Principal’s Paragraph:
The first month of school is almost over and we wanted to share some updates about several items.
It has been a pleasure getting to know your students over the past few weeks. I have learned so much about this amazing campus. I truly felt called by the Lord to serve here at GCHS. We are doing very well with the cell phone policy and have some updates to share.
GCHS is receiving 600 Yondr bags this week. We had a representative from the company coming to our All Staff Meeting to advise the implementation of these technology-free bags. This initiative will begin September 3rd. Students will be given their own Yondr bag that they will be responsible for. The cell phone must be turned off and in the bag for the duration of the school day. At dismissal, the students will then unlock their bags and separate the phone from the device. We will number the bags, and each student will be assigned a bag. We are noticing the need for bags, as the temptation to communicate during class has been presented several times over the last few days. Overall, I am very proud of how we have responded to the policy. Our students are very compliant and respectful, but to ensure fellowship and learning at the highest level possible, the bags are necessary.
For GCS employees who have their students use the bus, we are moving the morning pickup and dropoff line to the south side of the campus. High school students being dropped off will walk to the east side of campus, which is where the car drop-off students enter. K-8 students will exit the doors outside Legacy Hall and get on the bus at the same location. As a parent, who utilizes this service, this is a much safer location that does not stop traffic during and drop off. Cones will be put out every morning to ensure locations and staging. For the time being, regular car dropoff will remain the same. When construction begins on the new building, we will send updates.
3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.
2 Thessalonians 3:3-5
September Staff Birthdays
Abby Kaiser (Juist) – September 5th
Jason Pasquariello – September 7th
Sam Moncivaiz – September 12th
Rachel Boylan – September 14th
Ike Birdsall – September 18th
Dorothy Whitney – September 19th
Michelle Petrey – September 24th
Marc Jette – September 26th
Holly Garza – September 28th
Mike Paasch – September 29th
*If you would like to bless our staff, here is the favorites list
Important Dates
9/2: Labor Day
9/27: Homecoming Football Game
9/28: Homecoming Dance
10/3-10/4: Freshmen Retreat at UCYC in Prescott
Chapel Recap
This week during Chapel, we focused on “God at Work,” in the lives of both our students and our staff members. Noel Habegger, a junior on campus, shared the incredible testimony of how God carried her through a tough physical trial during her 8th grade year, and declared the power of our God to her peers. Mrs. Garza shared her testimony of how God rescued her from her sin at the age of 19. You can watch this chapel (and the previous ones) here.
A Note from StuCo
We’re excited to announce that our 2024 Homecoming, “At Last I See the Light,” is just around the corner, taking place on September 28th! Ticket sales have started, so be sure to secure your tickets and shirts before prices increase! Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration at the High School Gym from 7-10 PM. You won’t want to miss it!!
Purchase tickets and shirts here.
Volunteer Corner
- Sign up here to bless the staff with snacks during our monthly all-staff meetings
- Sign up here if you (or your high school-age child) would like to watch staff kiddos during weekly Tuesday meetings.
2024-25 Standardized Testing at GCHS
| 9th Grade | MAP Growth | April 24 |
| 10th Grade | PreACT | April 24 |
| 11th Grade | PSAT/NMSQT | October 29 |
A NOTE FROM OUR ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT
Wow! It’s hard to believe that half of our fall teams have already started competition! Football is two games into the season, and all three of our volleyball teams played last night at Snowflake. We are so proud of the sportsmanship and effort that our squads have demonstrated in their respective sports. Keep up the good work!
Volleyball is back in action today and tomorrow, at the Longhorn Invitational tournament in Payson. The Knights will play several different squads over the weekend, in preparation for a big match-up at Valley Christian on September 4th (6:00pm). Cross Country also competes on Saturday, looking to test its early endurance at the Chandler Invitational! The meet will take place early at Tumbleweed Park. Swim has the latest start of the fall squads, but will begin its competitive season on Thursday, September 5th (4:00pm) at the Sedona Community Pool against Prescott and Sedona Red Rocks. Go Knights!
Do you love golf? Join our team! We are looking for a new HEAD GOLF COACH. To apply click HERE.
A NOTE FROM OUR SPANISH CLUB
Last chance before the price goes up! Travel with Spanish Club to Costa Rica during Spring Break 2025. Registration and deposits are due September 1st to avoid late fees. Contact Mrs. Jorgensen for more info or check us out at SimplyVenture.net.
ROOTED IN PRAYER
Parents, Grandparents, and all friends of GCHS are invited to join the team of volunteers that make up Rooted in Prayer every Wednesday morning that school is in session at 8AM. Praying aloud is not required and babies through preschool-aged children are welcome. Contact Mary for more information: HSPrayer@gcsaz.org.
Yearbooks
On sale now! Prices are based on a sliding scale. Order early and save money! Place your order here, Job #7107. Note: this link works best in the Chrome browser.
Questions? Email the yearbook adviser at laura.fellows@gcsaz.org.
Seniors automatically receive a yearbook – no need to place an order.
College & Career
Save the Date for our Christian College Fair- scan to register!
Thinking of a career in Graphic Arts? Register for the Huntington University interactive fall workshop (animation, graphic design, and film production majors) on 9/12/24
Need Volunteer Hours?
Register here to volunteer with Swift Youth Foundation (after school STEAM activities)
Counselor Corner
Do you rest from your work?
SABBATH REST
Sabbath rest can be a powerful practice for enhancing your mental health. The Sabbath offers profound benefits for mental health, rooted in biblical wisdom. God commands in Exodus 20:8, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy,” inviting us to rest from our labor.
Sabbath rest encourages you to step away from your routine, disconnect from work and digital distractions, and focus on connecting with the Lord. This dedicated time can reduce anxiety, improve emotional resilience, and offer a fresh perspective on life.
This intentional pause helps us detach from daily stresses and recharge. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites us to, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” In the New Covenant, resting in Jesus fosters spiritual rejuvenation, reduces anxiety, and enhances our connection with God and others. It is an amazing reminder that Jesus said: “It is finished.” By dedicating time to rest and reflection, we nurture our mental well-being and find peace in God’s presence.
