GRACE COMMUNITY SCHOOL

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GCS

Our PhilosophyGrace Community School exists as a biblically-based,

academically excellent, affordable ministry to Christian families seeking to educate,

encourage and equip their children to influence the world for Christ. Grace seeks

to develop caring, confident, inquisitive, competent individuals with well-trained

intellects, subject to righteous, God-directed character.

We are committed to these core values: • Biblical worldview

• Personal Christ-likeness

• Educational Excellence

• Faithful Stewardship

• Meaningful Participation

• Assisting Families

SuccessWhat kind of success do we desirefor our children?We all want our children to be successful, but more importantly, we want them to make a

significant impact, for our world to be a better place because of their presence. We know

that significance isn’t measured by where a child attends college, who he befriends, or his

status. Significance is measured by how that child views his world, lives his life and thrives.

It is measured by the manner in which he impacts his world.

For more than 30 years, Grace Community School has worked

hand-in-hand with Christian parents to prepare their children to

achieve this kind of success.

Grace has repeatedly been recognized by the Texas Association of Private and Parochial

Schools as its Overall State Champion, signifying that our academic, athletic, and fine arts

programs are among the finest in the state. We also enjoy beautiful facilities.

More importantly, our children reap the benefits of intelligent, talented, dynamic

teachers who love to learn and honor God’s Word — and who educate, equip, and

encourage our children to have influence in their world, both today and tomorrow.

GCS

From its unchanging commitment

to conveying truth and learning

from a Christian worldview, to

creating and sustaining a safe,

Christ-centered environment,

Grace strives togive childrendirection for lifein a constantlychanging world.

Direction

A primary goal of Grace is to provide an outstanding

academic education, taught from a biblical worldview.

Our teachers teach and prepare our children

thoroughly — not only for immediate success,

but for life.

Our faculty consists of gifted teachers of the highest

caliber. Our teachers have a tremendous grasp of

the subjects they teach. They are constantly seeking

to expand and refine their knowledge, and to

communicate those ideas to our students.

Grace teachers have created a curriculum of core

subjects that is highly valued by America’s top

colleges and universities.

Courses are taught in a traditional classroom setting,

featuring academic continuity, reading through

phonics, biblical training, and science and humanities

that are Christ-centered.

Our teachers model Christ to our students and

create long-term mentoring friendships that often go

well beyond the four walls of the classroom and their

years at Grace.

Academics

Grace is a relationship-based school.

EducateThe courses are demanding, and intellectually

challenging. At the same time, our teachers

understand that each child is important —

crafted lovingly by God to accomplish great

things. Therefore, teachers treat each child

with respect and concern. They are available

to help students individually along the way,

giving them the support they need to

succeed. Not only are our teachers interested

in teaching their respective

subjects, they are passionate

about teaching life.

Teachers minister to our

students, pray with them, and

help hold them accountable. Our teachers

sponsor clubs, lead trips, and coach teams.

Students are challenged togrow beyondtheir current intellectualand spiritualcapacities.

Grace’s fine arts program teaches young

hearts to love music, theater, and the

visual arts. Students learn to view life and

to express themselves in exciting, relevant

ways. Elementary students enjoy art and

music, while junior high and high school

students have opportunities to participate

in choir, band, orchestra, drama, drum

corps, and the visual arts.

Fine Arts

Our students learn

and perform in our

new state-of-the-art

fine arts center,

featuring a 570-seat

auditorium, band hall,

orchestra practice

room, choir hall, and

individual practice

facilities.

Grace performing

arts groups are

regular winners

of state and local

competitions. GCS

Most importantly, youngmen and women learn

to use art as a means toworship and glorify God.

Athletics

They not only have a lot of fun,but build relationships that last a lifetime.

Grace understands that preparing a child for

life requires more than outstanding academics;

equipping a child involves building up the body

and heart, as well as the mind. Grace exists to

train the whole student.

Our co-curricular programs prepare young bodies

and hearts to face life’s challenges.

Our athletic program is first-rate. From outstanding

gym teachers and facilities at the elementary

school, to a host of sports at the high

school level,

Grace has something for every student. Grace offers 26 athletic teams in 12

sports, including: soccer, cross country,

volleyball, basketball, football, cheerleading,

swimming, tennis, track, golf, baseball, and

fast-pitch softball.

Students have an opportunity to participate to a

degree that might not be possible in larger

schools.

These are traitsour students take

off the court andthe field, and build

into their lives.

Through athletics, Grace coaches help students

build strong, healthy bodies.

More importantly, our coaches are men

and women of godly integrity and

character. Their mission is not just to

teach children how to

play a game, but to

develop character qualities like

discipline, sportsmanship, leadership,

commitment, and perseverance.

