Germantown Academy Admission Viewbook

GERMANTOWN ACADEMY

WELCOMETO GERMANTOWN ACADEMY

Flag Raising—the first day of school. As the bell in our historic Belfry sounds, our students gather on the Quad, eager to begin an exciting new

year of discovering their passions, gaining new knowledge, and making great friends. All of our students share the experience together—as

they so often do at Germantown Academy. Our campus design, as well as our educational philosophy, promotes interaction, and there are

countless opportunities for learning, leadership, and fun for the entire school community. The Flag Raising ceremony, one of GA’s most

beloved traditions, is a metaphor for the Germantown Academy approach to education. It is a symbol of our cohesive community and

our Patriot pride.

Welcome to Germantown Academy, a non-sectarian, coeducational, college-preparatory independent school for students in Pre-

Kindergarten through 12th Grade. Our mission, forged from an over 250-year legacy of academic excellence, is to provide an experience

that helps students become...

Visit GA, where the energy is palpable, the learning is deep and broad, and students flourish because of powerful relationships with talented

teachers who guide them on their journey to becoming their best self.

Independent in Thought. Confident in Expression. Compassionate in Spirit. Collaborative in Action. Honorable in Deed.

GERMANTOWN ACADEMY/1

A LOVE OF LEARNINGCRITICAL THINKERS. CREATIVE INNOVATORS. ASTUTE PROBLEM-SOLVERS. EFFECTIVE TIME-MANAGERS.

CONFIDENT COMMUNICATORS. MOTIVATED COLLABORATORS. COMPASSIONATE CITIZENS.

At Germantown Academy, we are committed to instilling in each student a

love of learning that manifests itself in these powerful outcomes. We believe

there is an excellence within every student—one that will be coaxed to the

surface by caring faculty who provide a balance of experiences in the class-

rooms and the labs, on The Preserve, on the stages and the playing fields, in

the studios and out in society.

Our teachers facilitate curiosity as they help students discover and enhance

their talents—whether they lie in scholarly exploration, the arts, athletics, or a

combination of them all. Their bodies move. Their imaginations soar. And their

intellects are amplified while, simultaneously, their hearts are imbued with the

qualities that ultimately make them ethical, ambitious, and productive young

people. People who are technologically savvy yet care about the environ-

ment. People with a broad and unbiased view of the world and a respect

for their fellow human beings. People with a strong work ethic who will be

leaders one day—at their universities, in their communities, and in our global

society.

2/GERMANTOWN ACADEMY

When our children begin their Germantown Academy journey in Lower School, they are introduced to the most important concept of all: a love of

learning. During this wide-eyed time in children’s development—spanning from age four in Pre-Kindergarten to approximately 11 years old in 5th Grade—

our teachers focus on making learning fun. Through small class experiences and joy-filled lessons that actively engage students, we help children discover

their strengths and weaknesses, interests and passions.

Reading, writing, and mathematics are the foundational subjects all Lower School students experience; these become the building blocks for a level of

learning that gathers substance and sophistication from year to year. Our comprehensive Lower School curriculum also includes public speaking, modern

language (Chinese and Spanish), art, music, science, social studies, and physical education.

“Children learn by playing, and the skills they learn through play prepare them for success as they grow and mature. Pre-K isall about tapping into children’s sense of wonder and creating a safe, loving environment. Through lots of fun activities, children

develop confidence, healthy socialization skills, reading and math readiness, and most importantly, a love of learning.”

DISCOVER YOUR PASSIONTHE LOWER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Betsy Duryea ‘75, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher


America in the

1800s

Just after President’s Day each year, 4th

Grade students study the Industrial

Revolution by becoming citizens of a

fictitious town called Walden, Michigan.

Divided into those who are in favor of

progress, those who like their town just

the way it is, and those who don’t have

a strong opinion either way, students

discuss whether or not the railroad

should be built in Walden.

