ABOUT GASTON CHRISTIAN
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OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH
1. THE HOLY BIBLE
We believe the Holy Bible, as contained in the Old and New Testaments, to be the only inspired, inerrant, authoritative Word of God, perfect in all it affirms and sets forth. The truth of scripture is dependent wholly on God and not on the testimony of any man or church. Scripture interprets scripture. II Timothy 3:16-17, II Peter 1:20-21, Hebrews 4:12
2. THE TRINITY
We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Genesis 1:1, John 1:1, Hebrews 1:1
3. THE PERFECT DEITY
We believe in the perfect Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death on the cross through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory to judge all mankind. Luke 2, the Gospel of John, Hebrews 10:5-27
4. THE WORK OF THE SPIRIT
We believe in the work of the Holy Spirit to call man unto salvation and to indwell the Christian and empower him to seek and to live a godly life. I Cor. 3:16, Colossians 2:4-10, I John 3:1
5. THE GOSPEL
We believe that all men/women are created by God in His image. Having fallen, man is sinful in his present state before God and can be saved only by the redeeming grace of God. Romans 3:10-18, 23, Ephesians 2:1-22
6. THE WAY TO SALVATION
We believe that faith in Jesus Christ alone, as both Lord and Savior, by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit is the only way of Salvation for a lost and sinful person. John 14:6, Acts 4:12, John 4:24, Hebrews 11:1-6
7. THE RESURRECTION OF MAN
We believe in the resurrection of all mankind–those who are called and saved unto the resurrection of eternal life and those who are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. John 5:29, Colossians 3
8. THE UNITY
We believe in the spiritual unity of all true believers who call on Jesus Christ alone to be their Lord and Savior. Romans 1:11-12, Ephesians 4:4-6, Ephesians 1:15-23, I Corinthians 2
9. THE LOCAL CHURCH
We believe that according to the Bible, a Christian shall by his/her life testimony, be a member, supportive and involved in a local church of his/her choosing. Hebrews 10:19-25
OUR Statement on Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality
The Gaston Christian School (GCS) Statement of faith is a summary of our core Christian beliefs which are derived from the Bible and which are also based upon historic, orthodox, Christian consensus. We believe God’s attributes are described in the Bible, including that He is loving, holy, and unchanging. We believe all people have a sinful and broken nature which manifests itself in various ways in various people. These sinful behaviors are contrary to God’s will as it is explained in the Bible. The Bible also gives us wisdom for holy living, and God has given us His Holy Spirit to grow us in sanctification so that behaviors which please God are possible. Our student body at GCS comes from a wide variety of denominations and churches which have statements of faith which may differ from the school’s position contained herein. Therefore, this statement serves to clarify the school’s views on marriage, sexuality, gender, and the resulting impact this position has on the school’s expectations for employees and students. Policies for our employees are found in a separate GCS staff policy manual.
We believe marriage has only one meaning: the covenantal uniting of one man and one woman in a single exclusive union, as delineated in the Bible (Gen. 2:18-25). We believe that God intends His gift of sexual intimacy to occur only between a man and a woman who are married to each other (I Cor. 6:18, 7:2-5; Heb. 13:4). We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman and that any form of sexual behavior outside of the marriage relationship is clearly outside of God’s will and sinful. Some examples include, but are not limited to adultery, fornication, homosexual behavior, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, and use of pornography (Matt. 15:18-20; I Cor. 6:9-10).
We believe that God’s design is the wonderful and unchanging creation of each person as male or female in the womb of their mother. These two distinct, complementary genders together reflect the image and nature of God (Gen. 1:26-27). Rejection of one’s gender given by God in the womb is a rejection of God’s design for that person. The school does not condone intentional attempts by a person to change one’s biological sex nor will the school refer to students by gender-specific pronouns other than those in alignment with their gender in the womb.
