Granby Preparatory Academy on track to open next fall

Date: 11/24/2010

Nov. 24, 2010

By Katelyn Gendron

Assistant Editor

GRANBY -- Granby Preparatory Academy is right on track to open its doors for the fall 2011 semester, according to Managing Partner Craig Brewer.

The academy, which will be housed at the former St. Hyacinth College and Seminary on School Street, is undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation, while founders are processing student and employee applications. Model classrooms and dorms were completed for Nov. 7th's open house but more is still to be done, including renovations to the kitchen, cafeteria and common room, which will feature a $65,000 nine-screen television, Brewer noted.

"We're in a unique position to take the very best practices from schools around the world and combine them to make a world class school. We're able to hire exceptional faculty and will provide facilities comparable to any university. Our plan is to have the 'very best,' from campus facilities, to technology, to educators," Brian Chatterely, headmaster of Granby Prep, said.

Such amenities will include "cutting-edge technology in classrooms" with SmartBoards, voting remotes and wireless Internet campus-wide, he added.

"We have a unique 'all-in-one campus' where dormitories, classrooms and athletic facilities are connected by tunnels. The facilities may be historic on the outside, but everything is brand new on the inside," Chatterely explained.

Several key employees have already been hired, including Chatterely and Associate Director of Admission Anneke Skidmore, Brewer noted, adding that the academy should employ about 40 faculty and staff.

The dorms can accommodate 150 students and take in 100 local students, Chatterely said, noting that the academy has received more than 50 applications for enrollment.

Brewer said he and other managing partners are working to market the academy abroad, placing an emphasis on international student enrollment. Annual tuition for foreign students is approximately $47,000; domestic students will pay about $20,000 each academic year.

The school will offer many different courses including those for advanced placement, English as a Second Language and SAT prep, among others. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in residential life activities and athletics, including badminton, basketball, golf, judo, soccer, track and volleyball.

Chatterely said while enrollment is ongoing, potential employees are encouraged to apply soon as the hiring process will begin next month.

For additional information about enrollment, employment or for other inquiries, visit www.granbyprep.com.