Q & A with Michael Pastor

I have taught 6th grade and 8th grade mathematics for 2 years at PRCA.

I taught for 29 years in public education as a science, mathematics, and STEM teacher in the Cartwright School District in Phoenix, AZ and in the Amphitheater School District in Tucson, AZ.

I grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Commercial Physical Education at Colorado State University. I earned my Master's Degree at the University of Arizona in Exercise & Sports Sciences, specifically corporate wellness. I earned my post baccalaureate in elementary education (K-8) at Arizona State University.

I have been married for 34 years to my bride, Terri. We have two children, Hannah and Jared. Terri is also a teacher of 32 years. She is presently teaching 4th grade at the PRCA Grammar School. My daughter earned her degree through Grand Canyon University and is presently a 3rd grade teacher in the Tempe Unified District. She has been married 2 years to Nathan Keso. Jared is presently attending Grand Canyon University majoring in Software Engineering.

I coach MS volleyball, MS softball, and JV softball at PRCA. I enjoy exercise, specifically hiking and/or walking and tennis. I love to read and work on puzzles. I volunteer at my church as a greeter and security monitor. I love to travel and spending time with my family and dog, Chelsea.

I want my students to know that they are image-bearers of their heavenly Father. I want to model, with the Holy Spirit's help, the characteristics and attributes of my Father. I want my students to understand the miraculous gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ and how God can lead and direct their path through life. I want them to know how much God cares for them and desires a lifelong relationship with them.

I love the climate of PRCA which is manifest in the mission statement of becoming more like Christ. I love the students, parents, and families at this school. The staff and administration include amazing people who love the Lord. It is a privilege to work at this school.

I think academics are important. However, academics exclusively can lead students to a life of secularism. I think a biblical worldview is an important part of education because a student's heart is affected which is how we can change the world for Christ. When students graduate from PRCA, they should be prepared to usher in God's kingdom through their jobs, families, and community involvement. Education should be more than just book learning. It should focus on biblical integration into all facets of their lives.

I am very comfortable and secure in working with young people. Talking with groups of adults can make me quite nervous in insecure.

PRCA is an outreach ministry. The staff wants to prepare students to reach a lost world for Christ. I consider myself a missionary at this school because I can share God's Word daily, pray with students and staff often, and help prepare students academically and spiritually to live out their faith in a world in desperate need of a Savior.