Teachers recognized for completing G.A.L.E. program

Teachers recognized for completing G.A.L.E. program coursework 

Twenty teachers in Gaston County Schools have completed a year-long coursework titled “Gaston County Schools AIG Local Endorsement” or “G.A.L.E.” to work with our academically and intellectually gifted (AIG) students.

The G.A.L.E. coursework focuses on best instructional practices and provides in-depth training for educators involved in the AIG program. The program helps ensure AIG teachers are prepared to meet the unique needs of academically and intellectually gifted students. 

In addition to the coursework, teachers completed 12 modules on gifted education topics and conducted a case study. Together, these requirements reflect the teachers’ commitment to providing quality education for gifted students.

Below is a list of the teachers who completed the program for 2026:

• Kennedy Ballard, Stanley Middle School
• Karen Phang, Stanley Middle School
• Hannah Allen, Ida Rankin Elementary
• Allison Alexander, New Hope Elementary
• Rebecca Backus, New Hope Elementary
• Alexis Bolin, New Hope Elementary
• Megan Christenbury, New Hope Elementary
• Cindy Griffin, New Hope Elementary
• Sangeeta Gupta, New Hope Elementary
• Chelsea Harley, New Hope Elementary
• Katherine Julen, New Hope Elementary
• Brooke Martin, New Hope Elementary
• Abigale McKinney, New Hope Elementary
• Erica Powell, New Hope Elementary
• Tanya Price, New Hope Elementary
• Amanda Scoggins, New Hope Elementary
• Quintarro Smith, New Hope Elementary
• Melanie Smith, New Hope Elementary
• Katherine Surface, New Hope Elementary
• Julia Timmons, New Hope Elementary

The teachers who achieved the G.A.L.E. certification were recognized during the Board of Education meeting on September 21.

The Gaston County Schools AIG program recognizes students with exceptional academic and/or intellectual potential and provides high-level instruction, opportunities, and activities that recognize, challenge, and nurture the students’ abilities. More than 3,100 students in Gaston County Schools are involved in the AIG program.  

The overarching goal for AIG teachers is to prepare AIG students for a productive future and empower them to become successful, lifelong learners.