Greenbrier Christian Academy in Chesapeake

Posted: July 30, 2026

All of the reviews of 3 or under are spot on. Nepotism and narcissism run rampant in leadership and my child did not feel safe there. Not a school I would recommend to anyone.

Posted: February 24, 2026

My concerns with GCA include:

- My daughter has worn a particular pair of blue jeans MANY times but gets sent home one random day due to an emblem which signifies the brand. It is not inappropriate.
- The school emails about prom dresses and requiring over 10 specifics which may require alterations. I get modesty especially in a Christian school but it is behind overkill with their demands (I'm told generally from the female principal)
- My daughter once held hands with a boy at a football game and was told not to do so. Meanwhile, the principal and the security guard are married so PDA is allowed. Numerous reports of this including photos as evidence. This is not leading by example.
- I have been told the security guard (the one married to the principal) smokes cigars on his golf cart before school begins. Again, not leading by example with what is required of students.
- The teachers are gravely underpaid. Some of them also do not have degrees in what they teach (though maybe not required, just discomforting).
- The theatrical productions are low budget and very poorly done. Unfortunately, no help monetarily seems to go to this program. Rough sets, somewhat poor quality microphones & speakers, charges to audience but performance doesn't back up cost.
- None of the sports programs seem to prep a kid for the next level competitively with exception of baseball. This may be an opinion but this is observation.
- There are plenty of rumors, "clicks" and overdramatic responses from staff if things don't go a certain way. Students get the brunt of it.
- There are reports of many students transferring even for their Senior year.
- Low flexibility or exceptions for family travel if during a school year.
- Please don't dare allow your kid to publicly make mistakes outside the school. Even if there is a photo noticed of a parent or adult beverage near a kid at a private party in your home or event...be prepped that your kid may be called to the office over that.
- My kid and many of her friends complain about the school pretty consistently.

Posted: February 24, 2026

Posted: January 27, 2026

Lack of communication is a systemic issue that exists from the top down. When a student does not fit the definition of an ideal Christian student, there appears to be little to no effort made to understand the individual (what they may be experiencing in their life outside of school) or adapt teaching approaches to best support their learning style. Many teachers demonstrate inadequate communication with both students and parents, relying almost exclusively on vague messages through RenWeb or email. There is little effort to engage in direct, meaningful conversations outside of these platforms.

This lack of genuine communication with parents is coupled with an overemphasis on disciplining students who fall outside the model student profile, rather than prioritizing effective instruction, student growth, and support. In some instances, teachers act in an antagonistic manner, further eroding trust and undermining a positive and supportive learning environment.

The principal frequently responds to parent concerns in a condescending manner and deflects accountability by citing policy, rather than addressing the substance of the issue or engaging in collaborative problem-solving.

I have other children in Chesapeake Public Schools who are thriving. Save your money.

Posted: January 27, 2026

Posted: June 9, 2025

As a proud graduate of Greenbrier Christian Academy, from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade - I can wholeheartedly say this school shaped me into the person I am today. The Christ-centered learning approach didnt just strengthen my academic foundation, but also helped me grow spiritually and develop strong values that have stayed with me into adulthood.

The staff and teachers at GCA are truly exceptional. They pour their hearts into everything they do and genuinely care about each students success, both inside and outside the classroom. I always felt supported, known, and encouraged throughout my years there.

Now, as a parent, I have the joy of sending my two children to Greenbrier Christian Academy. It means so much to know they are being educated in a nurturing, faith-filled environment by people I trust completely. Its a blessing to watch them thrive just like I did. GCA is more than just a school, its a family and a foundation for life.

Posted: June 9, 2025

Posted: December 17, 2023

I went to this school for a year. I do NOT recommend it. The school cares more about money than their students. They have no care for your wellbeing. Their homework load is way too much, you can't retain all of the information they expect you to. My teacher was rude, mocked me, and when I came back from being sick she stated that she "didn't care and I had to do my work anyway" which I had every intention on doing. They judged you based off your wealth.

Posted: December 17, 2023

Posted: September 7, 2023

Greenbrier Christian Academy excels in providing a well-rounded education. Their commitment to academic excellence, character development, and small class sizes creates a nurturing environment for students. With a wide range of extracurricular activities and modern facilities, it's an exceptional choice for parents seeking a top-notch private school. Would highly recommend and feel very thankful to be a part of great community!

