The Frederick Gunn School, a co-ed boarding and day school for students in grades 9-12 as well as a post-graduate year, was founded in 1850 by Frederick Gunn. Mr. Gunn took a principled stand against slavery and spurred students (and the town at large) to examine their beliefs. He also had a deep appreciation for the natural world, believing that in nature students understand themselves as humans and their place in the world. In addition to the habits and skills students will need in college and life beyond, we teach them to follow Mr. Gunn’s example: to cultivate wisdom, to be trailblazers, to act with conviction, and to value character as highly as intellect and achievement.
Unique Characteristics
1. Since 1886, the entire school – students, faculty, and staff – has participated in the All School Walk, an 8-mile hike through Steep Rock Preserve every year around Frederick Gunn’s birthday in October.
2. Students engage in a 4-year curriculum through the Center for Citizenship and Just Democracy exploring and practicing active citizenship, founded by the ideas and example of Frederick Gunn.