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

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

The G.A.L.E. coursework is designed to highlight and promote best instructional practices and provide in-depth training for educators who are part of the school district’s AIG (Academically or Intellectually Gifted) program. The teachers had to complete 12 modules on gifted topics and conduct a case study. 

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

     ▪ Andrea Bookout, Chavis Middle
     ▪ Kelly Carpenter, Mount Holly Middle
     ▪ Michelle Crowder, Grier Middle
     ▪ Faith Dibble, Chapel Grove Elementary and Sherwood Elementary
     ▪ Nicole Eskay, Holbrook Middle
     ▪ Laura McDowell, Holbrook Middle
     ▪ Jennifer Ray, Mount Holly Middle
     ▪ Stephanie Vogel, Stanley Middle
     ▪ Maria Xiong, Southwest Middle
     ▪ Jennifer Zigler, Mount Holly Middle

“We are very proud of the teachers’ efforts to obtain the G.A.L.E. endorsement,” said Superintendent of Schools W. Jeffrey Booker. “We recognize the hard work that the teachers have put forth toward supporting the needs of gifted students in Gaston County Schools.”   

Booker added, “We know that it took extra work and effort, and we congratulate the teachers on this achievement.  We are proud of what they do for our AIG program, and we know that their students will benefit from their completion of the G.A.L.E. coursework.”

The teachers who achieved the G.A.L.E. certification were recognized during the Board of Education meeting on October 17.