Cumberlite 2024 Issue 1

and upbringings of others, and help them
find themselves,” said Merry Lacson,
parent of Lyra, ’24, and Lorenzo, ’15
SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT
Like most Christian schools, you’ll
find that devotionals and prayer are a
common practice in our classrooms, but
the difference at GCA is that students are
encouraged to take responsibility for their
relationship with God and make it their
own. No longer living with their parents
full-time, students are encouraged to
think for themselves and to develop their
own walk with God.
“The teachers and staff on this campus
are not just here to teach. They are here
to share the amazing message of the
gospel. They are here to come alongside
these young people and share life with
them. They desire to show them what
Jesus means to them and how amazing
a life lived with Him and for Him can be,”
said Dawn Self, parent of Brianna, ’21,
Emily, ’23, and Andrew, ’25.
The spiritual influences are even more
positive and profound in a boarding
school setting where the interactions
occur with greater frequency and
students are engaged in a greater number
of spiritually focused activities. “There’s
no telling where I’d be if I had stayed
in public school with my middle school
friends. I know their negative influence
would’ve held me back. My friends at
GCA have helped me grow closer to God,
because He is a part of every aspect of life
at GCA,” said Clancy Phillips, ‘24.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
“When I look back, I notice some very
visible differences within myself. For one,
I’m more confident,” said Maleah, ’24.
This is not a surprise when you realize
the countless leadership opportunities
available to students at GCA. First off,
every student has an on-campus job and
is taught responsibility in the workplace.
Beyond work, students can assume
leadership roles such as class or student
association officers who are responsible
for planning class events, fundraising
activities, banquets, and so much
more. Furthermore, due to the integral
relationship with the GCA Church,
students have opportunities to serve in
children’s Sabbath School classes, on
the AV team, and with the food ministry
program, to name a few positions.
These activities empower students and
encourage them to invest in their church
and school. Time and time again, they rise
to the occasion, grow in their capabilities,
and increase their confidence.
In addition to students growing in
peer leadership, students also grow in
self-leadership. From doing laundry and
going on town trips, to staying on top of
schoolwork and managing their weekly
responsibilities, students learn important
time management skills that will serve
them in college and beyond.
“GCA is an excellent preparation for
college, in an environment set up like
a small college, yet students have the
protection and oversight you want for
your child between the ages of 14 to
18,” said Sally Garrido, mom of Anthony,
’26, and Alexander, ’27. “This school
fosters opportunities for students to
grow and mature as they are encouraged,
rewarded, and supervised in ways
that allow them to safely explore their
potential and passions.”
STILL RELEVANT,
STILL PLAYING A KEY ROLE IN
TRANSFORMING LIVES
To some people, boarding schools seem
like a thing of the past, but GCA continues
to grow with the times. A boarding school
education is more relevant than ever in
today’s society.
In a world that is increasingly chaotic,
it is our responsibility as parents, church
members, and eductaors to nurture our
children’s relationship with God and
prepare them to lead through love. By
cultivating healthy relationships, keeping
God at the forefront of all we do, and
empowering students to lead, in a safe
environment, we are giving them the best
opportunity at successfully launching into
adulthood and making a difference in this
world.
CUMBERLITE ISSUE 1 | 2024
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