Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Gladeview Christian School: Excellence in Christian Education
Gladeview Christian School has been dedicated to providing exceptional Christian education since 1959. Founded under the direction of Pastor Marvin M. Gochenour, our institution combines rigorous academic standards with a commitment to Christian values, preparing students for college and beyond. Our faculty, fully accredited by the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, brings decades of experience and a passion for nurturing both intellectual and spiritual growth. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-25 and a 100% college acceptance rate, we offer personalized attention and a comprehensive curriculum, including 14 honors and 9 Advanced Placement courses.Our 40-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, athletic programs, and fine arts opportunities, fostering well-rounded development. Accredited by the Middle States Association and the National Council for Private School Accreditation, we uphold the highest standards of educational excellence while maintaining a steadfast commitment to faith-based learning.
Services
Preschool Program
Elementary Education
Middle School Curriculum
High School Diploma
Advanced Placement Courses
Dual Enrollment
Special Education Support
Athletic Programs
Fine Arts
College Counseling
Details
- Year established: 1959
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of experience in Christian education with a 100% college acceptance rate
- Our faculty holds 100% bachelor's degrees or higher with specialized Christian education training
- We provide 23+ AP and honors courses with dual enrollment partnerships at Florida universities
- Our STRIVE program offers research-based academic support for diverse learners
- We maintain a 16-25 student-to-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
Associations and certifications
- Middle States Association
- National Council for Private School Accreditation
- Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Florida Association of Academic and Nonpublic Schools
Services
Preschool Program
Our preschool program serves children aged 2 through Pre-K4, focusing on foundational academic skills and spiritual development. Using the ABeka curriculum, we emphasize Bible lessons, socialization, and basic academic concepts while maintaining a 16-25 student-to-teacher ratio. The program prepares children for kindergarten with structured learning environments that develop motor skills, character traits, and early literacy foundations.
Advanced Placement Courses
We offer 9 Advanced Placement courses preparing students for college-level academics. These rigorous programs include English Language, English Literature, Calculus, Biology, European History, United States Government, Microeconomics, Physics, and Music Theory. AP courses follow College Board guidelines and prepare students for national examinations while maintaining our Christian educational philosophy.
STRIVE Program
The STRIVE program provides individualized academic support for students with learning differences. This research-based program offers accommodations aligned with school curriculum, including specialized testing environments and weekly instructional support. Services are available from preschool through high school with documented psycho-educational evaluations determining appropriate support levels.
Athletic Programs
Our comprehensive athletic programs include 10+ sports at various competition levels. Students participate in baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, cross country, and flag football while learning teamwork and sportsmanship. The athletics department emphasizes character development and has achieved multiple state championships while maintaining a Christ-centered approach to competition.
Dual Enrollment
We partner with Florida International University and other institutions for dual enrollment opportunities. Qualified students earn college credits while completing high school requirements through articulated agreements. This program provides a seamless transition to higher education with courses meeting both high school graduation and college admission requirements.
People
Dr. Marc Mortensen
Senior Pastor
Dr. Mortensen has served at Gladeview Christian School since 1975, first as Youth Pastor and Bible teacher, then as administrator from 1976-1989, and currently as Senior Pastor since 2004. He brings over 45 years of experience in Christian education and leadership.
Mr. Bill Thomson
Head Administrator
Mr. Thomson oversees K2-12 operations with responsibilities including teacher supervision, curriculum implementation, and maintaining the school's Christian atmosphere. He has extensive experience in educational leadership and curriculum development within faith-based institutions.
Dr. Laurie Oksanen
Guidance Counselor
Dr. Oksanen serves as Academic Counselor and English Department Head with over 30 years in Christian education. She holds a Doctorate in Church Ministry and is a certified Florida teacher with expertise in college counseling and AP exam preparation.
Mrs. Christie Ross
Primary School Principal
Mrs. Ross leads preschool and elementary programs, focusing on curriculum development and teacher support. With extensive experience in early childhood education, she ensures implementation of developmentally appropriate practices while maintaining academic excellence.
Mr. Benjamin Powell
Secondary School Principal
Mr. Powell manages secondary administrative tasks, including teacher scheduling and academic integrity oversight. He coordinates summer programs and serves as liaison between staff and administration, bringing years of experience in secondary education leadership.
Questions
What grades does Westwood Christian School serve?
We serve students from preschool (ages 2) through 12th grade.
Is Westwood Christian School accredited?
Yes, we hold accreditation from multiple organizations including Middle States Association and Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.
What college preparatory programs are available?
We offer 9 AP courses, 14 honors classes, and dual enrollment partnerships with Florida universities.
Do you offer special education support?
Yes, our STRIVE program provides research-based academic support for students with learning differences.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer 10+ sports programs, band, choir, theater, and numerous academic clubs and competitions.
Are there international student programs?
Yes, we accept international students with proper documentation and SEVIS compliance.
