Gateway Christian High School
9th–12th grades
Gateway’s high school curriculum equips students for both college and calling.
- Science emphasizes inquiry, discovery, and the Creator’s design.
- Math trains students in mastery, logical reasoning, and the orderliness of God’s world.
- English fosters clear communication, critical reading, and a love of literature.
- History develops discernment by connecting past events with Biblical principles and today’s cultural issues.
- Bible courses anchor all learning, providing a strong theological foundation and practical application for daily living.
By graduation, students leave Gateway prepared to excel academically, defend their faith, and lead as Christ-centered men and women in their homes, churches, and communities.
High School Core Curriculum
ENGLISH
Literature Analysis
Students explore classic and modern works of literature, sharpening their ability to interpret themes, evaluate characters, and understand cultural and historical contexts. By analyzing literature, students learn not just to read stories, but to uncover deeper truths about humanity and God’s design.
Essay Writing
Our students gain mastery in structuring persuasive, narrative, and analytical essays. They learn how to build strong thesis statements, support ideas with evidence, and communicate with confidence in both academic and personal contexts.
College English Writing
Preparation for higher education is a cornerstone of our curriculum. Students practice the skills required for college-level writing, from research-based essays to argumentation, ensuring they enter university ready to excel in composition courses and beyond.
Academic Style Writing
Whether crafting research papers, formal analyses, or reports, students are trained in academic style writing. Emphasis is placed on clarity, organization, proper citation, and professionalism—equipping them with tools they will use in college classrooms, careers, and ministry.
By the time they graduate, our students are not only proficient in reading and writing but also equipped to articulate their faith, defend their ideas, and contribute to the world as thoughtful Christian leaders.
HISTORY
Exploring Primary Sources and Trusted Texts
Students use a balance of approved textbooks and primary source documents to gain a well-rounded view of history. By interacting directly with original writings, maps, and speeches, they develop research and interpretation skills that go far beyond memorization.
United States & American Government
From the founding of our nation to modern-day events, students study the ideas and struggles that have shaped American identity. Courses in U.S. History and American Government prepare students to understand their civic responsibilities and engage thoughtfully in today’s society.
World History & World Governments
Students broaden their perspective by examining global civilizations, governments, and cultures. From ancient Babylonia and the Venetians to modern political systems, they gain insight into how nations rise, thrive, and interact on the world stage.
Geography and Cultural Context
Understanding history also means understanding place. Through geography, students connect physical locations with cultural, economic, and political movements across time, deepening their global awareness.
Standards with a Higher Purpose
While state standards serve as the starting point for instruction, Gateway’s curriculum goes further—training students to evaluate historical events through a Biblical worldview. This approach prepares them to see God’s providence in history and equips them to make wise, faith-driven decisions for the future.
MATH
Students establish and expand their understanding of algebraic concepts, including equations, inequalities, functions, polynomials, and rational expressions. These courses provide the groundwork for higher-level math and critical thinking across disciplines.
Through the study of shapes, theorems, proofs, and spatial reasoning, students gain an appreciation for the beauty and structure of mathematics. Geometry helps sharpen problem-solving and logic skills while demonstrating how order is woven into God’s world.
Students ready for advanced mathematics build on algebra and geometry foundations by exploring trigonometry, advanced functions, and analytic geometry in Pre-Calculus. From there, Calculus challenges students to apply concepts of limits, derivatives, and integrals, preparing them for college-level math and STEM-related fields. Together, these courses develop higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills essential for academic and career success.
To meet state requirements—and more importantly, to prepare students for real life—Gateway incorporates Dave Ramsey’s Foundations in Personal Finance, the high school version of Financial Peace University, into the curriculum. Students learn to manage money wisely, avoid debt, budget effectively, and make sound financial decisions from a Biblical perspective, ensuring graduates leave Gateway with both academic knowledge and practical life skills.
SCIENCE
Physical Science
This introductory course builds a foundation in matter, energy, motion, and scientific reasoning. Students gain essential skills that prepare them for advanced sciences while discovering the order and precision in God’s world.
Biology
Students study the structure and function of living things, from cells and genetics to ecosystems and human anatomy. Biology emphasizes both scientific inquiry and Biblical truths about life and creation.
Chemistry
Through the study of elements, reactions, and the periodic table, students learn how the smallest building blocks of matter impact the world around us. Emphasis is placed on both problem-solving and preparation for college-level science.
Physics
Students apply mathematics to the study of motion, energy, and force, engaging in experiments and problem-solving activities that demonstrate the laws of creation in action.
Laboratory Experience
Each science course is enhanced through hands-on labs, giving students the opportunity to investigate, test, and apply what they learn in the classroom. These experiments not only deepen understanding but also build confidence in scientific reasoning, collaboration, and safe lab practices.
BIBLE
Doctrines of the Faith
Students explore the core doctrines of Christianity—such as the nature of God, salvation, the authority of Scripture, and the work of the Holy Spirit. This deeper theological study strengthens their spiritual foundation and equips them to defend their beliefs with clarity and conviction.
Principles for Christian Living
Through a Biblical lens, students examine how timeless truths apply to modern life. From ethical decision-making to relationships and leadership, they learn how to walk faithfully in a world that often challenges their values.
Biblical Worldview Development
Courses emphasize comparing cultural perspectives with God’s truth, helping students sharpen discernment and strengthen their commitment to Christ. Students learn to see every subject and every decision in light of God’s Word.
Practical Application
High school Bible classes are not only academic—they are transformational. Students engage in discussions, projects, and ministry opportunities that help them put their faith into action in their homes, churches, and communities.
Supplemental Learning Opportunities
Electives
We are proud to offer dual enrollment opportunities that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, preparing them for a seamless transition to higher education. Our students have the option to take courses at esteemed institutions such as Liberty University, Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, Tidewater Community College, and Virginia Wesleyan University, providing them with access to a diverse range of classes that align with their academic and career aspirations.
Dual Enrollment
We are excited to offer dual enrollment opportunities that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, preparing them for a seamless transition to higher education. Our students have the option to take courses at esteemed institutions such as Liberty University, Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, Tidewater Community College, and Virginia Wesleyan University, providing them with access to a diverse range of classes that align with their academic and career aspirations.
Mentorship Program
The Academic Mentorship Program (AMP) promotes collaboration by allowing students to mentor and support their peers academically. This initiative helps build character, foster strong relationships, and create a culture of service and learning within the school community.
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