2020-2021 Student/Parent Handbook - "In thy face I see the map of honour, truth and loyalty."
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“In thy face I see the map of honour, truth and loyalty.” 2020-2021 Student/Parent Handbook
gilman upper school
student-parent handbook
Dear Students and Parents,
The ability of any community to survive and thrive depends on its members’ willingness to adhere to a
collection of guiding principles and behaviors. The best, strongest communities balance the celebration
of individuality with a deep respect for the common good, and Gilman is such a place. This Student
Handbook represents an effort to explain our traditions and expectations for all areas of school life. We
ask that you read it carefully and that you take to heart the guidelines set forth in its pages. We hope that,
by living up to these expectations, everyone’s year will be that much more enjoyable and worthwhile.
It should come as no surprise that our guiding principles are firmly rooted in the Gilman Five—Honor,
Integrity, Respect, Humility, and Excellence. They also draw on a healthy dose of common sense. More
than anything, abiding by the specific rules and general spirit of this handbook demands from each of us
a few basic traits: an appreciation for the fact that any strong community is built on honor and trust, an
awareness of one’s surroundings, and the ability to do the right thing at all times. (Note that the last of
these traits results from the first two.) Of course, as Upper School students, the entire school is looking to
you to set the right example, and I have all confidence that you will rise to that challenge.
It is my pleasure to welcome everyone to the new school year, and I extend a special welcome to our new
students and families. I am looking forward to a truly wonderful year.
Sincerely,
Henry P. A. Smyth
Headmaster
“The true measure of any school is the
quality of character of its members.”
Redmond C.S. Finneycovid-19
handbook addendum
This document sets forth policies that are specifically not be liable for any failure, delay, or modification of its
applicable to students’ enrollment at Gilman during programs or activities. The School reserves the right to make
the 2020-2021 school year. The policies set forth in this modifications to the school year as necessary to account
addendum are intended to either supplement or supersede for any time lost due to any closure or delay, including
the School’s existing policies as listed in the Parent and without limitation the following: extending the school year
Student Handbook. Therefore, if a policy in the Parent for a period of time equal to the time lost due to any delay;
and Student Handbook conflicts with a policy in this conducting classes via distance-learning; and/or scheduling
addendum, the policies in this addendum shall govern. weekend classes. Possible events which could necessitate
closure, delay, or modification as described above include,
but are not limited to, acts of nature, fire, pandemic, U.S.
about this handbook Government restrictions, wars, and insurrections.
The Parent and Student Handbook (the “Handbook”) is
intended as a general guide for families to the policies,
procedures and personnel at Gilman. Please take the time to modifications to the
carefully review this Handbook, including reviewing it with school’s programs,
your children. It is important that families understand the curriculum, and
School’s expectations and policies, and that families know
to whom they can direct their questions or concerns.
activities
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the School may make
Please understand that this Handbook is intended only to
modifications as necessary to promote health and safety
highlight current policies, practices, and procedures. The
to carpool, arrival and dismissal times, lunch and snacks
policies and procedures set forth herein are intended as
and certain activities, including after-school activities,
general guidelines—specific situations may call for handling
interscholastic sports, clubs, and tutoring. On-campus
a matter in a manner different from that described herein,
volunteer opportunities, as well as classroom parties,
depending upon the particular facts and nature of the
assemblies, large gatherings, and other in-school events
situation. However, it would be nearly impossible to review
may also be limited or cancelled at the School’s discretion
every element of every policy, or every possible scenario and
to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 on campus. The
outcome. Rather, this Handbook serves as a series of policy
School will provide as much advance notice of such changes
summaries to keep your family better informed.
to parents as possible. In enrolling their child at Gilman,
In addition, circumstances will require that the policies, parents understand that their decision is not contingent
practices, and procedures described in the Handbook may upon any particular program, curriculum, employee, or
change from time to time. Gilman reserves the right to enrollment level, and understand that the School retains
modify or change any or all such policies, practices, and the right to change the School’s programs, curriculum, or
procedures in whole or in part, at any time, with or without workforce at its discretion.