We also believe that there are circumstances in which a school must react to an employee or student’s behavior when it does not align with our beliefs. We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of Gaston Christian School as a Christian ministry and to provide a Biblical role model to the Gaston Christian School students and the community, it is imperative that employees agree with and abide by this statement, and that parents and/or guardians agree that their students will abide by this Statement on Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality (Matt. 5:16; Phil. 2:14-16; I Thess. 5:22) while enrolled at Gaston Christian.
Our policies and practices flow from our Statement of Faith and are also intended to guard against instructional disruptions at school (see Parent/Student handbook for specific policies). When a student is behaving in ways which contradict this statement, the school’s administration will take the following approaches:
- We will focus our partnership with parents on discipling, mentoring, and helping students understand biblical thought and actions regarding marriage, sexuality, and gender.
- While we believe sexual behavior outside of God’s design as mentioned above to be sinful, we also believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ (Acts 3:19-21; Rom. 10:9-10; I Cor. 6:9-11). We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity (Mark 12:28-31; Luke 6:31). Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accord with Scripture nor the doctrines of Gaston Christian School. Sinful treatment of any student by another is not tolerated (see Parent/Student handbook for conflict, harassment, and bullying policies).
- Student instruction, discipline, and counseling will be administered in accordance with their God-given gender in the womb. We will refer to students using pronouns aligned with their God-given gender in the womb. Students must dress, use the bathroom and locker room, and participate on athletic teams which align with their God-given gender in the womb (see Parent/Student handbook for further language and context).
SET FOR SUCCESS
OUR LEADERSHIP
Jonathan Huitt, PhD
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Welcome to Gaston Christian School!
For more than 45 years, Gaston Christian School has had the privilege of ministering to thousands of students and families throughout our region. As a missional, non-denominational, conservative Christian school, our mission is to partner with Christian families and churches in providing an education that develops students spiritually, academically, physically, emotionally, and socially through a distinctly biblical worldview. We are committed to the authority of God’s Word and to helping students cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus Christ while pursuing excellence in every area of life.
We provide an academically rigorous education within a safe, Christ-centered environment where students are challenged to think critically, lead courageously, and serve faithfully. Our desire is that every graduate leaves Gaston Christian equipped to influence the world for Christ with wisdom, conviction, and compassion.
Today, more than 1,300 students call Gaston Christian School home. Our students consistently perform well above the national average on standardized assessments while being challenged through a wide variety of advanced academic opportunities. The Class of 2026, consisting of more than 70 graduates, received over $4 million in college scholarship offers, a testament to the hard work of our students, the dedication of our faculty, and God’s faithfulness to our school. Additionally, our Advanced Placement program continues to excel, with an approximately 82% AP exam pass rate and 100% pass rates in chemistry, physics, biology, and Precalculus, allowing many students to earn valuable college credit before graduation.
Beyond the classroom, Gaston Christian offers exceptional opportunities for students to discover and develop their God-given gifts. Our athletic program features more than 25 varsity and junior varsity teams competing at a high level while emphasizing Christlike character, teamwork, and servant leadership. In 2026, our Girls Varsity Soccer team captured the NCISAA State Championship, reflecting the culture of excellence that defines our athletic program. Students also participate in Mock Trial, Skeet Club, a first-class fine arts program, and mission opportunities that encourage them to make an impact on the world for Christ.
Technology is thoughtfully integrated into the educational experience at Gaston Christian School. Our high school students use Neos, while our middle school students use iPads, equipping them with the digital skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing world. We also offer courses in computer science and intentionally prepare students to navigate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, with wisdom, discernment, and a biblical worldview.
At the same time, we proudly remain a paper-and-pencil school. We believe textbooks, cursive writing, penmanship, note-taking, and the ability to think critically without dependence on technology remain essential skills for lifelong learning. We intentionally limit screen time in meaningful ways, recognizing that students learn and develop best through personal interaction, handwritten work, printed texts, and engaged classroom discussion. While we prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, we remain committed to the enduring strengths of a traditional education—one that values deep reading, thoughtful writing, strong teacher-student relationships, and the formation of wisdom and character.