At Grace, our children are given the tools they need to become men and women of godly character.Beginning in pre-kindergarten, children memorize Scripture.

As they progress through the primary school years, they

expand their biblical knowledge.

Grace elementary students enjoy weekly chapel services

and begin each day with prayer. At the same time, they

begin to transfer “head knowledge” to their hearts,

learning to apply biblical concepts in their daily lives.

As students progress to junior high and high school,

they are taught how to take ownership of their faith

and to take responsibility for their spiritual growth.

Chapel is organized and led by students, rather than

faculty. Students are encouraged to develop accountability

among friends and classmates. Through class trips, they

develop edifying friendships and develop a sense of

community. As they deal with the inevitable pressures of

adolescence, teachers come alongside to give counsel and

guidance, to lead them in prayer and provide wisdom.

Faith

Students are encouraged and given opportunitiesto put their faith into practice every day.

Foundation

Grace parents are deeply involved in everyday school life.

Parents participate in field trips, assist in art, pray as

a group for the school, and help with special events,

and contribute as teachers, helpers, coaches, speakers,

and mentors. Online progress reports, parent-teacher

conferences, the Touch of Grace Magazine, and regular

conversation keep lines of communication between

parents and the school open. Parents develop solid

relationships with their like-minded peers. This high level

of parental involvement builds community among school

families and creates a seamless web between

what children are taught at home,

and what they learn

in school.

A Christian educationmust be rooted ina firm foundation

of God’s Word.

CommunityTwo aspects of the word

“community” are evident at Grace.

The connection between Grace families can be felt at

sport events, family events and community programs.

There is a bond that is unique and make attending

events a real highlight. We repeatedly see families

join together in support when tragedy or hardship

strikes one of our own.

Unity is definitely a great description of how our families relate.

Grace’s presence in the Tyler community is

another aspect that sets our school apart.

With regular intentional opportunities for our

students to serve, perform or interact with other

local organizations, we get to see our students

meet some needs within

our area.

This is vital part of meeting

our mission.

Grace students play a vital role in the community of Tyler.

“The faculty’s commitment to helping our

children develop a Christian worldview is

a major strength. The quality of education

and love shown by the teachers. The open

communication and support received from

administrators when discussing concerns.”

Strengths

“The Christian worldview

that is in everything the

school does. That was what

my husband and I were looking for when we

came to Grace. That has never wavered ...”

Grace parents share their thoughts on why they chose Grace Community School.

GCS“Great teachers, a mission statement

that is acted out consistently,

wonderful fine arts and athletic

programs, challenging academics.”

Our elementary school offers a safe,

nurturing, Christ-centered environment

where elementary students can benefit

from a traditional academic program.

We feature highly qualified, Christian

teachers who model high standards

in every facet of school life. Teachers

and staff team with parents and grand

parents to instill in children a lifelong

love for God and His purposes. At the

same time, teachers work to lay the

foundation for academic success in the

college preparatory disciplines of the

junior high and high school.

Given the pleasant, inviting environment,our students want to come to school

to learn and grow with their friends.

Elementary

Teachers encourageand help them every

step of the way.In short, they build a

foundation for successin high school.

Junior High

The junior high years mark an

amazing transition in life.

The transition can be challenging,

as minds and bodies grow from

young children to adolescents.

Teachers provide biblical counsel

to students as they begin to

make difficult choices in life.

Junior high students are taught

to outline, take notes and tests,

write papers and complete

projects. They are taught to

manage their own schedules and

budget their time.

Grace Community High School offers students an

outstanding opportunity to come of age in a supportive,

exciting environment.

Our goal is to challenge students intellectually and to prepare

them to take responsibility for their education. Research, critical thinking, and study skills

are hallmarks. Students receive individualized attention and support, and leave Grace well

prepared to face the academic challenges of university life. At the same time, our students have

outstanding opportunities to participate in a wide variety of co-curricular activities.

They regularly compete at the championship

level in academic, athletic and performing

arts competitions.

High School

Young men and womensolidify positive, affirming

relationships that last for life.

Clubs and service organizations allow students

to gain a better understanding of their talents and skills.

The chance for students to avail themselves of many different activities is a Grace

distinctive. Our high school prepares students not just for college, but for life.

Student-led Bible studies and accountability groups are prevalent.

Chapel is also student-led and organized. Mission trips and

community projects are staples of student life.

Tyler, Texas Grace Community School is located in the beautiful piney woods of Tyler,

the business and medical hub of East Texas.

Grace is located on two easy-to-find campuses: grades K4-5 are located at 3215 Old Jacksonville

Road, while grades 6-12 are located at 3001 University Boulevard, across from the University of

Texas at Tyler.

We invite you to visit Grace Community Schoolfor a tour of our campuses.

Come see our outstanding facilities, meet our students and see our classroom teachers in action.

