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House Program

The House Program fosters a deep sense of belonging in an inclusive, caring, and supportive environment. Lower School faculty, staff, and second through fifth grade students are sorted into five “houses,” all of which build their own unifying sense of identity and community. The houses — Honestas (green), Virtus (yellow), Dignitas (orange), Humilitas (red), and Excellentia (purple) — enjoy lively biweekly meetings and trimester parties. The program includes athletic, academic, and artistic pursuits and promotes self-esteem, self-identity, belonging, and pride. Students enjoy engaging in activities and character-development lessons while collaborating with peers. Age is no barrier to our House Program community: Younger students look up to older students, and older students support the younger ones. Through shared goals, our House Program promotes deeply meaningful relationships and connections. (Early childhood students in pre-k through first grade participate in House Program activities and share experiences with “buddies” throughout the year until their official induction after winter break in first grade.)

The Lower School House Program initiative got underway starting in the 2021-2022 school year. Houses are named with Latin words that correspond with the "Gilman Five" — Honor, Integrity, Respect, Humility, and Excellence — words that comprise the code of ethical conduct at the School.

About Our Houses

Lower School assistant librarian Blair Exter created these House-inspired origami sculptures, on display at the Lower School's William Passano Library. Click on each House name to get a closer look.