State of the School Honoring Our Founders by Raising the Bar Our Students Whole Child Care School Year Successes Class of 2025 Life After MHS How We Raise the Bar Together Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning MILT Plan Achievements The GIFT Strategic Framework
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Milton Hershey School’s 2024-25 school year theme, Raise the Bar, served as a powerful and unifying call to action for our entire school community. More than a slogan, it became a mindset—one that challenged students, staff, alumni, and volunteers alike to elevate their expectations, their efforts, and ultimately, their impact.
At its heart, Raise the Bar was about growth—personal, collective, and mission-driven. Our students were encouraged to go beyond their comfort zones academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether it was a senior committing to the Air Force Academy, a middle school student discovering their voice in our Student Government Association, or an elementary school student setting personal learning goals, each story reflected the same truth: when we push ourselves to grow, we unlock our greatest potential.
Our staff and faculty brought this theme to life each day through their unwavering commitment to excellence. Across every corner of campus—from classrooms to student homes, offices to athletic fields—members of the MHS community proved that raising the bar is not defined solely by achievement, but by attitude, accountability, and service. A custodian’s pride in maintaining welcoming spaces, a houseparent’s steady support and care, or a teacher’s extra effort to ignite curiosity—each act, large or small, reflects what it means to live the Hershey legacy with integrity, compassion, and purpose.
Throughout the year, Raise the Bar was brought to life in signature moments—our Opening of School Assembly, Founders Day, and Mini-THON—all infused with the spirit of excellence and unity. Visits from inspiring public figures like Saquon Barkley reminded our students that success comes from perseverance, humility, and a commitment to constant growth.
As the year came to a close, we celebrated not just milestones achieved but the mindset that made them possible. Raising the bar is not a destination—it’s a lifelong journey of improvement and purpose. It’s a promise that we will continue to honor the vision of Milton and Catherine Hershey by striving for excellence in all we do, serving with compassion, and preparing our students and more than 12,000 graduates to make a difference in the world.
Together, we have raised the bar, and together, we pledge that this is just the beginning.
Milton and Catherine Hershey’s enduring legacy began with the signing of the Deed of Trust in 1909, establishing Hershey Industrial School with a vision to uplift children through education, character development, and opportunity. Even during the Great Depression, Milton S. Hershey chose to expand rather than retreat—launching the Great Building Campaign and revising the Deed of Trust to broaden student eligibility. These actions reflected his unwavering commitment to community and compassion, allowing hundreds more children to benefit from a safe, nurturing environment. His decision to raise the enrollment age and include children who had lost either parent laid the foundation for the school’s growth and mission-driven evolution.
Today, Milton Hershey School continues to honor its founders by raising the bar in every aspect of student care and education. Grounded in the original pillars of character development and career-focused learning, MHS has expanded its reach through strategic partnerships, cutting-edge facilities, and a transformative curriculum. From houseparents modeling Sacred Values to seniors completing internships aligned with their career goals, every initiative reflects the Hersheys’ vision. The 2024-25 school year theme, Raise the Bar, unveiled at the annual Opening of School Assembly, inspired the entire campus community to pursue excellence, ensuring that students graduate prepared to lead fulfilling lives and break the cycle of poverty—just as Milton and Catherine Hershey intended.
At Milton Hershey School, our core values and purpose have guided every decision we have made since our founding in 1909. In fact, the firm foundation that our founders Mr. and Mrs. Hershey left us remains intact today through five integral elements that remind us that what we do and say has an undeniable impact. The Ten Commandments, Golden Rule, our School Pledge, Sacred Values, and Definition of Success are our north star. These guiding principles mold everything we do at MHS, ensuring that our staff are aligned and our students develop strong character and essential life skills for success.
At Milton Hershey School, our students are at the core of everything we do, and this year, they rose to the challenge to Raise the Bar with determination, resilience, and pride. With a student population of 2,157, our community reflects a diverse range of backgrounds and aspirations. This year, we welcomed 547 new students, achieving an impressive 93.2% new student retention rate, a testament to the strength of our support systems and the trust families place in MHS. Students hail from across the country, with 65% of our students coming to MHS from Pennsylvania and 35% from other U.S. states, bringing unique perspectives that enrich our school culture. From elementary students setting bold personal goals to seniors preparing for life beyond MHS, students across all grade levels embraced opportunities to challenge themselves, build confidence, and pursue meaningful growth. They showed leadership in classrooms, courage in competition, and compassion within their communities.
