News

The GAC Middle School Girls Golf team captured the Metro-10 Championship with an outstanding performance on the course.

The GAC Middle School girls tennis team defeated Westminster to capture the championship, capping an outstanding season for the Spartans.

GAC student Jake McGuire has earned a spot in the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club. The national competition is scheduled for April 4, 2027, at Augusta National ahead of the Masters Tournament.

Greater Atlanta Christian School alumna Jasmine Jones claimed the women’s 400-meter hurdles title at the 2026 World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest, Hungary, earning the first major international championship of her career.

On Friday, September 11, the Greater Atlanta Christian School community came together to commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Lower School students in Pre-First through 5th Grade, Middle School students, and High School students attended age-appropriate memorial chapels to remember the lives lost, honor those who serve, and reflect on faith, courage, and sacrifice. Throughout campus, students wore red, white, and blue and USA-themed attire in honor of this day in history.

Greater Atlanta Christian has been recognized as the top overall athletic program in Class 3A-A Private in the inaugural AJC Varsity All-Sports Standings, a statewide ranking system designed to celebrate excellence across all GHSA sports

Greater Atlanta Christian School's Varsity Girls Athletics Program has been named the 2026 GHSA Class AAA Female Champion in the Georgia Athletic Directors Association Region Directors Cup standings. The Directors Cup recognizes the state’s top overall athletic programs based on their postseason success across all sanctioned sports.

Following an undefeated 2026 season that culminated in both a GHSA Class A-3A Private State Championship and the program's first National High School Tennis Championship, the Spartans dominated the Gwinnett Daily Post All-County Boys Tennis Team, highlighted by Harrison Kemp being named Player of the Year and Brett Harte earning Coach of the Year honors.

Greater Atlanta Christian rising senior Narah Kim has been named the 2026 Gwinnett Daily Post Girls Golfer of the Year, earning the prestigious honor for the third time in her high school career.

Following another outstanding season that culminated in a GHSA Class A-3A Private Final Four appearance, the Greater Atlanta Christian varsity girls tennis team was recognized with three selections to the Gwinnett Daily Post All-County Team.

GAC is proud to announce the hiring of Branden Geldart as the new Head Coach of the GAC varsity boys lacrosse program. Bringing more than 10 years of collegiate and elite club coaching experience, Geldart will lead the Spartans with a vision centered on player development, Christ-centered leadership, and building one of Georgia's premier K–12 lacrosse programs.

Greater Atlanta Christian School is excited to announce the hiring of Lamar Howard as the new Head Coach of the Varsity Boys Soccer program. Howard takes over for longtime head coach Thom Jacquet, who recently accepted the Head Men’s Soccer Coach position at Harding University after 35 years of coaching. 

The Gwinnett Goal Club recognized several members of the Varsity Soccer programs during its annual postseason awards celebration, highlighting another successful year for Spartan soccer. 

Reagan May, a class of 2026 GAC graduate and student-athlete, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Northside Hospital “Leadership Award” Scholarship in partnership with Positive Athlete.

The GAC Varsity Track and Field program once again showcased the strength and consistency of one of Georgia’s premier track and field programs at the GHSA Class 1A-3A Private State Championships, bringing home two team trophies under legendary head coach Brad Kinser.

The GAC girls earned a state runner-up finish despite battling injuries and roster changes throughout the season, while the boys captured third place and secured the program’s first state trophy since 2015!

The GAC varsity boys tennis team continued its historic run Wednesday, May 13, capturing its fourth consecutive GHSA State Championship with a 3-0 victory over Darlington in the GHSA Private State Finals at the Rome Tennis Center.

GAC alumna (Class of 2020) and Olympian Jasmine Jones was officially inducted into the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame on Monday, May 4, as part of the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026, which was honored at the 15th annual ceremony held at Gas South Convention Center. Read more here.

Greater Atlanta Christian School is proud to announce the valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2026, recognizing two students whose achievements reflect excellence in scholarship, leadership, and a commitment to Christian Life. Read more here.

GAC proudly celebrated another milestone moment on campus as 14 student-athletes officially signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. With this latest group, GAC now boasts a total of 20 signees for the 2025–26 school year. Read more here.

Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) is announcing the launch of TrekAI as an independent education technology company, marking a significant milestone for a platform that began as an in-house innovation and has grown to serve hundreds of schools nationwide.

GAC's Girls and Boys tennis teams are both headed to the Elite Eight after impressive second-round victories in the Class AAA-A Private State Tournament.

GAC's Varsity Baseball team made a loud statement to open the GHSA Private State Playoffs, traveling on the road and sweeping Trinity Christian in a thrilling first-round series. 

The GAC Track & Field program delivered a championship performance at the Area Meet, with the girls team capturing the Area Title with an impressive 199.83 points, while the boys secured a strong runner-up finish with 149 points.

Our Middle School Boys Soccer Team (11-0-1) defeated Hebron Christian Academy 3-1 on Monday to win the Northeast Metro Soccer League Championship! 

Last Thursday, the GAC community showed up in full support of Coach Thom Jacquet, celebrating 35 years of ministry and impact alongside fellow faculty, alumni, family, and friends. In a special ceremony between games, Dr. Scott Harsh and Tim Hardy honored Coach Jacquet’s incredible career. 

GAC is excited to share that Sam Casey '15 will assume the role of High School Theatre Director.

Dr. Paul Cable, High School Principal at Greater Atlanta Christian School, and Stephen Carter were recently featured in a podcast by Peachtree Corners Magazine, highlighting how GAC is preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

GAC’s varsity tennis programs delivered a dominant statement this week, as both the boys and girls teams captured Region 6-AAA Tournament championships in impressive fashion.

GAC’s own Moa Kim is set to compete on one of golf’s biggest stages at the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals on Sunday, April 5 at Augusta National Golf Club.

After narrowly missing qualification in 2024, Moa returned to regionals at TPC Sawgrass with a renewed mindset, focused on having fun, and delivered a dominant performance, winning her age group by 10 points. Now 13, Moa will be one of 80 finalists competing during Masters Week, with coverage airing on Golf Channel.

