From the Head of School

If you are new to Gill St. Bernard’s, this website is a great place to start exploring our academic, athletic and co-curricular programs. My hope is that what you find here leads you to visit our beautiful 208-acre campus where you can experience for yourself the warm, engaging and joyful community that characterizes our school.

I have been head of school at GSB now for fifteen years, ample time to see the school’s youngest learners mature into seniors. As they have developed in knowledge, confidence and a sense of responsibility, the school has grown and flourished alongside them. Over the past decade and a half, Gill has expanded its academic, athletic, performing arts and place-based learning programs; in addition, our campus has more than doubled in size. Our farm-to-table initiative has developed into an integral part of school life, work is well underway on a new field house and planning has begun for a new performing arts center. Everywhere one sees signs of progress and vitality.

Amid all of this exciting growth, however, Gill St. Bernard’s remains committed to preserving the distinct features of a small school. By design, our student body and class sizes remain small. Here, everyone has something to contribute; concern, care and support for one another are evident.

Academically, Gill is known for its vigorous and extensive curriculum as well as for the personal attention that we devote to each student’s learning. At GSB, we place a premium on the concept of BALANCE in promoting the health and well-being of our students. We encourage students to explore their interests and we support them as they juggle multiple activities, rather than forcing them to specialize prematurely. While competition does have a place at our school, it is not between students and it does not set the tone for daily school life.

Our co-curricular programs are extensive and the typical GSB student is engaged in many of them. These activities provide young people with valuable opportunities to lead and shine. Athletics, the arts, student clubs and community service enhance the well-rounded GSB experience. Many of these programs have received state and national recognition, as is the case with a number of our faculty members and students.

In keeping with the concept of balance, we actively promote the development of moral character here. Our students were involved in the crafting of the Honor Code. They advocate for countless initiatives with great passion, and the wholesome atmosphere of this community is a result of the values that we all embrace.

In speaking with our students and alumni, I hear so often about the difference that a Gill education made in their lives. They reflect on teachers, on particular academic programs or athletic experiences. Most of all, they speak of the warm and supportive community here that enabled them to learn, explore and achieve more than they thought possible.

Please, take the time to come and see for yourself. I look forward to meeting you.