM - 4:00 PM

South Campus (grades K-2)

5951 S 12th Ave, Tucson AZ 85706
P: 520.413.7945  F: 520.467.3894
School office hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM