PCA Plano Life Stories

We are honored to announce that Renato Casusol has been recognized as a National Merit Finalist—one of the most prestigious academic distinctions awarded to high school Seniors nationwide.

Each year, roughly 1.3 million students enter the National Merit Scholarship competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). From this group, 16,000 high scorers are named semifinalists, representing the highest-performing students in each state. Of those, approximately 15,000 advance to finalist standing after undergoing a comprehensive review of their academic records, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, leadership experience, and personal character.

Earning a place among this elite group highlights Renato’s remarkable dedication to excellence both inside and outside the classroom. His achievement demonstrates the strength of our school community and the intentional preparation our students receive at PCA, spiritually, academically, and in all areas of personal growth.

Finalists are now eligible to compete for approximately 7,500 National Merit Scholarships, which will be awarded later this spring. We are proud of Renato’s hard work and excited to see the opportunities ahead as he continues to pursue his academic and personal goals.

Prestonwood Christian Academy honored 11 outstanding student-athletes who signed Letters of Intent to continue their education and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Surrounded by family, coaches, and peers, these Lions celebrated years of dedication, leadership, and perseverance in their respective sports.

Reagan Baker committed to play softball at East Tennessee State University as a catcher. Known for her toughness behind the plate and strong leadership, Reagan has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage the game from her position.

Brenna Callander signed to play women’s soccer at Dallas College – Brookhaven. Brenna’s high work rate, field vision, and dependable effort have been key to her success and will serve her well at the collegiate level.

Trent Clarkson will continue his football career as a kicker at Northeastern State University. Trent has become a reliable specialist with a powerful leg and consistent accuracy.

Luke Glass committed to play quarterback at East Texas A&M University. Luke is a competitive leader who has shown the ability to command an offense with confidence and poise.

Colt Hillhouse signed to play football at University of Mary Hardin–Baylor. A physical and hard-nosed athlete, Colt brings toughness and a high football IQ to one of the nation’s top Division III programs.

Tobias “Tobi” Jensen will continue his football career as a defensive back at John Carroll University. As the first Danish-born defensive back to sign at the university level, Tobi is recognized for his athleticism, versatility, and relentless effort.

David “Junior” Kniffen Jr. signed to play football at Southern Methodist University. A high-level athlete, Junior earned this Division I opportunity through his determination, consistency, and talent.

Kaleb Kozloski committed to play football at Hutchinson Community College. Kaleb is a tough, coachable player who has steadily grown in his abilities and will be a strong contributor at the next level.

Brock Schlef signed to play football at the United States Air Force Academy. His commitment speaks to his discipline, leadership, and character—qualities that reflect the values of the Academy.

Luke Seiver will continue his golf career at LeTourneau University. Known for his steady competitiveness and dedication, Luke is prepared to excel both academically and athletically.

Gabe Tyree signed to play football at the University of Chicago. Gabe will further both his academic and athletic pursuits at one of the nation’s top institutions, demonstrating excellence on the field and in the classroom.

PCA celebrates these remarkable student-athletes and looks forward to witnessing their continued success as they take the next step in their academic and athletic journeys.

Prestonwood Christian Academy is pleased to announce David Wetzel as the new Head Football Coach for the Prestonwood Christian Academy football program. Coach Wetzel brings tremendous spiritual leadership to the PCA community. He is a man of deep and authentic faith in Jesus Christ, and that foundation drives every aspect of his leadership. He carries a proven winning mentality, but even more importantly, a heart for building young men of character, integrity, and conviction.

Coach Wetzel joins PCA with more than 32 seasons of coaching experience, including 20 years as a head coach and an overall record of 163–71. Most recently, he served at Baylor University as Senior Associate Athletic Director and Executive Director of the B Association, while also contributing to the football program during a highly successful era that included a Big 12 Championship and multiple bowl appearances and victories.

Prior to his time at Baylor, Coach Wetzel led respected high school programs across Texas, including Ronald Reagan High School, Killeen High School, and Austin Hyde Park Baptist High School. At each stop, he built competitive programs marked by discipline, unity, and sustained success. His teams consistently reached the playoffs, captured district championships, and advanced deep into postseason play. Beyond the wins, he established cultures rooted in accountability, excellence, and strong character.

Throughout his career, Coach Wetzel has demonstrated a consistent history of impact—developing strong programs, uniting communities, and mentoring student-athletes to succeed both on and off the field. His reputation is well known across the state and nation, and coaches from around the country have shared their excitement about his move to PCA. Several of their comments are included below.

Coach Wetzel and his wife, Shana, have been married for 33 years and are proud parents of three sons and grandparents to two granddaughters. The Wetzels are active members of Harris Creek Church.

