Goddard Scholars Academy at South High

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Three students smiling in a school cafeteria

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Eighth Grade Open House

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

6:00 - 7:30 PM

South High Community School
170 Apricot St., Worcester, MA

Welcome to Goddard Scholars Academy at South

The Goddard Scholars Academy (GSA) is an academically accelerated program for gifted and talented students of the Worcester Public Schools. Students take the most rigorous courses beginning in grade 6 through 8 at Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School and in grade 9 through 12 at South High Community School.

The Goddard Scholars Academy at South High Community School is a continuation of the seven-year college preparatory accelerated academic program in collaboration with the Goddard Scholars Academy at Dr. Arthur F. Sullivan Middle School and Clark University. The Goddard Scholars, comprised of students from throughout the city of Worcester, are provided with an accelerated program in a safe, nurturing and personalized atmosphere.

Students are encouraged to develop pride, discipline and integrity in their work. Our curriculum lays the foundation for success in higher level coursework, including Advanced Placement classes, preparing students to excel in their future endeavors. Cornerstones of the foundation include: achievement of ability in self-expression through speaking, writing and social interaction, application of critical thinking and preparation for better citizenship.

While the GSA program is for students from grades 6-12, there are openings in Grade 9 for students to enter the program. Students entering the program in the 9th grade must submit an application providing grades and discipline records from grades 7 & 8 along with an essay. Applications will be scored and students with the highest scores will be notified by May 15th.

Goddard Scholars Academy Features

  • Each academic area follows the Massachusetts Common Frameworks at an accelerated pace.

  • All Goddard Scholars are enrolled in the Academy of Arts and Humanities

  • Math, Science, Language Arts and Social Studies courses are strongly emphasized

  • It is expected that all Goddard Scholars take 5 AP (Advanced Placement) courses.

Unique Components of the Goddard Scholars Academy

  • High Academic Expectations

  • Personal Accountability

  • In-Depth Course Work

  • Performing Arts Program

  • Community Service

  • Interactive Academic Field Trips

  • Affiliation with Music Worcester and Hanover Theater

  • Opportunity for a full tuition scholarship to Clark University upon completion of the 7 year program.

  • Award Winning Marching Band

  • World Language - Advanced curriculum, students in GS at Sullivan Middle School will begin with Spanish II or III.

South High has prepared me for college and beyond with its challenging course as well as its diverse environment. Though college is definitely harder than high school, I am able to use time management skills, study techniques, and knowledge from classes I learned at South. Because South is so diverse in many ways, it has helped me to be open to new people, new experiences, new ideas, and to see the value in each person. It has also helped me to realize just how much my peer and I have in common. I am so proud to be a South High alumna and I am grateful for the four years I spent there.

~ Tara Shea GSA student Class of 2014, Valedictorian, Yale Alumni  

Contacts

South High Assistant Principal Ms. Ally Houlihan oversees the Goddard Scholars Academy at South.

You can also contact any school counselor or search our school staff directory

Main Office: 508-799-3325; Fax: 508-799-8242

Guidance Office: 508-799-3331 or 508-799-3345

Administration Contacts

Guidance Counselors

School Adjustment Counselors

Wrap Around Coordinator