Gilbert Classical Academy

The Gilbert Classical Academy (GCA) is the 7th-12th Junior High and High School of the District of Gilbert Public Schools. It opened in 2007, replacing the former Tech and Leadership Academy in the 10th–12th grade district.

Students are following a strict dress code. Uniform bottom options include khaki shorts, pants and skirts and purple and yellow purple skirts and skirts. Polos may be white, purple, or yellow. Seniors are permitted to wear black polo shirts or dress shirts. On Fridays, seniors and teachers are encouraged to wear high school shirts.

Students in grades 9 through 12 are eligible to participate in some of the Arizona Interscholastic Association-sanctioned sports. The Gilbert Classical Academy had its first graduation class in 2011. In 2017, the school set up a program for special ed students. In 2017, the school took over the Gilbert Jr High School campus. This school was ranked third in the state and tenth in the nation. The school was honored to be a Blue Ribbon School in 2018.

Classes at the Gilbert Classical Academy use the Socratic method of instruction, and all courses are entirely honors or advanced courses. All junior high school students are required to learn Latin.

Each student has the option of receiving a district-issued Chromebook or laptop computer that facilitates the integration of technology into the curriculum. District-issued computers are monitored and used for standardized testing.

Students are required to perform 80 hours of community service and to write and defend the 4,000 word Senior Thesis Project as a graduation requirement. GCA has some 30 faculty members (including 23 teachers). The school was founded by its founding director, Mr. Brian Rosta.

GCA Mission: Gilbert Classical Academy is committed to developing students of impeccable character who embrace a passion for learning by gaining a solid foundation of knowledge through a rigorous, classical curriculum. Utilizing the Socratic method of instruction, students are empowered to think critically, work collaboratively, and prepare for lifelong learning.

GCA Vision: The vision of Gilbert Classical Academy is to prepare students for success at a college or university by fostering the development of each student’s academic and social potential.