The school was a reflection of Merrill's principles. His goal was to provide a rigorous classical education to minority students and the less fortunate, heavy on history, English, and writing; Merrill himself taught Bible class to the entire class of ninth graders, not from a religious perspective but from a humanistic one. He also maintained the principles of Yankee frugality, requiring students to participate in the upkeep of the school, from bussing tables and washing dishes at lunch to emptying trash baskets at the end of the day.
The institution reflected Merrill's beliefs. His aim was to provide a rigorous classical education for minority students and those in less fortunate circumstances, with an emphasis on history, English, and writing; Merrill himself taught Bible class to all ninth graders, not from a religious perspective but as part of the curriculum. He also adhered to Yankee frugality principles, expecting students to participate in school upkeep by clearing tables at lunchtime, washing dishes after meals, and emptying trash bins at the end of each day.