A Message from our
Head of School

Cadia Parks

This year, our focus has been rooted in a powerful passage from Matthew 5:13–16: 13 "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."

At GCA, we've embraced the call to be both salt and light.
Salt preserves, enhances, and brings out what is good. Light illuminates, guides, and drives away darkness. In a world that often feels uncertain, this calling is not just poetic, it is essential. And I have seen, day after day, how our students rise to that calling. I see it in classrooms where curiosity is sparked and nurtured. I see it on our campus where kindness is practiced, not just preached. I see it in our students who are learning not only how to succeed, but how to serve.
Being "salt and light" is not about grand gestures. It is about consistent faithfulness in the small things; choosing integrity, showing compassion, and standing firm in the truth. It is about living in such a way that others cannot help but notice something different, something hopeful.
This kind of foundation does not happen by accident. It happens because of our dedicated teachers who pour into their students every day. It happens because of our families who partner with us in this mission. And it happens because of supporters like you who believe in what we are building together. As we move forward, may we continue to be salt and light. Faithful in our calling, bold in our purpose, and united in our mission!

Teacher

Spotlight

Mrs. Evans

Administrative Assistant

Q: What is your favorite movie of all time? 

A: I feel like my millennial cliche is going to show with this, but... Forrest Gump. It's such a classic feel-good movie. There are endless one-liners that 20+ years later are still being said! It has comedy, romance, drama, history, and bonus points for a great soundtrack! "That's all I have to say about that...."

Q: What kind of student were you in school?

A: I was a pretty good student. I didn't realize until having my own children in school how easy I had it! I never really had to study and my grades were high. I was quiet, got along with everyone, didn't play any sports. After graduating I went to school for Sports, Entertainment and Event Management. Even though I didn't pursue a degree in that field, I feel like the experience I received has helped me develop lots of multifaceted skills! 

Q: What's your favorite way to build relationships with students?

A: It's a blessing that I get to know each and every student and their families because of my position. The opportunity to greet them at the door in the morning or see them off at car line helps a lot. I love joking around with the kids, laughter is one of my love languages. It's fun getting to "relate" to the middle schoolers when I mention something that's "trendy or viral" right now, reminding them even though I'm an adult, I'm still kinda cool.

Q: What's a recent way you have seen God work through you to help students at GCA?

A: Not necessarily recently, but daily, is my servant heart. Another one of my love languages is acts of service, so it brings me lots of joy to be helpful. It also helps foster a relationship of trust with the kids. I want them to know that I am there to help them with whatever they need, whenever they need it.

Q: What scripture has God been using to help you grow in this season?

A: The verse of my life lately has been Matthew 6:33-34, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." This verse encourages me to stay focused on God's righteousness and all worldly needs will be met. Today has its own challenges. Being anxious about what lies ahead distracts you from living fully in the present. "Let go and let God"!

Teacher

Spotlight

Mr. Cipolla

P.E. Teacher

Q: If you had a superpower what would it be?

A: I would want the ability to give people confidence. I've seen how much it changes someone, especially students, when they start believing in themselves. It affects how they act, how they participate, and how hard they're willing to try. I'd want to be someone who helps bring that out in people and pushes them to see what they're capable of. 

Q: Favorite way to relax after a long day?

A: I usually like to get a workout in or go play basketball with my dad and brother. After that, I'll just relax by either playing board games with my family or having a quiet time in prayer. Being active helps me clear my head, and spending time with family and with God keeps me grounded. 

Q: If you could instantly master any skill in one day, what would it be?

A: I would want the ability to speak and connect with anyone in a way that truly impacts them. I want to be someone who can reach people and encourage them in a way that is meaningful. Being able to communicate truth, motivation, and faith clearly would make a lasting difference. 

Q: How do you incorporate faith into your everyday teaching moments?

A: I incorporate faith into my teaching by modeling patience, kindness, and respect. I try to treat every student fairly and handle situations calmly. I believe actions speak louder than words, and creating a positive environment reflects my values.

Q: Who has been a spiritual influence in your life?

A: My family, especially my parents, and strong mentors have had the biggest impact on my life. Watching them consistently walk with the Lord has influenced how I see faith and how I teach. Their example has shown me the importance of staying grounded, trusting God, and living with purpose. 

Take a look at what went on during a busy month at GCA:

The 1st Grade performed "I Wish I Were a Butterfly"

The 2nd grade took us on a tour around the country to learn about our 50 states!

The 5th grade each presented a special moment of Jesus' life on earth. What a great way to focus on Jesus during this Easter season!

The 4th grade performed the musical play "Annie". What an awesome display of hard work, as they put in a lot of practice for month's on end. They did so good!

What a great night of celebration of our school! We had around 140 guests attend a night filled with good food, friends, as we auctioned off some great packages to help raise funds for GCA. There was great food, a high level photo booth, over 25 items/packages up for auction, as well as a live jazz band! All praise goes to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! We raised around $140K which is the most at a Gala ever! The Lord is continuing His work at GCA, and we are all just excited to be part of his handiwork. Thank you to all the donors who helped make this night such a success, and I wanted to give a special shoutout to all our teachers and staff who helped organize the event. See you all next year! 

Lainey Magnus - 3rd-5th grade Collier Country Library Bookmark Design Winner

We continue to be thankful for our current church ambassadors from: 

First Presbyterian Church, Summit Church Estero, Turning Point Church, and Center Point Community Church. 

They have been so helpful in promoting our events and most importantly our students. If your church would like to partner with us and serve our communities together, please reach out, and also check out our Ambassador pillars list on our website. Our next quarterly gathering will be on May 12th, 2026. 

Link: Ambassador Program

Calling all students who have been a part of GCA through 8th grade. We would love to hear about your life after GCA, and how GCA made an impact as you went onto high school and beyond. Please email [email protected] to share.  

The GCA Gala has come and gone, and our students' artwork was a hit once again. These 7 pieces raised almost $5,000 in total for our school. Thank you, students, for your hard work, and thank you, parents, for your donations!

Art party reward for the piece that raised the most funds was awarded to the first grade.

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