Gaston Christian School is enriched by students from around the world. Our international student program welcomes young men and women from countries including Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, Japan, China, Brazil, and several nations across Africa, and more, creating a vibrant, multicultural learning environment. These students bring unique perspectives and experiences that broaden our community while allowing lifelong friendships to develop across cultures. As an evangelical Christian school, we are honored to share the love of Christ with students from around the globe while fostering mutual respect, cultural appreciation, and lasting relationships.
We would be honored to welcome you to one of our campuses to experience firsthand what makes Gaston Christian School such a special place. As we begin this school year, our theme is The Great Commission, reminding us of Christ’s call to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19–20). Our prayer is that every student who walks our halls will not only grow in knowledge and wisdom but will also develop a deep, authentic faith that equips them to serve Christ faithfully wherever He leads.
Thank you for considering Gaston Christian School. We pray God’s richest blessings upon your family and look forward to partnering with you in your children’s education and discipleship.
For His glory!
Jonathan Huitt, PhD
Head of School
OUR LEADERSHIP
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
Lindsay Lockett
Vice President of Advancement
Lindsay is a native of Gaston County and graduated from Western Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She joined the GCS team in 2019 as Director of Admissions and moved into the Advancement role in 2022. As VP of Advancement, Lindsay works directly with our Head of School to coordinate all fundraising efforts that support the school’s mission. She also provides direction and oversight for special events, parent relations, marketing, and admissions.
T Brack
Chief Financial Officer
T. Brack is the Chief Financial Officer at GCS. He graduated from Wingate University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and earned his Master’s from UNCC. He worked for 3 years in public accounting and 8 years as the CFO for a not-for-profit organization. T and his wife Heidi are blessed with four sons: Cayden (2025 GCS graduate), JJ (12th grader), Archie (2nd grader), and Emmitt (1st grader). T and his family are members of Calvary Baptist Church in Gastonia.
Gary Ford
High School Principal
Stacey Reeves
High School Assistant Principal
Pattiann Rabb
Middle School Principal
Denika Alston
Elementary Principal
Annette Simmons
Early Childhood Principal
Dr. Tina Cook
Director of Cognitive Enrichment
OUR LEADERSHIP
SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Lane Rice
Academic Dean
Heidi Brack
Director of Fine Arts
Tom Hawxwell
Athletic Director
Amanda Knight
International Student Coordinator
Nancy Roach
Business Manager
Julie Ryan
Admissions Director
Randy Erwin
Director of Communications
Ricky Collins
Director of Community Engagement
Benjy Hunsucker
Facilities Coordinator
Mark Moore
Christian Life Director
Dr. Julie Denham
Director of Women's Ministry
John Faulkner
Grounds Coordinator
OUR LEADERSHIP
SCHOOL COUNSELORS
Kristen Bergan
Elementary Counselor
Summer Bachman
Middle School Counselor
Chelsea Turpin
9-10 Academic Counselor and 9-12 Social/Emotional Counselor
Karen Brooks
11th-12th Academic College Counselor
OUR LEADERSHIP
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS
Wade Leaphart
Deputy Sheriff
Doug Huffstetler
Deputy Sheriff
OUR LEADERSHIP
East Cleveland Campus
Victoria Ahearn
East Cleveland Campus Principal
OUR LEADERSHIP
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Front row: Robert King (Chairman), Ashley Bizzell, Lauren Reeves, Katie Goforth, Zenitra McGrinson, Dr. Marc Stout (Retired Former – Head of School)
Back row: Britt Goodrich, Keith Gunter, Caleb Partee, Andrew Poeng, Travis Nixon, Julian McCaulay
Not pictured: A.J. Main and Dr. Jonathan Huitt (Current – Head of School)
BOARD OF TRUSTEES ENDS STATEMENT
STUDENTS IMPACT THE KINGDOM OF GOD BY LIVING PRODUCTIVE CHRISTIAN LIVES.
