The new Rector was brought in not only to signal a willingness to change the culture but also because she’s eminently qualified AND even better a woman. I think very highly of her and I understand from all my contacts at the school (faculty, students and board) that she is well liked for her forthrightness and transparency. However, it will take more than one year or just one person to change a 164 year history of male dominated culture that was intolerant of weakness or those that spoke of harm or conflict at the school. Because of the wonderful traditions that the school still holds dear, the transition to a fully functional and equal co-educational institution has been super slow in coming. The school is an extraordinary institution and I can honestly say it was the best 3 years of my life but the leadership of the school and board through the years have demonstrated unethical behavior in being unwilling to acknowledge that the school wasn’t always perfect and that bad things happen but must be confronted, not buried. I believe that SPS is on very sound footing but the price of mismanagement and gross misconduct through at least 5 decades is still being addressed and I know that the new Rector is committed to doing so. It is an amazing school with an extraordinary history (mostly good) and prepares its students to succeed in college and be leaders in society.
I also would like to add there is a person who is employed by SPS but reports to the NH Attorney General’s office directly to insure compliance with consent decrees/agreements reached between SPS and the state of NH. Rector Giles is very transparent and there is also a report that is sent to the parents about the health of the community. In my opinion this is the best time to be at SPS because there are so many “eyes” on the students and community. My daughter is loving her time at SPS and gets upset when people start talking negatively about her school.
We are so lucky we chose SPS especially during this pandemic. The school is in a bubble, no one in and no one out. Of course it is sad we can’t see our children, but I am so glad they are thriving with in person classes, sports practices, (no games yet, but should start next month), being able to socialize with friends and the most important thing is the kids are happy ?.
Sister went to Lville and had an amazing time! It seems to have a really welcoming and inclusive community, and it has a similar tight knit feel to Choate imo. I don’t think student life was dull or anything for her, and having day student friends really came in clutch in her junior/senior year when it came to going off campus and having fun in the area.