A Sisterhood from Day One: The GPS Cat-Rat Tradition
Starting middle school is a big milestone. New classrooms, new teachers, new routines—and for many girls, new friendships.
At Girls Preparatory School, no girl navigates that transition alone.
For more than 120 years, one of GPS's most cherished traditions has ensured every sixth-grader begins her journey with an instant connection. Through our beloved Cat-Rat program, each incoming sixth-grade student, known as a "Rat," is paired with a senior, or "Cat," creating a meaningful relationship that spans the oldest and youngest members of our school community.
Before the first day of school, Cats begin preparing to welcome their Rats. They decorate lockers, surprise them with notes and small gifts, and welcome them to the GPS sisterhood at the Cat-Rat Reveal.
As the year progresses, the connection grows. Cats perform with their Rats during the annual Cat-Rat Parade and check in throughout the year with encouragement, advice, and friendship. Whether it's answering questions about classes, celebrating milestones, or simply offering a smile in the hallway, Cats help their Rats feel known from the very beginning.
While the tradition is filled with joyful moments, its impact runs much deeper.
For a sixth-grader, having a trusted senior mentor helps transform what could feel overwhelming into something exciting. She gains confidence knowing there is someone looking out for her—someone who remembers exactly what it felt like to be new.
For the senior, serving as a Cat is equally meaningful. She learns to lead with empathy, invest in someone else's growth, and leave a legacy of encouragement for the next generation of GPS girls.
Together, these relationships create something that defines the GPS experience: a culture where girls genuinely support one another rather than compete with one another.
That sense of belonging extends far beyond sixth grade. Many Cat-Rat pairs remain close throughout their years at GPS and well into adulthood. In fact, the longest-lasting Cat-Rat friendship spanned more than 80 years—a testament to the lifelong bonds that begin within our school community.
At GPS, sisterhood isn't just something students talk about. It's something they experience every day.
When girls know they belong, they are more willing to ask questions, try new things, take healthy risks, and grow into confident leaders. They show up as their authentic selves because they know they are surrounded by people who believe in them.
The Cat-Rat tradition is one of the many ways GPS intentionally builds a community where every girl is seen, supported, and celebrated—from her very first day to long after graduation.
See the Sisterhood in Action
The best way to understand the warmth and strength of our community is to experience it firsthand. We invite you to visit our campus, meet our students, and see how your daughter can thrive here.