The Insider’s Guide to GFA
Welcome to Greens Farms Academy!
We are honored that you have chosen to become part of our community.
In an effort to help you and your family feel better informed as you transition into GFA, we have created this Insider’s Guide to serve as a resource as you begin your journey.
The Insider’s Guide to GFA is designed to address commonly asked questions from families new to GFA, such as “What is the dress code, exactly?” and “How can I get more involved?” In addition, the GFA Glossary has been designed to help you make sense of some of our Dragon phrases and traditions. This guide should serve as a complement to The Handbook (posted to the Parent Portal in August), which is the official GFA document covering academic and extracurricular requirements, rules, and processes across our three academic divisions. We also know that no handbook can capture everything, so we look forward to answering any questions you have along the way!
Early in the academic year, we encourage you to connect with the GFA community by attending new family events, parent coffees, and receptions. To keep you informed, GFA sends out a great deal of information by email correspondence, so please be sure to provide us with an accurate email address you check regularly. You can learn about what’s going on by reading regular school email communications, including eNotes, which come out every Friday afternoon, and periodically checking the website (www.gfacademy.org). The school also has an active social media presence, so be sure to follow us on Instagram (@greensfarmsacademy) and through our GFA blog and Flickr page on the website, which feature a steady stream of photos and stories throughout the year.
The upcoming transition will be an exciting time for your family, and we want your onboarding process to be as positive as possible. We look forward to seeing you at new family events, parent coffees, and receptions.
Welcome! We are so glad you are here.
The Greens Farms Academy Community
Words We Live By
GFA Mission Statement:
GFA engages students as partners in an innovative, inclusive, and globally minded community to prepare them for lives of purpose.
Core Values: Passion, Integrity, Empathy, Curiosity, and Excellence
School motto: "Quisque pro Omnibus—Each for All"
Key School and Annual Events
GFA hosts events throughout the year that serve to strengthen engagement and connection. We hope this month-to-month guide may help give an overview of what the year has to offer. Be sure to rely on the GFA calendar and the “eNotes,” which are sent out on Friday afternoons by the Division Heads.
Parent and Student-Led Conferences: Opportunities to learn more about your student's progress and meet with teachers and advisors.
Upper School
October 8 and 9 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
November 25 and 26 (Student-Led Conferences)
April 7 and 8 (Student-Led Conferences)
Middle School
November 25 and 26 (Parent-Teacher Conferences) April 23 (Student-Led Conferences)
Lower School
November 25 and 26 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
February 27 and 28 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
Back-to-School Nights:
Lower School - September 19
Middle School - September 26
Upper School - September 12
New Parent Reception at the Head of School House: Bob and Annie Whelan host three evening receptions for new parents at their home on campus in the fall. There is an evening dedicated to each division during which Bob offers a helpful road map for parents new to GFA. The event also serves as a wonderful opportunity to meet other parents, GFA administrators, and trustees.
Parent Coffee by Division: In the month of September, all divisions will host a welcome event to launch the new school year. Parents are encouraged to attend to hear from Division Heads and the Parent’s Association.
Homecoming and Dragon Fair: On Saturday, September 28, join an all-school event featuring the Parent Association’s Dragon Fair and fall athletic events all day.
Pack the House: A spirited all-school event featuring interscholastic winter sports competitions and more after school and into the evening. This typically takes place on a Friday evening and Saturday in January—a specific date will be announced in the fall.
State of the School: An evening to learn about the direction and health of the school from its leadership. Program and cocktail reception for the entire parent body on January 23.
GFA VOICES: An annual all-school celebration honoring our diverse, multicultural community. Students, faculty and families are invited to share and express their identities, traditions and perspectives through music, dancing, storytelling, artwork, creative writing, food and more. This year the event will be held in November.
The 2024–25 School Year Month-by-Month Overview
August:
● Upper School Athletics Preseason/Theater audition workshops
● Orientation activities for all students—more information provided mid-summer
● The Uniform Exchange is open
September:
● School begins!
● Middle and Upper School class trips—an opportunity for grades to bond
● Parent Coffees by Division
● PreK, K and Grade 1 will dismiss at noon the first week of school
● Grade Level Parent Gatherings (off-campus)
● Convocation—formal opening of the academic year (formal dress for all students)
● Senior Parent College Night
● Homecoming and Dragon Fair
● Back-to-School Nights
October:
● New Parent Receptions
● Rosh Hashanah (school closed)
● Parent Connection Meetings begin
● Upper School Parent-Teacher Conferences
November:
● Veterans Day (school closed)
● GFA VOICES—all-school community dinner and showcase
● Upper School Musical
● Junior Student and Parent College Night
● Coyle Scholar—a visiting lecturer (date to be announced)
● Lower and Middle School Parent-Teacher Conferences
● Upper School Student-Led Conferences
● Thanksgiving (school closed)
December:
● Holiday concerts by division
● Von Kohorn Address—a speech given by a GFA faculty member to Middle and Upper School students (formal dress)
● Winter break
January:
● State of the School—an evening event for all parents
● Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday observed (school closed)
● Lower School Mini-Term
● End of Semester One (Middle School and Upper School)
February
● Middle and Upper School Coffee Houses—an evening event sponsored by the English Department where students share their work.
