May Message from the Head of School
Dear GUS Friends and Family,
As we enter the final weeks of the school year, I find myself reflecting on what an extraordinary month it has been at GUS.
May is always a busy time, but this year seemed especially full of the experiences, traditions, and celebrations that make our school so special. We gathered for May Day, cheered on students during presentations and performances, and celebrated the incredible work of our eighth graders in School of Rock. Across every grade level, students were learning far beyond the walls of a classroom—from the annual 7th Grade Hike to 6th grade's time at East Hill Farm, 4th grade's overnight adventure in Mystic, 5th grade's trip to Chewonki, and countless other field studies, excursions, and hands-on experiences.
As I walked through campus this month, I was struck by how often students were preparing to leave it. Whether heading to a farm, a forest, a stage, a hiking trail, a museum, or a historic ship, our students were learning by doing. These experiences don't happen apart from the curriculum; they are the curriculum. They are a powerful reminder of what makes a GUS education distinctive.
I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to our Parents Association for the care and generosity they showed during Teacher Appreciation Week. The support and thoughtfulness of our parent community mean so much to our faculty and staff, and we are deeply grateful.
May Day was made particularly meaningful this year as we shared exciting news about the future of GUS, launching the What GUS Can Be campaign. Last night, at our Annual Meeting, we shared a video that highlights the campaign and celebrates the curiosity, creativity, and joy that define our school. If you have not yet had a chance to watch it, I encourage you to do so. It is, above all, a reflection of the students, teachers, and experiences that make GUS such a special place.
That future will begin to take shape very soon! On June 12, we expect to break ground on our new building, which will serve as a welcoming front door to the school and create new learning spaces for students. At our final All School Meeting, students will help mark this moment by contributing to a time capsule — an exciting way for every student to be part of this new chapter and to leave a piece of this year’s GUS story for the future. While construction will bring some temporary adjustments to campus life, we are excited to begin this next chapter together and will continue to keep families informed as work progresses.
Before we get there, however, we have some of the most meaningful traditions of the year still ahead of us. We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 at Evening with the Graduates and Commencement, honoring their growth, accomplishments, and the many ways they have contributed to our community. These moments always remind us of the remarkable journey our students take during their time at GUS.
And then, of course, summer arrives. While classes may be out of session, campus will remain active. SUMMER@GUS will be in full swing, and construction on our new building will be underway. It will be a season of growth, movement, and transformation—a fitting end to a year that has asked us to dream boldly and move forward together.
Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your commitment to our school. It is a privilege to share in the joys of learning with your children each day, and I look forward to celebrating the close of another wonderful year together!
Warmly,
