At GFA, we are rooted in relationships. We know that trusting, authentic relationships are the foundation of student learning. Research shows that just one trusted adult can make a profound difference in a young person’s life—shaping positive growth, increasing engagement at school and in the community, improving overall health, and even preventing risky behaviors. Lucky for us, our students are surrounded by many trusted adults—teachers, advisors, coaches, mentors—who take this responsibility seriously every day.
This preseason, we brought that commitment into focus with a joint professional learning session during faculty/staff orientation, where Upper School faculty and athletic coaches gathered side by side for an interactive workshop with Dr. Brooklyn Raney, founder of One Trusted Adult. Together, we explored practical tools and strategies for deepening trust with students and athletes while strengthening the partnership between the classroom and athletic fields.
Bringing faculty and coaches together for professional learning reflects our strategic direction to make space and time to connect and collaborate. Jennifer Harris, Associate Director of Athletics, says, “When we come together across roles, we model the very collaboration and teamwork we hope to see in our students.”
Dr. Raney’s session emphasized:
- Simple tools for building authentic, lasting relationships with young people.
- Clear expectations and alignment
- Partnerships of many trusted adults, because the only thing better than one trusted adult is surrounding a student with many.
The message was clear: from educators to coaches, from mentors to family members, every adult who interacts with a young person carries both the privilege and the responsibility of shaping their growth. As Upper School Head Ward Abel affirmed, “By prioritizing relationships, we create the conditions for students to do hard things and for deep learning to thrive.”
At GFA, we continue to prioritize this work because it lies at the heart of who we are. This professional learning experience was more than a preseason workshop—it was a validation of our values: building true partnership, leaning on one another as colleagues, and ensuring every student feels known, loved, and seen.