● Presidents’ Day (school closed)
● Lower School Parent-Teacher Conferences
March
● Middle School Musical
● Fourth Grade Musical
● Spring Break
April
● Good Friday (school closed)
● Lower School Talent Show
● Middle and Upper School Student-Led Conferences
● Dragon Dash and Spring Sports Saturday
● GFA Symposium
● Upper School Play
● GFA All School Model Passover Seder
● Lower School Art Show
May
● Grandparents and Special Friends Day
● Middle School Cumulative Experience Week
● Upper School May Term—students take one class over the course of the last two weeks in May
● Spring concerts by division
● Lower School World Peace Games
● Senior Trip
● Memorial Day (school closed)
● Upper School Class Day
● Baccalaureate
● Commencement (all Upper School students attend)
June
● Lower School Farewell Assembly
● Middle School Closing Assembly
● Fourth Grade Moving Up Ceremony
● GFA Summer Camps
*A full list of GFA Basic Dates is attached as an appendix*
GFA Glossary: Key Events and Traditions
Athletic Banquets: These are evening receptions held at the end of the fall, winter, and spring athletic seasons for athletes playing on Upper School teams and their parents.
Back-to-School Nights: These meetings are a great opportunity to engage with each of your child’s teachers and, in Middle School and Upper School, advisors.
Casual Day: Lower and Middle School relaxed dress code days.
Class Trips: At the beginning of the school year, many of the Middle Schoolers and all Upper Schoolers will participate in grade-level trips, aimed at building community and having fun!
Coyle Scholar Program: A visiting speaker program established in honor of former Head of School, Jim Coyle. Students will hear from the speaker during the day, and parents are invited to an evening event with the speaker.
End-of-Year Events: Depending on the age of your child, there are a range of traditions that commemorate the end of the academic year with ceremony and celebration. Class parents and GFA will communicate about these events. Generally, parents, friends, and grandparents are involved in most of these events.
Grandparents and Special Friends Day: Grandparents and special friends are invited to spend time in the classroom (a day highly anticipated by our Lower School and Middle School communities). Lower and Middle schools dismiss at noon that day.
Holiday Concerts: There are concerts during the holiday season for each division. Mark the dates (and the snow dates) for a chance to see your child perform on stage in the Hartwell Performing Arts Center.
Holiday Sing-Along: This beloved tradition for Upper and Middle School students features holiday outfits, singing, and plenty of good fun right before school dismisses for winter break.
Homecoming: A school-wide celebration in September featuring athletic games, a carnival for all, many Parents Association activities, an Upper School dance and bonfire—a festive celebration of GFA!
Lower School World Peace Games: An end-of-the-year celebration featuring field games and healthy competition among “countries.”
May Term: The Upper School closes the academic year with a week-and-a-half long term during which students take one course, selected from a wide variety of topics. May Term allows students to engage deeply while collaborating with faculty and peers from different grades. May Term courses, taught on a pass/fail basis, are part of the graduation requirement.
Middle School Student-Led Conferences: In April, Middle School parents are invited to a meeting during which their child will lead a conversation, with the help of their advisor, about their goals and progress for the year.
Pack the House: A spirited all-community event in January, featuring a number of athletic events (girls and boys basketball, squash, and wrestling), a demonstration by our Upper School Robotics team, and a bake sale. All proceeds go to charities selected by the Community Service Board (a group of Upper School students that organize and lead community service opportunities for the community). Kids of all ages will enjoy the camaraderie of this event.
Parent Coffees and Parent Connection Meetings: There are three divisional Parent Coffees in September featuring GFA administrators, class parents, Parents Association leadership, and many other parents in your child's grade. Additionally, the heads of each division lead Connection Meetings at intervals throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the curriculum, child development, and other relevant topics for your child’s grade level in addition to a chance to connect with other grade level parents.
Parent-Teacher Conferences: All GFA parents have an opportunity to meet with their child’s teacher in the fall. Lower School parents also have a spring conference, Middle and Upper School students will lead Student-Led Conferences in April. The school day hours are modified during these days for the applicable division.
Parents Association Meetings: These larger meetings are for all members of the Parents Association. We invite all GFA parents to attend.
Re-enrollment: In February, you will receive an email inviting you to re-enroll your child for next year. Please be sure to follow the deadlines for re-enrollment.
School Vacations: We strongly encourage you to plan your vacation departures after school dismisses, and plan to return in time to be back in school on the first day back. Please note that varsity athletics teams may have games, practices, and other team activities scheduled during winter and spring breaks. More information will be provided by the Athletics Department.