Following a historic performance at the GHSA Class AAA-A State Championships, the Georgia High School Swimming Coaches Association has named Abby Sutter the Girls Swimmer of the Year, James Sorensen the Boys Swimmer of the Year, and Emily Krug the Coach of the Year. The awards cap off a remarkable year for the Spartan program, which captured both the boys and girls team state championships at Georgia Tech’s McAuley Aquatic Center in emphatic fashion.

Greater Atlanta Christian School’s One Act production of This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing earned multiple honors last week while competing in the Secondary Schools Festival at the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC), one of the largest theatre conferences in the nation.

Greater Atlanta Christian School is proud to announce the hiring of Desiree Elliott as the new Head Coach for Varsity Girls Volleyball. A former NCAA Division I standout and professional athlete, Elliott brings elite playing experience, strong coaching credentials, and a passion for developing student-athletes.

The GAC Varsity Girls Lacrosse team has seen several milestone performances early in the season, with Claire Voelzke and Kelsey Dixon both reaching significant career marks while helping power key victories.

The GAC Varsity Girls Basketball team delivered a dominant performance on the road, defeating Athens Academy 53–33 to earn a spot in the GHSA Private Class Final Four.

At Greater Atlanta Christian School, a number of students participate in a hybrid learning schedule that allows them to pursue advanced interests outside the traditional school day while remaining fully engaged in their academics. One such student is sixth grader Zoë Gomas.

The Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) varsity boys tennis team won the 2026 National High School Tennis Championship Powered by USTA & WTN at the USTA National Campus yesterday, claiming the national title against the top high school teams in the country

Congratulations to our Varsity Boys Basketball team for winning the Region 6-AAA title for the second year in a row.

Led by first year head coach Scepter Brownlee, the Spartans defeated Dawson County 62-53 on Friday night. GAC was paced by Adrian Hughes who had 19 points and K.J. Braswell added 11 points on the night. This year, the region tournament took place at Chestatee High School. 

Our students are gaining real-world experience and valuable skills through diverse roles across campus. From teaching to working behind the scenes, they’re preparing for life beyond high school.

Why do we educate our children? The easy answer is to prepare them for college, careers, and financial stability. But Christian education invites a deeper question: what is the purpose of education at all?

“Christian education actually offers a fuller account of why we educate,” says Dr. Paul Cable, High School Principal, “We’re looking to help each student grow into the image of Jesus so they can live out what it means to be in the image of God and participate in His mission in the world.” 

Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) officially broke ground on its new Athletic Field House on Tuesday, February 3, marking a significant new construction project for student athletes joining the existing Hoover Field House, Naik Athletic Complex, and the Darius Slayton Performance Center.

One of the main goals of creating a program like GAC Business Innovation program was to create hands-on learning experiences for students and creating a real-life environment to learn about entrepreneurship. The Spartan Café is one of the ways we are ensuring students gain that experience. 

For the past five years, Greater Atlanta Christian School has welcomed students from Christian elementary and middle schools across the region to compete in the Great Readers Bowl, a unique and thoughtfully designed reading competition created to inspire both learning and character development.

One of the unique strengths of an Infant–12th grade campus is the opportunity for students of all ages to learn alongside one another and engage with spaces beyond their everyday classrooms. GAC fifth graders experienced that firsthand during a visit to the High School chemistry lab.

GAC’s tennis program was prominently featured as six Spartan student-athletes were named to the Gwinnett Daily Post Super Six Team. 

The Spartans selected include Harrison Kemp, Santiago Bisogno, Jason Eigbedion, and Brady Gessner on the boys side, along with Charlie Bomar and Ella Kemp for the girls. 

Congratulations to our Varsity Boys and Girls Swim & Dive teams on capturing the 2026 GHSA Class 1A–3A State Championships in dominant fashion. Congratulations to Head Coach Emily Krug, her staff, and all of our student-athletes for an extraordinary season and a milestone achievement for GAC Athletics.

Margo Pritchard has long been a driving force behind the success of Spartan soccer, and her impact has now been recognized with Gwinnett Daily Post Super-Six honors for girls’ soccer. A first-team all-county selection last season, Pritchard finished with 16 goals and 14 assists from the midfield.

Claire Voelzke continues to establish herself as one of the premier young talents in girls’ lacrosse, earning Gwinnett Daily Post “Super Six” honors following a standout freshman campaign.

Now a sophomore, Voelzke led her team in scoring last season with 86 goals and 20 assists.

As GAC students move through the Visual Arts curriculum, they are encouraged to take creative risks and develop their own artistic voice. Courses such as AP Art challenge them to create cohesive portfolios, write artist statements, and present their ideas clearly. These experiences provide a foundation for success whether they pursue scholarships for college art programs, design internships, or creative positions.

Skylar Cunningham continues to raise the standard. 
The GAC junior was named to the Gwinnett Daily Post Super Six team for Girls Track and Field after another historic season on the track. Already a five-time state champion, Cunningham has captured back-to-back state titles in the 100 and 200 meters and helped lead the Spartans to a state championship in the 4x100 relay.

Each year, the Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program honors Georgia's highest-achieving high school seniors and the teachers who have been most instrumental in their academic development. 

GAC's standout flag football defender Asia Johnson earned the Defensive Player of the Year honor from the Gwinnett Daily Post following a dominant season anchoring the Spartans’ defense with her playmaking ability and leadership. 

The January/February edition of the Peachtree Corners Magazine holds a few familiar faces These individuals are service-oriented and true leaders of their community. This article showcases each of their accomplishments.

After 35 years of coaching, teaching, and ministry at Greater Atlanta Christian School, longtime head boys soccer coach Thom Jacquet has been named Head Men’s Soccer Coach at Harding University, marking the next chapter in one of the most accomplished coaching careers in Georgia high school athletics. Jacquet will remain on staff as the head coach at GAC for the Spring 2026 season.

By: Kelly Irish, College Counselor

The manuscript is about to come to life. So much work has gone into this production. The scene is set. The extras are carefully positioned. The supporting actors have taken their places. The main character is ready. Lights. Camera. Action! 

The main character of this show is College. He appears gradually in the manuscript, from kindergarten through high school, as each level plays its part in a story carefully aligned with the ending in mind. We like to think of the college counseling process like that of a movie production, and we know how much planning goes into the final product that we see on the screen. 

