On December 10, 1920, Major Joseph P Nourse, who had been actively engaged in educational work in the city for many years, became the first principal of Galileo High School. Throughout the summer, carpenters were busy converting the Red Cross Building, located on Fulton Street near the Civic Center. On August 1, 1921, Galileo High School welcomed its student body into the remodeled facilities. The ceremony of "breaking ground" for the new building occurred on November 4, 1921 ' Dedication of the Van Ness Building took place on March 30, 1924. At the same time, plans were underway for a new wing which would double the capacity of the school.

Back in the 1920's, the Galileo High School building was considered an outstanding example of modern architecture. Planned with the idea of housing one of the best educational institutions in the country, it was equipped to offer the highest type of academic curriculum in addition to training in commercial and technical branches.

Since school year 1995-96, Galileo has transformed itself to the Galileo Academy of Science and Technology. The new program provides students with five career pathways in biological science, environmental science, space science/aeronautics, computer science/engineering technology, and creative media technology.

It is the responsibility of the school to help each student to: Develop an understanding and appreciation of the political, economic and aesthetic aspects of the American culture. Develop an understanding and appreciation of other cultures. Develop the ability to think critically and act effectively. Develop wholesome social attitudes that will enable each person to live harmoniously with others.

The faculty attempts to uphold those democratic principles which proclaim:

The integrity and dignity of each person.

Everyone's right to the finest available training of one's faculties. Everyone's right to contribute to the welfare of one's community through service.

Respect for the laws and legalistic processes which bind us,

together as a nation.

The vision of the Galileo Academy of Science and Technology is to provide an innovative, challenging and comprehensive education for its students enabling them to become contributing members of our diverse society.

The mission of the Galileo Academy of Science and Technology is to provide equal access to education and ensure success for all students.

EXPECTED SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING RESULTS (ESLRs): Galileo Academy of Science and Technology graduates will be:

Future-directed individuals possessing meaningful educational and career goals

Oriented towards using opportunities and resources of the school and community

Respectful of the school diversity and environment

Community members making positive contributions

Educated in essential skills for the 21 st Century

The lion is the official mascot of Galileo. In Latin, Galileo means "Gallic Lion." Thus, in sports and other inter-school activities our team members are known as the Galileo Lions.

The school colors are purple and gold.

The Move Up Assembly honors the graduating class and is the occasion for the transferring of the school scroll to the new senior class.

The Song/Yell Contest is the traditional method of rallying

school spirit among the classes. It is generally held on a specified day in October or November.

The school motto is "Eppure si muove," Latin for "And yet it moves." As the story goes, Galileo was told to deny his scientific findings that the earth moved, or be punished - so he did! But on his way out he mumbled to himself, "And yet it moves'.

G - Guidance in the ways that are best.

A - Affection for schoolmates, teachers, parents.

L - Loyalty to school, community, nation, God.

I - Integrity through which comes strength.

L - Life ahead enriched by the years of school.

E - Encouragement to achieve our goals.

O - Obligation to serve well in all things.

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