State of the School: An evening event for all GFA parents to gather and hear from school leadership about key initiatives that lie ahead for the GFA community. The evening typically begins with a social gathering where parents are invited to connect with other GFA parents, administrators, and faculty.
Spring/Summer Travel Programs: Students in the Middle and Upper School will hear about the travel programs, which typically take place over Spring Break or Summer. For specific questions about the trips, please contact Ward Abel wabel@gfacademy.org or Ronaldo John rjohn@gfacademy.org. For any financial aid questions regarding the trips, please contact Vanessa Sylvester (vsylvester@gfacademy.org).
Summer Academy and Summer Re-boost: Middle and Upper School students can enrich their summer with the GFA Summer Academy, designed to enhance their academic skills and knowledge. Our Re-boost courses, scheduled just before the school year starts, sharpen proficiency and reinforce core subjects. For program inquiries, email Sam McCoy at smccoy@gfacademy.org. For financial aid questions, contact Vanessa Sylvester at vsylvester@gfacademy.org.
Symposium: In April, Upper School students involved in inquiries and advanced inquiries present their work to peers, faculty/staff, and parents. This is an invaluable opportunity for Upper School students to see the kind of high-level, independent work they can aspire to. There are no classes on this day for the Upper School and all students hear from their peers. All parents at GFA are invited to attend.
Upper School Student-Led Conferences: In November and April, Upper School parents are invited to a meeting during which their child will lead a conversation, with the help of their advisor, about their goals and progress for the year.
Von Kohorn Address: An annual assembly that highlights a member of the faculty who is invited to address the entire Middle and Upper School.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Whom do I contact when I have a question?
For answers to many questions, you can visit www.gfacademy.org for school calendars, sports schedules, and emergency closings. Be sure to log in to the Parent Portal for password-protected information that is only available to current GFA families. If you need login credentials or assistance, please contact the Technology Department at techdept@gfacademy.org or email mybackpack@gfacademy.org.
The Handbook: Look for this document posted on the Parent Portal in late August. Parents will be asked to review general policies with their child and, in reading it, agree to upholding the standards of the school. Parents will sign the Statement of Understanding, to acknowledge that your family has reviewed it. The Handbook includes a very thorough description of all aspects of life in the GFA community. This Insider’s Guide is primarily designed to serve as a complement to The Handbook and the Directory.
Reception: If you have any general questions about GFA, please call the main line at 203-256-0717. If your question pertains to an invoice or billing, please call Mariken Wolffenbuttel at 203-256-7547.
Division Heads: If you have a question regarding school life at GFA, you are welcome to get in touch with the heads of each division. They are ably supported by the Assistant Head or Assistant to the Head of each division.
LOWER SCHOOL
Head of Lower School
Jane Verlin, 203-256-7562, jverlin@gfacademy.org
Assistant Head of Lower School
Kate Kralik, 203-349-7215, kkralik@gfacademy.org
Assistant to the Head of Lower School
Tory Crane, 203-256-7563, vcrane@gfacademy.org
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Head of Middle School
Drew Meyer, 203-256-7569, ameyer@gfacademy.org
Assistant to the Head of Middle School
Lauren Axelrod, 203-256-7512, laxelrod@gfacademy.org
Deans and Grade Deans - Middle School
Dean of Student Life—Kristen Dee, kdee@gfacademy.org
Dean of Students—Jon Jackson, jjackson@gfacademy.org
Dean of Academics—Sam McCoy, smccoy@gfacademy.org
Grade 5—Michele Ames, mames@gfacademy.org
Grade 6—Elena Aniel, eaniel@gfacademy.org
Grade 7—Ronaldo John, rjohn@gfacademy.org
Grade 8—Wenqing Zhang, wzhang@gfacademy.org
UPPER SCHOOL
Head of Upper School
Ward Abel, 203-256-7440, wabel@gfacademy.org
Assistant Head of Upper School, Academics & Program
Valeria Ibarcena, 203-349-7416, vibarcena@gfacademy.org
Assistant Head of Upper School, Student Engagement and Leadership
Eric Lee, 203-256-7517, elee@gfacademy.org
Assistant to the Head of Upper School
Leslie Taliercio, 203-256-7567, ltaliercio@gfacademy.org
Grade Deans - Upper School
Grade 9—Cristin Robb, crobb@gfacademy.org
Grade 10—Joe Steiner, lsteiner@gfacademy.org
Grade 11—Carly Borken, cborken@gfacademy.org
Grade 12—Shawn Connors sconnors@gfacademy.org
Director of Equity and Inclusion
Shanelle Henry, 203-256-7560, shenry@gfacademy.org
Teachers: We believe a child’s education is best served by a partnership between the school and home. In order to facilitate this relationship, we encourage communication between the teachers and parents. Formal communication through Parent-Teacher Conferences and Student-Led Conferences will happen in the fall and the spring, and also through end-of-semester written comments. Additional communication can take place at other times directly with either your child’s teacher, division head, advisor, or grade dean. To reach your child’s teacher, advisor, or dean, you can email using the Directory. All teacher contact information is available on the website (www.gfacademy.org) and in the printed Directory.