GAC Varsity Volleyball had four student-athletes recognized on the 2025 Gwinnett Daily Post All-County Volleyball Teams for their performances this season.

By: Elli Martin, GAC Class of 2026

Something we’ve done in Student Ministry class that has made a lasting impression on me is “Fall Fresh On Us Fridays.” On Fridays, the class engages in a short time of musical worship with reflection and prayer. This experience is unique to anything else I have ever been exposed to; in church, of course, we engage in worship together, but it is in a larger and less personalized setting. On Fridays, however, since we have a smaller, class- sized group, we are able to be more intimate and vulnerable with each other.

GAC Football closed the 2025 season with a moment that will stand in the program’s record books, as Denzell Watkins set a new school record for the longest interception return during the Spartans’ Elite 8 victory over Athens Academy.

GAC’s Varsity Game Day Cheerleading team reached the top of the podium on December 3, capturing the 2025 GHSA 3A Game Day Cheerleading State Championship at the Columbus State Center.

Supporting the 11Alive/Salvation Army Can-A-Thon has been an annual school-wide tradition at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) since 2012. This year, the GAC student body came together to donate 28,300 non-perishable food items to the Salvation Army.

Greater Atlanta Christian punched its ticket to the state semifinals with a dominant 49–14 road victory over Athens Academy on Friday night, securing the program’s first Final Four appearance since 2020. The Spartans controlled the game from start to finish, pairing explosive offense with a strong defensive performance to move one step closer to a championship berth.

GAC Football junior kicker Graham Anand made history Friday night, drilling a 60-yard field goal using the rare fair-catch/free-kick rule during the Spartans’ 48–16 playoff win over Landmark Christian.

It was a night to remember for GAC sophomore quarterback Michael Miller, who delivered a historic performance in the Spartans’ 49-35 victory over Pickens High School on Friday night.

Miller set two new school records, finishing the game with 486 total yards of offense and seven total touchdowns.

Greater Atlanta Christian School proudly announces that seniors Noah An and Madeline Austin have been named National Merit Semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition. In addition, GAC senior Elizabeth Martin has been named a Commended Student.

GAC senior James Sorensen has been named a Gwinnett Daily Post Super Six Athlete for his excellence in the pool and leadership within the Spartan Varsity Boys Swim program. A state champion in the 100 backstroke and runner-up in the 100 butterfly last season, Sorensen’s talent and consistency have been vital to GAC’s success, including the boys’ state title run last year.

Greater Atlanta Christian School earned standout honors at this year’s Georgia Theatre Conference, with both the Middle School and High School One Act ensembles bringing home top awards for their exceptional performances.

GAC opened its state playoff run in dominant fashion, sweeping Christian Heritage 25–19, 25–12, 25–20 on Wednesday.

GAC's Varsity Softball team roared past Landmark Christian in a Wednesday doubleheader, claiming decisive victories of 18–2 and 23–4 to punch their ticket to the Sweet 16 of the Private School state playoffs.

The Varsity Volleyball team continued its impressive streak of dominance, securing the Area 5-AAA Championship for the fourth consecutive season with a commanding win over Stephenson High School.

Greater Atlanta Christian is celebrating a special homecoming as alumnus Max Burke, Class of 2018, returns to campus in a unique way. Max Burke serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Z Beans Coffee and has overseen the opening of Spartan Café in Jim & Julie Tidwell Commons, giving GAC families and students a gathering place fueled by more than just caffeine.

At Greater Atlanta Christian School, our retreats are more than just a break from academics—they are sacred moments where relationships and priorities are reoriented around Christ. Each August, Middle and High School students step away for their Spiritual Retreats, time set apart at the start of the school year to set the tone for all that follows. These retreats combine worship services, messages, small group discussions, and shared experiences like games and activities (with High School students gathering off campus at a retreat center).

GAC has announced the appointment of Andrea Braun as Head Coach of the GAC Girls Lacrosse program. Braun, a veteran coach and respected figure in Georgia lacrosse, succeeds TJ Dixon, who has stepped down after five seasons in the role.

Congratulations to Jasmine Jones (GAC Class of 2020) on an incredible performance at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo!

Jasmine clocked a personal best 52.08 in the 400m hurdles to secure the silver medal, continuing her rise on the world stage.

The GAC Football team has started the 2025 season with standout performances. For two straight weeks, Spartans were voted the Gwinnett Daily Post Football Player of the Week. 

Across each school level at GAC, learning extends beyond textbooks and tests. From early grades to senior year, students experience hands-on discovery that connects academic concepts to real-world applications. From trout tanks to river tables to car repair workshops, GAC’s educational experiences come alive through activities that make learning personal and purposeful. These hands-on opportunities allow GAC students to discover their God-given potential, equipping them with the knowledge, character, and confidence to thrive in every part of life.

Greater Atlanta Christian School is proud to announce that Denzell Watkins and Margo Pritchard have been selected as 2025 Star Student Athletes by Suwanee Magazine.

Each year, Suwanee Magazine highlights standout student-athletes from across Gwinnett. Watkins and Pritchard were chosen for their athletic accomplishments, leadership, and commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

The Greater Atlanta Christian School community gathered near the Cross Tower on Thursday, August 28 for a powerful and inspiring performance by the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon. The visit held special significance for GAC, as Captain Ford Higgins, Class of 2016, returned to campus to lead his platoon. 

To encourage connection and community engagement, the GAC Middle School leadership team launched a housing system this year. Sixth through eighth grade students were randomly sorted into five houses during their annual Fall Middle School Retreat. 

GAC has included chickens as part of the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) for over ten years, becoming a favorite part of the hands-on experiential learning at Greater Atlanta Christian School.  Four years ago, this current group of nine hens named by GAC students as Pikachu, Marshmallow Snow, Night, Oreo, Chicken Nugget, Sunset, Smudge, Quetzel, and Salang - joined the GAC community.

GAC’s 2025 Women Together in Christ event was a beautiful evening of community, worship, and dwelling with the Lord. 

Along with introducing the new Jim & Julie Tidwell Commons, GAC introduced a brand new Business Innovation Program at GAC. This program, created for 9th - 12th grade students, encourages students to adventure into the world of entrepreneurship by offering a combination of coursework, hands-on experiences, and even an internship on GAC’s campus. 

