Welcome to Peddie School, a special place where students learn and grow in New Jersey. Peddie School is a famous boarding school located in Hightstown, Mercer County. It was founded in 1864 and has a beautiful campus spread over 280 acres. Let’s dive into what makes Peddie School unique and why it’s a great place for students!
Campus Life at Peddie School
At Peddie School, campus life is bustling with activities and opportunities for students to explore. The school’s sprawling 280-acre campus provides a picturesque backdrop for learning and living. Students at Peddie enjoy a blend of modern facilities and historic buildings, creating a unique atmosphere that fosters both academic and personal growth.
Exploring the Campus
The Peddie School campus is more than just a place to study—it’s a community. From the historic main buildings to the state-of-the-art athletic facilities, every corner of the campus offers something new to discover. Students can often be seen gathering in the quad, studying under shady trees, or engaging in lively discussions in the student center.
Residential Life
Many students at Peddie School live on campus, fostering a close-knit community where friendships thrive. Residential life plays a crucial role in the Peddie experience, with dormitories designed to feel like home away from home. Each dormitory has its own unique character, offering students a comfortable and supportive environment to live and study.
Extracurricular Activities
Beyond academics, Peddie School encourages students to explore their passions through a wide range of extracurricular activities. Whether it’s joining a sports team, participating in theater productions, or engaging in community service projects, there’s something for everyone at Peddie. These activities not only enrich student life but also teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management.
Student Diversity
Peddie School prides itself on its diverse student body, welcoming students from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning experience, allowing students to learn from each other’s perspectives and broaden their worldview. With students hailing from 26 different states and 29 countries, Peddie School truly celebrates global citizenship and cultural exchange.
History of Peddie School
Peddie School has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1864 as the Hightstown Female Seminary. Originally established as a school for girls by the American Baptist denomination, it later expanded to include boys and changed its name several times before becoming the Peddie School in 1923.
Founding and Early Years
The school was initially known as the Hightstown Female Seminary and admitted its first students in 1864. It was founded by the American Baptist denomination to provide education primarily for girls in the area. Over time, as educational needs and social norms evolved, the school began admitting boys as well, marking a significant shift in its mission and demographics.
Transition to Coeducation
In 1908, Peddie School made a decision to admit only boys, citing social and economic reasons prevalent at the time. However, in 1970, the school reversed this decision and began admitting girls once again. This marked a pivotal moment in Peddie’s history, reflecting changing attitudes towards coeducation and equal access to education.
Philanthropic Contributions
Throughout its history, Peddie School has benefited from generous philanthropic contributions that have enabled its growth and expansion. Notably, philanthropist Thomas B. Peddie made a substantial donation in 1872, leading to the school being named in his honor. Subsequent donations, such as those from Walter Annenberg in the 1980s and 1990s, further bolstered the school’s endowment and supported enhancements in facilities, financial aid, and academic programs.
Modern Era
Today, Peddie School continues to uphold its tradition of academic excellence and commitment to providing a well-rounded education for its students. With a focus on preparing students for college and beyond, Peddie School remains a beacon of learning and opportunity in Mercer County, New Jersey.
Academics at Peddie School
Peddie School prides itself on offering a rigorous academic program designed to prepare students for college and beyond. With a focus on comprehensive learning and individual growth, the school provides a wide range of courses and opportunities for academic exploration.
Curriculum and Courses
The academic curriculum at Peddie School is structured around a trimester system, dividing the school year into Fall, Winter, and Spring terms. Students typically take five courses per term, with options to enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) courses across various subjects. The school emphasizes a well-rounded education, requiring students to study English, mathematics, history, science, foreign languages, and the arts.
Advanced Placement (AP) Program
Peddie School offers an extensive AP program with 34 subjects available for students to pursue college-level coursework. In the 2020-2021 school year, over 120 students participated in AP classes, achieving an average exam score of 4.4 out of 5. The program not only challenges students academically but also prepares them for the rigor of college-level studies.
Signature Experience
One of the unique features of Peddie School is its Signature Experience program. This initiative allows students to delve deeper into their academic passions through research, internships, and independent projects. Starting in their sophomore year, students design their own academic journey, culminating in a significant research project during their junior and senior years. This hands-on approach to learning encourages creativity, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity among students.
Support and Resources
Peddie School is committed to supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom. The school provides academic advising, tutoring services, and study resources to help students excel academically. Additionally, small class sizes and dedicated faculty members ensure that each student receives personalized attention and guidance throughout their academic journey.