- Students are developing spiritually, academically, artistically, physically, and socially toward their God-given potential. 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 2:10; Romans 12:4-8
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- Students are maturing spiritually and evidencing a Christian worldview as revealed in the Bible. Romans 12:2; Psalm 119:11, 105; 2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12
- Students are prepared to pursue God’s calling for their lives after high school, whether through a career, college, or university. 1 Corinthians 10:31; Romans 12:1; Ephesians 5:1-2
- Students and their families are partnered with the GCS staff, as a community of God’s image bearers, to prepare students to impact the world for the kingdom and glory of God by exemplifying, as Christ did for us, Christian love, service, humility, and joy. John 13:34-35; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Galatians 5:22-23; Matthew 5:13-16; 1 Timothy 1:5; 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
OUR CAMPUSES
We have 2 convenient campus locations in Gastonia and Kings Mountain serving over 1000 students in grades PK3-12.
Gaston Christian School
1625 Lowell Bethesda Rd. Gastonia NC
Gaston Christian School - East Cleveland Campus
105 E. Ridge Street Kings Mountain, NC 28086
2024-2025 GCS Annual Report
Dear Gaston Christian School Families,
As we enter this season of giving, we’re excited to launch our Annual Fund Drive with our theme verse taken from II Timothy 2:2, “and the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” This verse reminds us of the generational passing of leadership and responsibility to the next generation. As a school, we are to be deliberate in our training of the next generation of leaders. In June 2026, Dr. Jon Huitt will accept the role of Head of School for Gaston Christian School. I am confident that Dr. Huitt will do an amazing job in this new role. At Gaston Christian School, our mission is not only to educate but to nurture young hearts and minds in their spiritual journey, and we cannot do it alone. Your support of our Annual Fund Drive empowers us to continue this work, extending the blessing of Christian education to all families, regardless of financial circumstances.
The Annual Fund Drive enables us to support multiple programs that are essential to our community:
- Annual Fund – By donating to the Annual Fund, you are not only investing in the immediate needs of GCS but also fostering the long-term growth and success of our school. Your generous support ensures that we can continue to provide a high-quality education and create opportunities for all students to thrive.
- Athletics – Your generous donation plays a vital role in supporting our athletic programs, providing essential resources that empower students to excel both physically and academically.
- Barnabas Fund – Named after the encourager himself, this fund connects parents who feel called to financially support our dedicated staff members who may face unexpected hardships. Through this fund, you become a part of the supportive community that strengthens our GCS family.
- East Cleveland Campus – This expansion is not about numbers; it’s about making a real impact for the Kingdom of God. With your help, we can create a nurturing environment. Together, we can build stronger families and foster long-term success in our community.
- International Student Fund – This fund ensures that financial constraints do not hinder our international students from experiencing a Christ-centered education in our nurturing environment. Our international students bring a unique global perspective that benefits our entire school community, and your donations help us welcome them with open arms.
- Financial Aid – This fund provides financial assistance to families who otherwise could not afford a GCS education. Your contributions allow us to welcome students from diverse backgrounds, enriching our school with new perspectives and experiences rooted in faith.
Your participation in this year’s Annual Fund Drive is a testimony to your support of Gaston Christian School’s mission. As you consider how you might contribute, we ask that you give prayerful thought to how your gift can be a blessing to GCS, helping us to serve our families and invest in the lives of our students for God’s glory.
To the right is a QR code you can scan to make your contribution online, making it quick and easy to support thes
e vital programs. Or please visit gastonchristian.org/support to make a secure donation. Alternatively, you can mail a check to Gaston Christian School, 1625 Lowell Bethesda Rd., Gastonia, NC 28054.
Thank you for your continued partnership with Gaston Christian School. Together, let us invest in our students’ future and the growth of our Christian community.
I hope you enjoy reading through the 2024-25 Annual Report. (https://gastonchristian.org/
With gratitude,
Dr. Marc Stout, Head of School
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