During the summer of 2025, GAC faculty and leadership took part in a shared reading of Beyond Biblical Integration: Immersing You and Your Students in a Biblical Worldview by Dr. Roger Erdvig. The book challenges Christian educators to move beyond simply integrating faith into lessons and instead create an immersive environment where a biblical worldview shapes every aspect of learning and life. To deepen the conversation, Dr. Erdvig visited GAC’s campus to lead on-site training sessions, exploring how to help students view every subject and situation through the lens of Scripture. The shared experience inspired reflection across campus— on faith, teaching, and what it truly means to teach from a biblical worldview.

Sissy and David spoke about how children long to be independent, and in order for them to work through their fears, they have to do intimidating things. They encouraged parents to identify two things they currently do for their child that the child could do independently, and to take a step back and instill confidence in their child that they are capable of doing challenging things themselves. As Sissy said, “Kids feel bravest when someone they love reminds them the truth of who they are.”

Each year, students who complete the summer reading challenge receive a one-of-a-kind shirt. This year, the design was created by GAC sophomore Ella Morrison.

Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) is celebrating a new era of elementary education with the reveal of the stunningly renovated Jim & Becky Combee Elementary School. The project, a central pillar of the "Light the Way Campaign," has transformed the facility into a dynamic, engaging environment designed to ignite curiosity and foster lifelong learning in GAC's youngest Spartans.

Greater Atlanta Christian School’s rising senior Harrison Kemp has been named the Gwinnett Daily Post Boys Tennis Player of the Year following a standout junior season. As the Spartans’ No. 1 singles and doubles player, Kemp led the team to its third consecutive state championship, finishing with an impressive 11-4 singles record and shining in high-pressure matchups against nationally ranked programs.

Congratulations to Narah Kim for being named the Girls Golfer of the Year by the Gwinnett Daily Post for the second consecutive year! As a freshman, Narah won the 2024 state title — GAC’s first since 2012 — and followed it up this year with a fifth-place finish.

GAC is excited to announce that Rebekah McWhorter will join the GAC family as our Head Varsity Girls Soccer Coach. McWhorter brings a wealth of experience, a heart for mentorship, and a championship pedigree to the Spartan athletic family. In addition to coaching, she will be teaching physical education in the Lower School.

GAC fifth graders traveled all the way from GAC to the Chattahoochee River to release the trout our Lower School has been raising in the GAC’s Nasmyth Environmental Center.

Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) held a joyous commencement ceremony at the Long Forum on May 17, 2025. The event brought together family, friends, faculty, and staff to honor the Class of 2025 and commemorate the accomplishments of the graduating class of 171 students. 

THREE-PEAT! Congratulations to our Varsity Boys Tennis Team for clinching their third straight state championship! GAC defeated The Darlington School 3-0 to seal the state title.

Please join us in congratulating the GAC Class of 2025 Valedictorian, Ethan Braswell, and Salutatorian, Jayden Lee.

Each year, Mr. Matt Fincher, Social Science teacher and Director of Academic Competitions, leads his class in the National History Day competitions. Held at both the University of Georgia and Kennesaw State University, these events bring together students from across the state to present topics they’ve spent a significant portion of the year researching and mastering.

The GAC Spartans once again left their mark at the GHSA State Championships. The Varsity Girls Track & Field team captured the 2025 GHSA 1A-3A Private State Championship, while the Varsity Boys delivered several standout performances to finish eighth overall.

The Spartans (18-3, 7-0 Region) punched their ticket to the State Championship match for the second consecutive year with a commanding 2-0 semifinal victory over Whitefield Academy last night. With the win, GAC extended its playoff dominance, having outscored opponents 28-0 through the first three rounds of the Private School state playoffs.

Greater Atlanta Christian School is excited to announce that Will Munley will join the GAC family as our Head Varsity Boys Lacrosse Coach. He comes to GAC after launching and leading a successful program at Hebron Christian Academy, where he served as Head Coach and began the program in 2022.

The GAC community gathered in the Long Forum to celebrate an incredible group of student-athletes who officially signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Surrounded by family, coaches, teammates, and friends, each of these seniors was recognized for their hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

The GAC Athletic Department would like to announce that  Scepter Brownlee will join the GAC family as our new Head Boys Basketball Coach. Coach Brownlee brings over a decade of collegiate coaching experience, including six years as a high school head coach, a strong commitment to player development, and a mission-driven leadership style that aligns with GAC’s mission.

For more than 40 years, Kristy Shelton has shared her heart with lower school physical education students at Greater Atlanta Christian School and in the meantime has helped her students learn the importance of a heart-healthy lifestyle.

The Prefect System is comprised of student leaders from the Senior Class (selected during their junior year) who possess a high degree of commitment to GAC’s values and ideals. Their influence within our school community is based on their character demonstrated through service to the school.

Congratulations to this group of students for being chosen to lead the GAC student body over the next year - we look forward to all of the ways you will impact our community!

Abigail Heizer has been named the Gwinnett Daily Post's "Girls Swimmer of the Year" following a dominant season in the pool. Heizer captured state championships in both the 50 and 100 free, and was a key contributor on the 200-yard individual medley relay and the 200 free relay. She helped lead GAC to a top-five team finish at the GHSA Class 3A state meet.

GAC's Varsity Boys tennis team is pursuing its third consecutive state championship, having secured back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024. This season, the team has demonstrated its strength by achieving significant victories over nationally ranked opponents McCallie and Baylor.

Collins Hill High School hosted the 2025 Gwinnett County Track and Field Championships from March 28-31, where  GAC athletes delivered impressive performances. Both the girls' and boys' teams showcased their speed, strength, and skill in multiple events, earning top finishes and setting the stage for a strong postseason.

We invite you to watch this short video from two GAC parents who are excited and proud to support the Light the Way Campaign, recognizing the new STEM lab and outdoor 50-meter pool as exceptional opportunities that will benefit their children and future generations.

At the end of March, the GAC Academic Team traveled to Paideia School where they competed in the A-AAA Private Schools Division GATA Varsity State Championship Tournament. They brought a huge victory back to GAC - 2nd in State! This is their second year receiving runner-up at this competition.

