Students encouraged to apply for Commissioners’ School summer program

It’s time to start thinking about the Commissioners’ School of Excellence.

Commissioners’ School is a summer enrichment program open to current ninth grade students (rising tenth graders) in Gaston County.  Now in its 38th year, the leadership development program offers students an opportunity to learn more about the Gaston community. 

Students interested in applying should contact their high school guidance counselor for an application. (Homeschool students can pick up an application at the Gaston County Schools Teacher Resource Center, 366 West Garrison Boulevard, Gastonia, beginning January 13.) The deadline to submit an application is January 24.

Each year, approximately 60 students are chosen for the program based on academic performance, extracurricular activities (school and community), leadership potential, self-motivation, and written expression. There is no cost to the students who are selected to attend.

Commissioners’ School challenges students to better understand themselves, life in Gaston County, and their roles as future leaders.  They participate in seminars, problem-solving activities, special events, and hands-on experiences as well as enjoy time with community leaders and guest speakers.  Lessons and activities concentrate on teamwork, communication skills, and community service.

Commissioners’ School is named in memory of James S. Forrester, a former state senator and Gaston County commissioner, funded by the county commission, and coordinated by Gaston County Schools. 

Hear from last year’s Commissioners School of Excellence students about their experiences by visiting https://www.gaston.k12.nc.us/cse2024.

For more information about the program, contact Lori Collins, lwcollins@gaston.k12.nc.us, or Bridget Matzke, bsmatzke@gaston.k12.nc.us.

Click here for the Commissioners’ School Fact Sheet.