About
WHERE INSPIRATION MEETS COMMUNITY
Nestled at the corner of the James River and Forest Hill Park, GSES capitalizes on learning in the community. Our curriculum maximizes the use of our community and inspires our students to serve our neighbors and learn typical subjects in compelling and thought-provoking new ways.
Admissions
Call for a Tour
The best way to learn if GSES is the right place for your family is to visit. Please call the school at (804) 231-1452 to arrange a personal tour.

Visits
Throughout the school year, GSES will provide opportunities for prospective families to visit for group tours and information sessions. Our open houses and visit days are the perfect opportunities for prospective students to get a taste of life in a GSES classroom.
Academics
Small Classes Allow for Big Experiences

Our small size provides big learning opportunities. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1, students receive personalized attention to grow at their own pace and learn about subjects that matter to them in addition to the core academic subjects. Our supportive environment allows students to take risks in their learning. Building a catapult that doesn't work teaches far more than a catapult that does. Feeling safe to try new things while carefully guided through challenging subjects encourages our students to thrive.
Programs
We LOVE the Outdoors
Our outdoor education program takes advantage of our location near the James River and Forest Hill Park. Lessons often take students on adventures such as searching for local quarry stone in the neighborhood, measuring the velocity of student-built boats as they float down the James River, or collecting native pawpaws to use in cooking.
Community
Community Cleanup
Our families show up for GSES. Each August, our students and their families help clean the school grounds in preparation for the new school year. This is just one of the many ways we work together to create a united and close community.
Support
Supporting GSES
As GSES approaches its 53rd year, families, alumni, and friends loyally provide support for the school's academic programs, as well as capital improvements to school facilities. Over the past few years, funds from generous donors have provided for library and Parish Hall renovations, as well as classroom enhancements and special programming.

In This Section

Give

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

Jane Goodall

At Good Shepherd Episcopal School, giving is an expression of our shared values—community, compassion, and commitment to one another. As we increase our fundraising efforts during the 2025–26 school year, we invite our families, alumni, and friends to support our Annual Fund.

Your contribution helps sustain our operating budget and provides vital tuition assistance for students whose families might not otherwise afford a Good Shepherd education. Every gift—no matter the size—matters deeply. Participation also strengthens our eligibility for grant funding, amplifying the reach and impact of your generosity.

Thank you for investing in our students, our mission, and the life of our school.

With gratitude,
Kathy Tappen
Head of School

Make a Gift