Academy History, more...

Changing History

Beginning in 1964, with the instigation of Captain Brewster, the governing board originated major changes in Academy policy. To offset decreasing demand for military training, the board reached a controversial decision to phase out the Academy’s military program by 1966. This decision allowed the school to strengthen its college preparation course offerings and athletic programs. It also enabled the school to pursue academic excellence and add compulsory work in art, music, speaking and religion. Georgia Military Academy officially changed its name to Woodward Academy in 1966.

Two landmark decisions by the Governing Board changed the composition of the student population. The first decision in 1964 -- to open enrollment to female students -- resulted in 32 girls added to the student body that year. The Board also adopted a non-discriminatory policy in 1968 and the Academy was fully integrated in 1971. Both decisions have since provided an atmosphere of learning that is more realistic and reflects modern society.

Brick, Mortar and Soul

GMA’s first building, Founder’s Hall, originally had no modern conveniences -- no running water, no electric lights and no modern sanitation facilities. The Academy has come a long way since its founding in 1900. Woodward now encompasses five schools on two campuses -- the Main Campus in College Park and Woodward North in Duluth (now Johns Creek).  The schools on Main Campus include the Primary, Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. From 1971-2007, the Academy also had a PK-6 elementary campus in Riverdale named after the Busey family.

The Busey Campus which opened in 1971 was located on twenty-eight scenic acres in Riverdale, Georgia. The school has had seven principals during its thirty-six year history. Thousands of students were enriched by Busey teachers and the school's academic traditions. In its short history, Busey produced nine Woodward valedictorians. With the closing of the campus in May 2007, thousands of lives will be forever touched by this warm, loving school community.
Read more with the Chronicles of Busey

Changes Since 2000

• Middle School campus;
• Additional space for existing Woodward North arts program;
• Replacement of tennis courts with a tennis center;
• Aesthetic and acoustical renovation of Gresham Hall.
• Creation of a new K-3 school on the Longino School property - August 2007
• 1971-2007: Chronicles of Busey (PDF)
• Expansion of the Upper School science classrooms also math classrooms in the new math-science building - August 2008.
• Replacement of Paget Gym and upgrades to other gyms. New stadium field and home stands - January 2010

Changes on the Horizon

• Expansions of the Woodruff Dining Hall
• Replacement of West, Brewster and McKay Halls to better classroom space and improve pedestrian traffic through campus.