High Point Academy

Why High Point Academy?

High Point is proud of its mission to awaken the joy of learning in every student. With an emphasis on the “Whole Child”, students build their minds through strong academic and enrichment programs designed to foster critical thinking and creative problem solving. Their bodies are strengthened through daily physical education, and their social and emotional intelligence is developed through programs that help students understand and connect with each other.

At High Point Academy, a child’s social and emotional development (SEL) is essential, as seen in the school’s curriculum and the dedicated faculty and staff. High Point’s “Eagle Pride” is an integral part of the school’s educational program: PRIDE means show a Positive attitude, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence.

When children feel safe in their physical and emotional environment, they have the freedom to explore, take risks, and soar to new heights, whether in the classroom, on the athletic field, or creatively exploring technology, world languages, visual arts and design, vocal or instrumental music, or theater. High Point’s talented and dedicated faculty continually seek ways to inspire students and make learning accessible through best practices and innovative strategies. The result? Students want to learn!

As a K-8 school, High Point is able to guide students through their most formative years. From kindergarteners learning to navigate new friendships to middle school students transitioning to teenagers, at High Point students experience this growth in an environment that is both nurturing and stimulating.

“The strong foundation High Point provides makes our students incredibly well prepared for high school” said Gary Stern, Head of School. “In a school our size, we know our students well- they don’t get lost in the ranks. The high school acceptance rates tell our story. Each year, our graduates gain entrance into numerous acclaimed local independent high schools and, based on class size, consistently exceed $500,000 in merit scholarships.”

“To broaden that sense of community” Mr. Stern explained, “the school has a Community Engagement program in its elementary school. Each class is connected with a special organization in the community, and students work with and help support that organization in a very meaningful way,” said Stern. “You can read about all the work performed yearly on our blog: High Point Academy Community Engagement Programs.”

As Mr. Stern explained, “From their earliest years at HPA, we encourage our students to develop a sense of caring, compassion, and desire to give back both on and off campus.”

The school offers a ‘buddy program’ where students from different grade levels get together on a weekly basis. Buddies in upper elementary (3rd – 5th) partner with students in lower elementary (K-2nd) throughout the year. “They read and do special activities together which creates a sense of friendship and bonding throughout the grade levels,” Stern explained.

A Families program at High Point enhances cross grade level friendships and camaraderie. One day a month, a cross-section of students from Kindergarten through 8th grade meet to discuss character values and work on a project to reinforce those values. The leaders are the 8th grade students, who are responsible for helping their families complete their activity and encourage everyone to work as a team. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for our school as it builds a sense of community among students, faculty and staff,” said Mr. Stern.

Mr. Stern stated, “Our 8th graders become role models. When HPA graduates enter high school, they take with them a sense of confidence, leadership, and commitment to community. They are incredibly successful not just academically, but as citizens who contribute to their new school community and beyond.”

With a legacy of over 50 years, HPA continues to enhance its campus and expand its programs. The HPA Maker Space is an example of this innovative approach to hands-on learning. The Maker Space focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) programs, allowing students to design, create, and build, sparking their curiosity to learn and grow in new ways.

This growth is not limited to students but expands into the greater school population. From professional development for faculty & staff, to its parent education program, High Point works closely with its school community. Mr. Stern stated, “In an effort to strengthen our partnership with our families, the school surveyed parents regarding High Point’s core values. The three things that rose to the top of the list were: community, character-building, and excellence in curriculum. What allows us to succeed in those three categories is that we value input from our constituency. High Point is a close-knit community; it’s a partnership, and I think that appeals to our families.”

High Point’s Admissions Office hosts open houses and tours throughout the fall. “I invite prospective families to visit our diverse and dynamic community.” said Mr. Stern. “Experience first-hand why High Point’s K-8 curriculum instills self-confidence, good character, and an incredibly strong academic foundation paramount to a successful transition to high school, college and beyond.”

For more information, please visit High Point Academy’s website at www.highpointacademy.org.