GRACE scholars kick off tenth summer with record enrollment

A record seventy-three GRACE Scholars assembled on the Circle this past weekend to begin the program’s tenth summer of academic challenge and enrichment. 

Started in 2016, the optional GRACE (GRoton Accelerate Challenge Enrich) program is designed to prepare rising Fourth Formers for the rigors of Upper School. The flexibility of the curriculum helps all participants reach their full potential, whether that involves filling a preparation gap or accelerating access to more advanced courses. The four-week schedule also features a healthy dose of recreation, art, and off-campus activities. 

The inaugural cohort in 2016 had twenty-two students. This year’s record enrollment continues the trend of growing popularity for GRACE. Many former scholars have cited the program as a key reason for academic success in later years, and for bringing them closer together with their formmates.     

Most GRACE Scholars take two courses, choosing among math, science, English, Latin, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Modern Global History.

 

All GRACE classes are led by Groton School faculty, and this summer’s group once again includes Headmaster Temba Maqubela, who will teach science. Thirteen teaching assistants from the Forms of 2020, 2024, and 2025 will also participate; eleven of the thirteen were GRACE Scholars themselves.

The 2025 scholars will spend several hours each day on classroom learning, with afternoons spent with their formmates enjoying activities like swimming in the school pool, paddleboarding, and playing games such as Capture the Flag. Wednesday nights are for outings to enjoy such activities as bowling, miniature golf, the movies, and a trampoline park. Special off-campus weekend excursions are planned for Canobie Lake Park, the Boston Red Sox, and whitewater rafting in the Berkshires.

Groton’s assistant director of academic skills, Anna Martinez, will once again offer sessions on study skills each week, covering topics such as organization, time management, note taking, and test taking. 

Welcome to the 2025 GRACE Scholars!