The leadership transition for the 2026-2027 school year has officially begun as Houses have announced the new batch of Prefects. As one of the school’s most vital leadership positions, becoming a Prefect carries both responsibility and influence within the House System.
The House System also gives students a chance to directly impact the atmosphere within their Houses and help shape the overall student experience throughout the school year.
Established in 2007, the GA House System divides Upper School students into seven Houses, creating smaller communities within the broader Upper School environment. The system was designed to strengthen student relationships, encourage mentorship and build school spirit through competitions and collaborative activities.
Events such as House Olympics or mini House competitions throughout the year within the Houses bring students from different grades together throughout the year and allow students to form friendships outside their normal social circles.
“Young people don’t always view themselves [as leaders] and it’s nice to have people of an older age who can kind of take a mentorship role in the House,” Mr. Joe Taylor, Washington House head said. “Sometimes for students it’s challenging to approach a House Head, so Prefects are the designated ones who can be doing that.”
Each House has three Prefects who organize the roster for House competitions and build community in their House. Their responsibilities include assisting with leading house meetings and working closely with other House Heads and faculty members.
They promote inclusion, teamwork, and positive participation among students while also supporting younger students as they adjust to Upper School life. Their leadership, whether it is through planning House Olympics or leading House Meetings aims to help students feel more comfortable participating in activities and connecting with peers.
“Being a prefect is more than just planning events; it’s about being helpful to the quieter voices,” Abhay Kumran ‘27, Galloway Prefect, said.
The new Prefects already have ideas for strengthening House spirit next year. Some hope to introduce more interactive competitions like a rock paper scissors tournament or limbo, while others want to focus on improving connections between upperclassmen and underclassmen through mentorship opportunities and collaborative events.
“We are going to start playing music during House meetings to increase engagement and a closing circle where we gather around and do a chant together” Emma Podulka ‘27, Truesdell Prefect, said.
Although the role comes with a lot of responsibility and visibility, Prefects see it as an opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape their Upper School experience. They hope to create the same welcoming environment for incoming students who may still be adjusting to the new school community and traditions.
“It’s a House. It’s your second home,” Kumaran said. “Whenever something good happens to someone in the House, you feel happy, and when you are feeling down, someone in the House will cheer you up.”
As the school looks ahead to the next year, the new group of Prefects will shape House culture and student life. Whether through competitions or mentorship, their leadership will influence much of the Upper School experience during the coming year.