Unveiling the Palma Program
Courtesy of Isaiah Dada: Image of Block 7 Palma Seminar
When students consider our school culture, it can be easy for many Catlin Gabel School (CGS) students to assume most peers have the same or at least a similar school experience to them. When in reality, there is so much variety in our education, from what classes and clubs you have, to what programs you’re in.
Regarding that last statement, many of us in the Upper School have probably heard of the Palma Program, and yet when asked to describe it, the seminar seems to be the most visible factor and the discussion ends there. So let's unveil some of the mysteries surrounding one of the most unique CGSprograms.
The Palma Scholars Program, named after former Head of School Lark Palma, began in 2011. It aimed to attract academically accomplished students with potential in leadership, athletics, and service to the (CGS)School.
Palma Scholars (or Palmas as Upper School Students call them) receive a host of benefits after being accepted into the program.
These nuances of the program were brought to light in an interview with Jonah Weaver, current Palma Program Director, to learn more about these benefits and requirements.
One of the first benefits the scholars receive is a merit scholarship, typically around 25% of tuition, that is renewed annually. The program and this tuition reduction is funded by the Knight family, which includes Phil Knight, former head of Nike.
Weaver also touched on the fact that they are also exempt from the standard graduation requirements of regular CGSadmits, technically only needing to complete 3 years of the Palma Seminar and a senior Capstone Project.
This program’s unique structure allows students to customize course loads, which can enable them to take more electives or classes of interest than their peers.
Admission to the program is highly selective and based on demonstrated achievement and potential in academics, athletics, leadership, and service. New students entering 9th grade are eligible to apply, with a rigorous application process including interviews and evaluations.
Seminar:
It should be noted that the Palma Seminar, as opposed to the program, is available for any students to register. It’s an elective with credits that can vary from year to year.
For the last two years, the topics included Crime and Punishment, a seminar about the justice system in America, and This Mortal Coil. These seminars looked at different facets of morality and life, they were worth 0.5 English and 0.5 history credits.
Even though the seminar is only one of the requirements for a Palma student, it does have its unique class format and is available and open to all who wish to join.
It combines interdisciplinary study and a flexible curriculum through projects such as month long projects that allow you to focus on a theme of the seminar in almost any way you wish colloquially known as IAPs. As well as DL’s, which are discussion learning sessions on books that are read in the seminars.
But what does it look like to apply to the program? What does admissions look for?
The application process for becoming a Palma Scholar is quite thorough. According to Catlin’s program biography, There are several things they foster and take into account when looking for potential new students.
They must exhibit academic excellence i.e. candidates would ideally have an academic record that places them near or at the top of their class.
Athletic ability also plays a large role in decision-making as applicants must demonstrate a high level of athletic achievement, either within Catlin or an outside organization.
Palma candidates must also show interest in the community’s and world issues having a strong desire to create solutions and change. Additionally, they must show a high propensity for leadership.
Finally, the director and admissions office considers leadership potential and well-roundedness to be beneficial for Palma. The admissions office wants to find applicants who could serve as “catalysts,” those who can help represent the norms of the campus and encourage others to take action regarding school life and beyond.
The selection process is highly competitive with only 3 to 4 new students being chosen annually.
Challenges and Initiatives for the Future:
When asked about challenges the Palma Scholars may face in the future, Weaver expressed concern about the implicit pressure on scholars to excel in multiple areas, noting a preference for students who “do a couple of things well” rather than trying to do everything.
Now, he’s considering new initiatives to enhance the leadership and service aspects of the program. Which will be illuminated later in the fur
Capstone Projects:
All Seniors in the program are required to propose and undertake a multidisciplinary capstone project throughout the year. This can be in tandem with the seminar, but it’s not required senior year.
These projects involve regular meetings, typically once or twice a week. Weaver says some students engage in interviewing and formal writing, with inquiry-based research as a core of their projects. At the end of the year, scholars present their projects, demonstrating their ability to manage complex, interdisciplinary tasks.
Conclusions:
The Palma Scholars Program continues to evolve as a unique and impactful opportunity for students at Catlin Gabel. With its emphasis on leadership, service, and academic exploration, the program fosters a community of driven, well-rounded individuals.
As Director Jonah Weaver works to refine its offerings and understand his role more deeply, the Palma Program remains a testament to Catlin Gabel’s commitment to innovation and excellence in education.