Posted: September 7, 2023

We have been over the moon about our GCA experience. From 3 pre-k through Step Center with an individualized learning plan to the Junior Collegiate. We have felt a partnership with everyone from administrators, teachers, coaches and staff. This school has been an experience like no other in my 25 years of parenting. It truly is a community working together for the success of your child.

Posted: September 7, 2023

Posted: March 29, 2023

The principal of the elementary school is rude and condescending to parents. She is dismissive of students needs for success unless they fit the model student mold. Her concern with esthetics far outpaces her commitment to a quality educational environment. Many of the teachers lack solid communication with the students or with parents. Text books and review materials are rarely ever sent home to facilitate the significant amount of learning that is expected to be facilitated outside the classroom.

The founder and headmaster is blinded by nepotism. Even when presented with concerns shared by multiple parents he sticks his head in the sand in hopes that it will simply go away with happy thought, a hope, and a prayer. While he seems to be a kind man, he has not demonstrated that he can manage the academic rigor of the school. He has routinely been dismissive and unwilling to hear perspective that he doesnt agree with.

This is a Christian school and we have been pleased with the faith based aspects of the curriculum. We have peace of mind knowing that our kids will not be exposed to things that dont align with our faith and values.

Posted: March 29, 2023

Posted: February 4, 2022

Greenbrier Christian academy is more like it. The elementary principal has no interest in helping parents when there is an issue in the classroom. While the academics are great there is a lot of expectation on the parents to continue teaching at home. Curriculum is rushed through to maintain the high standards and it is definitely not an inclusive school.

Posted: November 1, 2021

My 4th grade daughter struggled with effective communication with her teacher and with the assignments. We took her out of GCA, paid the hefty fees to do so, and switched her to a better school.

Posted: November 1, 2021

Posted: September 16, 2021

I have gone to this school for ten years, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. GCA is not focused on getting high enrollment numbers, but rather on the spiritual, social, and academic life of the students, and providing the best exerience possible for all of the families that wish to enroll. This school has strong Christian values and expresses these through their curriculum. They have a very secure and safe learning enviorment for children of all ages, from 2 years old to 12 grade. There are locked, bulletproof exterior doors, bulletproof exterior glass, a a full intruder safety protocol, which is often drilled, along with fire and tornado drills. The teachers actively pray for and support the students in their education, and are very much more dedicated to their jobs than many public school teachers. This is due to the selective hiring process, so only qualified and moral teachers can teach here. The facilities are very well maintained, including bathrooms, water fountains, and the playground equipment. The playground is safer than most public schools because of its use of pebbles. I have gotten into situations where I would have been otherwise injured in some way, but not, becuase of the attentive teachers and staff overlooking the children. There are specific Bible classes to teach the children about the Christian faith, and the courses advance with age, where the Bible classes go from Bible stories in kindergarten to how to defend your faith in the high school, or collegiate level. The administration rarely if ever makes mistakes due to the discipline and hard work of the staff. GCA has a stringent policy on bullying, and does not tolerate inappropriate behavior or language in any sense, towards students or otherwise. These policies also apply to staff and principals. There is a dress code, it is very modest but not unreasonable, and there are dress code commitees to work with the students to mantain an appropriate and effective learning enviornment. There is a theater and fine arts program, with sports from baseball and softball to golf, to track and cross-country. Advanced placement classes and college readiness classes are available with classes such as economy and leadership. I made many good friends which I had for my entire time going there, who would support and help me. During the recent pandemic, GCA ensured student safety by requiring masks to be worn when not playing sports or similar activities. This school is recommended.

Posted: September 16, 2021

Posted: November 16, 2018

My children have flourished at this school. They come home every day excited about learning, inspired, and have consistently scored high on standardized tests.

Posted: November 16, 2018

The Bible-based curriculum not only instills strong character traits in my two children, but gives them the reason behind those traits.

Posted: November 16, 2018

No matter what organization you are in, there will be policies to disagree with. In my experience, the administration have been open to hearing constructive criticism, and effective and consistently applying the policies that are in place.

Posted: November 16, 2018

We have loved our time at GCA, from the preschool, now up through the Elementary school. The teachers are caring, invested, and capable. The leadership has been responsive the few times we have raised concerns, and our children's social, academic, and spiritual development has been beyond that of their peers outside of GCA.

Posted: March 31, 2018

Its such a great school. My daughter has learned so much and every teacher is nothing less than amazing.

