Where Every Middle Schooler is Known by Name
Small classes. Big hearts. Your child won't be just another face in the crowd at GSES.
Why Pinellas Families Choose GSES
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Every Child Seen – 6-8 students per grade means zero anonymity
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Conflict Resolution – Clear rules, fair enforcement, safe always
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5-Acre Campus – Twice-daily outdoor recess in Florida sunshine
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Christian Values – All families welcome, regardless of denomination
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Step Up Eligible – Most families pay $0-$250/month
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Mixed-Grade Learning – Grades 6-8 learn together, fostering peer mentorship and accelerated growth
Every Child is Seen, Known & Protected
At public middle school, your child is one face among 900. At GSES, they're one of only 6-8 in their grade.
What this means for your family:
- Principal Peoples knows your child's name, story, and favorite snack
- Teachers communicate with YOU directly about progress (4.89 communication score)
- Conflict Resolution is a Taught Skill – Rules and expectations enforced fairly and compassionately
- Clear expectations posted, taught, and lived out daily
- Your kids will feel at home
Your child will never feel invisible again.
Twice-Daily Outdoor Time = Healthier, Happier Kids
Sitting in fluorescent classrooms all day? Not here. GSES students get outdoor PE and recess twice daily on our 5-acre St. Petersburg campus.
Why this matters:
- Reduces stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues
- Boosts focus, energy, and academic performance
- Builds real friendships through play (not screens)
- Sunshine, fresh air, Florida nature daily
- Plus: Annual Camp Kulaqua adventure week!
"Recess every day! And friends who are nice." – Sofia, 6th grader
Small Classes = Academic Results
You're not sacrificing academics for safety. GSES is fully accredited with differentiated instruction that meets each child where they are.
Academic advantages:
- One-to-one technology (every student, personalized learning)
- Teachers adjust lessons to YOUR child's pace
- No falling through cracks – we catch struggles immediately
- Advanced students get enrichment, not busy work
- Adventist Robotics team for hands-on STEM
"Since coming here, I feel more confident in my math and reading." – Saniyah, 6th grader
Hear From Pinellas County Families Just Like Yours
Real students from Largo, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg
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I transferred to Gulf Coast SDA school about a year and a half ago because I wanted a place that was safe. I know my mom is really glad that I'm in a Christian school, but more than that I have met some of my best friends here. I like that the classroom is filled with people I can call my friends.
8th Grade Student
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I've been at the school for nine years, since kindergarten. So I noticed how students change for the better when they transfer in. Especially in middle school I've seen more than one student come in with a rebellious attitude, and they start changing into someone people enjoy being around and I see how they just become more comfortable and relaxed in this environment.
8th Grade Student
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I've been here since my first grade year, and my parents give me the choice to transfer out if I want. I choose to stay here because of how well the teachers know us, and they know how to work with us in our different personalities in different ways of learning things. The teachers really know me well here.
8th Grade Student
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There was an instant change in the way I learned when I came to the school. We were able to explain things to me in a way that I got it and I was never afraid to ask questions when I didn't understand something. I'm just now starting middle school and it has only gotten better for me.
6th Grade Student
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Even though my brothers came here even in elementary school, I didn't join until middle school. They said that they really liked it so I thought I would give it a chance, and also I know this is a place where I can figure out who I want to be without worrying about what other people will say to me or do to me.
6th Grade Student
"But Can We Afford It?"
Most GSES middle school families pay $0 to $250 per month thanks to Florida's Step Up For Students scholarship program.
Real Cost Breakdown (Grades 6-7):
That's less than soccer + tutoring combined. And your child gets safety, community, personalized learning, and spiritual growth.
Quick Questions Before You Reach Out?
We're here to help. Contact us the way that works best for you.
General Inquiries
Questions about programs, curriculum, or school culture?
Contact us by email CLICK HEREYour Questions, Answered
How far do families typically drive?
Most GSES families drive 20-45 minutes from across Pinellas County (Largo, Clearwater, St. Petersburg). Many carpool with families from their church or neighborhood—kids love the ride together.
Do we have to be Seventh-day Adventist?
No! Only 6-8 of our 23 students are SDA. Most families choose GSES for small classes, safety, outdoor time, and Christian values—not doctrine. We welcome all Christian families.
What happens after 8th grade?
Currently, GSES serves K-8. Many families are advocating for high school expansion. For now, middle school gives your child a foundation of confidence, faith, and academics that prepares them for ANY high school.
Can I tour before enrolling?
Absolutely! Tours available Monday-Thursday by appointment. Call 727-345-2141 or contact us by email CLICK HERE. You CAN also apply before touring—there's an application process either way, and spots fill fast!
Your Child's Best Middle School Years Start Here
Only 6 spots per grade. First-come, first-served. Don't let your child spend another year feeling invisible, unsafe, or stressed.
Contact Principal Angela Peoples
📞 Phone: 727-345-2141
✉️ Email: Contact us by email CLICK HERE
📍 Tours: Monday-Thursday by appointment
🌐 Website: gulfcoastsda.org
Non-Discrimination Policy
Florida Conference Seventh-day Adventist schools admit students of any race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, and sexual orientation. Our schools do not discriminate on the basis of any of the aforementioned categories in decisions for admission, discipline, or application of education policies. We promote a sharp focus on learning and caring while requiring all students to adhere to behavioral expectations set out in a strict code of conduct supported by the Biblical beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.