For four days, students work in makeshift

factories, read newspaper articles from

the 1830s and ’40s, write letters, have

debates and discussions, and conclude

their time by voting for or against the

railroad at a town hall meeting. The

Walden project, says one 4th Grade

teacher, “helps students learn by

actually feeling what’s going on and

gives them the opportunity to be in

someone else’s shoes.” They learn

about history, economics, the value of

hard work, and the price of progress

while also developing important writing

and public speaking skills.

Through experiential learning projects, we broaden students’ knowledge

while also encouraging them to wonder and question as they learn to trust

their instincts, confidently defend their viewpoints, and respect the ideas

and perspectives of others.

Our nurturing and supportive environment is successful because of excep-

tional teachers who possess both expertise in their disciplines and a deep

understanding of how children learn and develop. Simply put, Germantown

Academy faculty love what they do—an enthusiasm that yields countless

benefits for our children. Parents are important Lower School partners as

well; we welcome them and invite them to share their talents in the

classroom, on field trips, and on special project days.

The third component in our “love of learning” equation is our bright, cheerful

facilities, equipped with the latest technologies, wonderful playgrounds just

outside the classroom door, and an on-campus outdoor environmental

laboratory like no other.

“One of our favorite things we’ve done this year is going to camp forfour days. We learned about nature, went kayaking, went on a highropes course, and did archery. There was even a photography session

where we captured all of those moments.

When we started here at first it was a little awkward because wedidn’t know anyone. Now we know everyone!”

Alejandro G. and Andrew T., 5th Grade Students


THE LOWER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

While our academic portfolio in Lower School is both extensive and challenging, we are also committed to helping Lower School students develop the

values and skills they will need to thrive as productive, caring human beings: a strong work ethic, a respect for others, a concern for the environment, a clear

understanding of right and wrong. Learning is about joy and about believing in your dreams. We are passionate about giving our students the personal

attention they need to become articulate, confident individuals.

“The way they teach at GA is so interactive. The kids really participate in the process of learning. Merely filling the aquariumwith fish became a math lesson for my son. He became part of the process and therefore really understood what he learned.”

Lisa Butler ‘82, Alumna and Parent

FIND YOUR VOICETHE MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

The powerful combination of adolescent energy and the emergence of abstract thinking make Middle School at Germantown Academy an exciting time.

We celebrate the greater self-awareness our Middle School students are developing by creating a challenging academic, artistic, social, and physical

environment where each student can find his or her own voice. Our Middle School—through our teachers, our curriculum, our extra-curricular offerings, and

our environment—brings forth the spirit inherent in every student.

By reading great literature, analyzing historical and current events, engaging in authentic research through the scientific method, and delving into progres-

sively more sophisticated mathematical concepts, Middle School students learn to think critically and creatively, to reason and argue, and to take

academic risks. Through a robust physical education and interscholastic athletics program, they grow strong and healthy while learning lifelong wellness skills

and discover passions for competition, teamwork, and hard work. Opportunities to be creative, through an extraordinary array of fine and performing arts

options, reveal to students their unique talents—talents they are soon eager to pursue and develop.


“There hasn’t been a single daythat my children have not beenexcited about going to school.Every night at dinner, they walkus through their day—talk aboutthe little anecdotes, the disap-pointments, the triumphs. Allthree of my children are verydifferent from each other, yet

GA is a wonderful, safe, warm place where every child is

embraced.”

Vicki Burkhart, Parent

Middle School

Memoir

Each year, 8th Graders participate in Memoir, a reading

and writing project that asks students to produce their ownmemoirs. “Memoir,” the projectdescription reads, “is a kind of

writing that looks back at one’s lifeand looks for the threads or

themes that tie that life together.”

When 8th Grade students are firstpresented with the idea of writingtheir own memoirs, they have a

difficult time imagining they havebeen alive long enough to haveanything interesting to say. By the

project’s conclusion, however, students gain profound insights

into their lives, their feelings, theirdreams, and their successes and

failures. Some of their insights include: “I will have to give my

best in order to be proud.” “After pushing myself wholeheartedly

that day, I knew I could accom-plish anything I set my mind to…I

felt stronger, invincible. I could doanything.” “I’m an artist.

Music is my brush.”


