FAQs

List of 9 frequently asked questions.

• What sets Gill St. Bernard's Middle School apart from other independent schools?

  While there are many reasons to pursue a Gill St. Bernard's School education, some are of particular importance for Middle School students. Gill provides a safe and secure environment in which students learn to take intellectuals risks and make healthy choices. Middle School years should be marked by discovery and exploration. Our students enjoy coming to school each day; they know they will be challenged, inspired, and part of the conversation.
  

  • Weekly Makerspace classes for all students provide opportunities to engage in collaborative work, creative problem solving, and critical thinking.
  • A host of elective coursework in addition to our core curriculum, including computer-aided design (CAD), music, sculpture and ceramics, studio art, theater, and woodworking.
  • Health and Wellness classes for all Middle Schoolers address the specific social, emotional, physical, and developmental needs of students in grades five through eight. Topics vary by grade level and are designed to help students make healthy choices.
  • Athletics and Physical Education are an important part of the day and have been shown to enhance cognitive performance and overall wellbeing. WitThere is a range of offerings to match student interests and varying skill levels.
  • After school activities and faculty-led study hall.

• What is the average class size?

  The average class size in our Middle School is 16 students.

• What is Advisory?

  Our advisory program is at the center of the Middle School experience. Advisors help to create a supportive environment for students to challenge themselves academically and personally. In addition, advisors serve as the primary point of guidance and support for students and their families throughout the academic year.
  
  Each of our students is assigned a faculty advisor at the beginning of the year. Students begin the academic day with their advisory group and interact with their advisor frequently throughout the day. Advisors meet formally with students’ families twice each year, but are also available throughout the year to answer questions and respond to concerns.

• When does the school day begin and end?

  Students begin their day in their advisory group and must report no later than 8:15 a.m. The school day ends at 3:00 p.m.

• Does Gill St. Bernard's School have a dress code?

  Middle School students may wear corduroy or khaki-style pants and a collared shirt. Shorts are permitted in September and May. Skirts need to be at or below the knee. Hooded sweatshirts with the Gill St. Bernard's School insignia or a college logo are permitted. Gym shorts, jeans, and sweatpants are not permitted. Please see the Student Handbook for more information.

• Is there free time during the day?

  All students have a break period from 9:50-10:05 a.m. Students may use this time to check in with a teacher, play outside, or spend time with other students.

• What kinds of activities are available after school?

  Many students choose to remain on campus after 3:00 p.m. to take advantage of a broad range of activities, the majority of which are free of charge. On any given day, you will find students working on assignments with teachers, participating in a faculty-run club, playing for their Gill team, or working on a group project in our faculty-led study hall.

• What is served for lunch and when is lunch served?

  Lunch is included as part of tuition for all students in grades kindergarten-12. Middle School students and faculty eat together at 11:40 a.m. in Founders Hall Dining Room. Our menu typically includes produce from our own garden and our chef is mindful providing fresh, healthy choices for students.

• Is bus transportation available?

  Many towns provide bus service for our kindergarten-12th grade students. Our transportation coordinator (ext. 480) can answer any questions regarding bus service.