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Community & Belonging

Students completing service projects on Civic Learning Day at the Gunston School.

At Gunston, we believe that an excellent college-preparatory education requires a diverse, inclusive, and highly empathetic community. We promote an environment that honors the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. Our students are deliberately educated to expect, navigate, and embrace differences in a thoughtful, civil, and empathetic manner—preparing them to be global citizens.

Director of Community & Belonging

Dr. Ryan Asprion
rasprion@gunston.org

Our Community by the Numbers

  • 70% of Families Receive Assistance: Through need-based aid and merit scholarships, we ensure economic diversity and keep a Gunston education accessible.
  • 18% Students of Color: Our campus reflects a rich mix of domestic cultural and racial backgrounds.
  • 4% International Students: Students arriving annually from Europe and Asia bring rich global perspectives to our classrooms and waterfront campus.

The Gunston Experience: How Belonging Happens

Belonging at Gunston isn’t passive; it is actively cultivated through daily programming, student leadership, and continuous education.

  • The Student Advisory System
    Every student needs a dedicated advocate. Our intimate advisory groups serve as a consistent, trusted space to process current events, navigate social dynamics, and build mutual respect under the guidance of faculty mentors.
     
  • Student-Led Affinity Groups & Clubs
    Students take an active role in shaping campus culture through student-led organizations. These groups regularly host open forums and share perspectives during morning school meetings.
Mental Health Awareness
Christian Athletes
Gunston Initiates Volunteer Efforts (GIVE)
Ambassadors for Belonging & Community
Gender Spectrum Alliance (GSA)

Civic & Cultural Programming

We honor our community’s heritage through school-wide cultural celebrations, global cuisine events in the dining hall, and dedicated programming on days of civic significance—ensuring every student feels recognized and valued.

Civic Learning Day

Civic Learning Day is an annual, full-day experiential event where the entire student body moves civic education out of the classroom and into action. It features hands-on community service, career exploration with public service professionals, and student-led discussions on democracy and current issues

Inclusive Academics & Faculty Growth

  • Curriculum: Coursework across literature, history, and the arts purposefully integrates diverse perspectives and global narratives.
  • Professional Development: Our faculty participate in ongoing training focused on culturally responsive teaching, neurodiverse learning strategies, and equity-centered mentorship.