Shelby Kissell

Admissions Associate

Email
At GCS Since: 2026

Quick Bio:

  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from High Point University
  • Associate in Arts degree from Sandhills Community College
  • 2023 Grace Christian School Graduate
  • Attends Grace Chapel Church  Sanford, NC

Why are you in Christian education?

I’m in Christian education because I believe learning should shape more than just the mind, it should shape the heart, too. Education is important, but when it’s rooted in faith, it gives students a stronger sense of purpose and helps guide who they are becoming. To me, it’s about more than just academics. I really care about investing in students' lives. I want to be part of an environment where they’re growing not only in what they learn but also in their relationship with Christ and in their understanding of their identity in Him. I also value being in a place where I can openly live out my faith. Encouragement and leading by example means a lot to me. I think that kind of environment creates a different kind of community, one that’s more genuine, supportive, and grounded in something bigger than ourselves. At the end of the day, I’m in Christian education because I want to make an impact that goes beyond grades. I want to help shape who students become, not just what they achieve, and be part of something that truly matters in the long run.

What sets GCS apart?

What sets Grace Christian School apart is that it genuinely focuses on developing the whole student. As a 2023 graduate, I experienced firsthand how GCS invests not only in academics but also in spiritual growth, character development, leadership, athletics, fine arts, and preparing students for life after graduation. The school's mission is to equip students from a Christian worldview while helping them reach their God-given potential through excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, and technology. What stands out most to me is the community. The teachers, staff, and coaches truly care about their students and invest in them beyond the classroom. Looking back, some of the relationships I built at GCS had a lasting impact on who I am today. I also appreciate that faith is woven into everyday life. It's not something that's separated from academics or activities. Students are encouraged to grow spiritually, develop Christ-like character, and discover the gifts and purpose God has given them. Now, as an Admissions Associate, it's especially meaningful to return to a place that played such an important role in my own life. I have the opportunity to share my personal experience with prospective families and help them see how Grace Christian School can impact their children academically, spiritually, and personally, just as it impacted me.

Why are you thankful to be at GCS?

I’m thankful to be at GCS because it genuinely feels like a full-circle moment for me. I graduated in 2023, and coming back now in a professional role has made me appreciate the school in a completely different way. As a student, I didn’t always realize how intentional everything was, but now I see how much care goes into every part of the school experience. I’m thankful for the foundation GCS gave me, both academically and spiritually. It wasn’t just about preparing for college, but about shaping my character, my faith, and how I see my purpose. There were teachers and staff who truly invested in me, encouraged me, and pushed me to grow, and that’s something I don’t take for granted. Now, working in admissions and marketing, I’m thankful that I get to be part of welcoming new families into that same environment. It’s rewarding to share my own experience and be honest about what makes GCS different because I’ve actually lived it. I’m also grateful for the community here. It’s a place where people genuinely care about each other, and that doesn’t change just because you graduate. Coming back, I’ve still felt supported and valued, not just as a former student, but now as part of the team. Overall, I’m thankful because GCS shaped me in a real way, and now I get the opportunity to give back to a place that poured into me. It’s more than a job, it feels like a purpose, and I don’t take that for granted.

Statement of Faith

My faith is the foundation of my life and influences how I think, live, and interact with others each day. I believe in God the Father, Jesus Christ as my Savior, and the Holy Spirit who guides and strengthens me. My relationship with Christ is something I strive to live out daily in my actions, decisions, and how I treat people. I believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God, fully true and relevant to every part of life. It is my source of truth, direction, and encouragement, especially in seasons of uncertainty or growth. I try to base my choices on Scripture and allow it to shape my character, priorities, and how I respond to challenges. My life verse, Exodus 14:14—“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still”—has deeply impacted the way I walk through life. It reminds me that I don’t have to carry everything on my own or try to control every outcome. Instead, it has taught me to trust God’s timing, lean on Him in difficult moments, and have peace even when I don’t understand what He is doing in the moment. I believe God calls us to love others well, serve faithfully, and reflect Christ in both big and small moments. That means showing kindness, being intentional with people, and striving to be a light in whatever environment I’m in. In my role at GCS, I see that as an opportunity to serve families well, encourage students and staff, and represent Christ through my attitude, work ethic, and relationships. I also believe that faith grows through both joy and trials, and that God uses every season to shape us and draw us closer to Him. Looking back, I can see how He has been faithful in every stage of my life, even when I didn’t fully understand it at the time. Ultimately, my faith is not something separate from who I am, it is who I am. It guides my decisions, my purpose, and the way I hope to impact others in both my personal life and professional role at GCS.

Top