For every student at GA, writing is part of every class,

every day. Reports and poetry. Research papers,

memoirs, and speeches. Objective, subjective,

journalistic, creative. Developing adept

communicators is a priority here.

Tentative writers become concise, organized writers.

Good writers become great ones. Effective writing is

one of the most important skills in life, and it is

paramount at GA.

Rachael Specter ‘08,University of Richmond Graduate

“I was amazed by how prepared I was for college. Because ofGA’s commitment to developing excellent communication skills,my transition to college was relatively easy. I knew how to use

language to tell a compelling story or to organize and write an effective research paper.

I am confident in my ability to succeed because of my GA experience.”

The Importance ofWriting Well


THE MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Our Middle School students find they have increased freedom as well as responsibility. They harness these powers by assuming leadership roles in many

ways: writing for or editing the student literary magazine, presenting or performing on stage or in class meetings, or participating in student government and

other student organizations.

Many Middle School faculty members hold an advanced degree in his or her discipline, and all of them further connect with their students by

serving in an additional capacity outside the classroom as coaches, advisors, or activity facilitators. Middle School parents are encouraged to lend their

support to their children by attending plays, performances, and sporting events and by participating in conference days and Middle School Life meetings.

“There’s a huge sense of community here at GA. Everyone here isvery welcoming, both the students and the teachers. The teachers always have time for you. Even though I like math, for example, it

can sometimes get challenging.

“At any point during the day, I can go in to my teacher, who is al-ways willing to sit down with me one-on-one and explain things. I’m a

different person than when I first came to GA. I think I’ve gotten smarter!”

Davonne Henry, 8th Grade Student

LEAD BY EXAMPLETHE UPPER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Our Upper School philosophy is rooted in the idea that faculty and students are partners in a learning community where weighty intellectual matters are

examined and explored. Spirited conversations around Harkness tables lead to new insights as students learn to respect others’ opinions and to defend their

assertions—both objective and subjective. Enhanced by highly accomplished faculty who love interacting with their students, an exceptional independent

capstone project during senior year, and our innovative tradition—the House System—the Upper School experience helps students grow exponentially as

they prepare to take on leadership roles both in college and in life. Experiential learning continues to be important in Upper School, as students apply the so-

phisticated concepts and knowledge they are mastering.

Projects and assignments in every academic discipline in Upper School require a high level of engagement and tenacity. Students have a myriad of oppor-

tunities to accelerate their studies by being part of the Academy Scholars Program, honors and AP courses, independent studies, international exchange

programs in China, England and Poland, and internships. Our curriculum is rigorous, yet it is balanced with leadership activities, service opportunities, and a

great deal of fun—all of which help students solidify and magnify their strengths and identities, goals and aspirations.


Senior ProjectDuring the final month of their GA

experience, seniors complete an off-

campus Senior Project. Developed to

give graduating seniors a memorable

opportunity to apply their competence

and confidence, the Senior Project can

be about exploring a topic of interest or

learning something completely new.

Some students travel abroad to immerse

themselves in other cultures. Others

create works of art or choreograph a

dance or participate in a service project.

Several students use the Senior

Project as an opportunity to shadow a

business executive or complete an in-

ternship in a field they are considering as

a future career. Students keep a daily

journal of their experiences and present

a final speech to share their newfound

insight with the faculty and Junior class.

Now sophisticated learners and ambi-

tious thinkers, our seniors look forward to

graduation day and the next step on

their life’s journey.


THE UPPER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Scientific Research

“GA takes your children and nurtures their talents tomake them the best they can be. It’s ok to be anything at

GA. You can be an athlete who’s great at music or a history buff who stars in the musical. And we are so impressed by how well teachers know our children.”

Linda Weber, Parent

“Rather than being given a kit that allows them to solve a problem in a 45 minute class, these studentslearn how to go about doing real research—the kind that involves asking powerful questions and

experiencing many trials and failures before a desired result is achieved. Our goal is to help students usethe power of inquiry to better understand what’s going on in the world around them.”

Sarah Smith, Teacher, Independent Research ClassUpper School Science Teacher

A number of students each year sign up for an optional research course for which authentic science is the focus.

