Portland Adventist Academy is blessed with more than outstanding educators; it's blessed with staff who deeply invest in the lives of their students, both inside and outside the classroom.
At PAA, teaching goes beyond textbooks — it’s about cultivating relationships and inspiring young people to become Christ-centered, character-driven individuals. Walking through the halls of PAA, one can immediately feel the impact of dedicated staff who go beyond delivering lessons. Every staff member is committed to serving students with excellence. Staff mentor, innovate and create spaces where students thrive academically, spiritually and personally. PAA students, families, churches and community love the staff.
For a period of time, Alumni Award Foundation granted annual Excellence in Teaching Awards to educators across North American Division. PAA believes it's unique to have four staff members who were individually recognized with prestigious Excellence in Teaching Awards.
Mark Smith — awarded in 2011 at PAA
Smith, former engineer turned educator, has served at PAA for 28 of his 35 years in Adventist Education, teaching a variety of computer, math, science and leadership classes. Beyond the classroom, he founded the school’s rock climbing club and was instrumental in introducing college-credit courses to the curriculum at PAA, giving students opportunities to advance their academic journeys while still in high school.
Mechelle Peinado — awarded in 2014 at Mount Ellis Elementary School
Peinado, PAA principal, has previous roots in the classroom, where her focus on meeting individual student needs made a lasting impact. Her passion for inclusive education, personalized learning and celebrating each student continues as she supports teachers in creating environments where every student can find success.
Geoff Heald — awarded in 2014 at Lake City Junior Academy
Heald, PAA English and AP literature teacher, brings a legacy of innovation in education. Heald was recognized for revitalizing traditional curricula by integrating advanced, college-level materials and making learning engaging and meaningful for his students. He brings that same energy and creativity to PAA's English department.
Stephen Lundquist — awarded in 2018 at PAA
Lundquist serves as a Bible teacher. His thoughtful integration of school core values into his lessons helps students live out their faith in practical, transformative ways. Lundquist creates a classroom environment that students find safe, inviting, encouraging, stimulating and always suffused with God’s love for every one of His children.
At PAA, excellence in teaching is a daily commitment to preparing students to be Christ-centered and character-driven individuals. The legacy of all the educators is inspiring. Their service, creativity, deep care and excellence are evident in all they do. PAA believes every staff member deserves an Excellence in Teaching Award.
Mark Smith, PAA computer science, math and outdoor leadership teacher, has served at PAA for 28 of his 35 years in Adventist education.
Mechelle Peinado, PAA principal
Stephen Lundquist, PAA Bible teacher, integrates school values into his lessons, helping students live out their faith in practical, transformative ways.
Geoff Heald, PAA English and AP literature teacher, was recognized for revitalizing traditional curricula by integrating advanced, college-level materials and making learning engaging and meaningful for his students.
