Our Teachers
Our teachers are professionally trained, state-certified educators who are passionate about teaching and are grounded in Christian values. Each teacher is dedicated to creating a positive, Christ-centered learning environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually, and socially. With a strong commitment to excellence, our staff uses proven teaching methods, integrates biblical truth into daily lessons, and provides individualized attention to help every child reach their God-given potential.
School Administrator - Emily Murphree
Mrs. Murphree has worked in Education for nearly 2 decades. She has experience as a classroom teacher, tutor, and school principal. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Education and two Master's degrees in Education and Educational Leadership. Mrs. Murphree enjoys spending time with her husband and teenage daughters, doing Zumba and trying new things!
Bookkeeper - Jenny Curtis
Mrs. Jenny Curtis is the school bookkeeper and has worked for GCA for many years. Any questions regarding payments, tuition, or fees can be directed to her by telephone or email.
Phone: (205) 631-9465
K4 - Debra McDaniel
Mrs. Debra has been with GCA for over 30 years. Her expertise and experience has spanned decades and we are fortunate to have her teach at GCA.
K4 - Pat Beck
Mrs. Pat has been with GCA for over 30 years. Her expertise and experience has spanned decades and we are fortunate to have her teach at GCA.
Kindergarten - Jennifer Ransom
Mrs. Jennifer has been at GCA for over 20 years and has been teaching kindergarten for over a decade. Mrs. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband, kids, and friends, watching movies, reading, and cooking.
1st Grade - Phyllis Hawkins
Ms. Hawkins has been teaching at GCA for 30 years. She attended Welch College and Trevecca Nazarene University. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education and Elementary Education. Ms. Hawkins enjoys music, singing, and being a part of her church's music ministry.
2nd Grade - Twylia Sands
Mrs. Sands has been teaching for over a decade, and has been teaching second grade for seven years. She graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor's in elementary education. Mrs. Sands enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, and spending her days outside.
3rd Grade - Courtney Hines
Mrs. Hines has been teaching 3rd grade at GCA for seven years. She graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood & elementary education. She obtained her teaching certificate in both early childhood and elementary education through the state of Alabama and the AACS. Mrs. Hines enjoys spending time with her husband and four daughters, reading, swimming, and going to the lake.
4th and 5th - Lisa Bohannon
Mrs. Bohannon has been teaching for over 20 years and has been teaching at GCA for six years. She graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education. She obtained her teaching certificate from the state of Alabama and the AACS. Mrs. Bohannon enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, as well as reading mystery novels.
Resource/PE - Kristie Coffey
Mrs. Coffey is our resource teacher, she provides dedicated individualized and group instruction for every student in kindergarten, and she provides extra support to help students in 1st-5th reach their full potential. She manages facilitation and assessment of our A to Z reading program.
Library/STEM/PE/Computer/Learning Lab - Julie Jerles
Mrs. Jerles has a decade of experience in the library field and a passion for education. She teaches library, STEM, PE, Computer, and experiences in our learning lab. Mrs. Jerles enjoys spending time with her family and reading.
Art and Music - Sharon Craiger
Mrs. Craiger has been with GCA for many years. Children enjoy exploring various art opportunities in her classroom. Mrs. Craiger enjoys spending time with her family and singing in her church's praise team.
Gardendale Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its education policies, admissions policies, or athletic or other school administered programs.
Gardendale Christian Academy is a ministry of Gardendale Church of the Nazarene. For more information on Gardendale Nazarene, visit our website at www.gdalenaz.org.