Extracurricular Activities at Peddie School
At Peddie School, education extends beyond the classroom through a vibrant array of extracurricular activities. These activities play a crucial role in enriching students’ experiences, fostering leadership skills, and promoting personal growth.
Sports and Athletics
Peddie School boasts a robust athletic program with opportunities for students to participate in various sports teams. From football and soccer to swimming and tennis, the school’s athletic facilities cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Competing in leagues such as the Mid-Atlantic Prep League, Peddie athletes learn the value of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Fine Arts and Performing Arts
For students with a passion for the arts, Peddie School offers a diverse range of fine arts and performing arts programs. The school’s theater productions, art exhibitions, and music performances showcase the talents of its students and provide creative outlets for artistic expression. Whether acting on stage or creating visual art, students have opportunities to explore and excel in their artistic endeavors.
Clubs and Organizations
This encourages students to explore their interests and pursue their passions through a variety of clubs and organizations. From debate club and environmental activism to robotics and community service clubs, there are numerous opportunities for students to get involved and make a difference both on campus and in the wider community. These clubs not only foster camaraderie among students but also instill leadership skills and a sense of civic responsibility.
Community Service and Volunteering
Giving back to the community is an integral part of the experience. Through community service projects and volunteering initiatives, students learn the importance of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. Whether participating in local clean-up efforts or organizing fundraisers for charitable causes, Peddie students actively contribute to making a positive impact on society.
Student Diversity at Peddie School
Diversity is a cornerstone of the community, enriching the educational experience and fostering a global perspective among students. The school celebrates diversity in all its forms, welcoming students from various cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Cultural Exchange and Global Citizenship
Peddie School prides itself on its diverse student body, which includes individuals from 29 different countries and 26 states across the United States. This cultural diversity not only enhances classroom discussions but also encourages students to learn from each other’s perspectives and traditions. Through cultural exchange programs and international student initiatives, Peddie students gain a deeper understanding of global issues and develop friendships that span continents.
Support for Diversity and Inclusion
it is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. The school actively promotes diversity through student-led initiatives, cultural awareness events, and diversity training programs for faculty and staff. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, Peddie School ensures that all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Community Engagement
Beyond the classroom, this encourages students to engage with diverse communities locally and globally. Through service-learning trips, outreach programs, and partnerships with nonprofit organizations, students have opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world issues. These experiences not only broaden students’ perspectives but also instill a sense of civic responsibility and empathy for others.
Celebrating Differences
At Peddie School, differences are celebrated as strengths that contribute to a dynamic and vibrant community. Students are encouraged to embrace their identities and share their unique backgrounds with peers. Whether through multicultural festivals, diversity workshops, or student-led affinity groups, Peddie School fosters a supportive environment where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated.
Campus Life at Peddie School
Campus life at is vibrant and engaging, offering students a wealth of opportunities to explore their interests, build friendships, and create lasting memories. From residential life to campus events, there’s always something exciting happening at Peddie.
Residential Experience
Many students at live on campus, fostering a close-knit community and providing a supportive environment for learning and personal growth. Residential life offers students the chance to develop independence, responsibility, and lifelong friendships. Dormitories are equipped with modern amenities, and resident advisors (RAs) provide guidance and support to students.
Student Activities and Events
Peddie School hosts a variety of student activities and events throughout the year, catering to diverse interests and passions. From academic clubs and athletic competitions to cultural celebrations and social gatherings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These activities not only enhance the student experience but also promote camaraderie and school spirit.
Traditions and Celebrations
Traditions play an integral role in campus life at School, connecting students across generations and creating a sense of belonging. Annual events such as Spirit Week, Founder’s Day, and the Potter-Kelley Cup football rivalry against Blair Academy are eagerly anticipated by students and alumni alike. These traditions foster a strong sense of pride and community spirit among the School community.
Support Services
It is dedicated to supporting the holistic development of its students. The school offers a range of support services, including academic advising, counseling, health services, and career guidance. Dedicated faculty and staff work closely with students to ensure their well-being and success both academically and personally.
Conclusion
Peddie School offers a rich and diverse educational experience that prepares students for future success. From its rigorous academic curriculum to its vibrant extracurricular activities, the school fosters a supportive environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Whether exploring their passions in the arts, excelling in athletics, or engaging in community service, students at Peddie School are encouraged to embrace their unique talents and contribute positively to the world around them.
At Peddie, diversity is celebrated, technology is embraced, and traditions are cherished, creating a dynamic community where every student can find their place. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to holistic education, Peddie School continues to uphold its reputation as a leading institution for learning and personal growth. As students graduate from Peddie, they carry with them not only knowledge and skills but also cherished memories and lifelong friendships, shaping them into confident and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