To schedule a tour, a personal meeting with our Admissions Director, or to ask questions about

Grace, please call the admissions office at (903) 566-5678 ext. 129, or visit our website at:

www.gracetyler.org

Come see what we’re all about!

Grace Community School

Elementary Campus3215 Old Jacksonville RoadTyler, Texas 75701

903-593-1977

Junior High & High School Campus3001 University BoulevardTyler, Texas 75701

903-566-5661www.gracetyler.org

Grace Community School had a truly remarkable year in 2009-2010. With record enrollment – especially in the junior and senior high levels - there were more challenges and more triumphs meeting the needs of all these students. 17 students came to know Christ during school year and several class trips were turning points in spiritual maturity. Below is a review of the year.

ACADEMICS The Grace Community School 2010 graduates scored an average of 1101 on the combined Reading & Math portions of the SAT

college entrance test, compared to a Texas average of 989 and a National average of 1017.

On the ACT college entrance test, the 2010 Grace graduates scored an average of 24.3, compared to a Texas average of 20.8 and a National average of 21.0.

66 seventh graders (78%) qualified to take part in Duke University’s Talent Identification Program. with ten students achieving state level recognition and two receiving grand recognition. This year marks Grace’s 16th year to participate in the Duke University Program. Each of these students scored 510 or greater on one of three categories on the SAT or 21 or greater on one of four categories on the ACT.

52 students in the graduating class of 2010 were offered grants and scholarships totaling over $2.4 million, and were accepted at 49 different colleges and universities.

In 12 graduating classes, GCS has had a total of 4 National Merit Scholars, 19 Commended Scholars and 9 appointees to the United States service academies.

GCS placed fifth in the annual TAPPS Overall State Competition, which is determined by performance in athletics, fine arts and academics. GCS has placed in at least the top 5 every year for 15 years, including Overall State Champions twice. This dist inction is a fitting illustration of our success and balance in academics and extracurricular programs.

FINE ARTS Grace Community High School was the TAPPS 4A State Instrumental Champions for the third year in a row. The Varsity Orchestra,

Jazz Band, Varsity and High School Drum Lines contributed to the winning score.

Grace Community High School was the TAPPS 4A State Vocal runner up for the 6th year in a row. Every ensemble earned a superior rating.

Pam Eikner, the GCS Orchestra director, was named the TAPPS 4A Fine Arts Teacher of the year.

The Grace Community Drum Line had another successful year of performances. The four different performing groups within the drum line program entertained crowds at home football and basketball games and also had the opportunity to perform at a variety of community events. The drum line capped off the year with their annual Spring Concert before a capacity crowd.

The musical theater class and seventh/eighth grade orchestras competed at the Sandy Lake Music Festival in the spring. They received superior ratings for their performances.

The high school drama performed SCAPINO as a dinner theater production for the Saints Alive! Group as well as two performances in the Burgess Auditorium.

The FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE COMPANY partnered weekly with high school drama students to learn drama skills. This very special group performed as the opening act for the drum line concert and were outstanding.

Junior high school students presented two outstanding performances in the winter. Acts of Grace, Jr. performed CHARLOTTE’S WEB, while the

7th and 8th grade Grace Notes Choir performed the musical SEUSSICAL, JR. ATHLETICS In 15 years of competition in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), Grace has won 24 State

Championships, been state runner-up 7 times, and won 69 District Championships. This past year, teams that advanced in the playoffs were: football, softball, and baseball. Men’s and women’s golf made an

appearance in regional competition. Both men’s and women’s track competed in state. For the first time ever our women’s soccer team made it to the final four. Women’s tennis were state champions.

Grace Community School has an excellent reputation across the state among both private and public schools as a quality, well-respected program. Though we have been very successful on the field of play, we are most proud of the victories off the field and in the hearts of our athletes.

SERVICE The elementary campus joined together in the Hearts for Change effort that helped raise funds for a classroom for our adopted

orphanage in Uganda.

Operation Christmas Child is an annual school-wide opportunity for students to impact their world for Christ; GCS served as the collection center for the East Texas area. Students packed over 17,000 shoeboxes full of gifts that were distributed to children in the poorest countries of the world.

The entire high school student body participated in a Community Service Day in November. Base groups served a dozen different care-giving organizations in the Tyler area such as; Breckenridge Village, Children’s Village, Andrews Center, Tyler and North Tyler Day Nurseries, St. Paul Children’s Foundation, Pine Cove Christian Camps, ET Food Bank, Salvation Army, ET Rescue Mission, Red Cross, Mercy Ships and Rockin’ C Ranch.

Grace hosted 12 students from our sister school in Germany, Freie Christliche Schulen for two weeks. Students and their chaperones stayed with Grace families and enjoyed great fellowship and spiritual growth through the building of these relationships.

