Peter W. Mertz Fund
Peter W. Mertz
In his twelve years at Hampton Roads Academy, Peter Mertz presided over the most significant transformation of the school’s campus. Under his guidance, the school added more than 30 classrooms, five science labs, a new entrance with student commons and administrative offices, a dining hall and the HRA Hydroponics Lab. He established the International Residency Program and the Athletic Hall of Fame, oversaw the establishment of the REACH program, and anchored a debt reduction campaign, leaving the school in a secure financial position.
More than this, Peter Mertz will be remembered fondly for making it his priority to know his students, every one of them by name, and for putting their well-being first and foremost, encouraging them to be the best they can be.
The Peter W. Mertz Fund has been established to honor his abiding legacy.
Peter W. Mertz Fund - The Purpose
An endowed fund established by the HRA Class of ’86 to support scholarships for the children of faculty and staff at HRA.
A portion of the interest from the endowed fund will provide funding for scholarships to be awarded to the children of faculty and staff who attend HRA. Teachers cite a variety of reasons for why they choose to pursue a career at HRA, chief among them are:
• the opportunity to teach in small classes to engaged students
• the ability to teach to a well-rounded curriculum rather than “to the test”
• and a safe, collegial work environment
A portion of the interest from the endowed fund will provide funding for scholarships to be awarded to the children of faculty and staff who attend HRA. Teachers cite a variety of reasons for why they choose to pursue a career at HRA, chief among them are:
• the opportunity to teach in small classes to engaged students
• the ability to teach to a well-rounded curriculum rather than “to the test”
• and a safe, collegial work environment
These characteristics make HRA an attractive option for teachers seeking a new position. With this new fund, making tuition more affordable, HRA is able to add an additional incentive to attract and retain the very best teachers. One of the most powerful testimonials to prospective parents, who are considering sending their children to Hampton Roads Academy, is that those who teach here also send their children here. As the fund grows, the amount available for distribution will become increasingly meaningful.
Hampton Roads Academy
HRA is accredited through the Virginia Association of Independent Schools, a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and is a National Blue Ribbon School.
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