The Leadership Academy at North Gaston High School helps students discover their independence, ambitions, and leadership potential through academic and extracurricular opportunities. Guided by the motto "Every child can be a leader," the program focuses on empowerment, responsibility, integrity, vision, and teamwork.

Aligned with the "Leader in Me" model, students develop essential leadership skills, navigate teenage challenges, and find purpose, belonging, and direction. Students also have the option to choose focused pathways within the Leadership Academy, tailoring their leadership journey to their interests and goals:

Leadership in Academics
This pathway helps students develop leadership skills while excelling in Advanced Placement (AP), Leader in Me, and College and Career courses. Students can specialize in areas such as AP Sciences, AP Social Studies, or other College and Career options, preparing them for higher education and future success.

Leadership in Athletics
Students build leadership skills through athletics while completing Leader in Me courses tailored for athletes. This pathway emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and leadership growth, equipping students with tools for success both on the field and in their future careers.

Leadership in Arts
Students engage in leadership development through music, theater, art, and band. Leader in Me courses are designed for aspiring artists and performers, focusing on creativity, collaboration, and personal growth to prepare for success in the arts and future career opportunities.

Leadership in Career and Technical Education (CTE)
This pathway provides hands-on experience in diverse fields, helping students gain technical skills and earn industry-recognized certifications in high-demand areas. Certifications include Automotive (ASE Entry-Level), Business (Adobe), Carpentry, Food and Nutrition (ServSafe), Healthcare (CNA, First Aid/CPR/AED), and Early Childhood Education (NC Early Childhood Credential). Students graduate with practical skills, confidence, and career readiness.

Leadership in ROTC
Through military-style training, students progress from ROTC I to ROTC IV, developing responsibility, teamwork, and leadership. This pathway prepares students to excel in and out of uniform, equipping them to tackle future challenges with confidence.

Rising ninth graders from outside the North Gaston attendance area can apply for the 2025-2026 school year, with placement determined by lottery.

Learn more by visiting our webpage or emailing schoolchoice@gaston.k12.nc.us.