GCS hosted the 12th annual Special Olympics Basketball Games in February. Special Olympics teams from the Tyler area take on the Grace Cougar teams and amazingly enough, they win every year and the fans have more fun than anyone.

Tim Kimmel of FAMILY MATTERS MINISTRY spoke to GCS parents and guests offering great tools and insights for parenting. This evening was open to the community, but certainly pointed toward our mission statement of “assisting Christian parents” with equipping their children to influence the world for Christ.

ATHLETICS In 15 years of competition in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), Grace has

won 24 State Championships, been state runner-up 7 times, and won 69 District Championships. This past year, teams that advanced in the playoffs were: football, softball, and baseball. Men’s and

women’s golf made an appearance in regional competition. Both men’s and women’s track competed in state. For the first time ever our women’s soccer team made it to the final four. Women’s tennis were state champions.

Grace Community School has an excellent reputation across the state among both private and public schools as a quality, well-respected program. Though we have been very successful on the field of play, we are most proud of the victories off the field and in the hearts of our athletes.

SERVICE The elementary campus joined together in the Hearts for Change effort that helped raise funds for a

classroom for our adopted orphanage in Uganda. Operation Christmas Child is an annual school-wide opportunity for students to impact their world for

Christ; GCS served as the collection center for the East Texas area. Students packed over 17,000 shoeboxes full of gifts that were distributed to children in the poorest countries of the world.

The entire high school student body participated in a Community Service Day in November. Base groups served a dozen different care-giving organizations in the Tyler area such as; Breckenridge Village, Children’s Village, Andrews Center, Tyler and North Tyler Day Nurseries, St. Paul Children’s Foundation, Pine Cove Christian Camps, ET Food Bank, Salvation Army, ET Rescue Mission, Red Cross, Mercy Ships and Rockin’ C Ranch.

Grace hosted 12 students from our sister school in Germany, Freie Christliche Schulen for two weeks. Students and their chaperones stayed with Grace families and enjoyed great fellowship and spiritual growth through the building of these relationships.

GCS hosted the 12th annual Special Olympics Basketball Games in February. Special Olympics teams from the Tyler area take on the Grace Cougar teams and amazingly enough, they win every year and the fans have more fun than anyone.

Tim Kimmel of FAMILY MATTERS MINISTRY spoke to GCS parents and guests offering great tools and insights for parenting. This evening was open to the community, but certainly pointed toward our mission statement of “assisting Christian parents” with equipping their children to influence the world for Christ. 

 

Date indicates first year at GCS Elementary Faculty

Four Year Kindergarten Linda Trammell; 2008 Donna Youngblood; 1995 - A.S. Tyler Junior College Five Year Kindergarten Heather Allen; 2010 – B.A. University of Texas, Tyler Jennifer Davin; 2007 - M.Ed. University of New Mexico Sherri Harden; 1997 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Ginger Key; 2006 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler K5 Aide - Beth Moore; 2008 First Grade Jeanne Crawford; 1981 - M.Ed. University of Texas, Tyler Dana Hymer; 1990 - M.Ed. University of Texas, Tyler LeAnn Shields; 2006 - B.S. Texas A&M University Second Grade Denise Davis; 2010 – B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Stacy Holmes; 2002 - B.A. McNeese State University Glo Tjoelker; 1985 - B.S. Calvin College Third Grade Amy McArthur; 2010 – B.S. Liberty University Denise Rasco; 1989 - B.S. North Texas State University Nan Timmons; 1995 - B.A. Texas Tech University Fourth Grade Pam Craver; 2009 - B.A. Stephen F. Austin University Kristin Hart; 2008 - B.S. Western Illinois University Judy Miller; 1992 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Fifth Grade Julie Aldredge; 2004 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Devin Delaughter; 2010 – M.Ed. Covenant College Mischa Phillips; 1998 - B.S. University of Texas, Austin Music - Lisa Provines; 1996 – M.Ed. Covenant College Art - Belle Thomas; 2006 - B.A. University of North Texas Computer and Science -Tammi Long; 2010 – B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Spanish – Sabra Knape; 2010 - M.A. Andover Newton Librarian - Kay Green; 1998 - M.Ed. University of Texas, Tyler Physical Education - Dawn Bridges; 1996 - B.A. Baylor University Nurse - Brenda O’Neal, R.N.; 2000 - B.S. University of Texas Medical Branch Secondary Faculty Art Marilyn Ackerson; 1997 - M.S. Stephen F. Austin University Laura Crook; 2008 - B.A. Belhaven College Lindsay Long; 2005 - B.A. Belhaven College Bible Marilyn Ackerson; 1997 - M.S. Stephen F. Austin University Michael Bertino; 1999 - M.A. Dallas Theological Seminary Chris Brody; 2006 - B.A. Moody Bible Institute Danny Dobbs 2007 – M.Ed. Texas A&M Commerce Pam Konon; 2005 - B.S. University of Texas, El Paso Mark Hageman; 2007 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Cheer Sponsor - Paula Evans; 2000 - B.S. Texas A&M University Computer Kelly Barnes; 2008 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Greg Brandenburg; 1996 - M.Div. Western Seminary Karen Cannon; 2007 - B.S. Texas A&M University Drama/Speech/Fine Arts Coordinator Delisa Bice; 2001 - M.A. University of Houston English Mary Beth Anderson; 2005 - M.A. Stephen F. Austin University Kristen Brody - 2006 - B.A. Moody Bible Institute Blaine Davis; 2007 - B.A. Wheaton College

