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 Principal - Paul Pschirer
Principal Paul Pschirer has decades of combined experience in ministry, management, military specialties, and education. He brings a wealth of knowledge from work in higher education and k-12 private school leadership. He holds a Bachelors degree in Religion, Masters in Divinity, and a Masters degree with Leadership concentration in Teaching and Learning. Principal Paul's desire is to lead with humility, serve faithfully, and help Gardendale Christian Academy continue its mission of preparing students who love Christ, pursue excellence, and influence their generation for the glory of God.
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 - Jessica King
We are so excited to have Mrs. King starting with us in second grade, Mrs. King is a kind and dedicated individual who is excited for her first year at GCA! Jessica holds a Bachelors Degree, and has over 8 years of experience working with children and youth. She is creative and loves to find new ways to express ideas through art and storytelling. Mrs.
King brings an uplifting energy to the classroom to drive motivationand engagement.
3rd Grade - Holly Barksdale
4th and 5th - Jessica Bonner
We are happy to welcome Mrs. Bonner as our 4th & 5th grade teacher. Mrs. Bonner is skilled at facilitating a fun and engaging learning environment using discussion, collaborative and differentiated techniques, and encouraging critical thinking. She holds a Bachelors and Masters Degree, and has nearly a decade of experience.
Resource - 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. Mrs. Coffey has been at GCA for over a decade. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting and spending time with her family, especially her granddaughter.
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 obtained her bachelor's degree in English from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She teaches library, STEM, PE, Computer, and experiences in our learning lab. Mrs. Jerles enjoys spending time with her family and, of course, 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.