Health Office
Stephanie Pappas is the school nurse, 203-256-7535, spappas@gfacademy.org and is supported by the Health Assistant Yelena Kiely, 203-256-7534, healthoffice@gfacademy.org.
If your child has allergies or any other health issues you would like the Health Office to be aware of, you are welcome to email or call to inform them.
School Directory
At the beginning of the school year, you will receive a school Directory. There is also an online directory that can be sorted in a variety of useful ways. Here’s what you will find in the printed Directory:
● Basic Department Contact Information: This is a helpful list if you don’t know the name of the person to call, but have a question. If you do know the person you wish to contact, the best way is to send an email. The email nomenclature for GFA is firstinitiallastname@gfacademy.org.
● Board of Trustees: The GFA Board of Trustees ensures that the school’s mission is appropriate, relevant, and vital to the community it serves. The Board works in partnership with Bob Whelan to establish principles and strategic vision that will best serve the school, while Bob and the Administrative team implement the policies and procedures to fulfill these principles on an operational basis. Many trustees are current parents, and you will likely meet them at parent events.
● Parents Association Leadership: Every parent is a member of the GFA Parents Association. The group meets frequently, and you will receive emails about those meetings. The school Directory includes a complete listing of Parents Association leaders. Feel free to reach out to any of the parents listed if you would like to get involved with the PA. There is also a separate Lower School Parents Association.
● Class Parents: Similarly, every class has a few parents who serve as coordinators of parent activities in the class. You will note in the Directory that there is one person in each class responsible for communication, and that would be a good person to contact with questions.
● Horizons Staff: Horizons GFA provides access and opportunity to underserved Bridgeport students from PreK through college by emphasizing academics and social-emotional learning while providing exposure to a wide variety of social, cultural and recreational enrichment experiences. GFA hosts Horizons students on campus for six weeks in the summer and on Saturdays during the school year for academic enrichment. Many GFA students volunteer for this program during the summer and at the Saturday academies.
● Student Listing (with contact info): You can also access the student directory through MyBackpack, the same portal you use to enroll, update your data, and check your child’s grades. Students enrolled after August 1 will not appear in the Directory, but the class parents generally share contact information with others in the class.
● Class Lists: A helpful tool and will be shared with families over the summer, located on the Parent Portal.
● School Year Calendar at a Glance: There are many ways to build your family calendar. This provides basic school dates. The GFA calendar is the very best way to follow GFA calendar events. This calendar can be found on the GFA website and allows you to personalize which calendars you follow.
What do I need to know for the opening days of school?
You will receive correspondence from your child’s Division Head before the beginning of the school year, and you can also refer to the GFA calendar. You may always access the school calendar through the website where you have the capability of selecting the types of calendars you wish to see (Academic, Athletic, etc.).
Backpacks: Any backpack or bookbag is acceptable. Middle and Upper School students will have ordered their textbooks during the summer and may want to bring them all to school to keep in their locker, or only bring home the supplies they need for that evening. All GFA students (Grades 2–12) will have lockers. Locks are not necessary.
School Supplies: In the Lower School, all supplies will be provided by your child’s homeroom teacher. The Middle School supply list can be found in the Parent Portal. The Upper School does not have a required supplies list; students will learn on the first day of school if any of their classes require special supplies.
Lunch: The GFA Dining Service is run by Flik Dining Services, a leading independent school food service provider. The program is led by Scott Santoro (ssantoro@gfacademy.org or 203-349-7112). If you have a concern about allergies, please contact nurse Stephanie Pappas (see above and in the Directory).
Lunch is included in the tuition for K-12 students. Students in PreK-4 will eat in the Lower School Dining and Students Commons, and PreK will bring lunch brought from home. Students in grades 5-12 eat in the main cafeteria.
Athletics and Athletic Attire: The Handbook will have detailed information about everything athletics. All students in the Lower School wear athletic sneakers to school and will therefore be prepared for P.E. class, beginning on the first day of school. In addition, students in grades PreK–4 are expected to wear clothing appropriate to the weather for any outdoor P.E. class.
For more detailed information regarding Athletics in the Lower, Middle, and Upper School, please refer to The Handbook or the orientation material you will receive at the beginning of the year.
What do I do if my child will be absent?
You can simply send an email to the appropriate divisional email address.
● USattendance@gfacademy.org
● MSattendance@gfacademy.org
● LSattendance@gfacademy.org
What time does school begin and end each day, and where is pickup?
Drop-off and pickup vary by grade. A general guideline follows:
LOWER SCHOOL
School begins for all students at 8:00 a.m.. On Thursdays, school begins at 9:00 a.m.. The doors to the Lower School campus do not open until 7:45 a.m. (and 8:40 a.m. on Thursdays). Faculty and staff members will be at the curb to help your child get out of the car.
