Upper School Updates

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On Monday, our ninth graders participated in a full day of games and problem-solving activities with Outward Bound. It was great to see them tackle challenges together and strengthen their connections through teamwork and collaboration. Click here to see more photos. 

Semi-Formal: January 25, 2025
The 2025 Semi-Formal will take place on Saturday, January 25, from 7:30-10 p.m. at the Francis Marion Hotel. This dance is for all Upper School students. Students must arrive between 7:30 and 8:15 p.m. and may not leave until the conclusion of the dance at 10 p.m. Students may bring a non-Porter-Gaud guest. Students must have the guest form submitted by Friday, January 17, to Mr. Hilpert. If the guest form is not completed by this date, the outside guest will not be able to attend. Students can pick up guest forms in the front office or use this link. 

Preparing for 2025-2026 Re-Enrollment 
Re-enrollment contracts will be sent to all eligible families on Monday, February 3, and the re-enrollment window will be open from February 3-14. For more information about the contract timeline and schedule, withdrawals, re-enrollment eligibility, and tuition refund and payment plan options, please click here.

From the Nurse’s Office
We have seen an increase in flu, flu-like illnesses, and GI viruses on campus over the last two weeks.  As a reminder, any student who is feeling even slightly unwell should stay home from school.

Sick Policy 

• Any student who is absent due to illness must stay home until overall symptoms have improved and are fever-free for at least 48 hours without fever-suppressing medication, have no diarrhea or vomiting in the last 24 hours, and are well enough to participate in a full day of classes.
• Students who present with any flu-like or COVID symptoms at school will be sent home.
• If your child tests positive for COVID or the flu, please notify the nurse’s office at nurse@portergaud.edu for tracking purposes. 

Prevention Tips 

• Handwashing: The most effective defense against the spread of germs is handwashing. Using antiseptic soap for at least 20 seconds is best; however, hand sanitizer can be used when there is a time constraint.
• Flu Vaccination: The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu. We strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated against the flu. 

Upper School Spring Athletics
The spring sports season begins on Monday, January 27. Click here for more information on the offerings and how to sign up. 

Senior Yearbook Ads
If you'd like to purchase a senior yearbook ad, please click here. Ads can still be purchased until January 31, 2025. Prices are as follows.

• Full-page $595
• Half-page $350
• Quarter-page $250

You're Invited: Former NBA Player to Speak at PG
Chris Herren will visit campus on Thursday, January 30, to share an empowering and inspiring message about substance use education and prevention. He will speak to students in grades 7-12 during the school day and to parents and caregivers in the evening from 6-7 p.m. Click here to learn more about his program and to RSVP. We hope you can join us!

College Counseling Update: Service Academy Information Session
We will host a Service Academy Information Session on Wednesday, January 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Upper School Library. During the session, we will share relevant details about the different service academies and their application processes, which are very different from traditional universities. Since the application process begins during the 11th grade year, students and families from 9th, 10th, and 11th grade who are considering applying to service academies are encouraged to attend. Click here for more information. 

Service Opportunities

• Hurricane Helene Recovery: On January 24, PG will host a joint fundraiser with First Baptist to support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Click here for more information. 
• California Wildfires: Earlier today, our Upper School Service Club hosted a bake sale to benefit the American Red Cross and its response to the wildfires. Any families who would also make a donation may do so here. We will share additional ways to show support for recovery and rebuilding efforts in the coming weeks. 

From Our Chaplains
We also invite you to pray for those who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires in California: Heavenly Father, look with mercy upon all of those now threatened by the devastating fires of Southern California. Protect those who are in danger. Shield those who are risking their lives in the service of others. Guide our leaders, and give us the grace to be your hands and feet to those in need. This we pray in Christ's holy name, Amen."

Click here to read reflections from our chaplains, access recommended resources, and request prayer. 

Dining Update from Taher
Follow Taher on Instagram (@taherpgdining) to see the latest offerings in Washington Hall. You are also welcome to email dining@portergaud.edu with any questions or feedback. To access daily menus, please click here. 

From the PGPA

• Winter Meeting: All parents and caregivers are invited and encouraged to attend the PGPA Winter Meeting on Thursday, January 23, in Washington Hall at 8 a.m. 
• Concessions: Please click here to sign up for shifts and support our Cyclone sports teams.

Important Calendar Dates for Planning Purposes

• January 20: MLK, Jr. Day - School Closed
• January 22: Service Academy Information Session, 6:30 p.m.
• January 25: Semi-Formal
• January 30: PG Speaker Series: Chris Herren, 6 p.m.
• February 27-March 2: US Musical
• February 28: Pre-ACT (10th Grade)
• March 7: PSAT 8/9 (9th Grade)
• March 22, 2025: PGPA Spring Party, 4 p.m., John Singleton Stadium
• March 31 - April 4: Spring Break
• April 26: Prom