GW Community School
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| The GW Community School | |
| School seal to be provided by GWCS | |
| Established | 1999 |
| School type | Private |
| Religious affiliation | Nondenominational |
| Directors | Richard Goldie and Alexa Warden |
| Location | Springfield, VA, USA |
| Campus | Suburban |
| Enrollment | 57 |
| Faculty | 13 |
| Average class size | 7 |
| Student:teacher ratio |
5:1 |
| Athletics | 2 interscholastic |
| Color(s) | Blue & Grey |
| Mascot | Coyote |
The GW Community School is a teacher-owned and operated coeducational college preparatory school located in Springfield, Virginia. It was founded in 1999 by Richard Goldie and Alexa Warden to serve the needs of bright, non-traditional learners and their families. It currently has an enrollment of 57 students, grades 9-12.
[edit] Philosophy
The GW Community School (GWCS) is dedicated to providing individualized flexibility within a supportive academic environment. In keeping with this philosophy, the school offers several innovative programs:
- Advisory groups comprised of 4-6 students and a teacher who meet every day to discuss the students academic progress and issues related to working within the school community.
- Flexible instructional options, including independent study and online courses.
- Each student and faculty member is issued a laptop computer which connects to a wireless network within the school building.
- Cross-registration for seniors at Northern Virginia Community College.
In keeping with the philosophy of a teacher-owned and operated school, teachers have a large degree of flexibility over curriculum and instructional methods. As a result, classes like "Conspiracy Theories," "Political Geography" and "Sea Adventures" are held alongside more traditional class offerings.
[edit] Traditions
- Coyote Day (May 2nd, or the nearest available Friday) is a day dedicated to teacher appreciation and community involvement.
- The Annual Super Smash Bros Tournament. As might be expected from a school in which all students receive computers, there are video games that catch on and enjoy popularity. None, however, enjoy as much as Super Smash Bros.
- The senior trip is a Student Government funded holiday for all seniors during Mid-May. The seniors stay in a beach house over a four or five-day weekend.
- Senior quilts are sewn by parents. The quilts are given to each graduating senior, and bear patterns chosen specially for each student, and quotes and messages from students and staff.
- Every graduating senior speaks at graduation. These speeches are the centerpiece of the graduation ceremony, and range from quick thank-yous to 5 minutes or more in length.