Lower School ends at 2:50 p.m., and Afterschool clubs end at 3:55 p.m.. You will receive specific information regarding the pick-up procedure in a separate communication.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Middle School students should plan to be in their class before 8:00 a.m., and 9:00 a.m. on Thursdays. Attendance is taken in class. Teachers are in their classrooms by 7:45 a.m..
Middle School ends at 3:15 p.m., except on Friday, when school ends at 2:40 p.m..
UPPER SCHOOL
Upper School students should plan to be in their first class by 8:10 a.m., and 9:00 a.m. on Thursdays.
The Upper School academic day ends at 3:15 p.m., followed by athletics and theater programming. Cycle 9, the last period of the day, is from 2:55 - 3:15. All teachers and students are free to meet with each other. Athletics does not begin until 3:30.
What is the drop-off procedure?
Children get to school via train (over 200 students take the Metro-North train), a number take community bus service, and others are driven or drive themselves. If you are driving your child, please follow the directions as you enter school. As you pull up to the entrance of the school, you’ll see a number of Faculty and Staff helping your child get safely out of their car.
What do I do if I need to pick my child up early?
Please refer to The Handbook for an extensive explanation about absences and early dismissals. There are different check-out procedures for each division. We ask that you contact your child’s teacher and the division administrative assistant to arrange for early pick-up.
We strongly encourage families to be mindful of dismissal times around holidays, and make any travel plans outside of when school breaks begin and end.
How
do I get homework if my child is absent from school?
Depending on their age and grade, if they miss more than one day, you are welcome to be in touch with the teacher, grade dean, or advisor to determine the best next steps. In the case of Middle and Upper School students, they have access to teachers’ websites through Schoology Learning, which should allow them to know how to get caught up. Teachers are also happy to hear from students directly about their plans to make up any missing work, once they feel better.
How do I find out if school is canceled, dismissed early, or delayed?
Communication is made to families through our alert system, which will push notifications to you by phone, text, and email. Alerts will also be posted on the GFA website.
Early Dismissal Procedures
In the event that school is let out early, the alert system will also be deployed and will send an automated message to the phone numbers you have provided at the beginning of the year. You may also check the website for early dismissal announcements.
Sports Cancellation
In the event that any Middle or Upper School Athletics activities are canceled or postponed, the Athletics Department will communicate via email to students and families. The online calendar will also be updated with any changes.
What is the school uniform?
Please see the end of this guide for division specific information about the dress code. We also host periodic Casual Dress Days. On these days, no dress code or uniform must be followed.
What is the cell phone policy?
Each division has a different policy about cell phones and smart devices, and you and your child will receive instructions about this at the beginning of the school year.
How much homework is there?
GFA believes that grade-appropriate work done outside the classroom is a good way to reinforce learning. You will find a very detailed explanation of homework, by division, in The Handbook. Middle School and Upper School students also have time during the day to get some of their homework completed.
How are students graded?
Students in Lower School receive progress reports twice a year in January and June. Middle School students receive both grades and comments twice a year. Upper School students receive grades and comments at the end of the first semester and grades and an advisor letter at the end of the spring semester.
In Middle and Upper School, teachers work directly with students to keep track of their grades and their progress. Students are encouraged to meet with their teacher and/or advisor when they have questions about their grades or progress.
How do I find out about my child’s academic progress?
Conferences
Lower School: Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled twice during the year, once in early November, and again in the spring. These conferences are designed to enable the School and the parents to exchange information and work together to maximize the students’ potential for growth and development in all areas of school. School will not be in session for students on these days.
Middle School: Formal communication through Parent-Teacher Conferences will happen in November. These conferences provide parents with an overview of what teachers are covering, an assessment of how their child is doing, and an opportunity to ask questions. In the spring, Middle School students spend time in Advisory and during study halls preparing to lead their parents through Student-Led Conferences. In this meeting, students will share their academic and social/emotional growth and highlight certain pieces of work. Once students present their work and an overview of their year, you will have time to ask questions. On these days, school will not be in session.
Upper School: Upper School Parent-Teacher Conferences happen in early October. They are designed as an opportunity for parents to meet teachers and learn about their classes and for teachers to learn more about your upper schooler. The Upper School holds Student-Led Conferences in November and April where students lead the conversation about their progress in school. To prepare for this, students go through self-reflection, goal-setting, and a pre-conference with their advisor. They will go through each of their classes, describing what they are learning, their areas of strength, and their challenges. Teachers may periodically send updates home via email to communicate a concern or commendation from a specific course. Grade Deans and Advisors are included on these emails.
In all divisions, you will receive an email to give you the opportunity to sign up for conferences online. If you have any trouble signing up, please get in touch with the divisional administrative assistants.
Learning Resource Center and Supplemental Help
A full-time learning specialist and counselor are available in each division to work with students and partner with parents to support their child.