notice. The School will make every attempt to give timely
notice of substantive changes in policy. Should events which
are beyond the School’s reasonable control and which occur
without its fault or negligence necessitate a closure, delay,
or modification of its educational programs and activities,
the family’s obligations as outlined in this Handbook, as
set forth in the Enrollment Agreement, and/or as otherwise
established by the School shall continue. The School shall
page 4covid-19 handbook addendum
supporting the ability visitors
of students with Effective immediately, to reduce the population on campus
disabilities to and assist with social distancing, visitors (including parents,
participate in the child care providers or other family members of students)
program are not permitted on campus. This includes but is not
limited to any and all School buildings, School fields and
Consistent with its policy prohibiting discrimination, playgrounds or other School property. During drop off
the School is committed to ensuring that students with and pick up, drivers are not to leave their cars, must wear
disabilities are provided with equal access to its programs, masks, and respect the obligation of faculty and staff to
whether such programs are provided on-campus or through maintain social distancing. Parents, guardians and child-
distance-learning. The School will provide accommodations care providers picking up a student during the school day
and modifications to ensure a disabled student has equal must coordinate that pickup with the nurse, a teacher or
access to the School’s services. Should a student need an administrator. Unless otherwise specifically agreed upon,
accommodation, the School will make an individualized the student should be picked up at outside of his school
determination of the student’s needs and an accommodation building. Parents or students who wish to bring a visitor
plan will be developed. to campus must obtain prior written approval from their
respective Division Head or the Headmaster. Subject to
the Director of Enrollment Management’s prior written
student attendance consent, campus visits for candidates for admission and
Unless otherwise directed by the Division Head or the their families may be scheduled outside of regular School
Headmaster, the School’s normal attendance requirements hours. All approved visitors must comply with the School’s
and absence notification procedures shall continue to apply protocol when on campus. This includes wearing a
at all times during the 2020-2021 school year, including protective mask, maintaining social distance, disinfecting
during any periods of distance-learning. your hands prior to entering the building and confirming a
lack of symptoms or fever.
dining hall, lunch,
and snacks
Boxed lunches will be provided by Flik. Parents will be
responsible for ordering a week’s worth of meals by the
Friday before (an email reminder will be sent each week
with a form to fill out).
If your child brings his own lunch to School, be sure that
the food containers provided are easily opened by your
child. Students should bring their own utensils to school
and should not share food with others. A microwave is NOT
available. Parents are NOT to bring in fast food lunches for
their children. Additionally, please do not bring cupcakes,
balloons, or other treats for classes at lunchtime.
page 5gilman school student
participation in distance
learning policy
Gilman School will be utilizing several platforms, including Distance learning will be conducted both asynchronously
Zoom, Seesaw, the Google Suite, and our learning and synchronously (through live instruction). Interactions
management system Canvas to conduct lessons remotely via through online platforms may be recorded by your child’s
distance learning. Students will participate virtually in their teacher for educational purposes and may be shared with
classes, communicate with classmates, teachers, and other other students or employees of the School. As a result,
School employees, and receive other support services they your child’s image, likeness, or voice may be recorded while
ordinarily receive from the School, including individual he (or she, in the case of our Upper School coordination
and group meetings with teachers and advisors, as well program) is participating in distance learning via Zoom.
as other forms of academic support. Most students will Recording of the class or other on-line interactions with a
have access to these platforms by using their school-issued student or students may not be recorded in any manner by
email address. Younger students may have access through anyone other than a representative of the School without
a parent’s or guardian’s email address. We anticipate that permission in writing from a division head or head of
the majority of distance learning will take place during school. Failure to comply with this restriction may result
the school day, though acknowledge that there may be in disciplinary action of the student regardless of who made
exceptions to this timeframe. the recording, including but not limited to removal from the
The education provided by the School through Distance School.
Learning is considered a continuation of the School’s Parents understand that distance learning classrooms are
educational program. The rules and responsibilities of the designed to mimic the in-person classroom environment in
student are the same as if the student was participating a virtual setting to the extent possible. While we understand
in learning on-campus. Students are expected to attend students may be in shared spaces while engaging in distance
scheduled online meetings in a timely manner, prepare learning, parents and other students or adults in the
in advance for the lesson and participate in a meaningful household should refrain from joining or auditing classes
and respectful manner. Tests, assignments, and other unless invited or with prior approval by the teacher.
assessments that may be performed will count towards a In limited circumstances, one-on-one video communication
student’s grade in the same manner as if it had occurred may take place when a group meeting or email is not
when distance learning was not in effect. As applies at sufficient. All video communications must take place during
all times, students are expected to do their own work in regular school hours using the online platforms provided by
compliance with the School’s rules related to cheating, the School and should be scheduled in advance whenever
plagiarism or other violations of the School’s Honor Code. possible. These meetings will not be recorded and will
The School’s Student and Parent Handbooks, including take place with prior email notification to the student’s
but not limited to the acceptable use policy, privacy policy, parent(s)/guardian(s).
and other policies and procedures related to electronic
communications, shall apply to your child’s participation in
distance-learning classes. You understand and acknowledge
that all of the School’s policies and procedures apply to
students while participating in distance learning, you will
communicate these responsibilities to your child(ren),
and you will ensure that your child(ren) complies with all
School policies while participating in distance learning.
page 6student participation in distance learning policy
In summary,
• The 2020-2021 school year will offer classes via Distance
Learning starting on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 (with
an orientation day on Monday, August 31, 2020) using
Zoom, Seesaw, and Canvas, as well as other online tools.
