In accord with the school’s Framework of Values, Paideia students learn to enlarge beyond themselves, perceiving the needs of and caring about the welfare of others. In one recent instance, they also became literal bridge builders, assembling toothpick bridges for an American Society of Civil Engineers Toothpick Bridge Building Event at Georgia Tech.

Classrooms at Paideia transform in the most interesting ways. Elementary students in one class opened a welcome center for their barrier island, the Isle of Bambria. Students dressed in their most festive tour-guide outfits to welcome tourists to the island and introduce them to the diverse landforms and ecosystems there. 
 

Elementary students benefit from an intentionally casual and relaxed atmosphere for learning. From the morning greetings teachers extend to every student, to the “dolphin squeals” as students voice their excitement in learning, joy is always present.
 

Seventh- and 8th-grade students benefit by having the same two teachers for two years, an approach known as Homebase. This format provides a crucial anchor during a time of rapid change. Because students get to know their teachers better, they are more confident and prepared for even greater intellectual, social and emotional growth. 

Formal academic classes end in mid-May, shifting to a short-term schedule. From building and racing cardboard boats, to photography, to the not-to-be-missed Junior High musical, students engage in invigorating, hands-on courses and finish the year on a high note.
 

STEAM principles are woven throughout the curriculum, with teachers showing creativity in how students apply them. Among recent examples, 7th-grade students designed cell organelles in Tinkercad and used the 3D printer to print them. An 8th-grade class reimagined a book presentation about “Animal Farm,” using the laser printer to construct a windmill that could power a lightbulb, while an art class incorporated virtual-reality painting. 

A well-rounded, rigorous curriculum prepares students for demanding college studies with extensive offerings in English, social sciences, mathematics, modern languages, sciences, art, music and drama. The combination of stimulating course material, dynamic faculty and engaged peers gets minds and imaginations humming.

The student-run musicals put on by High Schoolers are a beloved Paideia tradition. Davi Leal ’25 co-directed the 2024 musical, “Chicago,” and charmingly asks, “What other school hands the keys of the kingdom to a bunch of musical-theater-crazed High School students?” The collaboration between the music theater and music programs offers band, orchestra and chorus students the unique opportunity to play together and challenges them to respond like professional musicians.

Each year, the school’s renowned Pepperdene series brings writers of distinction to Paideia. In 2024, the speaker was Tony Kushner, author of the Pulitzer Prize–winning play “Angels in America.” In a theater class, High Schoolers read the play and did research projects related to 1980s culture and the AIDS epidemic, as well as attending the lecture.