The PCA Plano community is invited to a special meet-and-greet to welcome Coach Wetzel on Thursday, Feb. 19, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Welcome Center. PCA looks forward to what the Lord has in store for the football program and for the young men who will be shaped under his leadership.

Read what others are saying!

Dave Aranda, Head Football Coach at Baylor University:
“David Wetzel has been an invaluable member of our Baylor football family and his impact extends far beyond the field. Coach Wetzel meant so much to me during my time here and I am incredibly grateful for his knowledge, mentorship and friendship over the last few years. His extensive experience as a high school head coach, his deep understanding of what it takes to build winning programs and his genuine care for young people make him an outstanding choice for this position. David's leadership qualities were evident every day he spent with us, and I have no doubt he will make a tremendous difference in the lives of his young men.”

Matt Rhule, Head Football Coach at the University of Nebraska:
“David Wetzel was my first introduction to Texas high school football. I am forever grateful for the impact he had on me, my family, and our time with Baylor Football. I am so excited for Prestonwood Christian Academy and Coach Wetzel. He is a perfect fit. Outstanding leader, man, and coach.”

Joey McGuire, Head Football Coach at Texas Tech University:
“Coach Wetzel is a proven winner, and he will do a great job at Prestonwood. He’s not only a great coach, but he’s also an even better man and will continue to bring honor to that school.”

Jeff Ireland, SVP & Assistant GM – Player Personnel for the New Orleans Saints Football Club:
“I’ve known David Wetzel since our days playing together at Baylor, and what stood out then is what still defines him today — his endearing faith, his toughness, and his commitment to the people around him. He’s a man of strong conviction who leads with integrity, decisive communication and humility. He will build young men of character while building a competitive football program. This is a tremendous hire.”

Rhett Lashlee - Head Football Coach at Southern Methodist University
“David Wetzel has a long history of developing young men and winning championships in both the high school and collegiate level in Texas. He will do an excellent job leading the program and the young men of Prestonwood Christian Academy, and he will do so with the utmost integrity. Phenomenal hire!”

 

This past weekend, a select group of PCA’s talented dancers stepped onto the competition floor at the Crowd Pleasers event and delivered an unforgettable performance. Representing a subset of the full PCA POM Team, the competition team is made up of five dedicated girls and two alternates who commit to additional practices, extra hours, and an elevated level of preparation. Their hard work was on full display at Lebanon Trail High School in Frisco on Saturday morning, where their POM routine lit up the room with energy, precision, and passion. It was nothing short of awesome to witness!

The team walked away with an impressive list of awards:

Solo Awards
• Molly Little – 9th Grade Solo, 1st Runner Up
• Lucy Berthelot – 10th Grade Solo, 2nd Runner Up
• Ava Morford – 10th Grade Solo Winner
• Reaghan Calvert – 12th Grade Solo Winner

Duet Award
• Berthelot/Morford – High School Duet, 2nd Runner Up

Group Routine Awards
• Most Outstanding Group Routine, Contemporary/Lyrical: “Heaven’s Door”
• Most Outstanding Group Routine, Pom: “Welcome to the Jungle”
• High Point High School Group Routine, Contemporary/Lyrical: “Heaven’s Door”
• High Point High School Group Routine, Pom: “Welcome to the Jungle”

Congratulations to Coach Gwin and the girls for such a successful competition outing. Their results reflect not only their individual abilities but also the strength of their teamwork and commitment. And a special thank you goes to Gwin for her leadership, direction, and passion in guiding this gifted group of athletes. This weekend was a shining moment for the PCA POM Team and a preview of even more great things to come.

The PreK hallway turned into a joyful alphabet parade as little letters wandered from classroom to classroom, proudly showing off their creativity. Each child dressed as a letter from the alphabet, bringing their learning to life in the sweetest way. An icy Elsa floated by as a sparkling “E,” while several energetic dinosaurs stomped along as roaring “D”s. A confident firefighter represented the letter “F,” ready for action, and a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader twirled by as a cheerful “C.” Everywhere you looked, another letter was smiling, waving, and laughing with friends.

This special day was about more than costumes. These PreK students are hard at work learning their ABCs, discovering letter sounds, shapes, and how letters come together to make words. As they learn the alphabet, they are also learning how to share, listen, follow directions, and encourage one another. Every step, from recognizing a letter to confidently wearing it, shows how much they are growing.

Through play, creativity, and fun experiences like this, the students are building a strong foundation for learning. The alphabet parade was a reminder that even the smallest learners are making big strides, one letter and one joyful moment at a time.