Please see our 2020-2021 Return to Campus webpage
for more information on Distance Learning.
• Policies and procedures in the Handbooks continue to
be in effect, including but not limited to:
• Expectations for academic honesty, including the
Honor Code as stated in each division’s student
handbook,
• Acceptable use and privacy policies, and
• Bullying and harassment policy.
• Group and one-on-one consultations will continue to
occur between students and teachers, advisors, learning
specialists, counselors, deans, and administrators during
regular school hours.
• Teachers/Administrators may record classes (not
advisory sessions or 1:1 meetings) to facilitate the
review of direct instruction for students who are absent
or who need reinforcement.
• Students should not record classes or meetings.
While minimal, there may be risks related to the use of
online platforms. You may review the Privacy Policy and
Terms of Use for Zoom. The School’s privacy policy can
be found here. It is important that parents/guardians
recognize and accept those risks as we continue with
distance learning. Your child’s participation in school
starting on the first day of the 2020-2021 academic year,
Tuesday, September 1, 2020 (with an orientation day on
Monday, August 31, 2020), serves as your acknowledgment
and understanding of the distance learning program and
agreement to the terms and conditions of the program and
the obligation to comply with the policies as described in
this policy.
page 7return to campus
policy for students
COVID-19 has been declared a worldwide pandemic by
the World Health Organization. While COVID-19 is very
health and safety
contagious, Gilman is taking precautions and implementing standards at school
safety measures to prevent its spread. All members of the It is imperative that all members of the Gilman community
Gilman community have a shared responsibility to support remain committed to the safety policies and procedures
and comply with policies and protocols to protect the to assist us in reducing risk of exposure to COVID-19 for
health and safety of our community. students, staff and faculty. The School expects families
The purpose of this Return to Campus Policy (the “Policy”) to comply with its Safety Protocols and the following
is to outline the safety measures Gilman students and requirements for a safe return to school:
their families will be expected to adhere to as they return • Daily Screening: On a daily basis, parents will be
to campus. In addition to this Policy, Gilman’s Task Force required to take their son’s temperature and answer
has also developed and implemented safety protocols and questions about symptoms and exposure. This
procedures in the Gilman Reopening Plan (the “Reopening information must be submitted via Gilman’s Magnus
Plan”), which can be accessed here. The Reopening Plan Health app before being allowed on campus. A student
more fully details the measures that Gilman is putting in who has a temperature higher than 100.0º F must not
place to mitigate the risk of the spread of COVID-19 as come to school.
Gilman reopens its campus with guidance from the Centers
• Wearing a Face Mask: Face masks must be worn to
for Disease Control and Prevention, Occupational Safety
school every day and must be worn at all times. Parents
and Health Administration, and in consultation with
should plan to provide masks that are well-secured and
medical experts, the Maryland Department of Health, the
constructed of cloth that fully covers a person’s nose
Baltimore City Health Department, and Gilman-specific
and mouth and fits snuggly to the sides of the person’s
data. The School will also weigh information from the
face. This does not include material with visible holes
Governor’s Office and the Maryland State Department of
or gaps like lace, knitted material, crochet, and/or mesh.
Education.
Face coverings with exhalation valves should not be
Both this Policy and the Reopening Plan may be revised used as they allow unfiltered air to escape. For more
or updated from time to time, as necessary or appropriate information, visit CDC: About Cloth Face Coverings.
and/or as the above-identified guidance. This Policy and We will have masks available for use by students who
the Reopening Plan, as revised from time to time, will be forget theirs.
in effect from August 1, 2020 until otherwise rescinded by
• Hygiene: Students must wash hands frequently
Gilman.
throughout the day, for at least twenty seconds,
Parents are expected to read, understand and adhere to including before and after meals and after using the
this Policy, and to ensure their child(ren) understand this restroom. Hand sanitizer will be placed throughout
Policy. Failure to comply with this Policy or the Reopening the school and can be used when hand washing is not
Plan may result in a student being sent home, disciplinary possible. Students should also cover their mouth and
consequences and or the removal of a student and his/ nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, or cough
her family at the discretion of the Head of School. Parents or sneeze into their elbow.
who have questions should contact the School Nurse, Edie
• Stay Home if Sick: If your child is sick, or is exhibiting
Mecham or your son’s Division Head.