Paula Evans; 2000 - B.S. Texas A&M University Rhonda Ham; 2004 - M.A. University of Texas, Tyler Amber McClenny; 2007 - B.A. University of Texas, Tyler Karen Watkins; 2004 - M.A. University of New Mexico Foreign Language Kelly Barnes; 2008 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Nancy Dickson; 2009 - M.A. Southern Methodist University Lonna Stewart; 2008 - M.A. University of California Tom Taylor; 1996 - M.S. Pensacola Christian College History / Economics Tom Alden; 1994 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Cindy Allen; 1995 - B.A. University of Missouri Arlie Bice; 2004 - M.A. University of Texas, Tyler Joe Crawford; 2010 – B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Myles Cunningham; 1982 - B.S. Grace College Ann Fedell; 2010 – B.S. Harding University Mike Maddox; 2007 - B.S. Texas A&M University Librarian - Christina Jontra; 2006 - B.S. Abilene Christian University Mathematics Dennis Alden; 1984 - B.A. Greenville College Tina Delaughter; 2010- B.S. University of the South Laura Duncan; 2006 - B.A. University of North Texas Elaine Hageman; 2007 - B.S. Louisiana State University November Roberts 2008 -B.S. Middle Tennessee State University Jeff Shelton; 1997 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Kathy Shelton; 1997 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Ashley Wilhelmi; 2006 - B.S. Texas Tech University Music Susan Boylan; 2004 - B.S. Penn State University Jason Montier; 2010 – B.S. East Central Ada University Phillip Rumbley; 2007 - B.A. University of Texas at Dallas Jeff Shelton: 1997 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Physical Education Tom Alden; 1994 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Danny Dobbs; 2007 - M.Ed. Texas A&M Commerce Elaine Hageman; 2007 - B.S. Louisiana State University Kristen Stovall; 2010 – M.A. University of Texas, Tyler Science Myles Cunningham; 1982 - B.S. Grace College Karen Hillis; 2010 – M.S. Northwestern State University Kathie Koch; 1999 - B.A. Houston Baptist University Pam Konon; 2005 - B.S. University of Texas, El Paso Kathy Shelton; 1997 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Janet Taylor; 1995 - B.S. Texas Christian University Norm Thompson; 2010 – B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Robyn Welch; 2002 - B.A. Texas Tech University Yearbook - Karin Davis; 2009 - B.A.A.S. University of Texas, Tyler School Nurse/Health - Melanie Mills, R.N.; 2005 - B.S.N. University of Texas, Tyler

Secondary Faculty (continued) Computer

Kelly Barnes; 2008 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Greg Brandenburg; 1996 - M.Div. Western Seminary

Karen Cannon; 2007 - B.S. Texas A&M University Drama/Speech/Fine Arts Coordinator

Delisa Bice; 2001 - M.A. University of Houston English

Mary Beth Anderson; 2005 - M.A. Stephen F. Austin University Kristen Brody - 2006 - B.A. Moody Bible Institute Blaine Davis; 2007 - B.A. Wheaton College Paula Evans; 2000 - B.S. Texas A&M University Rhonda Ham; 2004 - M.A. University of Texas, Tyler Amber McClenny; 2007 - B.A. University of Texas, Tyler Karen Watkins; 2004 - M.A. University of New Mexico

Foreign Language Kelly Barnes; 2008 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Nancy Dickson; 2009 - M.A. Southern Methodist University Lonna Stewart; 2008 - M.A. University of California Tom Taylor; 1996 - M.S. Pensacola Christian College

History / Economics Tom Alden; 1994 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Cindy Allen; 1995 - B.A. University of Missouri Arlie Bice; 2004 - M.A. University of Texas, Tyler Joe Crawford; 2010 – B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Myles Cunningham; 1982 - B.S. Grace College Ann Fedell; 2010 – B.S. Harding University Mike Maddox; 2007 - B.S. Texas A&M University

Librarian - Christina Jontra; 2006 - B.S. Abilene Christian University Mathematics