On Wednesday, Darius Slayton (GAC Class of 2015) returned to campus and shared a powerful message with the next generation of Spartans. The New York Giants wide receiver took time to speak at the Lower School, Middle School, and High School chapels, sharing heartfelt wisdom from his journey—from his days at GAC to playing in the SEC at Auburn University and eventually making his mark in the NFL.

GAC’s Light the Way Campaign is transforming our campus — and our Middle and High School students are ready for the exciting changes ahead. From enhanced athletic facilities to innovative academic spaces, these projects will create new opportunities for growth, learning, and community. Hear directly from our students as they share why they’re looking forward to the future of GAC.

AC students participated in this year’s Literary competition, a Fine Arts and Academics event where students compete for Region and State titles. The events include four categories with sub-categories: Literary Interpretation (Dramatic, Humorous, Duo), Essay (Personal, Argumentative, Literary Analysis), Extemporaneous Speaking (Domestic & International), and Music (Boys Solo, Girls solo, Trio & Quartet). 

At GAC, our students are filled with excitement about the transformational projects made possible by the Light the Way Campaign. From new, innovative learning spaces to enhanced outdoor areas, our Lower School Spartans are eager to experience the future of their campus.

At GAC, we are always growing, evolving, and striving to provide the best for our students. Watch this parent's story and see how we continue to shine the light for future generations.

What inspires a family to give intentionally? For the Wood family, supporting the Light the Way Campaign was an easy decision — an opportunity to invest in something that truly matters.

The GAC Athletic Department is excited to announce the addition of Todd Wofford as an Assistant Athletic Director for College Recruitment. Wofford brings nearly 30 years of coaching and teaching experience to the Spartan community, and his impact will be felt across multiple areas of GAC Athletics.

The Greater Atlanta Christian (GAC) boys’ varsity tennis team made a national statement this past weekend, securing back-to-back away victories over McCallie and Baylor—two powerhouse programs ranked #1 and #3 nationally. 

GAC was well-represented at the 2025 NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana, as GAC Sports Information Coordinator Chris Sharp attended the premier scouting event and caught up with Myles Hinton (GAC Class of 2020). Hinton, a 2023 National Champion offensive tackle from the University of Michigan, took part in a schedule of interviews with NFL teams, medical examinations, and on-field drills as he inches closer to his dream of playing in the NFL.

At the beginning of each new school year, GAC's high school students start the year off strong as they attend their annual Spiritual Retreat. This cherished tradition, held at a camp location conducive to reflection and growth, allows students to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and deepen their walk of faith.

GAC Athletic Director Tim Hardy hosted an incredible evening featuring former professional athletes Jeff Francoeur and Matt Stinchcomb. Francoeur, a former MLB star and current Braves broadcaster, and Stinchcomb, a two-time All-American at Georgia, College Football Hall of Famer, ESPN broadcaster, and former NFL offensive lineman, shared their unique experiences as athletes and parents.

Sophomore Narah Kim continues to make her mark on the Georgia high school golf scene, earning a spot on the Gwinnett Daily Post’s Super Six for the 2025 season. The reigning Class AAAAA state champion, Kim captured the title as a freshman with impressive rounds of 69 and 74, showcasing her talent under pressure.

The Gwinnett Daily Post’s Super Six Track & Field Team features the best track athletes in Gwinnett County, highlighting those who have set themselves apart with outstanding performances. GAC is proud to have three student-athletes—Skylar Cunningham, Gabe Daniels, and Ava Kitchings—recognized among this elite group.

Congratulations to these Spartans for their dedication, hard work, and record-breaking performances!

The 2024-2025 school year is full of choral success across GAC. Congrats to the GAC students participating in Honors and All State Choruses. 

GAC’s commitment to innovation in education goes beyond just an address – 1575, to impact students across the globe. At GAC, we prepare students at every age level for success during their time at GAC, in college, and beyond. In 2017, GAC launched Ethos School, an innovative online school designed to serve Christian schools, hybrid students, and homeschool families across the globe with online classes and academic support services to expand the value of the educational experience for families.

Darius Slayton, a GAC graduate (Class of 2015) and New York Giants wide receiver, has been named the 2025 Alan Page Community Award winner by the NFL Players Association. In recognition, the NFLPA will donate $100,000 to his Left-Hand Right-Hand (LHRH) Foundation, which serves underserved communities.

Eight Spartans earned podium finishes at the Area 3-AAA Traditional Wrestling Championships this weekend at White County!

Nathaniel Hill led the way with a third-place finish, securing his spot at Sectionals this Saturday at Chestatee High School.

Discover how the Shanil Naik Athletic Training Center expansion project is transforming our athletic performance training programs for all GAC Athletes!

Take just four minutes to watch this heartfelt testimony from GAC parent, Joi Fairell. Joi’s story is powerful, honest, and inspiring. We invite you to watch until the end and consider joining her family in lighting the way for today’s students and those yet to come.

GAC had the privilege of welcoming University of Alabama Head Coach Kalen DeBoer and Outside Linebackers Coach Christian Robinson to campus today. Robinson, a proud alumnus from the Class of 2008, returned to his roots with DeBoer to visit current GAC football player and four-star recruit from the Class of 2026, Dre Quinn.

What makes a purpose-filled life? Jim and Julie Tidwell are living examples. For decades, the Tidwell family has loved and served the GAC community.

We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Wood Family Treehouse and Canopy Walk, a unique addition to the GAC campus that will inspire and elevate our students’ outdoor learning experiences for years to come!

For RoughDraft Atlanta, the “Meet our 20 Under 20 Honorees for 2025” article is a place where students are recognized for their deep involvement in the community. These individuals, typically high school students, are engaged with those around them, service-oriented, and are true leaders of their community.

Through his recent internship with Surfing the Nations (STN), Cooper Keyes '20 found a powerful way to blend his passion for action sports with a desire to make a difference in the world.

In the December 2024/January 2025 edition of the Peachtree Corners Magazine, three students and one faculty member featured in the “Faces of Peachtree Corners” article. Each year, the Peachtree Corners magazine receives nominations for individuals who have a direct impact in making their community better. The people chosen for this article are those who work hard to bring the spirit and foundation of Peachtree Corners to life every day.

