2021-2022 IMPACT REPORT
“God’s gradebook for our school isn’t based on size, budget, or test scores —
it’s based on our obedience to Him in all we do.”
— Stuart Shumway, Head of School
A Note from our Head of School
Dear Friends of Grace,
It’s hard to believe that we are almost midway through another school year here at Grace. Our enrollment, facilities, academic services, and teacher salaries have noticeably increased in recent years, but those all trail in value to the positive and godly atmosphere that we are striving to demonstrate daily on our campus. God’s gradebook for our school isn’t based on size, budget, or test scores — it’s based on our obedience to Him in all we do. Each school year presents its own unique challenges and opportunities and, this past year, we have watched God bless our faithfulness. The support of community members, local businesses, alumni, and GCS families has made an incredible impact on our achievements this past year. I hope you will take a few minutes to read through the enclosed annual report and celebrate the fruit of your generosity.
Blessings,
Stuart Shumway, Head of School
“Grace’s ability to quickly adjust and be flexible in an ever-changing environment while still progressing the children’s education and maintaining an open, stable, and loving environment has been excellent.”
— Elementary School Parent
We teach with academic excellence from a Biblical worldview.
MISSION
To equip students to reach their God-given potential through excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts and technology through a Christian worldview.
CORE VALUES
Spiritual growth is encouraged through biblical integration in all coursework and the promotion of Christian leadership and discipleship in all activities. Academic growth is promoted through quality education in all classes, enhanced learning opportunities for high achievers, and learning support for students who need extra assistance.
GCS is committed to reaching people for Jesus. Students are taught about God’s love, led to believe the Gospel, and trained to follow Christ in serving others and building God’s kingdom.
Students are taught that Scripture is the verbally-inspired, inerrant Word of God, and the authority and sufficiency for living the life God intends.
Through modeling and empowerment, GCS promotes strong Christian leadership in its staff and student body that is committed to executing duties with righteousness and sound ethics.
As work that is done unto the Lord, GCS staff and students are expected to strive for excellence in all endeavors and activities.
“Grace has built my faith and has helped me to know who I am in Christ. I feel very confident to go out into the world but I always know I have a home to come back to here at Grace.”
— High School Student
2021-2022
by the numbers.
Mrs. Batten is well-respected by her colleagues and loved by her students. Parents often express how much they appreciate her thorough and consistent communication. Mrs. Batten goes above and beyond for her students, actively seeking new ideas and time-tested instructional practices to incorporate in her classroom. Mrs. Batten is known for the attention she provides to each individual student’s progress, and also the differentiated instruction to then meet the needs of all students. When one student experienced social challenges, Mrs. Batten found a way to incorporate interventions that benefited all students and allowed a student in need to receive instruction without being made to feel alone. Mrs. Batten cares deeply for each one of her students both in their learning and also their growth in the Lord Jesus Christ. Mrs. Batten has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, a Master of Education in Reading from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, and ACSI, NC, Orton-Gillingham and HillRAP teaching certifications.
“I teach to inspire young children to be the best they can be as they serve the Lord. I strive to instill confidence, a love for God, a love for learning, and a love for others within my students.” — Rhonda Batten
Jennifer Ames is a Middle School Science Teacher at Grace Christian School. She has a Bachelor of Arts from St. Andrews University and is an ACSI certified teacher. Mrs. Ames’ calm, capable demeanor makes her a leader among her colleagues — whether it is collaborating with her peers or coming alongside a new teacher. Her solutions-orientated approach on any matter is highly valued. Mrs. Ames has high, but fair and consistent expectations for her students; and often makes herself available beyond her classroom to provide student support. She loves Jesus, loves our students, and exemplifies Grace Christian School’s mission every day.
“I love so many things about GCS; my coworkers, the students, and the support from admin and parents. But the best part is as a parent, and now teacher, I’ve had a front row seat seeing the absolutely amazing things God can do through ordinary people who are obedient and passionate about Him.” — Jennifer Ames
Did you know?
There were only 20 students
total in our first year (1970).
We celebrated our first
graduating class in 1985.
2021-2022
Milestones.
“I love that I can be surrounded by other Christians and that this school is so welcoming. I love the students, staff and the teachers because they are all so uplifting and they will help you in your spiritual walk with Christ. The teachers are always understanding and they truly care for their students.”
— Middle School Student
Convenient Ways to Give
— Text “Give” to (919) 343-5770 —
Our Annual Fund provides program improvements and new initiatives to students of all grade levels. It is the tool that enables us to Love, Lead, Teach, Train, and Send. Your continued support is vital in providing a quality Christian education that is accessible to all students.
Grace Christian School is a ministry of the nonprofit 501(c)(3) Grace Chapel Christian Church, Tax ID# 56-1157891. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law.