Dr. Wall’s legacy and beyond

By Julia Stewart Corner, Head of School, Beaufort Academy
Dr. Randy Wall, Headmaster at Beaufort Academy from 2009-2011 left an indelible mark on this fine school. Despite his untimely passing in June, Dr. Wall left a legacy that will last for decades.
Beaufort Academy has long been revered for its ability to prepare students for college as well as their role in society. Under Dr. Wall’s tenure the core values of intellect, integrity, leadership, pride, and respect were solidified. These core values are exemplified on campus every day as the staff works to fulfill his vision, and the vision of the founders of Beaufort Academy.
Intellect is always at the forefront at Beaufort Academy. We have a rigorous academic program that yields outstanding students and graduates. A few academic kudos this year are:  National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalist, Michael Bible; the Math team finished in first place in the recent state tournament; Quiz Bowl Teams continue to place in final rounds at multiple tournaments; Spelling Bee contestants were winners again this year; and our Chess Team has qualified to compete for the national title this spring.
Our central mission is 100% college acceptance for Beaufort Academy seniors. For the fifth year in a row, bucking national trends, our SAT scores rose, and were once again higher than the national average. As a testament to what we do at Beaufort Academy, seniors are accepted to their colleges of choice. This year’s graduating class has been accepted at 38 colleges thus far with another 80 acceptance letters due in April.
Integrity is found in the classrooms, the halls, and within the athletic teams. For example, even though they are permitted, we have no locks on lockers.  All students adhere to a strict honor pledge that clarifies the expectation of integrity in all their actions. A student honor council resolves issues where integrity is in question.
Leadership is taught in many ways. For example, officers are elected each year for student government, numerous clubs, and service organizations like Interact. These student leaders attend a leadership institute throughout the year to teach them leadership skills for now the future.
Pride translates into school spirit at Beaufort Academy.  In addition to spirited pep rallies, students demonstrate it often by wearing the “blue and white.” Students participate in numerous sports including tennis, football, swimming, soccer, golf, basketball, and golf. Sailing and chess clubs have won championships this year. The dress code is adhered to by all students, and is one way pride permeates the school.
Respect is the final core value. It is the way we treat each other at Beaufort Academy. Students learn proper etiquette along with academic classes. They leave us ready to handle situations requiring tact, thoughtfulness, and people skills.
Yes, at Beaufort Academy we work with the whole student. We stress an academic atmosphere laced with caring and compassion.
Moving forward we will continue to fulfill the strategic plan crafted under Dr. Wall’s guidance. The six main goals of the plan lead us well into the future with renewed commitment to providing a safe, secure, academic environment manned by the best faculty and staff of the Lowcountry. We take these charges seriously.
As the new Head of School at Beaufort Academy, I am awed by several things: the experienced staff, the caring community of parents, the committed students, and the noble mission. Our students come from varying backgrounds but have one common denominator — they all want to have access to the college that best meets the needs for their futures. That is the reason we are here. We welcome any parent of a student who wants to reach their full potential to contact our admission office.  Explore what Beaufort Academy can offer your precious children.
Editor’s Note: Ms. Julia Stewart Corner was recently named Head of School at Beaufort Academy. She comes from an extensive background in education having taught high school and been in educational administration for more than 31 years. Her Bachelors and Masters degrees were earned at the University of Pittsburgh.