Students choose the topics they would like to explore, and many use their after-school time and summers to conduct a

research project as a member of a cutting-edge university or medical center research team. Two students worked at

Drexel School of Medicine exploring drug options for people with immuno-compromised systems. Another worked with a

University of Pennsylvania researcher to explore ways to treat brain tumors without resorting to invasive operations. Still

another developed a solar “cooker” that would allow people in third-world countries to sterilize water. The level of work

yields stunning results: many students win awards or are invited to present their findings at competitions

and academic conferences.

Fox Chase Cancer Center LaboratoryGERMANTOWN ACADEMY/15

THE UPPER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Having developed exceptional skills—high-level reasoning, communica-

tions, time-management—as well as a clear grasp of who they are,

Upper School students are well-prepared for college and for life.

When they graduate from GA, no matter where their journeys lead

them, students become members of the Germantown Academy Alumni

Society, an exceptional network of alumni who stay connected to their

alma mater. Alumni host current GA students at their chosen colleges,

connect students and other alumni to career opportunities, and, of

course, simply stay in touch with the lifelong friends they met while at-

tending GA. We keep them informed through a biannual magazine, fre-

quent e-newsletters, and special announcements. Alumni come back

to campus for sporting events, reunions, alumni family festivals, and

career networking events. Regional activities are often planned where

there are pockets of GA alumni. Faculty members who are able to

travel to these events continue to make the alumni connection.

The House System

In true Germantown Academy fashion, we believe it’s never too late to start a new tradition—even if our school is over 250 years

old. Therefore, after much discussion, a research trip to England where it all began, and a year of planning, a House System was

implemented in our Upper School in 2007-08. Its purpose? To give each Upper School student one adult to oversee his or her

progress for all four years, add more leadership opportunities for both faculty members and students, increase the involvement of

advisors, increase opportunities for students to enjoy activities and competitions, and, especially, to allow students to feel part of

a small select group as well as a citizen of the school.

Today, there are seven houses, each of which has a combination of seniors, juniors, sophomores, and freshmen. Each House has

eight advisors, two for each grade level, and each advisor has about eight advisees. House Heads work with two senior prefects—

a boy and a girl—to plan meetings and activities. Overall, the House System enhances the Upper School experience and

promotes high-level interaction while giving students in Middle and Lower School something exciting to look forward to!

alcott •galloway •kershaw •osbourn • roberts • truesdell • washington


THE ALUMNI CONNECTION–

ONE OF GA'S BIGGEST ASSETS

Panelist discussion at the alumnievent "Navigating a Career Path:

A View from the Top”

“It may sound cheesy, but I’ve grown up here—GA is like a family. I’vegotten close with the faculty and feel comfortable going up to my

teachers. I get so much satisfaction out of working hard. When I struggle,I set up a one-on-one with a teacher. When I get good grades, I know itwas because I worked hard and managed my time well. I’m prepared to

move on, but I’m really going to miss this place.”

Meg Palmer, 12th Grade Student, Writing Center Tutor, Prefect,CSO Senior Leader, Academy Club, Admission Office Ambassador

“We found GA to be challenging, but at a good pace. We like the teachersbecause the smaller classes mean they can give you more individual

attention and they can push you to your potential. If we were talking toa prospective parent, we’d say if you’re looking for a challenge and to really have your child be prepared for college and beyond, choose GA.”

Tim and Tom Reuter, 10th Graders, Soccer, Lacrosse, Concert Band, Jazz Band…but they play different instruments!

“My family chose GA because of its academic reputation, but GA is so much more. I play a lot ofsports—football, basketball, and baseball—and GA allows me to participate in as many sports as I like.But what I also like is attending sporting events towatch my classmates play. There’s a lot of school

spirit here.”

