Serviam Girls Academy

Serviam Girls Academy

  • Educating
  • Inspiring
  • Transforming

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the school different from other schools in Wilmington, like charter schools?

Serviam Girls Academy (SGA) is based on the NativityMiguel educational model for middle schools. These schools provide an alternate, high-standard educational experience free to girls in urban areas who are from families of limited economic means. The unique features of NativityMiguel model schools typically include:

  • Emphasis on academic, physical, social, moral and spiritual development
  • Full scholarship, faith-based education
  • Small class sizes
  • Extended day
  • Extended year
  • Parental involvement
  • Support during the post-graduate high school years

Read more about the NativityMiguel educational model.

What does faith-based mean?

As a faith-based school, Serviam Girls Academy recognizes that each person is created by God and is a unique reflection of God’s presence in the world. It seeks to motivate and encourage in students the values of respect for all people, reverence for the created world, and the universal human desire for peace and justice. Endorsed by the Ursuline sisters of the Eastern Province, Serviam Girls Academy emphasizes service in light of one’s faith. All students will take religion classes and participate in prayer services during the school day. Students are also encouraged to regularly attend and actively participate in their family’s faith tradition. Serviam Girls Academy seeks to support and promote students’ growth as persons of faith with strong moral principles.

Do I have to be Catholic to attend?

Serviam Girls Academy (SGA) admits students of all faiths as well as students whose families do not participate in any organized religion. In the spirit of the 450-year-old Ursuline tradition of educating young girls, Serviam Girls Academy seeks to educate girls with limited economic means in a challenging, structured, and nurturing environment to provide the girls with the best opportunity for self development.

Learm more about the Ursuline sisters and their commitment to education and service.

What is the significance of the school’s name?

Serviam Girls Academy derives its name from the universal Ursuline school motto “Serviam” meaning “I will serve.” It is SGA’s mission to empower these young women to serve their community—to be agents of transformation in their families, community and society.

Why should students consider a single sex environment?

Research has shown that, during the middle school years, many students find success more easily when they can learn in a single-sex environment. In addition, the Delaware Girls Initiative found that truancy, pregnancy and drop out rates for girls jumps drastically as they transition into middle school. SGA will use appropriate services to address girls’ special needs and those that put them at risk during these years.
The following websites provide additional information about single-gender education for girls:

The National Coalition of Girls’ Schools

National Association of Independent Schools

The Girls’ Schools Association

American Association of University Women Educational Foundation

National Association for Single Sex Public Schools

When will the school open?

Our anticipated opening is in the fall of 2008, with 5th and 6th grade classes of approximately 15 students per grade.

Where will the school be located?

Serviam Girls Academy will open in the fall of 2008 on the grounds of Girls Inc. Dennison facility at:

1012 Anchorage Street
Wilmington, Delaware 19805

How will students be selected and when can they apply?

To be considered for admission to Serviam Girls Academy, a girl must have successfully completed the 4th grade or 5th grade, be entering the 5th or 6th grade, and qualify for the federal free or reduced school lunch program. Strong candidates have the support of one or more family members who share their desire to succeed. For information and applications, please: