San Marcos Academy students returned to campus on Wednesday, Aug. 7, marking the start of the 117th school year. Faculty and staff welcomed 144 lower school students (PreK 3–5th), 78 middle school students (6th–8th), and 112 upper school students (9th–12th) from Central Texas and around the world. Additional students are expected to arrive later this week. Of the 334 students who began classes Wednesday, 90 were new to the school.
San Marcos Academy boasts a diverse population, with students from across Texas, the United States, and around the globe. In addition to serving day students from Central Texas, the academy hosts boarding students from St. Kitts, South Korea, China, Saudi Arabia, Congo, Nigeria, Austin, Houston, and the Texas Valley. Eighteen students from Dripping Springs and Driftwood are currently enrolled.
“Our student body is made up of students from our Central Texas backyard, across our great state, and around the world. It is a privilege to welcome our returning students as well as our new families to campus and invite them to join us in abiding with Christ this year as they grow in their academic and spiritual life,” said Dr. Brian Guenther, president of San Marcos Academy. “Every one of our students matters to us because they matter to God.”
Students in upper and middle school began their day with a dance party led by Dr. Guenther and the SMA Cheerleading team in Chapel before hearing a chapel lesson, school rules, and praying. They then headed to class to meet their teachers, reconnect with friends, and review their syllabi. Lower school students enjoyed a smaller dance party with Dr. Guenther and lower school principal, Mrs. Rebecca Nash, followed by praise and worship, a dining hall tour, and class time to get acquainted with their teachers and classmates.
San Marcos Academy is a fully accredited private Christian school serving students from PreK 3 through 12th grade, with a boarding program for students in grades 6–12. The academy’s curriculum is designed to engage and inspire students, preparing them for success in college and beyond. Since 1907, San Marcos Academy has maintained a tradition of excellence in private Christian education.