Ryan Dolan, 10th Grade Student

FALL SPORTSBoys Cross Country

Girls Cross Country

Field Hockey

Football

Coed Golf

Boys Soccer

Girls Soccer

Girls Tennis

Boys Water Polo

Girls Water Polo

WINTER SPORTSBoys Basketball

Girls Basketball

Coed Ice Hockey

Boys Indoor Track & Field

Girls Indoor Track & Field

Boys Swimming & Diving

Girls Swimming & Diving

Girls Volleyball

Wrestling

SPRING SPORTSBaseball

Coed Crew

Boys Lacrosse

Girls Lacrosse

Softball

Boys Tennis

Boys Outdoor Track & Field

Girls Outdoor Track & Field

COMPETE WITH CONFIDENCETHE ATHLETIC EXPERIENCE

“In my tenure here, I’ve seen the athletics program really evolve. We believe athletics, as well as other out of class activities, are co-curricular—they are part of the life of the kids and the overall experience of the GA community. The athletic programs teach the important values of

teamwork, tenacity, and sportsmanship and at the Upper School level are also about being competitive and successful.”

David Martin 1760, House Head, Coach and Parent

Over the past 12 years, our varsity teams have won more than 100 Inter-Ac League titles. Our girls’ swimming team has won 21 consecutive Inter-Ac champi-

onships since its inception as a league sport in 1990. Spirited competition is a hallmark of Germantown Academy, and our teams have a long standing

record of excellence. Three seasons are filled with varsity, junior varsity, and often third-level team and individual sporting opportunities, providing students

with many ways to participate. From our national powerhouse swim teams to our nationally ranked basketball teams, the Patriots are winners on and off the

field. We stress skill building, sportsmanship, teamwork, and dedication—an approach that energizes those who participate and fans who watch.

With our new Outdoor Athletic Complex, which was completed as part of our Campus Master Plan, our athletes enjoy nine new regulation size fields—three

artificial turf, two sod, and four natural turf; a new 836-seat fully equipped stadium; a new running trail for cross country; a new track with high jump, long

jump, pole vault, and shot put spaces; 12 new tennis courts; and new baseball and softball fields.


EXPLORE YOUR TALENTSTHE ARTISTIC EXPERIENCE

Song writing and sculpture. Lighting design and photography. Film and drama. Choruses and bands.

Musicals and concerts. Art exhibitions and movie presentations. Extraordinary in both scope and discipline,

the fine and performing arts at Germantown Academy are led by nationally recognized and profession-

ally active musicians, actors, and visual artists. Knowing that participating in artistic endeavors as well as

appreciating beauty enriches life, our teachers love to share their passions as they cultivate the inner artist

in the highly motivated students at Germantown Academy.

Modeled after college programs that train serious students of the arts to launch professional careers,

Germantown Academy art is a major academic program with the same rigorous expectations as physics

or history or English. We introduce students to the arts in Pre-Kindergarten and provide an age-appropriate

and progressive curriculum through 12th Grade that promotes curiosity and imagination, an understand-

ing of one’s self and others, and a broader view of the world around us. Our proximity to major cultural

centers such as Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C. allow for eye-opening field trips and easy

access to visiting artists.

Our visual artists have dozens of opportunities and spaces to display their work, and

many of our instrumental and vocal ensembles perform in the surrounding community or

even share their gifts with national or European audiences. An entire campus building is

dedicated to GA arts—and every medium has its own dedicated space. A specific

gallery is dedicated to the work of the highly accomplished students in our Honors Art

Program.

“The real strength of the program, which I believe is unique to GA, is that the students andparents recognize that constant practice at creative problem-solving, embracing ambiguity, andlearning how to take a skill set honed in one area and apply it to another, are skills you need inlife. The art program has become so integral to developing the intellectual life of our students.“

Gabrielle Russomagno, US Art Teacher, US Visual Arts Department Head


LEARN WHAT YOU LOVECLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

The vast majority of GA students are also enthusiastic

members of more than 50 GA clubs and organizations.

Each provides leadership opportunities as well as the

chance to explore new interests, develop friendships,

and contribute in meaningful ways to the school

community and the community at large. Community

service is becoming increasingly more important as GA

encourages students to become caring citizens and to

discover the joy in helping others. Community service

opportunities span all three divisions—even our

youngest scholars can help in some way—and we

have ongoing commitments with the Philadelphia

Committee to End Homelessness, Project H.O.M.E.,

St. John's Hospice, and Habitat for Humanity.