We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with GAC parents to help each child grow as Jesus did, in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. To continue fulfilling that mission, we introduced the Parent Partnership Series in the fall of 2023. Welcoming parents to campus to engage with the GAC community on these vital parenting topics and challenges facing our students has been valuable. The sense of community and support makes our Parent Partnership Series so impactful.

Congratulations to GAC Varsity Cheer for placing third overall in Class 3A. The Spartans traveled down to Columbus, Georgia to compete in the GHSA Gameday Cheer State Championship. This is GAC’s first season ever competing in the Gameday category and finishing in the top three is an amazing accomplishment.

We are proud to celebrate Darius Slayton, wide receiver for the New York Giants, for being named a nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide! This prestigious honor recognizes NFL players for their excellence on and off the field, showcasing their leadership, service, and commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

The GAC choir has been spreading holiday cheer far and wide this season! In December, our talented choir students participated in several heartwarming events.

GAC is excited to share a new initiative implemented last fall to further support student well-being and academic focus by creating a more phone-free environment. Building on our existing schoolwide phone-free policy, which requires students to keep their devices powered off and stored in backpacks, students in grades 6-12 now store their cell phones and smartwatches in school-issued Yondr Pouches. The pouch initiative aims to reduce distractions, promote genuine social interaction, improve student mental health, and enhance learning experiences.

The November/December edition of the Southwest Gwinnett Magazine holds a few familiar faces. Each year, Southwest Gwinnett Magazine chooses twenty to twenty-one individuals under the age of twenty-one who were nominated to be featured. This year, four GAC students were chosen to be featured. 

The GAC Athletic Department honored five student-athletes today that signed their National Letters of Intent to play at the collegiate level. Congratulations to Abigail, Madeline, Trace, Abby, and Kai!

Congratulations to our Varsity Volleyball program for clinching a first round victory over Fellowship Christian School. The Spartans swept the Paladins 3-0 to advance to the Sweet Sixteen.

Congratulations to our Varsity Softball team for reaching the Sweet 16! The Spartans dominated in the first round of the state playoffs, sweeping Christian Heritage with a 17-2 win in Game 1 and a 12-6 victory in Game 2.
 

On September 12th, GAC's Varsity Volleyball team dedicated their match to the incredible Kristy Shelton, who has faithfully served Greater Atlanta Christian for an amazing 43 years.
 

Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) is excited to share a new initiative implemented this fall to further support student well-being and academic focus by creating a more phone-free environment. Building on our existing schoolwide phone-free policy, which required students to keep their devices powered off and stored in backpacks, students in grades 6-12 now store their cell phones and smartwatches in school-issued Yondr Pouches.

Danielle Moss, GAC Class of 2011, joined the 11 Alive News Station as a Weekend Meteorologist in August 2024. She joins GAC Dad, Chris Holcomb, at 11Alive - a full-circle moment for both 11Alive team members as they share a love for the Metro-Atlanta private school. 

For the 2024-2025 school year, the GAC community embraced the theme of KNOWN, inspired by John 17:25-26, inviting students, families, faculty, and staff to KNOW God, to be fully KNOWN by God, and to make God KNOWN to others.

Two actors had an unlikely connection in a summer performance at the Lionheart Theatre in Norcross: Greater Atlanta Christian School. This summer, a local theatre company performed “The Enchanted Bookshop,” a heartwarming story about the power of literature and imagination. From Dorothy to Robin Hood to Tom Sawyer, this play focuses on a fictional story of our favorite childhood characters coming to life. In the play, these characters are faced with helping save their bookstore or protecting their own existence. Eighteen actors of all ages (9-50+) worked together to create a family-friendly story that touched the hearts of all who attended.

Our middle school students had the opportunity to serve our community at this year’s spiritual retreat. A portion of their day consisted of building “care bags” for the families served by LETTUM EAT. Founded by Chef Hank, LETTUM EAT is a mobile food service that provides meals to families in surrounding areas struggling with food insecurity. Our students got to encourage these families through handwritten notes that they included in each bag.

The GAC Athletic Department is happy to announce a new Athletic Hall of Fame Class will be inducted this Fall. The GAC Athletic Hall of Fame was created to recognize the outstanding athletic accomplishments of GAC alumni. The first GAC Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony occurred in January of 1999. Since that time, there have been three additional inductions. These induction ceremonies occurred in 2004, 2009, and 2014.

Ringing in the school year with some new hardware! Congratulations to our 2024 GHSA AAAAA State Champions: GAC Varsity Girls Soccer! The Spartans received their state championship rings on August 16th at halftime of the varsity football game.

Last year, the Linneman family embarked on a year-long adventure to Barcelona, Spain to have a unique cultural experience as a family. While overseas, their son, Carpenter, seamlessly continued his GAC education by utilizing Ethos online courses, ensuring he stayed on track academically.

GAC junior Ivey recently participated in a unique opportunity designed to introduce high school girls to careers in construction. Hosted by the Athens Area Women in Construction in partnership with the UGA College of Environment and Design, the free summer camp provided hands-on experience in construction-related fields.

Psalm 149:3 says “Let them praise his name with dancing…” For over 20 years, the GAC School of Ballet has embraced this call, expressing joy and worship through dance. The creation of this program began out of a hope to expand GAC’s Fine Arts program and create a greater foundation for other areas in the program. Starting with a small number of ballet classes, the School of Ballet experienced exponential growth each year.

Congratulations to Jasmine Jones, GAC Class of 2020, for advancing to the Semi-Finals in the Women’s 400 Meter Hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics with an impressive time of 53.60! 

The GAC student leadership team embarked on an unforgettable backpacking adventure in Colorado, accompanied by GAC President, Dr. Scott Harsh, High School Principal, Dr. Paul Cable, and High School Dean of Student Culture, Jes Guarneri. This annual trip serves as a time of exploration and personal growth, allowing our student leaders to challenge themselves physically and mentally while deepening their understanding of leadership from those who lead at GAC.

Our teachers play a vital role in what makes GAC exceptional. Many of our alumni often tell us that they formed meaningful relationships with their teachers and felt truly known at GAC, an experience that was unique compared to their college peers. God has brought us an exceptional group of new teachers.