symptoms of COVID-19, they may not attend classes in
person. Distance-learning will continue to be provided
to those students who are sick, unable, or unwilling
page 8return to campus policy for students
to attend on-campus classes. Parents must notify the least two (2) emergency contacts who are able to pick
School Nurse if their child tests positive for COVID-19, up your child from the School within 30 minutes of
must keep their child home and should consult a receiving a call from the school if your child presents
healthcare provider. The School Nurse in consultation with a temperature or becomes ill during the school day.
with the School’s health team and the Baltimore City
Health Department will provide the family with
directions about the student’s return to school. health and safety
• Stay Home if Exposed: If your son has been exposed, standards at home
if someone in your household tests positive for To help to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure at the
COVID-19, or you believe that your child has been in School, the School asks all families to limit their attendance
close contact with an individual who is infected with at gatherings, events (sporting and other), and other activities
COVID-19, you must notify the School Nurse and to those that can maintain social distancing, in accordance
should consult a healthcare provider. The School Nurse with the School’s Safety Protocol. Avoid hosting or attending
in consultation with the School’s health team and the large gatherings where proper social distancing measures are
Baltimore City Health Department will provide the not feasible. Practice and reinforce good hygiene practices
family with directions about the student’s return to at home. The School, at its discretion, may require a 14-day
school. quarantine if it is determined that students are engaging in
• Restricted Travel: Any student returning from out-of- risky behavior as mentioned above. In some circumstances,
state travel (international or within the U.S.), especially students might be required to submit proof of a negative
from areas where the local or state health department COVID-19 test result before returning to campus.
is reporting large or rapidly increasing numbers of
COVID-19 cases, or whose household members have
traveled to such an area, is required to follow the
privacy
Maryland Department of Health guidelines for testing The School respects the right to privacy of any student
and self-quarantining. The School Nurse should be who has a communicable disease. All student records
notified. or information regarding communicable diseases will
be confidentially maintained by the School Nurse. The
• Flu Shots: All students attending on-campus classes
student’s medical condition will be disclosed only to the
during the 2020-2021 school year are expected to receive
extent necessary to minimize the health risks to classmates,
a flu shot.
employees, and the greater School community.
• Vaccines: All students must receive all vaccinations
required under state law or submit a medical exemption
signed by the student’s healthcare provider.
• Students’ Personal Items: Limit the items your child
brings onto campus each day and reinforce policies
around sharing of food, supplies and other items with
other students.
• Medical Forms and Emergency Contacts: Parents must
complete and submit all required student medical forms
prior to the first day of school. Parents must provide at
page 9return to campus policy for students assumption of risk COVID-19 is very contagious and is believed to spread by person-to-person contact; and, as a result, federal and state health agencies recommend social distancing and various other measures to mitigate the risk of contracting the virus. Gilman has implemented reasonable preventative protocols, policies and procedures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Students and their families are expected to adhere to these protocols in order to reduce the risks of contracting or spread- ing the virus at Gilman. Despite the protocols and procedures in place to mitigate the risk of transmission of COVID-19 on campus, there are inher- ent risks that students and/or their families may become in- fected with COVID-19 due to the student’s participation in in person classes at Gilman. These risks include, but are not limit- ed to, the following: exposure to COVID-19, becoming infected with COVID-19, or becoming a symptomatic or asymptomatic carrier of the virus. It is possible that a student is already an asymptomatic carrier of the virus before and that the student may infect other students, employees, or other individuals at Gilman as a result of his attendance. Any person who receives a positive diagnosis of COVID-19, including a student or his fam- ily member, may encounter extended quarantine/self-isolation, additional tests, medical care, hospitalization, other potential complications, and the risk of death. By allowing their child to participate in classes on campus, parents understand, acknowl- edge and voluntarily assume these risks. page 10
The Home and School Partnership
Social Responsibility During COVID-19 Is Essential
THE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN HOME AND SCHOOL IS ESSENTIAL IN HELPING
TO ENSURE A SAFE AND HEALTHY CAMPUS FOR EVERYONE. OUR GILMAN
COMMUNITY HAS A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF
ILLNESS, ESPECIALLY COMMUNICABLE DISEASES.
To help reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure at Gilman, the School expects all families
to AVOID:
• Hosting or attending gatherings, events, and other high-risk activities where proper social
distancing and mask wearing are not practiced.
• Attending rec and club sporting events and any other large affairs where social distancing
and mask wearing are not practiced.
• Unnecessary travel. Any student returning from out-of-state travel (international or within
the U.S.), especially from areas where the local or state health department is reporting large or
rapidly increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases, or whose household members have traveled to
such an area, is required to follow the Maryland Department of Health guidelines for testing
and self-quarantining. The School Nurse should be notified.