A Sampling of Clubs and Activities

The Academy Monthly

ACT (All Cultures Together)

Art Club

ASIA Club

Belfry Club (Drama Club)

CSO (Community Service

Organization)

The Edition Newspaper

Film Club

Frequency (Music Club)

Green Ambassadors

Jazz Ensemble

Kids Teaching Kids

Mock Trial

Model UN

National Science

Honors Society

Outdoor Club

Patriot Ambassadors

Relay for Life

Robotics

SCUBA Club

Ye Primer Yearbook

“My parents and I chose GA due to the combination of academics, athletics, and the arts. I play water polo and lacrosse, and Ienjoy sculpture. You can do anything here. Whether you’re an artist,

athlete, thespian, or musician, GA is open to you doing it all.”

Reid Weber, 10th Grade Student


GERMANTOWN ACADEMY NEW INITIATIVES

The Preserve Inspires 4th Grade Students to Write Poetry

A school doesn’t thrive for more than 250 years without constantly evaluating, evolving, updating, andimproving. In that spirit and buoyed by a commitment to prepare students to succeed in a rapidlychanging world and to be thoughtful citizens of a global society, we have made ambitious decisions.

THE CAMPUS EXPERIENCEGA TAKES YOU PLACES

Because of these ambitious decisions, Germantown Academy takes you places: to

other countries to explore their cultures, to new heights of imagination and confidence,

and back to nature where you learn about the importance of sustaining and renewing

our environment.

Our new Middle and Upper School building has created a paradigm shift, especially for

Middle School students, through dedicated space where middle schoolers can feel

safe to express themselves. The Preserve, with its wetlands and woodlands, its flora and

fauna, and its green conservation features, has inspired an ecologically-based curricu-

lum complete with new lessons and activities for students in Lower, Middle and Upper

School. Our international culture and language program is expanding to foster a sense

of place and a global mindset in Pre-K through 12th Grade.

EXPLORATIONGA TAKES YOU INTO THE WILDERNESS WITHOUT LEAVING CAMPUS

The Preserve that surrounds the Wissahickon Creek distinguishes GA. Here, students become true

stewards of our natural environment and, in doing so, better understand their place in the world.

We have reshaped our curriculum to take advantage of all that our beautiful campus offers. It’s an

outdoor laboratory for the sciences, an inspiring setting for art and literature, and a place to

cultivate leaders in environmental stewardship.

“Not only do our indoor and outdoor science facilities advance our commitment to inquiry-based andproject-based learning, they also allow students to see their connection to the world beyond GA.They are examining the rainwater the building’s roof collects. They are seeing the fruit of part-nerships we are developing with the Wissahickon Valley Watershed and with local colleges and schools.

They are interacting with each other and with their environment in exciting new ways.”Dr. Susanne Johnston 1760, Nature Curriculum Director

“Our nature curriculum gives incoming students the opportunity to have an environmental education that is second to none. Our international programs help students understand that at our core, we are all one, no matter what language we speak. It all comes down to a good education. If youunderstand the world around you, you will better understand yourself. You will understand why things happen and what you can do to change things.Seek to understand rather than to be understood. This kind of thinking, this kind of learning, sets our students up to be leaders in the future.”

Jim Connor 1760, Head of School

It is through their engagement with the natural world in

the school gardens and The Preserve that students can

come to understand, appreciate and express the beauty

that exists in a fast and furious world. In their own garden,

young Lower School students learn about soil health and

caring for the land. They plant and cultivate flowers,

herbs, and vegetables, which they cook—and eat!

When exploring in The Preserve, students learn how to

closely observe the world and ask questions. Whether

creating poems or sculpture, or analyzing the effects of

humans on the environment, The Preserve is an endless

provider of inspiration.

“In this digital age, today’s kids learn so much about the world through virtual rather thanauthentic, hands-on experiences. They need to be grounded literally and figuratively, and ourLower School learning garden offers that opportunity. They learn where food comes from.They learn about nutrition. They get their hands dirty. It’s a thrill for the students.”