GFA also has Writing and Math Centers, staffed by a faculty member and supported with Upper School student volunteers, to help Middle School and Upper School students work on a project or get additional practice. These are located in the Middle School Forum.
Is there an after-school program?
Lower School After Care is offered five days per week, from 2:50-5:30 p.m., for students in grades PreK-4 for a fee. In addition to indoor and outdoor games and activities, students will be given time for a snack, homework, and reading. You will receive registration information about this program.
After School Clubs in the Lower School run from 2:50 to 3:55 p.m. and are also available for an additional fee. Middle School Clubs run from 3:15 to 4:10 p.m. Fall Club offerings and registration will be available in late August.
What is the athletic requirement for Middle and Upper School?
Athletics are a key component of Greens Farms Academy school life, and all students are required to participate in school sports. Through the athletics program, students not only learn valuable athletic skills and the importance of physical fitness, but they also learn what it means to be part of a team.
In fifth and sixth grade, all students participate in intramural sports in each of the three seasons. The goal of the program is for the students to develop skills and competencies, learn the rules and strategies of the sport, and have fun! Practices take place during the school day Monday through Thursday.
In seventh and eighth grade, students are required to participate in the GFA athletic program all three seasons. Practices are during the school day Monday through Thursday with afterschool games primarily on Wednesday and Thursdays.
In the Upper School, students participate in athletics or after-school theater programs during all three seasons (9th- and 10th-graders), two seasons (11th- graders), and one season (12th-graders)—more detailed information is available in The Handbook. The teams practice after school, five days a week; practice times vary, but generally run until 5:30p.m.
Please note that winter and spring varsity teams may have games, practices, and other team activities scheduled during vacations. When interest and opportunity allow, GFA spring varsity teams generally take a trip during the second week of spring vacation. More information will be shared with athletes and families prior to the trips.
Every Middle School and Upper School team game and Upper School practice is posted on the GFA calendar, which includes locations for away games, dismissal and departure times, and approximate arrival times.
Identification and Security on Campus
Creating a safe and nurturing environment is of the utmost importance to GFA. All employees and adult visitors to campus between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. are required to wear a GFA-issued, color-coded lanyard. We ask that all parent visitors please check-in at the front security desk, where you will simply show an ID and will be handed a lanyard. We recognize that there are times parents need to drop off or pick up quickly. You can escort your child(ren) to the main entrance.
The GFA Parents Association
At GFA you will find that the parents are an integral part of our community. The GFA Parents Association is the volunteer organization that coordinates regular meetings, certain visiting speakers, community events, Homecoming and class parties and as a GFA parent or guardian, you are automatically a member!
You will see divisional PA coffees on the school calendar early in the academic year. This is an important meeting where parents can meet the PA volunteer leaders, including the Grade parents, and hear about opportunities for involvement.
Throughout the year, Parent Association meetings are generally held in the early morning, right after drop off. You will be notified of the dates and times via eNotes in the beginning of the school year.
In addition to Parent Association meetings, and the aforementioned Parent Coffees, throughout the year we hold Parent Connection meetings. These are generally grade or division-specific. These meetings are hosted by the Division Head to address various aspects of the curriculum and student experience.
If you have any questions about the Parents Association, please contact this year’s co-presidents Andreina Bauer (andreinabauer@mac.com) and Beth Hempleman (bethhempleman@gmail.com).
Philanthropy at GFA
The GFA Fund is GFA’s annual immediate-use fund that allows for the strategic deployment of resources—where and when they are needed most—and enhances the school’s capacity to address emerging opportunities. We ask all parents to support the Fund as their first philanthropic priority. Through the collective power of many gifts, the GFA Fund raises nearly $3 million each year.
The GFA Fund impacts our students, staff, and faculty members every day. An important gauge of institutional strength, the Fund supports the core components of the GFA experience. This resource is powerful in its immediacy, and it must be replenished every year to sustain our programs and fulfill the school’s mission. The GFA Fund is the primary means for all parents, alumni, grandparents, and friends to help sustain the distinctive features that make GFA special.
In 2021, the Board of Trustees approved a new Strategic Direction: Lives of Purpose, which serves as the foundation for a comprehensive fundraising campaign to be launched publicly in conjunction with GFA’s Centennial in the fall of 2025.
School Publications
GFA uses a variety of different delivery systems to communicate about school life. Here are a number of those tools:
Social Media: The GFA Communications office manages the GFA social media, including Instagram, Flickr and the GFA website. You’ll find sports updates, blogs from Bob Whelan and others, news stories, and community photos. Be sure to bookmark the website, follow us on social media, and sign up for RSS feed on the website.
eNotes: Every Friday afternoon when school is in session, you will receive eNotes via email. This divisional newsletter features a reflection by the division head as well as division and school-wide notices about upcoming events. It’s a great way to receive timely snapshots of life at GFA.