Posted: February 13, 2018

Since attending Greenbrier Christian Academy he has continued to develop an amazingly advanced academic skill set, a deep love for The Lord and ALL of His people, as well as life lessons that he will surely carry with him into adulthood. We STRONGLY recommend GCA to any Christian home looking for an excellent education, leadership, and proper college preparation.

Posted: February 6, 2018

This is our first year at G.C.A. and we are re-enrolling for 18-19. The teachers and staff have been just amazing to us as parents and our children.

Posted: May 30, 2017

My overall experience with this school was a disaster. The lack of diversity, the 9th grade English teacher was an overzealous nut with her extreme rules and behavior. enrolling our child in this school was a bad decision for our family

Posted: May 11, 2017

I have two children at GCA and absolutely love it. The teachers are amazing! I have felt the family atmosphere we heard about from other parents. We just went to the schools musical (Peter Pan) and hearing the director open in prayer was another example of how often I am re-affirmed in my decision to make a financial sacrifice so my children can be in this safe and nurturing environment. My children are both doing work in class that is ahead of their peers at church, but that is not what was most important to me. I was looking for a school where my children would hear truth every day and be surrounded by classmates and teachers who are not undermining what I am teaching at home. Having such rigorous academic classwork is a bonus for us. I love GCA and am so thankful my children are there.

Posted: May 11, 2017

Posted: June 16, 2016

Posted: October 2, 2015

This school was not good for my son we have moved him to public school this year. His teacher said that she did not have time to look at his planner, but she only had 16 students in the class. When we asked about testing for 504 or IEP the principal said that they did not do that.

Posted: October 2, 2015

My son is now having to catch up on things at public school. Because this school makes their own curriculum thy do not teach to any kind of standard.

Posted: October 2, 2015

This school will take care of it's athlete's and the people that donate the most. But as a divorced father the school only wanted to listen with the mother and said that she had final say on all matters pertaining to school.

Posted: May 6, 2015

This is our first year at GCA. We wanted a Christian school where our children would get a great education but also be in an environment where their emotional and spiritual growth were important as well. We are so glad we found GCA! Both higher school divisions are wonderful, with the Directors and teachers always going above and beyond. The kids also love the after school program and never want to be picked up early because they are having so much fun!

Posted: March 15, 2015

Our experience with GCA has been wonderful. We have seen a focus on academic excellence and preparing students in each phase of their development, on teaching students of God's love and truth, and on "partnering" with us as parents in raising a daughter well-prepared to folhigh whatever path God leads her to. In our experience attending and looking at different schools, GCA is different in that it seems like they are more concerned with staying true to their core values than in building a huge school, in terms of enrollment numbers. It feels like a family. My daughter loves it there and we have been very happy to see her academic and social growth! We highly recommend GCA!

Posted: March 1, 2015

Nepotism at its finest "My way or Leave" administration mentality "Daddy Ball" sports programs combined with a lack organization Severe Lack of communication between departments and with families/students Lack of interest by teachers regarding a student's academic success Lack of college preparedness The good: a FEW teachers actually care... and pray with and for your student.

Posted: January 17, 2014

the playground has safety hazard for the ground is covered with non rubber material. Also, the security level is low, teacher to student is ok, but just one teacher in one classroom, so no one oversees it. The best should be one teacher with one assistant.

Posted: January 12, 2014

After having been associated with GCA for many years, I am so disappointed with the Administration. They definately have the my way or the highway mentality. How sad and just like the pharisees profess one thing but don't live it...forgiveness is not on their agenda. How sad that they would rather nit pick at issues than show the Christ-like spirit. Read their principles...Matthew 18 principle is far from the basis of how to handle problems. There are a handful of dedicated, loving, concerned teachers and administdative staff, but if you have a problem with a teacher, GCA will always side with them. Their board and most office staff are all related or inter-married...nepotism at its finest. How very sad to see all this done under the umbrella of "christianity".

Posted: September 9, 2013

GCA is spiritually and academically minded. They encourage the families to partner with the teachers/staff in the training of the students to be godly role models while developing their talents to honor God with their lives.

Posted: May 22, 2013

GCA provides a great balance among academics, sports, and extra-curricular activities. We have three children attending and are very pleased with their growth. The facilities are top rate - better in many ways than the nearby public schools and certainly in comparison to most private schools. I especially appreciate the fact that they provide a conservative Bible-Based world view along with strong academics, but are independent from any particular church.

