As an educator who has been at Glen Urquhart School for ten years, and as native of the north shore, people are always asking me why GUS? With many great educational choices in the area, public and private, what makes GUS so different? This is one of my favorite questions to answer. 

First, It is our academic program that makes GUS different. Glen Urquhart’s experiential and project-based teaching methods really tap into a child’s natural sense of curiosity. Research tells us that young people who want to learn will be more successful, and at GUS, our ability to engage students in meaningful ways keep that innate curiosity alive. As a result, GUS kids want to come to school. Of course they want to come to school, at GUS, learning is fun! It’s fun because it’s active. Yes, it’s field trips all over the North Shore, New England and beyond, but it’s also a thematic curriculum that allows for interdisciplinary learning through amazing projects and experiences. These hands on learning opportunities really help students make meaningful connections, not just across disciplines, but also on a personal level. Learning that is meaningful and personal means better information retention. So not only is it more personal, it’s more successful. GUS’ unique approach to teaching and to developing curriculum makes GUS an excellent choice for families that want their child to learn and grow in an environment that is truly child-centered.

Second, I’d say what distinguishes GUS is our strong focus on the social-emotional lives of our students, and the understanding that their social-emotional well-being is integral to academic success. This intentional focus on the social emotional, on character education, and on community building creates an environment ripe for learning. It is only when a child feels they are understood, that they are valued, and that they belong, that they can truly take advantage of every opportunity to learn, to grow, and to push themselves. It is then a child can achieve real success. At GUS, we believe creating an environment that allows students to be brave and take risks is vital to academic growth.

Finally, I’d say what separates GUS from the others is our parents. A GUS parent wants something deliberately different for their child, and that may be why our alumni parents continue to be some of our strongest supporters. A GUS parent wants an experience for their child that will both encourage and challenge. A GUS parent understands that rushing your child to do more and go faster does not translate into preparation. Taking time to enjoy the process of learning and to hold onto childhood, is not only healthier for young people, but also allows them to better handle the challenges they will face when they move on from GUS. As we finished up applications for secondary schools this week, I know that in June we will be sending students out into the world who are more resilient and truly prepared for the next step. We have developed their minds and nourished their spirits, and they leave us inspired young people, ready to make a difference in their community and in the world. 

So, Why GUS? Because GUS is deliberately different, and what we offer is an exceptional experience for young people. One that values the student experience above all else because in the end, that is the most important thing. As parents, my husband and I believe that GUS offers an outstanding program that is not only benefiting our young daughters’ development today, but will help lead them down a path to a promising adulthood. I appreciate, as a teacher and a parent, the opportunity GUS offers for families like mine that want something different for their children. 

It is no surprise that GUS creates a learning experience that continues to inspire our alumni long after the graduation bagpipes have silenced. For those of you new to GUS, I encourage you all to get to know the Glen Urquhart School difference and to those of you who are well versed, thank you for all you do to support this fine school. 

Trust and go forward,

Gretchen Forsyth
Head of School