GAC has a legacy of growing leaders, and I’m excited to share several leadership advancements for the 2020-2021 school year.
Each of these leaders will help take GAC forward in significant ways. I’m very grateful for their commitment to our mission, faith, insight, wisdom, and excitement for our future. As you read each of their introductions below, I hope you will join me in congratulating and praying for each of these leaders.
Crystal has dedicated her career to facilitating the best of learning for students saying “We should always foster an environment of lifelong learning and excitement for discovering new strategies for growth”. That love of learning is fitting as Crystal takes on additional responsibilities as High School Academic Dean, having served as Dean of Students this past year. In her five years at GAC Crystal has worked to advance learning at all levels. Working on K-12 curriculum alignment and serving as one of GAC’s Instructional Lead Teachers. As High School Principal Shane Woodward notes “Crystal is someone that elevates every project that is given her and every group that she leads. Her experience and study of student growth and learning positions her well to continue to lead our High School academic program with excellence. Best of all, she cares deeply about our students.” Crystal and her family attend 12Stone Church.
Paul has taught Latin, Greek, Classics, and New Testament at the graduate, collegiate, and secondary levels for 10 years. Since coming to GAC in 2016, he has demonstrated his love of teaching and learning both in the face-to-face classroom and the Ethos online platform. As Ethos Academic Dean, Paul will be responsible for guiding teachers and students forward in the dynamic space of online education while continuing to teach Latin for Ethos, serve as Middle School and High School Bible Chair and teach High School Bible. Dr. Betty Morris states “Paul brings a unique combination of skills to leadership in Ethos…a deep immersion into the day to day happenings in the teaching and learning process as well as a broad vision for the future of Ethos.” Paul and his family are members of Perimeter Church in Johns Creek.
Most of T.J’s career has been spent with students in middle school grades. He taught in Fulton County Schools for 10 years and at Fellowship Christian School for one year. Coming to GAC in 2012, T.J. continued to teach Middle School Social Studies while also coaching Football and Lacrosse. T.J. became chair of the Social Science community in Middle School and most recently served as Middle School Dean of Students while continuing to teach, coach, and lead several Middle School and High School mission trips. He says he prefers hanging out with middle schoolers over just about everyone. Middle schoolers provide just the right energy to fuel his day. Dr. Scott Harsh shares, “T.J. is a talented leader who cares deeply for students, is adept at building culture, has established himself as an academic leader, and is devoted to our mission. He and Lauren Hollier, Middle School Academic Dean, have a strong partnership that will continue to take our Middle School forward in academics, student engagement, and innovation." T.J. and his family are involved at Campus Church.
Charles will continue his work with GAC students and families as he steps into a new role as DIrector of Inclusion and Associate Director of School Life. In his 37 years in education, Charles has experience leading teams of athletes on the field as well as teams of educators in the classroom. His passion for students and desire to develop their heart and character makes him uniquely suited for this new role. Charles will work with other GAC leaders to enhance GAC school life in meaningful ways. “It is important for each student to know they are a valued member of the GAC family. Charles’ dedication as well as his warmth will be an asset to all, providing an inclusive family community where all students thrive.” says Dr. Scott Harsh, President. Charles and his wife Elaine attend Cross Pointe Church in Duluth.
Regan, a vocal performer by training and former music teacher, came to GAC in 2006 to lead our newly created School of Ballet. From nothing, Regan developed this program into a national exemplar, combining Faith with the Art of Ballet. As Director she more than tripled the size of the School of Ballet, adding classes such as Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Acro and Theatre Dance adding quality instructors as the enrollment increased. Regan has also been resourceful with opportunities for the School of Ballet students to perform around the Atlanta community. The arts at GAC have continued to grow as has the need for a Director of Fine Arts. As Dr. Josh Thomason, Vice President of Finance and Operations says, “Regan passionately seeks to honor God through the Arts, I look forward to her sharing this passion more broadly through the vast GAC Fine Arts repertoire.” Regan and her husband, Russell, attend Campus Church.
Leslie brings to GAC superb experience in musical performance and musical education. She started her career as a professional performer, performing internationally with select choirs in Western Europe, while also being selected to perform with the Charlotte Symphony’s Oratorio Singers. More recently, she served as a K-8 music educator for eight years, most of that time spent in faith-based schools. Simultaneously, she built her own private studio for student music lessons. Thus, Leslie was a natural choice to serve as our Interim Director, and we are pleased that she will be continuing with us in a permanent capacity. As Regan Burnett shares, “I appreciate the energy and positive attitude Leslie brings; she is forward-thinking and will lead the GAC School of Music to new heights.” Leslie and her family worship at New City Church in Lawrenceville.
Tina began at GAC in 2010 after a career of over 15 years in the area of business development and account management in the office supply and real estate industries. Her positive attitude and love for the school made her a strong asset in the Admissions office. In 2017, she transitioned to the role of Annual Giving Officer where she has excelled in leading both the Annual Fund and the Georgia Goal program. “Tina, has the perfect blend of the ability to build relationships with people, trustworthiness and competence. She loves the Lord, her family and everything GAC. She believes that the mission of GAC is worth our families investing in financially. She will be a wonderful leader in the Advancement office” says Katherine White, Vice President of Advancement. Tina and her husband Mike, attend Campus Church.