Dennis Alden; 1984 - B.A. Greenville College Tina Delaughter; 2010- B.S. University of the South Laura Duncan; 2006 - B.A. University of North Texas Elaine Hageman; 2007 - B.S. Louisiana State University November Roberts 2008 -B.S. Middle Tennessee State University Jeff Shelton; 1997 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Kathy Shelton; 1997 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Ashley Wilhelmi; 2006 - B.S. Texas Tech University

Music Susan Boylan; 2004 - B.S. Penn State University Jason Montier; 2010 – B.S. East Central Ada University Phillip Rumbley; 2007 - B.A. University of Texas at Dallas Jeff Shelton: 1997 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University

Physical Education Tom Alden; 1994 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Danny Dobbs; 2007 - M.Ed. Texas A&M Commerce Elaine Hageman; 2007 - B.S. Louisiana State University Kristen Stovall; 2010 – M.A. University of Texas, Tyler

Science Myles Cunningham; 1982 - B.S. Grace College Karen Hillis; 2010 – M.S. Northwestern State University Kathie Koch; 1999 - B.A. Houston Baptist University Pam Konon; 2005 - B.S. University of Texas, El Paso Kathy Shelton; 1997 - B.S. University of Texas, Tyler Janet Taylor; 1995 - B.S. Texas Christian University Norm Thompson; 2010 – B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Robyn Welch; 2002 - B.A. Texas Tech University

Yearbook - Karin Davis; 2009 - B.A.A.S. University of Texas, Tyler School Nurse/Health - Melanie Mills, R.N.; 2005 - B.S.N. University of Texas, Tyler  

 

School History Grace Community School was founded by Grace Community Church in 1973 and began with an enrollment of 60 students in grades 2-12. With the completion of the high school building in 1996, Grace expanded to two locations keeping the elementary on Old Jacksonville Road and moving the junior high and high school to University Boulevard. Today the school exists as a K4-12, coeducational, college-preparatory day school with selective admissions. At more than 1000 students it is the largest private school in East Texas. The curriculum is rigorous and high moral standards are expected and encouraged. Mission Statement - To assist Christian parents in educating, equipping, and encouraging their children to influence the world for Christ. Accreditation - Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) Affiliations - Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS); Texas Association of College Admissions Counselors (TACAC); National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP); North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP); Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Student Body K4-12 1008 Elementary 423 Junior High 270 High School 315 Student Make-up Grace students come from all socio-economic backgrounds. Because the mission of Grace is one of discipleship, rather than outreach, we serve Christian parents and students. Although Grace is a ministry of Grace Community Church, a majority of Grace school students are from families that attend other churches. Our students come from all denominations within the Christian faith. SAT Summary Class of 2010 Grace Texas National Math & Reading 1101 989 1017 Writing 552 473 492 ACT Summary Class of 2010 Grace Texas National Mean Composite 24.3 20.8 21 Middle 50% Range 22-27 Location and Contact Info Lower Campus: 3215 Old Jacksonville Rd, Tyler, TX 75701 Upper Campus: 3001 University Blvd, Tyler, Texas 75701 (903)566-5678 www.gracetyler.org Athletics Grace Community School competes in TAPPS 5A in soccer, volleyball, cross country, track, basketball, football, swimming, tennis, golf, baseball, and softball. In twelve years of TAPPS competition, Grace has won 23 state championships, been state runner-up seven times, and won 68 district championships. TAPPS 3A Overall State Champion, 1998-99 and TAPPS 4A Overall State