Families who engage in high-risk behavior, as described above, should
switch to remote learning and remain home for 14 days. The School
will enforce this policy if we learn about any such behavior.
In some circumstances, students might be required to submit proof
of a negative COVID-19 test result before returning to campus.
The School expects that families WILL:
• Wear masks in accordance with state and local guidelines.
• Practice and reinforce hygiene measures at home, like handwashing and covering
coughs and sneezes.
• Keep their son at home at the first sign of any illness.
Thank you for your continued partnership as, together, we navigate these uncharted waters.
The health and safety of our community members are top priorities. We are in this together.
page 11table of contents i. philosophy and objectives......................................................................................................................................14 School Mission............................................................................................................................................................................................14 Philosophy and Objectives..................................................................................................................................................................14 Code of Ethics..........................................................................................................................................................................................14 School History.........................................................................................................................................................................................15 ii. academics....................................................................................................................................................................................16 Academic Policies...................................................................................................................................................................................16 Four Year Requirements.......................................................................................................................................................................17 Grading Scale............................................................................................................................................................................................17 Statement on Curriculum....................................................................................................................................................................17 Drop/Add Policy......................................................................................................................................................................................17 Homework.................................................................................................................................................................................................18 Policy Regarding School Work on Religious Holidays............................................................................................................18 Communication with Non-Custodial Parents.............................................................................................................................18 iii. behavior polices/code of conduct.........................................................................................................19 Honor..........................................................................................................................................................................................................19 Honor Committee..................................................................................................................................................................................19 Community of Inclusion and Equity..............................................................................................................................................19 Anti-Racism Statement.........................................................................................................................................................................20 Common Principles of Courtesy and Good Manners...............................................................................................................20 Upper School Disciplinary System..................................................................................................................................................21 Policy Regarding Alcohol and Other Drug Use...........................................................................................................................21 Policy on Sexual Harassment.............................................................................................................................................................22 Acceptable Use Policy...........................................................................................................................................................................23 Behavior Rules and Regulations........................................................................................................................................................24 Dress Regulations...................................................................................................................................................................................25 Absences/Lateness/Attendance.........................................................................................................................................................25 Injury and Sickness Procedures.........................................................................................................................................................26 Permissions and Off-Campus Privileges........................................................................................................................................27 Parking / Automobiles..........................................................................................................................................................................28 Gilman Students Driving to Bryn Mawr or Roland Park........................................................................................................28
table of contents
Tri-School Bridge Policy......................................................................................................................................................................28
Response to Disciplinary Infraction...............................................................................................................................................29
• Detention.........................................................................................................................................................................................29
• Demerits............................................................................................................................................................................................29
• Formal Warnings ..........................................................................................................................................................................29
• Suspension.......................................................................................................................................................................................29
• Expulsion..........................................................................................................................................................................................30
Judiciary Procedures..............................................................................................................................................................................30
Judiciary Committee..............................................................................................................................................................................30
iv. student life............................................................................................................................................................................31
Student Government.............................................................................................................................................................................31
Advisors......................................................................................................................................................................................................31
Class Officers 2020-2021......................................................................................................................................................................31
Honor Committee..................................................................................................................................................................................32
Diversity Council....................................................................................................................................................................................32
Community Service................................................................................................................................................................................32
School Spirit.............................................................................................................................................................................................33
Covenant for Safety & Health...........................................................................................................................................................33
Personal Property and School Property.........................................................................................................................................34
Extracurricular Activities....................................................................................................................................................................34
Assembly.....................................................................................................................................................................................................34
v. athletics.......................................................................................................................................................................................35
Sportsmanship.........................................................................................................................................................................................35
Athletics......................................................................................................................................................................................................35
Athletic Excuses/Absences..................................................................................................................................................................36
vi. schedules and procedures..................................................................................................................................37
Exam Guidelines.....................................................................................................................................................................................37
Schedules....................................................................................................................................................................................................38
Snow Closing Schedules......................................................................................................................................................................39
School Emergency Procedures...........................................................................................................................................................39
• Fire......................................................................................................................................................................................................39
• School Inspection..........................................................................................................................................................................39
• School Lockdown..........................................................................................................................................................................39
page 13philosophy and objectives
school mission code of ethics
Gilman is a diverse community dedicated to educating boys Adherence to a code of ethics based upon sound moral
in mind, body, and spirit through particular emphasis upon values, respect for others and their rights, and commitment
academic excellence, athletic participation, and aesthetic to the development of the best that is within us have never
appreciation. Gilman seeks to produce men of character been more important. In the spirit of these basic thoughts,
and integrity who have the skills and ability to make a it is important at the very outset of reading this Handbook
positive contribution to the communities in which they live for each of us to reflect upon the basic philosophy and
and work. objectives to which the School aspires.
philosophy and The following principles are taken directly from the
objectives Gilman Philosophy as approved by the Faculty and Board of
Trustees:
Gilman’s commitment to the development of mind,
body, and spirit emphasizes the central importance of 1. Gilman is dedicated to helping students prepare
educating the whole boy in every facet of his personality. themselves for a life of involvement and service.
