Attending graduation for D2 at George School solidified my admiration and love for this school. I figured I’d communicate my impressions so that people looking for a BS understand what GS has to offer.
The George School experience is strongly influenced by the school’s Quaker roots and philosophy (although the majority of students are not Quaker, including D2). What this leads to is a student body that is oriented towards wanting to make the world a better place. The culture of kindness and respect is strong–everyone up to the head of the school is called by first name. Although there are around 540 students, it feels like a small school. The IB and AP programs give plenty of academic challenge, but the challenge is for each student to be the best s/he can be, not to compete with others. And there is a spectrum of academic ability. 25% of students are international, 25% students of color. Just over half board while the rest are day students, with no perceptible social gap between the 2. The campus is beautiful, including a brand new gym facility. The arts are strong and all students must participate in athletics.
On the day before graduation there was a Quaker meeting, where students, parents and faculty spoke from the heart about everything from how much the school had become a home, to what they had learned from their failures, how it felt to graduate after a parent has passed away, dealing with anxiety or homesickness.
Graduation was wonderful and clearly showed the GS philosophy. The outdoor setting was lovely. There are no class ranks, no valedictorian. The head of school spoke about the distinct achievements of the students in the class without mentioning anyone by name. She spoke of what made this particular class special–their emphasis on activism concerning race, the environment and gender, and their ability to open their hearts and hear differing opinions. Students contributed music and thoughtful remarks.
GS is not for everyone–and certainly is not as well known as the acronym schools that get most of the airtime on CC. For the right student, it’s an incredible place! I am grateful for the 2 years D2 has spent at GS…
I’m happy to answer any questions from prospective parents or students…