Champion, 2001-02; Runner-up, 1999-00; Third Overall, 2003-04; TAPPS 5A Fourth Overall, 2004-07 and Fifth Overall, 2007-08. Fine Arts Grace offers choir, band, jazz band, orchestra, and a drum line, all of which have performed exceptionally well over the last several years. Grace has an active drama program that participates in one-act play competitions, and regularly stages plays and musicals. The school also has an active visual arts program. Grace has a performing arts center with a 624-seat theater, and individual choir, band, and orchestra practice halls. College Choices In addition to numerous public and private institutions in Texas, Grace graduates have been accepted at the following institutions: Arizona State, Auburn, Azusa Pacific, Belhaven, Belmont, Biola, Boston University, Calvin, Centenary, Clemson, Colorado State, Culinary Institute Of America, Davidson, Denison, Dordt, Evangel, Georgia Tech, Greenville, Hendrix, Houghton, John Brown, Kansas State, Kansas Wesleyan, Kenyon, Lee, Liberty, LSU, Louisiana Tech, Marion Military Inst., Master’s, Mercer, Merchant Marine Academy, Messiah, Miami University, Mississippi College, Notre Dame, Oklahoma Baptist, Oklahoma Christian, Oklahoma State, Oral Roberts, Ouachita Baptist, Pepperdine, Randolph-Macon, Rhodes, St. John’s, Santa Clara, Savannah College of Art & Design, Seton Hall, Southern Arkansas, Taylor University, Truman State, Tulane, Union, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis), University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Colorado at Boulder, University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Indianapolis, University of Mississippi, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of North Dakota, University of Oklahoma, University of the Ozarks, University of Philadelphia, University of Richmond, University of South Florida, University of Tulsa, University of Wyoming, Valparaiso, Vanderbilt, Washington & Jefferson, Western State College of Colorado, Westmont, Wheaton, William and Mary, Xavier. Administration Date indicates first year at GCS Headmaster - Jay Ferguson; 2002 - M.Ed. Covenant College High School Principal - Wanda Shaeffer; 2003 - M.Ed. East TX State Univ Assistant High School Principa l- Galen Taylor; 1989 - B.S. School of the Ozarks Junior High Principal - Tom Taylor; 1996 - M.S. Pensacola Christian College Assistant Elementary Principal - Mark Hageman; ; 2007 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Elementary Principal - Karla Foreman; 1996 - M.Ed. Covenant College Elementary Assistant Principal - Jennifer Dozier; 1996 - M.Ed. Centenary College Athletic Director - Jeff Smith; 1996 - B.A. Northwood Institute Director of Development - Tim Connor; 2010–M.Ed. Covenant College Director of Marketing - Lisa Johnson; 2004 - B.S. Bob Jones University Director of Admissions -Jo Ann Krafft; 1999 College Guidance Counselor - Joshua Webb; 2007 - B.S. Louisiana Tech University

Grace Information (continued)

Athletics Grace Community School competes in TAPPS 5A in soccer, volleyball, cross country, track,

basketball, football, swimming, tennis, golf, baseball, and softball. In twelve years of TAPPS competition, Grace has won 23 state championships, been state runner-up seven times, and won 68 district championships. TAPPS 3A Overall State Champion, 1998-99 and TAPPS 4A Overall State Champion, 2001-02; Runner-up, 1999-00; Third Overall, 2003-04; TAPPS 5A Fourth Overall, 2004-07 and Fifth Overall, 2007-08.

Fine Arts Grace offers choir, band, jazz band, orchestra, and a drum line, all of which have performed

exceptionally well over the last several years. Grace has an active drama program that participates in one-act play competitions, and regularly stages plays and musicals. The school also has an active visual arts program. Grace has a performing arts center with a 624-seat theater, and individual choir, band, and orchestra practice halls.

College Choices In addition to numerous public and private institutions in Texas, Grace graduates have been

accepted at the following institutions: Arizona State, Auburn, Azusa Pacific, Belhaven, Belmont, Biola, Boston University, Calvin, Centenary, Clemson, Colorado State, Culinary Institute Of America, Davidson, Denison, Dordt, Evangel, Georgia Tech, Greenville, Hendrix, Houghton, John Brown, Kansas State, Kansas Wesleyan, Kenyon, Lee, Liberty, LSU, Louisiana Tech, Marion Military Inst., Master’s, Mercer, Merchant Marine Academy, Messiah, Miami University, Mississippi College, Notre Dame, Oklahoma Baptist, Oklahoma Christian, Oklahoma State, Oral Roberts, Ouachita Baptist, Pepperdine, Randolph-Macon, Rhodes, St. John’s, Santa Clara, Savannah College of Art & Design, Seton Hall, Southern Arkansas, Taylor University, Truman State, Tulane, Union, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis), University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Colorado at Boulder, University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Indianapolis, University of Mississippi, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of North Dakota, University of Oklahoma, University of the Ozarks, University of Philadelphia, University of Richmond, University of South Florida, University of Tulsa, University of Wyoming, Valparaiso, Vanderbilt, Washington & Jefferson, Western State College of Colorado, Westmont, Wheaton, William and Mary, Xavier.

Administration Date indicates first year at GCS

Headmaster Jay Ferguson; 2002 - M.Ed. Covenant College High School Principal Wanda Shaeffer; 2003 - M.Ed. East TX State Univ Assistant High School Principal Galen Taylor; 1989 - B.S. School of the Ozarks Junior High Principal Tom Taylor; 1996 - M.S. Pensacola Christian College Assistant Elementary Principal Mark Hageman; ; 2007 - B.S. Stephen F. Austin University Elementary Principal Karla Foreman; 1996 - M.Ed. Covenant College Elementary Assistant Principal Jennifer Dozier; 1996 - M.Ed. Centenary College Athletic Director Jeff Smith; 1996 - B.A. Northwood Institute Director of Development Tim Connor; 2010 – M.Ed. Covenant College Director of Marketing Lisa Johnson; 2004 - B.S. Bob Jones University Director of Admissions Jo Ann Krafft; 1999 College Guidance Counselor Joshua Webb; 2007 - B.S. Louisiana Tech University

 

  What is the process to enroll my student at Grace Community School?

