Westminster School After-School Care Program and Summer Fun Camp

The school’s philosophy springs from deeply held beliefs about human potential and responsibility, which are drawn from the Classical tradition of Western civilization and humanist philosophy. These ideals form a standard against which all aspects of Westminster’s curriculum and policies are measured, and underlie the core beliefs of Westminster School:

We believe that all people, regardless of gender, race, religion, nationality, or other differences, can agree upon essential, human values that they wish to pass on to their children. Among these are respect, tolerance, kindness, self-discipline, a strong work ethic, integrity, and the love of learning. We believe in the essential goodness and forward-striving nature of children who, if properly motivated and imaginatively taught, are capable of the highest levels of achievement in all areas of endeavor. We believe that civility, courtesy, and good manners are the essential foundation for all human interaction and participation in society. We believe that genuine freedom can only be achieved through self-discipline, and that discipline is acquired through guidance and practice. We believe that enthusiasm, industry, and perseverance are the keys to success. We believe that challenge is necessary for growth and that high expectations, lovingly and firmly held, result in achievement and genuine self-esteem. We believe in the importance of developing mind, body, and spirit, and of striving for balance among these energies. We believe in the power of great works of art to transform the individual. We believe that creativity is the essential act of the human spirit, and that engagement in the arts is a lifeline for self-discovery, self-expression, and connectedness with the world.