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Gaston Christian named a Premiere Community for Theatre Education

Jun 20, 2023Jun 20, 2023

Gaston Christian School has been honored with the distinction of being named a Premiere Community for Theatre Education for its outstanding commitment in the field. The Educational Theatre Association recognizes individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide theatre access and education to all students.

"At Gaston Christian, our Christian education seeks to prepare students for life," said Dr. Joel Uecker, GCS Associate Head of School and Academic Dean. " Theater education is great preparation for life."

To qualify for the distinction, Gaston Christian School answered detailed questions about funding, teacher development and evaluation, theater class curriculum and participation, instruction time, facilities, and support for the theatre program. Responses were verified with official documentation and reviewed by the Educational Theatre Association.

"I have improved my ability to express my feelings and emotions. Theater education is important to our school's growth in this area," Sara Plyler who is a student at the school.

Research affirms the educational and social-emotional benefits of participating in the school theater. In one study, at-risk middle school students who engaged in an after-school musical theater program demonstrated improved confidence, creativity, resiliency, responsibility, collaboration, and a sense of community. Another study found that students who received drama-based instruction made better connections to the curricular content. 95% of school administrators believe that theater experiences improve students’ overall academic skills.

"EdTA's vision is that every student will have access to theater education taught by qualified educators as part of a well-rounded education," said Chief Content Officer Allison Dolan. "We’re proud to honor Gaston Christian School for helping to achieve that vision."

The Educational Theatre Association, home to the Educational Theatre Foundation and International Thespian Society, is an international nonprofit whose mission is shaping lives through theater education. The foundation provides essential financial support to enhance theater education, expand access, and foster racial equality. The International Thespian Society, an honor society active in nearly 5,000 schools, has inducted 2.4 million students since 1929.