Gilman’s rigorous academic program is founded on a core 2. Gilman encourages a self-motivating interest in
curriculum designed to emphasize the value of a strong learning, and its curriculum is designed to help students
work ethic, critical thinking skills, effective oral and written acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to think
communication, active engagement in the arts, and lifelong rationally, critically, and independently.
enjoyment of intellectual pursuits. Our required athletic 3. The importance of character, integrity, self-respect, and
program is based on the belief that through the cultivation concern for others is considered of central importance.
of physical vigor and wellness, boys learn the value and 4. Gilman believes in the spiritual and ethical values of the
meaning teamwork, resilience, competitive spirit, humility, Jewish and Christian traditions but welcomes members
tolerance and sportsmanship. The school also nourishes of all religions and subscribes to a belief in God and the
and affirms the fundamental importance of spirituality, dignity and worth of each individual.
not merely in the abstract, academic sense, but also in 5. Through a diverse student body, faculty, and staff,
observance and practice, for the formation of an integrated Gilman wishes to expose its students to broad
personality. intellectual and cultural opportunities and to promote
positive human relationships and an understanding and
Above all else, Gilman School seeks to help boys grow appreciation of people of different races, backgrounds,
into men of character. We believe that the qualities of religions, talents, and gender.
honor, leadership, dedication, and service to others must 6. Extracurricular activities are designed to promote
be emphasized and reinforced through all aspects of the a variety of opportunities for self–expression,
school community. To that end Gilman adheres to a development of responsibility, further cultivation of
comprehensive honor code, a service learning program, and aesthetic tastes, and accomplishment.
a commitment to diversity in all of its forms. 7. Gilman’s athletic program is designed to promote
physical fitness and enjoyment, self-discipline, and
above all, principles of fair play.
page 14philosophy and obejctives
school history Dr. Gilman was neither a founder nor a trustee, but he was
greatly interested in the School and gave invaluable advice
to Mrs. Carey and the Founders. In 1951 the name was
The School was established in 1897 and is said to be the
shortened to simply “Gilman School.” In 1947, Bradford
first country day school in the United States. It grew from
Jacobs, of the class of 1938, a distinguished editor for the
the idea of a Baltimore mother, Mrs. Francis King Carey,
Baltimore Sun, wrote a history of the School entitled
who gained the support and advice of many distinguished
Gilman Walls Will Echo which is available in the library.
citizens of Maryland.
A centennial history of Gilman School, Gilman Voices
edited by Patrick Smithwick, class of 1969, is also available
Mrs. Carey believed that there was need in the city for a
in the library.
school which would be as strong academically as any of the
famous boarding schools and which would also provide
Under the direction of the Department of Libraries, the
every boy with opportunities for healthful participation in
Gilman Archives provides the School with an interesting
sports in a country atmosphere. By such a program the boys
and informative link to its rich past. The Archives was
would have all the advantage of living at home. From its
established permanently in September, 1974, and is located
founding to the present, the School has followed this full-
in Carey Hall. The goal of the Archives is to organize all
day program of classes, study activities, and sports for every
memorabilia in such a way that present and future Gilman
boy during the afternoon period.
generations may find what they want easily and quickly.
Included in the Archives are photographs, both academic
At first the School was known as “The Country Day School
and athletic, newspaper clippings concerning the School
for Boys.” It was located at Homewood in the historic
and its alumni, documentary and historical material, and
Carroll mansion on land that is now part of the Johns
past and present copies of school publications including
Hopkins University campus. After the University acquired
the School’s newspaper, literary magazine, and yearbook.
the property, the trustees foresaw that it would not be
practical to continue in rented facilities. They set about
If anyone has an item that has any connection with
searching for a site that could be bought, and in 1909 moved
Gilman’s past or present, no matter how trivial it may
the school to its present spacious location on the corner
seem, please donate it to the Archives. The item may be
of Northern Parkway and Roland Avenue. In December
an important artifact of great significance to the School.
of that year the name of the School became “The Gilman
The Archives is open during school hours and invites any
Country School for Boys” in honor of Dr. Daniel Coit
member of the Gilman community to stop by and enjoy a
Gilman, the first president of Johns Hopkins University.
glimpse into Gilman’s past.
page 15academics
academic policies students struggle academically, progress reports and
other communications will describe the supportive
measures in place and the changes necessary to remedy
i. written policies and procedures
the situation. If required, the Student Support Team,
pertaining to graduation.
beginning with the respective Form Chair, will meet
with the family to clarify concerns and articulate
A. The granting of credits for programs other than those
an action plan. The Upper School Head will review
offered during the regular school day and year.
first semester grades in January, and students will be
placed on Academic Probation at her/his discretion.