Milton Hershey gave the world a chocolate bar—but alongside his wife Catherine, he gave something much more valuable: a future filled with promise. What began as something sweet became something extraordinary. Their vision wasn’t just about creating joy in a wrapper—it was about creating opportunity for children who needed it most. They raised the bar high then, and today, we continue to raise it—as students, houseparents, mentors, teachers, and Hershey entity partners. Their belief in something greater than themselves is a powerful reminder that the choices we make today ripple forward, influencing lives we may never meet. One HERSHEY’S bar started it all. And now, thousands of MHS students and alumni have been changed because of it.
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New Students
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In alignment with the 2024–25 school year theme, Raise the Bar, MHS introduced a challenge coin initiative to recognize students and staff who demonstrated exceptional leadership and excellence. Launched in January 2025, the initiative recognized individuals who went above and beyond in academics, collaboration, and living out the Sacred Values. Commemorative coins were awarded by division heads and the Mission and Strategy Team, serving as a tangible symbol of achievement and inspiration. The year culminated in a celebratory event at the Homestead, where President Peter G. Gurt ’85 and his wife, Jane, personally acknowledged the recipients. The gathering reinforced a powerful message: raising the bar is not only a personal pursuit but a shared commitment to uplifting the entire MHS community.
Starting at a new school can be daunting, but new students at MHS embraced the challenge—and raised the bar from day one. With courage and determination, they transformed uncertainty into growth, showing remarkable resilience and a commitment to high standards.
Sixth grader Kiera Force, who overcame a difficult journey learning to ride a bike, now shares her experience by teaching others in her student home how to do the same, turning personal progress into leadership. Freshman Scotlyn Jones discovered the value of leaning into discomfort, realizing that striving for what’s hard leads to meaningful growth.
Supported by programs like New Spartan Academy and Co-Pilot, and motivated by the steady encouragement of houseparents, teachers, and staff, these Spartans quickly flourished in a community built to empower every student to succeed.
Caring for the whole child at MHS means nurturing every part of a student’s growth—academically, emotionally, socially, and physically. This year, under the banner of Raise the Bar, our commitment to holistic care reached new heights. Staff across campus—from houseparents to health professionals to support teams—collaborated to ensure that every student felt seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. Through innovative programs, personalized support, and a culture of compassion, MHS continued to set a national standard for whole child care, helping students build the resilience needed to Raise the Bar in all areas of their lives.
That care shows up in countless ways. When a student walks into class with clear vision thanks to one of the 1,535 eye exams and 1,449 pairs of eyeglasses provided this year or smiles with confidence after receiving dental care through 13,127 visits and more than 54,000 procedures, we know we’re building the foundation for success. Health and wellness remain central to our mission—our nurses and pediatricians delivered 21,929 visits, and 3,137 immunizations helped keep our community safe and strong.
We care for the whole child because we understand that academic achievement begins with stability, health, and belonging. Every student receives comprehensive care—medical and dental services, nutritious meals, clothing, housing, and mental health support—all at no cost. These aren’t just services; they are the foundation for confidence, focus, and resilience.
When students don’t have to worry about basic needs, they can Raise the Bar in the classroom, on the field, and throughout campus. They can join clubs, compete in sports, explore the arts, and lead with purpose—because every resource and opportunity is within reach. Our year-round model ensures students are surrounded by consistency and care every single day. We also know that growth is strongest when families are involved in the journey. That’s why we partner with parents and sponsors, creating a circle of support that elevates MHS families. This includes organizing seminars, support groups, and workshops for parents and sponsors to attend.
* From the 2024-2025 MHS New Student Profile Database that tracks ACEs and over 120 Risk Factors.
Chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse in adulthood
Decreased education and job opportunities
Toxic stress that affects attention, decision-making, learning, and response to stress
ACEs are linked to five of the top 10 leading causes of death
Significant economic and social costs to families, communities, and society
1,449
eyeglasses for students
1,535
eye exams performed in the MHS eye clinic
13,127
visits to MHS dental services
54,791
procedures at MHS dental services
21,929
nurse and pediatrician visits in school clinics and in the MHS Health Center
3,137
immunizations administered
342
specialty care visits
Year-round learning at MHS is a bold commitment to raising the bar in everything we do–every day, all year long. Through our Year-Round Experiences (YRE) program, students who remain on campus during breaks engage in dynamic, hands-on activities that foster curiosity, creativity, and career exploration. This year’s approach gave students more choice than ever before, empowering them to shape their own learning journeys in STEM, the arts, fitness, and service.