The 2024 Slayton Skills Camp was a success! GAC alumni Darius Slayton, a wide receiver for the New York Giants (GAC Class of 2015), Micah Abernathy, a safety for the Atlanta Falcons (GAC Class of 2015), and Kalif Raymond, an All-Pro punt returner and wide receiver for the Detroit Lions (GAC Class of 2012) hosted the event at GAC on July 20th. 

The Boston Red Sox have selected Conrad Cason (GAC Class of 2024) in the Eighth Round of the 2024 MLB Draft! Named as the 2023-2024 Gatorade Player of the Year for the state of Georgia, Cason has truly made an impact with GAC’s Varsity Baseball team. This past season Conrad helped lead the Spartans to a Region 6-AAAAA Title and an Elite Eight appearance. 

Jasmine Jones clinched her spot on Team USA by finishing in third place (52.77) in the Women’s 400 Meter Hurdles at the Olympic Trials. She will now join fellow USC Trojan Anna Cockrell and new world record holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone as competitors in the Women’s 400 Meter Hurdles at the Olympic Games.
 

The awards continue to roll in for our State Champions! Congratulations to the head coach of our Varsity Girls Soccer team, Tia Graves, for being named as the Gwinnett County Coach of the Year! Reese Black (GAC Class of 2024) was named as a First Team All-County player for her efforts this season.

GAC 2020 graduates Jasmine Jones and Chloe Fair both competed in the 2024 Olympic Trials on July 27th. Jones (55.54) led the way with a first place finish in Heat 2 and Fair (57.26) finished in 6th place. These times qualified both Jasmine and Chloe to advance to the Semi-finals. Their next race will occur on Saturday, June 29th at 8:41 PM EST. 

Ella Randolph (Class of 2024) has served as a member of American Heritage Girls Inc. for the last 9 years. This year, Ella earned the Stars & Stripes Award, the highest recognition awarded by the American Heritage Girls Inc. She is a member of Perimeter Church’s Troop GA0317 where she is the first to receive such an award. 

Darius Slayton, Micah Abernathy, and Kalif Raymond (GAC alumni and current NFL players) are teaming up to host a free football camp at GAC on July 20th. The camp is open to all athletes ages 12 - 16 (rising 6th - rising 10th graders). This camp is offered free of charge to the community. Come out and learn fundamentals, strengthen skills, and learn from the best! 

Conrad Cason (GAC Class of 2024) was named the 2023-24 Gatorade Georgia Baseball Player of the Year. This recognizes Cason as the best high school baseball player in Georgia.The award celebrates the nation’s top high school athletes for their achievements in athletics, academics, and community involvement.

Congratulations to rising sophomore, Narah Kim, who has been named AAAAA All-State and was the Player of the Year as named by the Georgia High School Golf Coaches Association (GHSGCA)

In May, K3 gathered at Aldi in Peachtree Corners to buy items for the “Pack the Pantry” initiative. After shopping, the group enjoyed dinner at Chick-fil-A. The event was captured in a heartwarming photo featuring Mrs. Burrough’s class loading the donations.

NORCROSS, Ga. – May 23, 2024 Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) held a joyous commencement ceremony on campus on May 18, 2024, at the Long Forum. The event brought together family, friends, faculty, and staff to honor the Class of 2024 and commemorate the accomplishments of the graduating class of 134 students.

The GAC Varsity Track and Field team competed the 2024 GHSA AAAAA State Meet from May 9th-11th at Carrollton High School. Led by head coach Brad Kinser, the Spartans won four state championships. The Varsity Girls team finished with 42 points overall, which landed them in fifth place. The Varsity Boys team finished in the Top-15, landing at 13th overall. 

Please join us in congratulating the GAC Class of 2024 Valedictorian, Ridgeway Price Ridenour, and Salutatorian, Akhil Sarikonda.

In a heartwarming display of creativity and care, Lori Burrough, a K3 preschool teacher, has captured the hearts of millions with her ingenious idea to protect her students during Atlanta's partial solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.

Cliff Shelton, GAC's Associate Athletic Director, and beloved former teacher and coach faced a health crisis that could have been devastating were it not for a remarkable twist of fate and the unwavering support of his school community.

Congratulations to our 2024 GHSA AAAAA State Champions: GAC Varsity Girls Soccer! Margo Pritchard, Reese Black, Sophia Asiain, and Isa Moreno all knocked in their penalty shots, while Riley James got the crucial save to help the Spartans clinch the state title

After an epic double overtime battle at Jefferson High School, the GAC Varsity Girls soccer team defeated Jefferson High School 4-2 in PKs to advance to the 2024 AAAAA State Championship match. GAC heads back to the title match for the first time since 2022 and they will face Cambridge High School at Duluth High School. The match will begin at 5 PM. 

This past year, GAC launched the first ever international Family Mission Trip to Vieques, Puerto Rico. Partnering with Beyond Relief, the group worked together to help in the early stages of building a Christian youth camp called Camp Victoria.

The GAC Athletic Department is excited to celebrate thirteen of our student-athletes who are moving on to compete in college. Our Spring Signing Day Celebration on Wednesday, May 1^st in the Long Forum brought forth a large crowd. Classmates, teammates, family members, and coaches all gathered together to congratulate the spring signees for the Class of 2024. 

Varsity Baseball is advancing to the Elite 8! The Spartans swept Flowery Branch High School in their Sweet Sixteen series. GAC won Game 1 in dramatic fashion, thanks to a walkoff single by Eli Hanna in the bottom of the 9th inning. The 3-2 victory was the first game in the double-header.
 

The Region 6-AAAAA Track Meet occurred at Spartan Stadium on April 23rd and April 24th. Congratulations to the Varsity Girls Track & Field team for finishing tied for 1st place with Chattahoochee High School. The Spartans scored 146 points overall. The Varsity Boys finished in fourth place. 

Varsity Boys Tennis (Sweet Sixteen match), Varsity Baseball (Double-Header, first round series), Varsity Girls Soccer (Sweet Sixteen match on the road), Varsity Girls Lacrosse (First Round game), and Varsity Boys Lacrosse (First Round game) all competed on a "Super Tuesday" for GAC sports. The action began at 3 PM and by 10:30 PM that night, GAC’s Varsity Athletic Teams went 6-0 for the day. 

