Roberts Academy at Mercer University welcomed more than 120 grandparents to campus on Nov. 21 for its annual “Grand Gathering,” a tradition-in-the-making that celebrates the important role grandparents play in students’ lives.
The event opened with a musical performance by students, followed by remarks from Head of School Joy Wood. After the program, students guided their grandparents through classroom and school tours, offering a firsthand look at their daily learning environment.
Guests enjoyed coffee and snacks and ended their visit with handcrafted gifts made by their grandchildren.
“This is my second year attending Grand Gathering, and it just keeps getting better,” said Pam Caraway, whose grandson, Henry, is a sixth-grader at Roberts Academy. “I love seeing Henry so proud to show me his classroom and all the amazing work he’s doing. It’s such a special way to connect with his school life.”
During the program, grandparents also learned about the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program. Mrs. Wood explained how GOAL allows taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state taxes to provide need-based scholarships for families at independent schools such as Roberts Academy.
The program offers a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit and directly supports current and future students, making it a meaningful way for grandparents and other community members to invest in educational access.
The Grand Gathering remains one of Roberts Academy’s most cherished traditions. School leaders say the event highlights the strong connections that help students thrive.
“We are grateful for the grandparents who show up for our students and support them in so many ways,” said Joy Wood, the Academy’s head of school. “This day is a reminder of how meaningful those relationships are.”
Roberts Academy extends its appreciation to every grandparent who joined the celebration and to those who continue to support students throughout the year.
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