A standout feature of this year’s YRE program was the wide range of off-campus opportunities. Students engaged in immersive experiences like science exploration at the Lancaster Science Factory, law studies at Georgetown’s Law Academy, and community service in Kentucky. With staff leading the programs they helped design—and receiving comprehensive training to support students holistically—YRE became more than just a summer offering. It became a powerful extension of our mission to educate, nurture, and inspire.
The 2024–25 school year at Milton Hershey School was defined by remarkable achievements and transformative growth, all driven by the spirit of Raise the Bar. Students and staff embraced the challenge to exceed expectations, resulting in a year filled with academic milestones, career-focused accomplishments, and personal development. From top-tier performance in PSSA testing to standout moments in leadership, athletics, and the arts, the MHS community demonstrated what’s possible when high standards and determination are met with unwavering support.
These successes reflect not only the hard work of our students but also the strength of the systems and relationships that empower them to thrive. Students excelled in regional and state competitions, proving that hands-on learning and dedication paved the way to success. Students in Senior and Middle Divisions showed innovation, teamwork, and academic prowess at regional competitions, including SkillsUSA, Future Business Leaders of America, and the Pennsylvania Technology Student Association.
Leadership development remains a cornerstone of the MHS experience. At the annual Student Government Association Leadership Conference, 300 students gathered to grow as leaders and changemakers. This event marked the beginning of a year filled with internships, mentorships, and real-world learning opportunities that help students Raise the Bar.
The impact of our students’ excellence resonated far beyond campus. Their achievements drew visits from notable figures including former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and radio host Delilah—each inspired by the drive, talent, and promise of the MHS community.
During the 2024-25 school year, MHS students raised the bar on standardized testing, scoring in the top 3% of all Pennsylvania school districts in the Math and English Language Arts PSSAs, the top 1% in the Literature Keystone, the top 6% in the Algebra Keystone, and the top 15% in the Biology Keystone. To celebrate consistent academic success and motivate students for exams, President Gurt surprised the community with an assembly featuring a special visit from NFL star Saquon Barkley. Barkley delivered an empowering message to students, encouraging them to continue their hard work and strive for excellence.
PSSA
Keystone
How We Rank
PSSA
Math
English Language Arts
Science
2025 Science PSSA results were not reported, as the assessment was a mandatory statewide field test to gather data for the newly implemented Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (STEELS) standards.
Keystone
Algebra 1
Literature
Biology
ED – Economically Disadvantaged | Source: Spring 2025 Pennsylvania Keystone Exams State Content Area Summary Report
In early 2025, Milton Hershey School strived to reach new audiences in a bold, creative way by producing and airing a 30-minute television special that told the inspiring story of the school’s mission and impact. Designed to showcase students’ successes and deepen public understanding and awareness of what MHS does, the special aired on multiple stations across Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region.
Airing from mid-January to mid-April 2025, “A Life-Changing Education” expanded awareness and inspired conversations across communities about the power of opportunity and education. It helped MHS reach new audiences, airing 403 times on 32 stations in 11 markets.
On graduation day at GIANT Center, 205 proud members of the Class of 2025 crossed the stage—each one a testament to perseverance, growth, and the power of opportunity. Some were the first in their families to earn a high school diploma, truly raising the bar for themselves and future generations.
Together, the Class of 2025 achieved remarkable milestones:
These experiences helped shape their futures, opening doors to career and life success far beyond MHS. Their post-graduation paths include pursuing two- and four-year college degrees, entering the workforce, and serving in the military.
In 2025, MHS reimagined our end-of-year activities, including Commencement, to reflect the extraordinary accomplishments of our students and provide unforgettable celebrations.
Success at MHS is measured not just by graduation, but by how well students are prepared to make a lasting impact. Through our nationally recognized Career and Technical Education program, students earn industry-recognized credentials in high-demand fields, giving them a professional head start after they graduate. This empowers them to enter the workforce or pursue higher education with confidence and clarity.
Our Graduate Programs for Success offers personalized guidance, mentorship, and resources to help alumni navigate college, career, and life. Our Continuing Education Scholarship further helps students Raise the Bar by removing financial barriers, providing them the opportunity to accrue up to $115,000 in scholarship funding over four years of high school, which can be used for college or career learning. These resources ensure that every student leaves MHS with a plan, a purpose, and the support to succeed.
This year, our alumni exemplified what it truly means to Raise the Bar in life after MHS. Marcus Paul James ’99, a Broadway performer and proud MHS alumnus, returned to campus as the host of the 2024-25 Opening of School Assembly and as a special guest at the 2025 Commencement Ceremony. His journey—from humble beginnings to center stage—embodies the power of perseverance, passion, and the strong foundation built at MHS. His message to students was clear: your story matters, and your future is yours to shape.
