Sitting proudly in Chastain Park, the school recently unveiled “Galloway Forward,” a renovation and building project aimed at revitalizing the school campus and enhancing its learning environment. This initiative is grounded in the core principles of safety, excellence and innovation, reflecting the legacy of the school’s founder, Elliott Galloway. The project aspires to equip students with the tools and resources necessary to navigate and excel in an ever-changing world.

“To ensure that we never compromise the educational goals we set for our students, we have to have the necessary space to provide both a meaningful and mission-appropriate education,” says Dr. James Calleroz White, Galloway Head of School. “Galloway Forward illustrates our unwavering commitment to deliver on our mission and is a necessary step in ensuring Galloway students of today and tomorrow will be prepared to lead lives of purpose, agency and action.” 

Building for Excellence

At the heart of Galloway Forward is the construction of a new Upper Learning building, a testament to Galloway’s dedication to progressive education. This state-of-the-art facility will expand learning spaces without altering the campus footprint, providing enhanced classrooms, gathering areas, and outdoor venues conducive to collaboration and connectivity.

“Elliott Galloway envisioned a school environment that evolves with students’ needs,” says Gordon Mathis, Galloway Head of Community Engagement. “In 2024, this includes adequate technology infrastructure. Our current facilities lack the necessary outlets and electricity, and we must plan for future educational technologies.” details Gordon Mathis, Head of Community Engagement.

Creating a Unified Campus

A core objective of the project is to create a flexible and connected campus, evolving with the changing needs of its students and faculty. By enhancing security measures and fostering flexibility, Galloway Forward underscores the school’s commitment to unity and inclusivity.

“Our community is strong, open-minded, and uplifting. Our current campus is restricting, but the new project has community-building and connection space built in. From the large courtyard that will allow us to bring graduation back to campus and the new cafeteria where students can eat together to the beautiful outdoor spaces the students crave—community and spaces to build community are at the core of the new project,” elaborates Jenny Gruel, outgoing Galloway Board of Trustees Chair.

Renovating with Purpose

The campaign also focuses on renovating existing spaces, particularly in the Early Learning Building, to provide a stimulating environment for the youngest learners. Modernizing the Sims Building and reimagining the Library-Media-Learning Commons are key components of this effort, reflecting Galloway’s dedication to fostering academic and personal growth for every student.

“Galloway parents trust us to prepare their children for the future. Inspiration for that work is heavily influenced by the space the kids are in,” explains Koboi Simpson, incoming Galloway Board of Trustees Chair. “This project enables us to design and build an environment that is intentional and deliberately student-centered.”

Preserving Our Legacy

Galloway Forward honors the school’s rich heritage while creating interconnected spaces for the future. Elements from the cherished Gresham Building will be preserved and seamlessly integrated into new construction, maintaining the essence of the school’s culture and history.

“Preservation is essential in honoring the Gresham Building,” says Lane Shelton, Alumni and Community Connections Manager and Galloway alum ‘06. “By seamlessly blending elements of our past with the innovation of our future, we ensure that generations to come will continue to be inspired by the spirit and traditions of The Galloway School.”

Commitment to Community

A significant aspect of Galloway Forward is its alignment with broader community goals. Legislation is underway to designate the project as a Special Public Interest (SPI) District. This designation will ensure future developments adhere to community-approved zoning, permitted uses, and design guidelines, protecting the character of the neighborhood. The Galloway School is committed to working collaboratively with the city, neighborhood, park partners, and community members within the finite footprint of this project.

“This commitment underscores our dedication to providing personalized attention and fostering meaningful connections between students and faculty,” says Dr. Calleroz White. “”Once complete, our student enrollment will not change. This project is not about growing our student body, it is about providing the best possible facilities to meet the needs of students in the 21st century..”

Galloway Forward is more than a construction project; it is a commitment to the future of education, community and the enduring legacy of The Galloway School. Through this initiative, Galloway reaffirms its mission to nurture and empower students, ensuring they are well-prepared to lead lives of purpose and impact.