Great Hearts Harveston Welcomes Students into Upper School Houses

The middle school and high school halls of Great Hearts Harveston in Baton Rouge came alive with activity as the upper school students gathered for the annual House Sorting Day, a tradition that builds community, cultivates leadership, and strengthens friendships at the Louisiana academy.

House Sorting is a tradition across all Great Hearts academies, designed to unite students who might never otherwise cross paths. Within their Houses, they now find themselves not just classmates, but comrades, sharing traditions, building friendships, and working together toward a common purpose. It is the unique and safe place where an upper classmen mentors and befriends a sixth grader.

All sixth-grade students and new seventh through ninth graders were officially sorted into one of the school’s five Houses:

• House of Leonis (Gold)
• House of Alopex (Green)
• House of Aquila (Blue)
• House of Arktoi (Orange)
• House of Draconis (Red)

The new students joined a growing tradition that connects them to peers across grade levels. Returning students proudly wore their House colors, cheering on new members as they began their new chapter.

Dr. Aleashia Clarkston, Assistant Head of Upper School, described the day as a powerful expression of what makes Great Hearts Harveston special. “The House Sorting Ceremony is a joyful reminder that our students are part of something larger than themselves. As students are welcomed into their Houses, they gain not only a team, but also a family that will shape their character and strengthen their friendships,” explained Clarkston.

The House System enriches student life at the academy by creating smaller communities within the school, encouraging meaningful relationships across grades, and cultivating character through leadership opportunities.

“Each House carries its own traditions and spirit, but together they form a community that unites us in friendship and purpose. This day captures the spirit of our school uniting us in celebration, belonging, and anticipation for the year ahead,” added Clarkston. “I look forward to watching our Houses flourish this year as they pursue Truth, Goodness, and Beauty together.”

According to Austin Ventura, Upper School Dean of Students and Athletic Director, the Houses participate in activities throughout the year together. “Students will contribute to the flourishing of their Houses by mentoring, encouraging one another, and competing in friendly contests that highlight academics, school spirit, sports, and more. Points are earned along the way, with the ultimate honor of winning the annual House Cup.”

For the students, the tradition means something much greater to them than friendly competition. It represents belonging, identity, and the shared pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty at Great Hearts Harveston.

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