Traditions
Hero
Hers to
Hold
From the first warm welcome to final farewells, our traditions celebrate the powerful bond that connects GPS girls across generations.
The shared experiences of GPS traditions have helped me create meaningful connections with not only my peers, but also GPS girls of the past and future.
Evelyn L.
Cat-Rat
Before her first day, each sixth-grade Rat is paired with a twelfth-grade Cat—a big sister and mentor who offers friendship, guidance, and fun throughout the year. From retreats to parades, the Cat-Rat tradition is more than just memorable moments; it’s an early lesson in the power of sisterhood.
Chapel Talk
Given by each senior during her last year at GPS, her Talk is a celebration and a rite of passage. This tradition marks an important moment in each senior’s educational journey. During her time on stage, she can express herself freely and use her strong voice—developed and cultivated during her years at GPS.
Junior Ring Day
The most exciting day of junior year is Ring Day! The GPS black onyx class ring design has changed only subtly since its introduction more than a century ago and connects alumnae across the globe.
May Day
May Day is a beloved spring tradition where the GPS community gathers with a celebration on the Smith Courtyard, the presentation of the senior class, May Queen and May Court, and the winding of the maypoles.
I am proud to be just a small part of all of the traditions that make GPS the school it is. I've wrapped the May pole, I've gotten my GPS ring, I've given my Chapel Talk, and soon I'll be walking across the lawn for May Day. But most of all I'm proud of how bonded our school is because of these traditions that hold us together. Hayden P.
