Interview with St. George's School PARENT, Jessica Hanick
- Name
Jessica Hanick - Child 1
Gr. 1 - Gr. 9 (Male, Current Day Student) - Child 2
Gr. 1 - Gr. 7 (Male, Current Day Student)
Jessica, a parent at St. George’s School, shared her perspective on the school’s transparent admissions process, strong community, individualized support for students, diverse learning opportunities, and emphasis on confidence and resilience. She discussed the school’s impact on shaping students' academic and personal growth.
Highlights from the interview
Both of my kids have been at St. George’s since their first year of eligibility, and I’ve seen great growth in both of them. They are very different kinds of kids, and yet the school has provided an environment that suits each of them.
The school recognizes both my sons’ individuality. We value that the school is structured, inclusive, and open-minded, with multiple ways to learn. My older son loves school—he enjoys everything about it, but I think a large part of his enthusiasm comes from the unique experience at St. George’s. The school has allowed him to adapt and has kept his interest because of how engaging they make the learning process. My younger son is different; he’s not naturally inclined toward school, but he enjoys going because he sees how the school supports him.
For my older son, the most valuable aspect of the school is the sense of community. He appreciates the inclusiveness and the fact that no matter what his closest friends are doing, they always come back together as part of this amazing group of people. My younger son values flexibility in learning. He appreciates that the school is structured but also open to different approaches, so students are not confined to a single way of learning.
The school offers so much more than just sitting at a desk and learning—it’s about the broader experience that includes clubs, activities, special outdoor education programs, teams, ... These elements create a rich and dynamic educational journey. St. George’s provides learning opportunities beyond the classroom, giving students different ways to engage with their education.
One of the most surprising aspects of St. George’s is its strong sense of community. When we first arrived, we were a young family with very young children, and we immediately felt welcomed. The community extends beyond students and teachers to include parents, caregivers, and even the surrounding neighborhood. Additionally, there is a vast alumni network that further enhances this feeling of inclusiveness. It’s a school that operates on a much larger scale than just the classrooms—it’s an entire network of support and connection.
St. George’s School instills confidence, respect, and resilience in its students. These kids truly know how to bounce back from challenges, and the school plays a crucial role in fostering that resilience. The school also emphasizes respect above all, ensuring that students grow into individuals who can navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence and integrity.
The typical St. George’s family is one that wants to be actively involved in the school community. It’s not just about dropping kids off and picking them up; it’s about participation and engagement. While parental involvement is not mandatory, over the years, we have seen families genuinely wanting to be part of the school experience. Many parents regularly attend events and volunteer to contribute to the school environment, making these moments special for students, staff, and the broader community.
I am incredibly proud of my kids’ experiences at St. George’s. At the end of each term, I see a sense of accomplishment in them. While they have won awards, I don’t measure their success by accolades. What makes me proud is seeing them walk out of school with a big smile, excited to share a great story on the drive home or at the dinner table. That joy and enthusiasm are the real markers of a meaningful education.
My experience with teachers and administration has been positive over the years. The teachers are approachable … Not everyone is naturally outgoing, but I’ve found that they all take the time to listen to questions or concerns. Leadership is also responsive; they take feedback seriously and genuinely work to understand the parent community. If they hear a consistent concern, they actively seek ways to improve the school, demonstrating a commitment to growth and responsiveness.
The first reason I would recommend St. George’s is that it provides an excellent education with full support for each child’s individual journey. Every teacher and advisor is dedicated to helping students find their path.
St. George’s helps students find their voice, whether through clubs, teams, or unexpected opportunities. This confidence and self-discovery carry them through to graduation and beyond. Although students wear a uniform, they each come out of the experience looking different. They develop in their own unique way.
For any new family searching for a school, my advice is not to choose based on popularity or where friends are going. Instead, find the school that is the right fit for your child. Do the research and make sure the school aligns with your child’s interests and future goals. A school shapes character and offers more than academics—it provides opportunities through clubs, sports, music, and extracurricular activities that help students grow in multiple dimensions.
If I could go back to school, I would love to have the experience that these kids have at St. George’s today. The school is always adapting to the times, ensuring students are prepared for the future. They are forward-thinking and committed to giving kids the best possible education and life preparation. St. George’s is not just keeping up—it is leading the way.
The admissions process at St. George’s was very transparent and straightforward. There were no blurry lines, and if I ever had a question, I could just email and ask. Unlike other schools I applied to, where I often felt unsure about the process, St. George’s was very supportive. Nobody kept us waiting, and everybody made an effort to acknowledge that this process can be overwhelming. They encouraged questions and were there to support us throughout.