One application per student must be submitted to the admissions office to place a child on the application list. There is no cost to submit an application.

All students are given an entrance test. After testing is scheduled, parents are to provide necessary items to complete the student’s file. Items include report cards (complete with conduct records) and achievement test results for the past two years, immunization record, birth certificate and other information requested by the admissions office.

After the file is reviewed and an opening is available, parents of qualified students must interview with the principal. Junior high and high school students must also interview with the principal.

Required fees are paid and a signed Parent/School Agreement is submitted after the interview to secure a student’s place in the school and complete the admissions process.

What are the requirements for admission to Grace Community School? Parents of students must profess to be born-again Christians and must be actively involved in

a local church whose doctrinal position supports the Grace Community Statement of Faith. High school students must also have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

An applicant’s school record must reflect an average of a “B” grade in the present school year with no failing marks and the student must make a satisfactory score on the school entrance test.

Applicant must have a satisfactory conduct record, as well as satisfactory recommendations. Applicants in grades 9-12 must have a desire to attend Grace Community High School. 

 To serve the best interests of the student and the school, the administration reserves the right to deny admission to any student who is evaluated as ineligible. Grace Community School’s biblical role is to work in conjunction with the home to mold students to become Christ-like. On occasion, the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home may be contradictory to the biblical lifestyle and teachings reinforced by the school. This atmosphere may include, but is not limited to, sexual immorality, homosexual practice, use of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse, or inability to support the moral principles of the school. In such cases, the school reserves the right, within its discretion, to refuse admission of an applicant or to discontinue enrollment of a student.

   

 When should new student applications be submitted?

Applications are accepted beginning the first day of school for the next school year. For instance, applications for the fall of 2010 were accepted beginning on August 18, 2009.

I submitted an application for this school year, but there was no room for my child. Do I have to complete another application for the next school year?

Yes, applications are valid for the school year for which they are submitted. They are not “rolled over” to the next year.

Are some students given priority when it comes to admission consideration? Children of full-time church and school employees, and children of teachers (applications must

be submitted no later than December 31st for priority status, except newly hired teachers). Children of families with other students currently enrolled (application form and fee must be

submitted by the re-enrollment deadline for priority status). Former students and children of former students (applications must be submitted no later than

December 31st for priority status). Children of Grace Community Church members and current Grace Early Education children

(applications must be submitted no later than December 31st for priority status).

Is it true there is a long waiting list and it is impossible to get into GCS? No. Some of our classes have a small waiting list; however as the enrollment process

proceeds, some of the applicants will not continue for various reasons. Other classes have openings or no waiting list.

I submitted an application for the 2011-2012 school year. What is next? You will receive a letter in late January or early February giving you further instructions to

proceed with the enrollment process. The letter will include a request for other information and a schedule of testing dates.

How can I visit the school? Tours of the Upper or Lower Campus are encouraged and given by the Admissions Director,

Jo Ann Krafft on an individual basis by appointment. Call the Admissions Office at 903-566-5678 ext. 129 to schedule your personal tour.

What tuition assistance is available and how can I apply? A limited amount of tuition assistance is given through a fund set aside for that purpose.

It is intended for qualified parents with financial needs that would otherwise prevent enrollment of their children. Applications for tuition assistance are made to an independent company after applications have been submitted.. Decisions on tuition assistance are made by the School Board based on recommendations from an independent consulting firm.

 

CLASS TUITION

K4 (3 day, half day) $3,531 ($321/month for 11 months) K4 (3 day, full day) $4,587 ($417/month for 11 months) K4, K5 (half day) $4,862 ($442/month for 11 months) K4, K5 (full day) $6,644 ($604/month for 11 months) Grades 1-5 $6,644 ($604/month for 11 months) Grades 6-12 $7,271 ($661/month for 11 months)

Registration Fee of $250 per student Building Use Fee of $325 per student in grades 6-12

TUITION FOR FAMILIES*

Second Child (or more) in grades K4-5 $6,116 each ($556/month for 11 months)

Second Child (or more) in grades 6-12 $6,688 each ($608/month for 11 months)

*K4 and K5 (half day) students are not considered for family discounts

FINANCIAL AID A limited amount of financial aid is given through a fund set aside for that purpose. Applications for financial aid are available online at www.gracetyler.org (under the

“Admissions” tab) from January 1 to April 15 for the following school year.

Financial aid is intended for qualified parents with financial needs that would otherwise

prevent enrollment of their children. Decisions on financial aid are made by the School Board based on recommendations from an independent consulting firm.