Posted: May 1, 2013

I have shadowed here and have friends at GCA. With my one day there I noticed several things I did not agree with, but it is waaaaay better than my current school. I heard one kid say one cuss word and one child throw quite a tantrum. Teachers handled both well though and there are several great kids there though.

Posted: January 25, 2013

Our daughter has attended GCA for seven years. She loves the school and we have had positive experiences with all the teachers.Our daughter grows in her Christian faith every year. It's been a blessing to us. I've read the other reviews and they puzzle me: We are not hit up for money every month. There are scheduled fund raisers throughout the year. Compared to other private schools, GCA costs less. We love it here.

Posted: March 21, 2012

This is truly a shame because the time my child spent in this school's ECC was quite good. In my child's entrance into their Lower School however there has been a drastic change in teacher kindness and understanding. It's so sad to see what should be a compassionate Christian School and example to unbelievers turn wrong. I have found over the past year 2 of the 3 teacher's in my child's current grade to be haughty, cold, and just plain overly stern. Those are not good odds to get the one teacher per grade that will be a nurturer! Though I still love many of the events at GCA it is not worth my child's peace of mind when he/she is strung out due to the pressure of a high workload, an agressive curriculum per grade where just plain inappropriate materials are pushed on children who are a good grade and 1/2 advanced compounded by unrealistic work standards not to mention limited breaks in 3 hours of aggressive teaching thrust on the children! Forget bringing your concerns to the administration for they will only aid and abet their teacher's nitpicking and bad behavior!The lack of compassion here is abhorent one leader audaciously said If people leave this school I am doing my job!"

Posted: February 22, 2012

Without question, one of the finest private schools in Hampton Roads. Among its best qualities are a compassionate, engaged faculty who expect exemplary work from their students, a responsive and thoughtful administration that views parents as equal partners when comes to the education of the student, and a student body that admrably reflects the qualities and morals instilled, cultivated and nutured at a Christian school.

Posted: July 31, 2011

We were very disappointed in the administration and academic quality of the school. Teachers were frequently absent in the middle school, did not possess qualifications for the classes they taught, and proritized their personal lives over teaching. Sometimes I wonder how Jesus himself might have fared at this 'christian' school. Would he have been accepted -- or picked on for wearing the wrong brand of polo shirt or not being good at sports?

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Clearfield	Area of Town	Chesapeake	VA	1.1 mi
2	Warrington Hall	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	1.4 mi
3	Albemarle River Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	1.7 mi
4	Arlington Meadows	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	1.8 mi
5	Wilson Heights	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	1.9 mi
6	Riverwalk	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	1.9 mi
7	Plantation Woods	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	2.5 mi
8	Foxgate Quarter	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	2.6 mi
9	Dominion Lakes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	2.8 mi
10	Cedar Wood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	2.8 mi
11	Chesire Forest	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	2.9 mi
12	Tarleton Oaks	Condominium/Townhouse	Virginia Beach	VA	3 mi
13	Island Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	3.2 mi
14	Cheshire Forest	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	3.4 mi
15	Etheridge Pines/Lakes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	3.5 mi
16	Las Gaviotas	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	3.6 mi
17	Stratford Terrace	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	3.9 mi
18	Brigadoon	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Virginia Beach	VA	4.8 mi
19	Lake James	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Virginia Beach	VA	4.8 mi
20	Kempsville	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Virginia Beach	VA	4.9 mi
21	Lake Christopher	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Virginia Beach	VA	4.9 mi
22	Georgetown Estate	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chesapeake	VA	4.9 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Greenbrier	Chesapeake	VA	1.7 mi
2	Country Club Meadows	Chesapeake	VA	3.1 mi
3	Kempsville	Virginia Beach	VA	5.7 mi

Base	Distance
Norfolk Naval Shipyard	6.5 mi.
Portsmouth Naval Medical Center	8.6 mi.
Oceana NAS	12.2 mi.
Coast Guard Portsmouth VA	12.2 mi.
NSA Northwest Annex	12.4 mi.
Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base	13 mi.
Norfolk Naval Base	13.7 mi.
Joint Staff J7 Suffolk	14.6 mi.
Dam Neck Naval Station	15.4 mi.
Fort Story	18 mi.
Fort Monroe	18.9 mi.
Langley AFB	24.6 mi.
Coast Guard Elizabeth City	32.9 mi.
Fort Eustis	34.7 mi.
Coast Guard Yorktown	36 mi.
Yorktown Naval Weapons Station	40.2 mi.

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Greenbrier Christian Academy

Chesapeake, VA 23320

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