Welcome from the Head of School
Bruce Shoup
When I first discovered this surprising little school in the woods, I immediately knew that some very good things have been happening here and some fabulous teachers are making that so! Each day, since that first visit, has confirmed my initial sense of success. Every one of these wonderful children that I engage tells me in so many ways that learning is fun, connected and meaningful. For thirty-five years, Gig Harbor Academy, once known as "Our School" has continued to evolve and mature as an exceptional school community with mission directed goals. Here are a few words from that purpose driven mission statement;
"Academic excellence" - GHA children exceed national norms on all standardized exams that the school has utilized.
"Challenging" - GHA teachers have created innovative curricular units that do not allow students to fall between the cracks, but to stay intriguingly engaged throughout the material. Students rise to their abilities yet are given the freedom to grow at their own rate. Every effort is made to address different types of learners by providing a variety of whole group, individual, and small group settings.
"Intellectually, Creatively and Physically" - Our difference is often framed in the scope of the experiences GHA students enjoy. Classroom instruction invites critical comparisons, cooperative engagement and scaffolding of abilities. Our art teacher is a working professional in her specialty. Our physical education program celebrates healthy, outdoor challenges. Interactive technology, introduced in Kindergarten, keeps GHA on top of this ever changing world of ours and allows research to be obtained within a flash of their little fingers. Specialist led music appreciation and Spanich language introduction completes the well-balanced learning foundations at GHA.
"Caring Environment" - We are a community of learners centered on the same goal, which is our children's best development and growth. Nurturing teachers are involved with every child's progress in their own classroom and throughout the entire school. This learning community respects the voice of the parent, the wisdom of grandparents, and the dedication and innovation of enthusiastic teachers.
So let's put the mission statement back together:
Take my word for it, or better yet, come see for yourself. You will find a magical learning experience from the earliest years through fifth grade. You will see happy, busy kids. You will be convinced that learning can be purposeful, fun and creative. We encourage well-formed learners in their early years of school so that their entire school career becomes successful and enriching.
Join me and come discover GHA, this surprising little school in the woods!
Bruce Shoup
Head of School