Welcome Message from our Head of School
Let me tell you a little about an extraordinary place to learn. Pine Point has been educating children in Stonington, Connecticut since 1948. Nestled in a woodland-clearing near the shores of Southeastern Connecticut and only 5 miles from the Rhode Island border, Pine Point is a rigorous yet relevant academic community in which respect, integrity, moral courage, and excellence are deeply valued. An excellent school community depends on outstanding teachers, eager students, and supportive parents. Together, these create a dynamic partnership focused on excellence. This is Pine Point school, a dynamic partnership developing strong minds and caring hearts.
It is a school where 3 and 4 year olds begin their educational journeys, learning solid habits and establishing those vitally important social and intellectual roots upon which all subsequent learning will develop. Then for the next ten years, our children are guided through a carefully sequenced program of studies actively engaged both in the classroom as well as in the community. Whether wrestling with quadratic equations, giving oral defenses of their literary analyses, sampling coastline biota using the School's own research vessel, studying and performing segments of Homer's Odyssey, or presenting original art pieces at various area exhibits, Pine Point students distinguish themselves through rigorous involvement in their own learning. A Pine Point student is remarkably talented in many ways.
Inspired by an experienced and multi-talented faculty, few academic communities can boast such collective excellence or camaraderie. By the time our students graduate from ninth grade and continue their education at independent boarding and day schools as well as local public schools, Pine Point has effectively equipped these young adults with the confidence, leadership and habits of mind to excel in their uniquely chosen paths. And it is the success of our students beyond Pine Point that continues to affirm the School's mission.
Nearly two-thirds of our students tested have scored in the 97th, 98th, or 99th percentile on standardized testing, but we are proud to have successful students of all abilities. Honored as a National School of Character, we have a population of diverse experiences that serve to enrich the learning environment. We provide nearly 15% of our operating budget each year in financial support.
Pine Point is an excellent school because of its unique partnership among teachers, students, parents and the community. We are a dynamic partnership having collaborative initiatives with Roger Williams Zoo, Mystic Aquarium and the Dolphin Communication Project, Mystic Seaport, the Stonington Shellfish Commission, The Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center, the Department of Environmental Protection, Stanford University's Education Program for Gifted Youth, the homeless shelter in Groton, and the American School for the Deaf to name just a few. The student teacher ratio at Pine Point is 6 to one and our average class size is 11. The faculty work as a team and we model how to work together for the greater good. Supportive parental involvement sends a powerful message to the child regarding respect for learning and school. And we actively involve the students at various grades - to work and learn together. When you see an eighth or ninth grade student walking down the hallway with a first grader - hand in hand - preparing to read together or take a boat ride or come to a weekly morning meeting, you realize why Pine Point School is described as a family school. You better understand why the children really love our school and love to learn. I invite you to come visit us soon. Find out about the Pine Point difference for yourself.
Paul G. Geise, Head of School