At Founders Day, Mason Symons ’07 delivered a keynote that inspired the entire community. After surviving a tragic accident that left him in a wheelchair, Mason refused to let adversity define him. Instead, he raised the bar—becoming a Paralympian and medaling in Paris. His story is one of remarkable endurance and the unshakable belief that strength is found in how we rise.
of MHS students in college persist to their second year, above the national average
At MHS, we believe success is a shared journey. Committing to Raise the Bar during the 2024-25 school year applied not only to students and staff but also to Hershey entity partners that play a vital role in helping our students dream big and achieve more. Through strong, purpose-driven partnerships with organizations like Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The Hershey Company, and Penn State Health, we are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible for our students.
These collaborations provide MHS students with real-world, career-focused opportunities that go beyond the classroom. Whether through internships, mentorships, or hands-on learning experiences, our partners are helping students explore their passions and prepare for meaningful futures.
But our community is more than just a network of organizations—it’s a united family inspired by the legacy of our founder, Milton S. Hershey. Together, we are carrying forward his vision of nurturing and educating children in social and financial need to lead fulfilling and productive lives. Each contributor plays a role in helping our students become their best selves.
CHS achieved several significant milestones in 2024-25, marking a pivotal year in its emergence as a provider of early childhood education in Pennsylvania. The opening of CHS Harrisburg and the completion of two additional centers—Middletown and New Danville—signaled strong momentum in expanding access to high-quality early learning. With 300 children served across two operating sites and construction underway in Lancaster City and Elizabethtown, CHS is laying the foundation for a lasting impact.
CHS also strengthened its talent pipeline, hosting 28 interns and employing 10 MHS graduates, including Natayla Roberts, who transitioned from intern to assistant teacher. The organization’s leadership in the field was further demonstrated by the doubling of attendance at its 2025 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Leaders Summit and the professional advancement of 17 teachers who earned their Childhood Development Associate certificate. By helping 229 parents of enrolled children secure local full-time employment, guiding nearly 90 children into kindergarten, and serving over 100,000 meals, CHS continues to successfully advance its mission of supporting children and families through education, care, and opportunity.
CHS students were accepted to MHS
MHS students completed internships at CHS through our Career and Technical Education program
MHS alumni are full-time CHS employees
children served at CHS Harrisburg upon opening
children served at two fully operational centers
Construction completed at CHS Middletown and CHS New Danville
teachers earned their Child Development Associate certificate
CHS parents gained local full-time employment through CHS help
vision, dental, and hearing screenings provided
meals served
child and family professionals attended the 2025 CHS ECE Leaders Summit
The 2024-25 school year marked the end of the MILT Plan—the school’s 2020-2025 strategic vision—which resulted in significant progress around education, character development, and career-readiness. Key accomplishments include a strengthened Home Life, top-tier academic results, career pathways aligned with labor market needs, expanded strategic partnerships, national recognition for social-emotional and career-focused education, improved recruitment and leadership development, a safe campus environment, strong risk management practices, and foundational support for the growth of Catherine Hershey Schools. These milestones demonstrate the school’s unwavering commitment to its Deed of Trust and its mission to nurture and empower every student.
The MILT Plan has driven strategic progress across key areas of the Milton Hershey School community. Our next chapter will build on the strategic and operational outcomes of the MILT Plan.
Nurturing and stable family-like environment bolstered by augmented houseparent recruitment success despite sourcing challenges. Integrated and aligned character education expectations brought to life through The Milton Hershey Way and owned by Home Life staff.
Core academics ensured students mastered high-level literacy and STEM skills required for in-demand, family-sustaining careers. Exemplary academic outcomes, with students performing in top 7% of all PA districts across all PSSA and Keystone exams in 2024.
MHS career pathways were aligned to high-value labor market needs with embedded authentic work experiences, credentials of value, and early postsecondary opportunities.
Established One Hershey Vision and scaled Hershey strategic partnerships to support Career-Focused Education, mentoring, job pipelines and placement, and marketing and communications.
Brand and model were nationally and regionally recognized as leading in the field of social-emotional skill development and Career-Focused Education.
MHS became a highly competitive employer of choice through targeted marketing, recruitment, and retention efforts, including strengthened professional and leadership development.
CALEA-accredited campus safety staff and school-wide processes provided safe and secure environment for students to learn and develop, and for the school community to flourish.
Strong integrated Enterprise Risk Management, Compliance, and Quality Assurance frameworks, controls, and practices mitigated risk while ensuring efficient, effective, and aligned processes.
Developed an effective shared services structure to support CHS growth and sustained success.