Greater Atlanta Christian School is delighted to announce the selection of seven finalists to the prestigious and highly competitive Georgia Governor’s Honor’s Program (GHP.)

In a bid to overhaul the antiquated and often convoluted process of buying and selling homes, GAC alums Parker Bryant '16 and Joshua Pickens '16 have launched Housewell, an online platform that aims to revolutionize the real estate industry.

The GAC Athletic Department is happy to announce that Ryan Millhof has been named as the new Head Wrestling coach at GAC. Ryan Millhof brings a wealth of experience over the course of his career. For the past four seasons, Millhof served as the Head Wrestling Coach at Collins Hill High School. Prior to his tenure at Collins Hill, Millhof served as an assistant coach at South Forsyth High School.

The Varsity Boys Tennis team won the Region 6-AAAAA championship Thursday with a 3-1 victory over Chattahoochee. The Spartans swept the doubles matches. Their point totals included Jack Gessner and Freddy Dougah at No. 1, as well as Ben Hawkins and Ayaan Valiani at No. 2. Jack Morrison was victorious at No. 3 singles as well. 

After battling against both the elements and Decatur High School last night, the Varsity Boys Lacrosse team (10-4, 4-0 in Region Play) won the Area Championship for the second consecutive season. The Spartans were up 4-3 at halftime, but were held inside due to inclement weather. After play resumed, GAC went on a 10-1 run to claim the 14-4 victory.
 

In our better moments, those are qualities we all want to embrace. Yet living out those qualities consistently? That’s where our human frailties can get in the way. So we thank God for powerful examples who remind and call us up again; People who have helped shape visions, then poured themselves out to make dreams come to life.

For 20 years GAC has been celebrating the annual Black and White Exhibition, showcasing the best visual artistry from GAC students of all ages. Hosted annually by the Fine Arts Department in the Art & Design Center, this special tradition invites the entire GAC community to experience the creative journey of young artists through mediums including paintings, drawings, ceramics, photography, videography and sculpture.

On March 27th, Harrison Voelzke set a new school record for our Varsity Boys Lacrosse program. The senior captain scored 11 total points (6 goals and 5 assists) in the GAC Boys Lacrosse team's 13-9 victory over Woodward Academy.

Congratulations to the Back-to-Back State Champion Literary Team! This victory marks a significant milestone for the team, reflecting their dedication and excellence in the competitive literary arena.

Do you remember the first time that you kicked a soccer ball or the first time that you held a bat? Can you still feel the excitement that you had before your first game? Some children dream to become varsity athletes, collegiate athletes, or even reach the professional level one day. That dream all begins with those first special moments with youth sports. At GAC we strive to provide opportunities for our youngest Spartans to develop into student-athletes.

College Baseball is back in action! GAC's Varsity Baseball program currently has eight alumni playing at the collegiate level. The following student-athletes are competing this season:
 

Ben Eberhart, GAC Class of 2017, has embarked on a remarkable journey of faith and service. Ben is the vice president of Kaula Tree Ministries, a global prayer ministry with a mission to strengthen, encourage, and comfort individuals worldwide.

Our very own Varsity Girls Basketball team defeated Kell High School 57-45 to claim the Region Championship. Senior guard, Myla Benson, was named as the Region "Player of the Year." She finished the game with 25 points, 12 rebounds and five steals. 

Congratulations to Conrad Cason for being named as a “Super Six Athlete" by the Gwinnett Daily Post. Representing GAC's Baseball team, the senior right hand pitcher and shortstop hit .327 with seven home runs, 23 RBIs, .472 on-base percentage last season. 

The GAC Varsity Boys and Girls Swim and Dive teams showcased their talent at the state swim meet, accomplishing several achievements and record-breaking feats. Both teams placed in the Top 10 in the state, finishing in 6th place. 

In a transformative era where screens and devices dominate many areas of our lives, from the workplace to healthcare, the educational landscape is no exception. However, challenges come with the increased use of technology and the evolving world. How do we balance high-tech lessons with a high-touch campus life to create real-life connections? What does it take to keep campus life alive and vibrant? How does GAC maintain traditions from years past? Join us as we embark on the journey to explore the balance found at GAC, where high-tech lessons coexist harmoniously with high-touch campus life, forging well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of tomorrow

Congratulations to sophomore Ava Kitchings, senior Reese Black, senior Hunter Bryant, and senior Harrison Voelzke for being named by the Gwinnett Daily Post as "Super-Six Athletes." 

Within Greater Atlanta Christian School’s Young Learners program, our youngest Spartans (infant-two years old) are nurtured through play-based learning and guided by loving teachers through key developmental milestones in a safe and caring, faith-filled environment.

Congratulations to our Varsity Swim and Dive Team for repeating as Region 6-5A Champions! The Spartans won the meet with a combined score of 1021 points. Cambridge High School finished in second place. 

Greater Atlanta Christian School proudly announces the induction of Varsity Head Track & Field Coach Brad Kinser into the Georgia Track and Field Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame by his former track and field teammate at Harding University and GAC alum (Class of 1978), Tomy Sitton.

In the early 1960s, the first donors to support Greater Atlanta Christian School gave as an expression of obedience to God. Their desire was to build a school that provided quality education in a Christian environment, where prayer could occur within the school, and a racially integrated student body would learn alongside one another. They knew the Lord wanted to see them come together to establish a Christian school in the Atlanta area. That group of “ordinary people” invited others to invest the resources that God had given them – their energy, their prayers, and their financial gifts.

Congratulations to GAC graduate Myles Hinton (Class of 2020) and the University of Michigan for winning the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship. The Wolverines defeated the University of Washington 34-13. 

At Greater Atlanta Christian School, we’ve been engaged in thought-provoking discussions about the impact of AI on our lives, families, and careers. Traditionally, educational institutions tend to lag in adopting new technologies due to factors like institutional inertia, risk aversion, limited research, or the inclination to teach in familiar ways. However, at GAC, generations of leaders have chosen a different path, one marked by forward-thinking innovation. We purposefully wield technology as a tool rather than becoming its passive users.