Celebrating 25 Years of God’s Faithfulness

This coming school year marks a special milestone in the life of Brookstone Schools — 25 years of equipping students spiritually, socially, and academically for lives of leadership and service.

Since opening our doors in 2001, we’ve seen God move powerfully in the lives of students, families, staff, and supporters. From humble beginnings to the thriving Christ-centered community we are today, each year has been a testimony to His power, faithfulness, and your partnership.

Throughout the 25-26 school year, we want to give thanks to God for what has been accomplished and all that’s to come. We invite you to join us in a year-long celebration of stories, events, and special moments that honor the past and look forward to the future.

Join us in celebrating.

Let’s praise God for 25 years — and keep building for the next generation.

25 Years of Brookstone Schools

•     2014 – CMS terminates Brookstone’s lease at Amay James due to the need for classroom space for CMS students. Brookstone Schools finds a new home at First Baptist Church in uptown Charlotte.

•     2015 – Brookstone hosts its first eighth grade graduation with eight students. In its new uptown location, Brookstone expands the volunteer program to include more Lunch Buddies, classroom assistants, and tutors.

•     2016 – Brookstone launches the first phase of its ‘Growth with Excellence’ campaign and increases enrollment with the addition of a second section of kindergarten and first grade. The school also extends its day to offer after school enrichment and tutoring. For the first time, two Brookstone graduates qualify for scholarships to independent high schools.

•     2019 – By now, the school has two sections of all classes in kindergarten through sixth grade. Reading proficiency scores are regularly in the 91st percentile and since 2017, Brookstone graduates have been welcomed as summer camp staff. In March of this year, Brookstone will adjust to full remote learning due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

•     2020 – Brookstone navigates the challenges of education during a global pandemic. The school will receive appropriate accommodations for students to return in-person programming during this time. The school introduces the ERB end-of-year test to better prepare students for private school admissions. Several programs are introduced to support students including a full-time P.E. Teacher, a part-time School Nurse and an on-campus School Counselor.  The school chooses the first-ever school mascot--the Bulldogs!--named by the student body.

•     2021 - Brookstone launches a new program to support students with diagnosed learning disabilities--The Learning Center (TLC). The school also introduces the Upper School sports program for grades 5th-8th, which includes boys' and girls soccer, boys' and girls' basketball, and girls' volleyball.

•     2023 -  Brookstone grows seventh and eighth grade to two sections, giving the school the ability to grow to full capacity. The school also adds the Dean system to better serve students in K-2nd, 3rd-5th, and 6th-8th grades. The sports program adds co-ed flag football.

•     2024 – Through new generous partnerships, Brookstone adds a Junior Kindergarten program--giving 4-year-olds an opportunity to prepare for kindergarten academically. A meals program and bus transportation are introduced to remove barriers for families needing these supportive services. Based on a tested model, Brookstone pilots an academic support program for students testing 1-3 years behind in reading or math. Known as The Bridge Program, the school serves 8 students in the pilot year and 5 students are able to reach grade level and stay on target within the academic year. To support all the growth, Brookstone adds an Assistant Head of School position, and revises the Dean structure to serve JK-1st, 2nd-4th, and 5th-8th. Lastly, the sports program adds co-ed track and field.

Events

25th Anniversary Ice Cream Social, September 9th

Our 25th Anniversary Ice Cream Social was a joyful celebration of community! Partners and donors joined students for delicious ice cream treats and plenty of laughter. The highlight of the afternoon was an exciting team challenge—building the tallest tower from marshmallows and spaghetti—where students and guests worked side by side, making sweet memories together.

25th Anniversary Chapel, October 10

Our Brookstone family gathered for a special 25th Anniversary Chapel to worship and give thanks for God’s faithfulness. Ms. Cledo shared beautiful violin music, and Ms. Archer led our 5th and 7th graders in joyful song. Chaplain Colin Pinkney reflected on his journey with Brookstone and reminded us that true impact comes from what is built by God. Founding member Suzanne Wilson also shared how the Lord has guided Brookstone’s mission over the past 25 years. It was a heartfelt celebration of gratitude, faith, and community.

Friend and Fundraiser, February 26th

This year our annual gala invites donors and friends to gather in celebration of Brookstone’s 25-year legacy. Guests will enjoy an evening of fellowship as we look ahead to continued growth and impact.

Share Your Brookstone Story

As we celebrate 25 years of God’s faithfulness, we’re inviting you—our beloved community of students, alumni, parents, staff, volunteers, and supporters—to be part of this special season.

We would love to share your testimony! If Brookstone has touched your life in a meaningful way, please take a moment to share your story. Whether it’s a memory, a lesson learned, a relationship formed, or simply the way Brookstone has impacted your faith journey—we want to hear it.

Please submit:

• A short written testimony (about 2–4 sentences)
• A photo of yourself (optional but encouraged!)

Your story is a part of the larger Brookstone story, and we’d be honored to share it.

Send your testimony and photo to:

Brookstone Stories

Experience the story!

Click through to read historic Brookstone Newsletters and personal testimonials.