Culver Academies

Culver educates its students for leadership and responsible citizenship in society by developing and nurturing the whole individual - mind, spirit, and body - through integrated programs that emphasize the cultivation of character. Culver students have access to a cutting-edge academic program and unparalleled opportunities outside of the classroom.

At Culver, both athletics and the arts are integral — the majority of students play at least one sport and take courses in the Fine Arts that extend beyond basic requirements. Students can explore a variety of religious programs, volunteer in service to the community, and participate in more than 60 clubs and activities.

Culver provides the best whole-person education in the country. It is one of the only schools nationwide to offer an intentional and differentiated leadership program for its young men and women, and it provides an exciting combination of tradition and innovation in its programs and governing philosophy.

When leading educators discuss the attributes a person needs for success in today’s complicated and challenging world, they describe the qualities taught at Culver: the importance of acting as a role model, strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, and a healthy emphasis on integrity. Culver has been educating young people for more than a century, and our alumni proudly prove the success of our approach.

The Culver Faculty are a diverse, knowledgeable team dedicated to both making a difference in students’ lives and empowering students to make a difference. Regardless of the venue, we at the Culver Academies value the extra lengths the adults within our community go while serving our students. Our faculty’s deep dedication to both students and the Culver Mission is unique. It is what, in my opinion, enhances our status as the best boarding school in the nation at developing leaders and supporting students as they flourish as learners, cultivate a sense of wellness, and pursue a spiritual identity.

Faculty live the Culver mission, implement our constructivist and student-centered teaching and learning model, serve as a trusted colleague, and are always learning more about their disciplines and their practice as teachers, coaches, and mentors. When joining the faculty, Culver educators commit to:

• Culver educators support the Culver Mission and model leadership and responsible citizenship in their interaction with students and colleagues. They respect, support, and participate in the programs—academic, athletic, extra-curricular, spiritual, and student life—that comprise the Culver experience. That commitment encourages Culver educators to develop mindful habits that reflect the core virtues, values, and character strengths enumerated in the Culver Academies Code of Conduct and by the Cardinal Virtues of wisdom, courage, moderation, and justice.
• Culver educators exhibit professionalism, a positive mindset that reveals a commitment to the vocation of teaching and the cultivation of learning as embodied in the Culver Teaching & Learning Model with its emphasis on student-centered classrooms, critical and creative thinking, and goal-driven curriculum development. That commitment encourages respect for oneself both as teacher and role model for students and as a colleague within the department and the greater school community; respect for others and their work here at all levels of employment; and respect for the well-being of the institution and its ideals.
• Culver educators support each other by teaching each other about teaching, learning, and leading; talking about practice in frequent and precise conversations; engaging together in researching, designing, implementing, and evaluating curriculum; and observing each other in the practice of teaching and administration.
• Culver educators are continuous adult learners, engaging in scholarship and professional development opportunities that keep them up-to-date in their disciplines and teaching methodologies. Ongoing professional growth supports the attainment of individual goals arising from the yearly reflection and growth process.

At Culver Academies, our purpose is steadfast: to provide our students with the best whole person education in the country. We fulfill our purpose by upholding the mission, principles, and values that have made our school, our community, and our students successful since our founding days. At Culver Academies, we believe in Leadership & Character, Learning to Learn, Global Citizenship, and Timeless Values.

Culver believes in telling the truth, doing what is right, and considering the needs of others because these are the virtues of character and leadership. We intentionally challenge ourselves every day to practice and live these principles. Culver graduates not only know how to excel but, more importantly, how to apply their moral compass to effect change, to sustain success, and to positively impact the lives of others.