Policy Statement: A student must obtain prior approval from
Low achievement and/or an inability to demonstrate
the school before he may receive credit for programs other
improvement may result in a decision to withhold a
than those offered during the regular school day and year.
student’s reenrollment contract; this decision, conveyed
in a letter from the US Head, will include specific
B. The granting of credit for courses taken in
stipulations for continued enrollment and advancement
grade 8.
to the next grade.
Policy Statement: Gilman does not grant credit for high
iii. written policies and procedures
school level courses taken before the ninth grade.
on protecting the right of privacy
of pupils and their parents and
C. early college entrance
guidelines to, and release of,
records of individual pupils.
Policy Statement: In the event that a student elects to
enter college before completing all Gilman graduation
Policy Statement: Pupils’ records are available for
requirements, he may receive his Gilman diploma upon
examination by parents, by guardians, or by students who
successful completion of his first year in college, provided
have reached their eighteenth birthday. Requests to examine
that among his college courses are those that fulfill the
records should be made in writing and addressed to the
School’s requirements for graduation. Students must receive
Headmaster. A log of all requests will be maintained by the
permission from the school before pursuing this option.
School. Release of pupil records will be made only on the
written consent of eligible parties.
ii. written policies and procedures
regarding the progression of pupils.
iv. written policies and procedures for
issuing transcripts of performance
Policy Statement: Students are expected to complete their
information.
total program satisfactorily each year. In the event of
failures (grades below 70) or incomplete grades, however,
Policy Statement: When a pupil withdraws from School
students are required to make up the work in an approved
for any reason, a transcript of information relating to his
summer program or to repeat the course.
performance shall be provided by the Headmaster or by one of
his designated assistants upon the request and permission of
Academic Probation: Students work closely with their
a parent or guardian or of a student once he has reached his
teachers and their advisors as they manage the rigorous
eighteenth birthday.
academic expectations of the Upper School. If/when
page 16academics
four year requirements statement on
curriculum
Every spring the advisors of 9th to 11th Graders will meet
with each student to discuss individual schedules of courses Gilman is a community in which teachers are trusted
for future years at Gilman. These meetings ensure that to present information that will promote personal and
students, parents, and advisors agree on the required and academic growth in their students and that will promote
elective courses for each individual. mastery of various subject matter. Likewise, students are
trusted to consider thoughtfully the information presented
Basic minimum requirements are: to them. Gilman teachers choose material that they deem
• 4 years of English appropriate and that possesses educational merit. Through
• 3 years of Mathematics* the examination of texts the school hopes to nurture
• 3 years of approved Foreign Language • Growth of students’ factual knowledge, literary
• 2 years of Laboratory Science* appreciation, aesthetic values and ethical standards
• World Cultures, European History, and • Development, under guidance, of critical analytical
United States History skills through exposure to differing sides of issues.
• Art & Music Historyn • Exploration of the possibilities of various theories,
• Athletics each season° themes and genres.
• 50 Hours of Approved Community Service**
• Minimum of 6 courses (credits) per semester for
freshmen and sophomores; minimum of five courses drop/add policy
per semester for juniors and seniors.
The latest date to change a course is the first day of the
*In order to satisfy the State of Maryland graduation second 10-day cycle. When dropping a course, a student
requirements, students must take a total of six credits of must remain in that class until he has received official
math and science combined. notification of the change (i.e., a new schedule in his
mailbox). Permission to add or drop courses must be
n
Students taking two languages for three years are exempted obtained from the Head of Upper School and the Registrar.
from the art and music requirement.
°Seniors are required to take a minimum of two seasons of
athletics.
