Message from the President

Thank you for your interest in Gerstell Academy. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family can make, and I appreciate the time you are taking to learn more about our community and our mission.

We are living in a time of rapid change. Advances in technology, including artificial intelligence, are reshaping how we learn, work, and lead. At the same time, the need for character, ethical judgment, critical thinking, and strong leadership has never been greater. At Gerstell Academy, we believe our responsibility is not simply to prepare students for the world as it is today, but to equip them to lead confidently and responsibly in the world they will inherit.

Gerstell Academy is a co-educational, non-sectarian, private school serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Guided by our mission and our motto, “Leadership, Honor, Courage,” our program is built upon four foundational pillars: leadership development, college-preparatory academics, physical training, and modern language proficiency. These pillars work together to educate the whole child and to foster both intellectual growth and personal responsibility.

Situated on a beautiful 250-acre campus in Carroll County, Maryland, Gerstell Academy offers students an exceptional learning environment. Our dedicated faculty, strong academic program, and commitment to leadership education create opportunities for students to challenge themselves, develop confidence, and discover their strengths. Through athletics, the arts, service, and extracurricular activities, students learn teamwork, perseverance, and respect for others, all within a close-knit and supportive community.

Leadership education is central to who we are. Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving. As new tools such as artificial intelligence become part of everyday life, we teach students how to use them thoughtfully and responsibly. AI at Gerstell is approached as a tool that enhances learning, supports inquiry, and encourages deeper thinking, while reinforcing the importance of human judgment, integrity, and accountability.

Our partnership with families is essential to our success. Gerstell parents are active participants in their children’s education and share our belief in the value of character, leadership, and personal growth. Together, we strive to create an environment that prepares students not only for college, but for meaningful lives of purpose and service.

I warmly invite you to visit our campus, attend an Open House, or schedule a private tour. I would welcome the opportunity to introduce you to Gerstell Academy and to the students, faculty, and families who make this community so special. 

Warmest Regards,

John Polasko