GFA Magazine: Twice a year we publish a magazine featuring updates about our community, including alumni news and reflections by various school leaders.
Yearbooks: Both the Middle School and Upper School publish a yearbook which is available at the end of the school year. Families of seniors are invited to purchase ads for their graduating senior. Individual school photos, which are taken at the beginning of the school year, are printed in the yearbook.
Literary Magazines: Literary magazines are published annually in the Middle and Upper Schools. These are available at the end of the school year, and children are encouraged to contribute to these magazines.
Curriculum Guide: The Upper School Curriculum Guide is published every spring, and can also be found in the Parent Portal. We also have Lower and Middle School Curriculum guides on our website, or hard copies can be obtained from your division head.
As mentioned throughout this guide, we also publish the Directory and The Handbook.
Student Dress Code
The purpose of our daily dress code is for students to be comfortable and dress appropriately for school.
Lower School
Regular Dress Uniform PreK-4
All PreK and Kindergarten students are expected to leave a full set of dress code clothes in school.
Shirts: White, light blue, or navy, solid color full-buttoned oxford with collars; white, light blue, forest green or navy, solid color polo-style shirt; classic navy, forest green, or white turtleneck
Sweaters: White, navy, or forest green solid color cardigan or pullover, flat-knit or cable, crew-neck or v-neck, traditional fit and length
Sweatshirts: Sweatshirts with GFA lettering are permitted. Microfiber fleece jackets, pullovers/quarter zips, and vests may be worn in navy blue only with GFA lettering. No commercial sweatshirts or commercial hooded sweatshirts.
Pants: Khaki or navy chino pants; khaki or navy corduroy pants. Denim, cargo, leggings, athletic pants or work pants are not permitted.
Shorts: Khaki or classic navy bermuda shorts may be worn in September, October, April, May, and June.
Skirts: Knee length kilt (A-line or pleated) or jumper in gray or GFA Belmont plaid. Shorts, navy leggings, or stockings are required under kilts and jumpers.
Stockings: White, navy, or forest green solid color stocking, tights, or knee socks. Navy leggings may be worn underneath a skirt if (and only if) the top of the leggings touches the sock line. Leggings can be worn if they look like tights.
Shoes: Athletic sneakers should be worn at all times to allow for participation in the active play and learning that typifies a Lower School day. Not permitted: sneakers with lights or embellishments, cleats, clogs, sandals, platform shoes, UGG boots, Doc Martens, or floor marking shoes.
Hats: Hats are not permitted in the classrooms.
Backpacks: Students may use any standard backpack of their choice. However, backpacks with wheels are not allowed in the Lower School.
Formal Dress Uniform K-4
Students wear the formal uniform for special occasions throughout the year:
Please note: PreK students do not wear the formal dress uniform.
Shirts: White, full-buttoned short or long sleeve oxford-type dress shirt with plain collar.
Sweaters: Navy, plain knit cardigan or flat knit crew or v-neck with embroidered school emblem. We will send you a school emblem in August.
Skirt: GFA Belmont Plaid kilt or GFA Belmont Plaid jumper, knee-length.
Pants: Tan khaki pants; khaki knee-length shorts may be worn during the months of September, October, April, May and June.
Socks: Navy dress socks; navy tights may replace socks in winter.
Shoes: Sneakers—this is in an effort to meet the needs of our Lower School program.
Middle School
Regular Dress Code
The purpose of our daily dress code is for students to be comfortable and appropriate for school. The dress code allows all students to feel part of the community. As such, we ask students not to wear or bring items to school that might be seen as exclusive.
Shirt: Solid-colored, collared, long or short-sleeved oxford dress shirts, blouses, or polo shirts that tuck into pants or kilt. Striped shirts in the above style may be worn as an eighth-grade privilege after a certain point of the year at the discretion of the Head of Middle School. Solid-colored knit sweaters are optional. Denim shirts and sleeveless shirts are not acceptable, nor are long-sleeved shirts under short-sleeved shirts.
Pants: Chinos, corduroy, or wool pants; solid colored and traditional fit (no cargo, leggings, jeggings, or baggy fit). Students may not wear blue jeans. Solid-colored Bermuda-style shorts may be worn as well.
Kilt: The GFA Belmont plaid or gray flannel kilt, hemmed to a reasonable length.
Shoes: Sneakers, dress shoes (not open-toe or open-heel) or boots; no sandals, Birkenstocks, or high heels. In addition, students must keep their shoes on both inside the building as well as when playing outside.
Notes regarding the regular dress code:
● All clothing must be in good repair, clean, properly worn, and in good taste.
● Students are not allowed to wear hats in the building at any time.
● Students may wear appropriate sweatshirts and fleeces as part of the dress code.