Lisa Martin, Lower School Science Teacher

IMAGINATIONGA TAKES YOUR IMAGINATION FOR A RIDE

Middle School represents a critical time in students’ lives. They are building confidence by exploring their interests, forming opinions, developing relationships,

and trying new activities. The Honickman Auditorium, a state-of-the-art venue built when the new Middle and Upper School building was erected, is theirs.

Here, Middle School students take the stage as actors, musicians, and presenters. They gather together as a unified whole and feel safe and comfortable

being themselves.

With the addition of the auditorium, the Middle School drama program has been able to grow, adding a fall production and other events, giving more

students the chance to showcase their creativity. In front of a supportive audience of their peers, Middle School students build confidence when presenting

or performing during morning meetings and is a true stage for students’ exploration and expression.

“Middle School is about helping students find and express their voice. The new auditorium has allowed us to do an even better job of it. Wecan expand our drama program, and we can gather as a Middle School community in a place that is intimate and comfortable while also being

an excellent performance space. We have found that students want to perform even more than they did before.”Ken Rogers, Head of Middle School

THE WORLDGA TAKES YOU AROUND THE GLOBE

“Students have the opportunity to travel abroad during springbreak, Senior Projects, or after the school year ends, depending on

the program. Our goal is for each of our students to have a significant international experience before graduating. Whether byparticipating in one of our many programs or immersing yourself inour exciting, intensive language programs, GA is a premier school forexpanding your international horizons and preparing for life as

global citizen in the 21st century.”

As it becomes ever easier to develop meaningful connections with people

around the world, we have launched international programs to help all

students adopt a world view. We inspire students to develop compassion and

respect for people of different cultural backgrounds. International programs,

trips, faculty and student exchanges, and partnerships in the Upper School in-

clude agreements with the North London Collegiate School in England; the First

High School of Krakow, Poland; the high school attached to Capital Normal Uni-

versity in, Beijing, China; and Jin Cai High School in Shanghai, China. We offer

an annual SCUBA trip to the Caribbean and biannual cultural excursions to

France and Spain, and our students often travel abroad for their Senior Projects.

After hosting visitors from China a few years ago, we realized a wonderful op-

portunity to enhance the international programs and language courses we al-

ready offer in Latin, Spanish, French, and German. In partnership with a school

in China and the Chinese government, we created a Confucius Classroom for

the study of Chinese language and culture, which allows us to bring a Chinese

teacher to GA, initiate new student and teacher exchange programs, develop

extracurricular clubs and classes for GA students and families, and introduce

Chinese to even our youngest students.

Rich Schellhas, Assistant Head of School/Head of Upper School

GERMANTOWN ACADEMYINDEPENDENT IN THOUGHT. CONFIDENT IN EXPRESSION. COMPASSIONATE

IN SPIRIT. COLLABORATIVE IN ACTION. HONORABLE IN DEED.

Learning, we believe, is a gift—one that, if cultivated properly, will lead to a lifetime of fulfillment.

For more than 250 years, Germantown Academy has been profoundly dedicated to fostering a

love of learning and to creating an exceptional academic, artistic, athletic, and social experi-

ence for our students. The outcome? Successful,well educated, ethical young people who

believe in themselves and recognize their responsibility as members of our global society.

Whether they are just beginning their academic journey or are well on their way, our students

receive an unparalleled education. Know that we recognize each one as a unique and

valuable individual. Know that we have high expectations and that we challenge, support, and

encourage our students while also empowering them to champion their own exciting future. Our

alumni consistently attest to the power of their GA experience.

Be a part of the Germantown Academy community, where students of all ages define their own

success and interact in meaningful ways, where parents are valued partners, and where

dedicated teachers care deeply about helping students succeed—no matter what path they

choose.


www.germantownacademy.net

Germantown Academy

340 Morris Road

Fort Washington, Pennsylvania 19034

www.germantownacademy.net

267.405.7070

Germantown Academy Admission Viewbook

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