At Germantown Academy we believe there are many different modes to learning, and we are committed to promoting engaged learners by offering unique and varied opportunities for immersive learning among our students and faculty. GA Experience (GAXP) was piloted in 2017 and 2018 thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor and was offered at no cost to Upper School students.
To capture the interest of students and to encourage this deeper dive into learning to connect with our mission and the world in a meaningful way, two to four trips are designed each year in educational strands of service learning, nature, arts. The strands are planned for 12-18 students each, with a gender and age balance, and two faculty members per trip. To be considered for this exceptional program, students must apply and share in writing why they hope to participate.
One of the inaugural XP programs “Philadelphia’s Mural Art,” explored various neighborhoods and their unique collection of murals; engaged with and learned from Philadelphia’s artists, journeyed through Isaiah Zagar’s Magic Gardens; worked on an established Philadelphia mural project; and then developed a mural for our GA community – all in one week! In addition to the arts, GAXP trips have immersed participants into the world of music, backpacking, whitewater rafting,
eco-farming, working alongside other volunteers at a Habitat for Humanity site in Taos, New Mexico, and assisting with disaster relief in New Orleans and Puerto Rico.
"Being able to help others in need, learn about New Orleans, and experience New Orleans culture all in the span of only a few days was incredible and once in a lifetime. It was a rewarding experience that I hope everyone gets the chance to do someday." - Autem Burgess '21