Formal Dress Uniform - Middle School
Students wear the formal uniform for special occasions throughout the year:
Blazer: Navy blue blazer with GFA emblem
Shirt/Tie: White full-buttoned collared dress shirt with the GFA tie, or blouse
Pants: Tan khaki pants and belt
Skirt: Gray flannel kilt, hemmed to a reasonable length
Shoes: Sneakers, dress shoes (not open-toe or open-heel) or boots; no sandals, Birkenstocks, or high heels
Socks: Dark socks; with kilt, navy knee socks or navy tights
Upper School
Regular Dress Code
Basic principle: Clothes must be worn in a way such that body parts generally considered as “private” are covered with non-see-through material. Students must wear a shirt, bottoms, and shoes. A shirt must have fabric on the front, back, and sides, including under the arms. Sports bras, bralettes, crop tops, and drop-arm tank tops are not allowed.
Students may not wear:
● Clothing with violent language or images, profanity, or pornography.
● Clothing with images or language related drugs, alcohol, or any illegal item or activity.
● Bathing suits or pajamas
● Flip-flops
● Ripped and/or torn clothing, including ripped jeans
● Headgear that obscures the face (except as a religious observance or medical concern).
Formal Dress Uniform - Upper School
In the Upper School, students wear the formal uniform at regular intervals throughout the year.
Blazer: Navy blue blazer with GFA emblem or earned Varsity Honor Society sweater. (We will mail you a GFA emblem in August. Additional emblems available in the uniform exchange).
Shirt/Tie: White full-buttoned collared (long or short-sleeved) shirt with the GFA tie, or white blouse.
Bottoms: Tan khaki pants and belt or the gray kilt.
Shoes: Black or brown dress shoes or clean sneakers.
Socks: Dark socks; with kilt, navy knee socks or navy tights.
GFA Formal Uniform Suppliers
The following suppliers carry the GFA formal uniform (applicable to all divisions):
● The Uniform Exchange: Located at the north end of the McGrath Gallery, the Uniform Exchange is run by the GFA Parents Association and offers free, clean and gently used uniforms available to all families.
● Dennis Uniforms: www.dennisuniform.com, 500 Boston Post Rd, Orange, CT, 203-795-5457.
● Items such as pants, blazers, shirts, sweaters, socks, and shoes may also be purchased through retailers such as Lands’ End.
GREENS FARMS ACADEMY
BASIC DATES FOR 2024–25 SCHOOL YEAR
Monday, 8/19 to Friday, 8/30
Wednesday, 8/28
Thursday, 8/29
Monday, 9/2
Tuesday, 9/3
Thursday, 10/3
Tuesday, 10/8 to Wednesday, 10/9
Monday, 10/14
Monday, 11/11
Monday, 11/25 to Tuesday, 11/26
Upper School Pre-Season Sports Practices
Day one of Orientation for all Upper School Students Orientation for 5th-Grade Students
Day two of Orientation for all Upper School Students Orientation for New 6-8th Grade Students
Labor Day (school closed)
First Day of Classes for all Middle and Upper School
Abbreviated Day for all LS Students (PreK-4)
Rosh Hashanah (school closed)
Upper School Parent-Teacher Conferences (Lower School and Middle School regular classes)
Columbus/Indigenous People’s Day (school in session)
Veterans Day (school closed)
Lower School and Middle School Parent-Teacher Conferences
Upper School Student-Led Conferences (Upper School regular classes - special schedule)
Wednesday, 11/27 to Friday, 11/29 Thanksgiving Break (classes resume on Monday, 12/2)
Friday, 12/20
Monday, 12/23 to Tuesday, 1/7
Monday, 1/6
Monday, 1/20
Thursday, 1/23
Monday, 2/17
Thursday, 2/27 to Friday, 2/28
Monday, 3/10 to Tuesday, 3/25
Noon Dismissal for Middle and Upper School (no school for Lower School students)
Winter Break (classes resume on Tuesday, 1/7)
Faculty Professional Day (no classes)
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (school closed)
State of the School
Presidents Day (school closed)
Lower School Parent-Teacher Conferences, (Middle and Upper School regular classes)
Spring Break (classes resume on Tuesday, 3/25)
Monday, 3/24
Monday, 4/7 to Tuesday, 4/8
Friday, 4/18
Wednesday, 4/23
Friday, 5/23
Monday, 5/26
Wednesday, 5/28
Wednesday, 5/28
Thursday, 5/29
Friday, 5/30
Monday, 6/2
Tuesday, 6/3
Faculty Professional Day (no classes)
Upper School Student-Led Conferences (Upper School regular classes - special schedule)
Good Friday (school closed)
Middle School Student-Led Conferences (Lower and Upper School regular classes)
Noon Dismissal
Memorial Day (school closed)
Last Day of Classes for Upper School
Class Day (grades 9-12)
Baccalaureate (grade 12)
Commencement (grades 9-12)
Last Day of Classes for PreK-4 (Noon dismissal)
11:30 PreK-4 Closing Assembly with families Last Day of Classes Middle School Closing Ceremony for Grade 8
Fourth Grade Moving Up Ceremony (Fourth Grade families only)