Explore
Signature Programs

Global Education




What is a Round Square School?

Round Square is an international consortium of like-minded schools that connect and collaborate to help develop global competence in their students. Athenian is a founding member and upholds the six pillars or IDEALS of Round Square: internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership, and service. The pillars are infused throughout our program and curriculum. For example, Focus Days in the Middle School often integrate classroom material and a particular pillar, providing a hands-on opportunity to connect content and big-picture concepts. Likewise, in the Upper School, students participate in the democratic process through the student-run Town Meeting, enacting real change in their school community.



Student Round Square Experiences

Athenian students build important cross-cultural skills and international understanding as members of our global community and through participation in our Round Square Program. Through these members, students participate in international exchanges, service projects, and conferences. Middle School students participate in Young Round Square conferences and short exchanges mostly in their eighth grade year. Recent Middle School Round Square conferences and exchanges have included travel to Canada, Great Britain, and Colombia. By the time they graduate, nearly 80 percent of Athenian Upper School students participate in international experiences through Round Square (conferences, service projects, and several month-long exchanges). Recent destinations include India, Canada, Colombia, Germany, Great Britain, India, Peru, and South Africa. These opportunities support Athenian's commitment to developing self-aware and engaged global citizens.
©2019 The Athenian School. All Rights Reserved.