**The community service requirement must be completed
before the start of senior year.
grading scale
90-100 Outstanding Performance
85-89 Superior Performance
80-84 Solid Performance
70-79 Satisfactory Performance
69 and below Unsatisfactory Performance/Failure
page 17academics
homework policy regarding
school work on
A primary purpose of homework is to develop a student’s religious holidays
power to think. To the extent that he relies on another
person’s thinking to do his homework, he is hampering his There are some religious holidays on which school remains
own development. in session. On these days teachers are to be sensitive to
those boys who celebrate these holidays, and no homework,
If, after conscientious effort to do his homework himself, tests or quizzes should be assigned. We will also make every
he feels greatly in need of help, he may receive it, but effort to notify teachers and coaches of fasting practices
remember that a small amount of help from an experienced related to religious holidays. Students are asked to notify
teacher will frequently be enough. teachers when religious obligations will prohibit the
completion of academic work.
Outright copying of another student’s work, in whole
or in part, with the intention of submitting the copied
material as a student’s own is a violation of the honor code. communications with
Teachers may permit students to seek help on homework, non-custodial parents
but students should never simply copy the work of others.
Teachers may assign certain homework on which no Gilman’s first obligation is to its students. Regardless of
assistance may be obtained. The conditions under which whether a child’s parents are married, separated, or divorced,
this is done will be clearly outlined by the teacher. we believe that a healthy partnership with both parents is
in the boy’s best interest. In cases of separation or divorce,
Comments made here about how to do homework are not we continue to communicate with both parents unless
intended to make students feel that they should work in a we are presented with a court order barring one parent
vacuum. On the contrary, general discussion of any course, from associating with his or her child. This means that
and general reading connected with it, is encouraged. both parents will receive report cards, interim reports, and
Students with questions about homework policies should general mailings, regardless of who is paying the bills. It is
check with their classroom teachers. the responsibility of each parent to make sure the school
has his or her current address, phone numbers, and e-mail
In general, teachers will take the regularity and quality of addresses.
homework preparation into account as they determine the
student’s grade for the course. When an important issue necessitates short notice, we will
attempt to reach both parents. The school wishes to stay
The school maintains a test policy that states that students out of marital conflicts and settlements; we ask parents not
are required to take no more than two tests on one day. If to pull teachers or administrators into the middle of such
a student finds that he has more than two tests on a given disputes.
day, he should take the two that were assigned first and
coordinate a time with the third teacher for a make-up date. Some situations warrant calling or writing the custodial
parent only. They include – but are not limited to – calls
that a boy is feeling sick, routine announcements (field
trips, homework assignments, special dress requirements,
etc.), and special requests. We will use our judgment about
which kinds of issues both parents want and need to know.
To strengthen communication, we ask that both parents
provide the Upper School office with their home and work
e-mail addresses as well as phone numbers.
page 18behavior policies
code of conduct
honor the honor committee
Since the school’s inception in 1897, the importance of The Honor Committee is responsible for promoting and
honor and integrity has served as a foundation of the enforcing the Honor Code. This group of students and
Gilman community. Honor is the most important quality faculty convenes when necessary to determine if someone
in a person’s character. The successful day to day life of the has violated the tenets of the Honor Code and what would
school community depends on the trust and mutual respect be an appropriate disciplinary response. The Honor
fostered by honorable conduct. The School has established Committee comprises the following:
an Honor Code forbidding lying, cheating or stealing to
help guide members of the school community in their faculty
daily actions. This code is published separately from the • Chair: Mr. Kevin Hudson
student Handbook and is distributed to each student at the • Faculty Representative: Mr. Vincent Dinoso
beginning of the school year. • Form Chair of student(s) coming before committee
• Head of Upper School will be an observer of
An Honor Code is basic to the respect and goodwill under proceedings
which the School operates from day to day. It is our duty
and responsibility to celebrate and uphold the Honor Code students
and to conduct ourselves in accordance with its principles • President of the School
and ideals. The School expects nothing less from the • Senior Class Prefects (3)
members of the Gilman community. • Junior Class Prefects (3)
• Sophomore Class Prefects (2)
All members of the Gilman community are expected • Freshman Class Prefect (1)
to conduct themselves with honor, and each student is •
expected to write and sign the following pledge after each
graded assignment: “As a gentleman, I have acted honorably on community of
this assessment.” inclusion and equity
Gilman, as a school, has, for several generations, taken
the lead on matters of diversity, inclusion and equity. We
continue to build on that legacy through our steadfast
commitment to diversity, inclusion and equity programs and
initiatives on local, state and national levels. Gilman does
not exist in a vacuum but rather is integrally connected to
the Baltimore metropolitan area, and through our vigorous
efforts to serve the greater community, we seek to break
down barriers that cause conflict and injustice, and to equip
our students with the tools to help them become better
citizens. Gilman is committed to ensuring that a robust
educational experience is afforded to all students regardless
of any cultural or social identifier. Our commitment to
diversity and inclusion is founded upon the belief that
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