~School begins its 103rd year with record-high enrollment
On a beautiful Tuesday morning, the Gunston School opened its 103rd year by welcoming its new students to campus through its annual “Embarkation” ceremony, where all new students arrive to campus by boat via the Corsica River. After the ceremony, the school cut the ribbon on its newly renovated Long Academic Building, the first-phase of renovations as a result of the school’s recent $4 million Second Century Capital Campaign.
Over the summer, the school made significant upgrades to one of its two main classroom buildings. The building has been fully rewired to support a 21st Century technology infrastructure, with each room possessing an interactive whiteboard and wireless capability. Upgrades also include newly enhanced lighting, carpet, paint, doors, a replacement of desks and chairs, and an upgrade of the restroom facilities. The new acoustical ceiling tiles will help to improve the sound absorption throughout the building.
During the renovation, Gunston also sought to make the building as “green” as possible. The building’s air-conditioners are now powered by solar panels installed on the roof, and new windows, energy-efficient lights, and touch-less bathroom fixtures aim to conserve electricity and water. “We’re quite proud of the results,” said Headmaster John Lewis, “Not only have we significantly enhanced the teaching and learning environment, but we expect that the building will consume 25% less energy than the previous Academic Building.” The school is in the planning stages to renovate the remainder of the classroom buildings, perhaps as early as next summer.
Meanwhile, the opening day atmosphere at Gunston was festive. At the Embarkation ceremony, students were met at the dock by the Headmaster, who greeted them by shaking hands; students then proceeded to sign the school’s “Responsibilities of the Community” honor document, before shaking hands with every member of the faculty and student body.
Freshman parent Jill Caron commented, “The ceremony was lovely. What a way to instantly make the new students feel welcomed and a part of the Gunston community.” Junior Madi Shenk was happy to be back and excited about the renovated Academic Building, “The Academic Building looks great and it is so nice having smart-boards in every classroom.”
In photo, left to right: Assistant Head of School, Christie Grabis; Board of Trustees Chairman, Harry “Stoney” Duffy; Student Government President, Kimberly Schlosser; Head of Maintenance, Ernie Darling; Head of School, John Lewis; Executive Committee Chairman, Mitchell Fry; Director of Technology, Robert Fredland