He directed that the school should give instruction "for the improvement of mankind by affording such assistance and means of educating the young as will help them to become good citizens."

[1] The school was opened on September 10, 1895, with Dr. John E. Clark as its principal, a faculty of seven teachers, and a student body of 143 pupils.

It was located on Park Place East, the current site of Northwestern Connecticut Community College.

Gilbert continues to maintain a tradition of strong interscholastic athletics, as well as student extracurricular activities including music, drama, yearbook and newspaper.

The program is geared to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills to be successful in postsecondary study and/or entry into the world as productive citizens.

Gilbert is fully accredited by the Connecticut State Department of Education and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.