The upper school is where our students truly find their voice and let it be heard.
Our small classes and individual attention from dedicated teachers allow each student to build confidence by capitalizing on their strengths, seeking guidance on that which is difficult for them, and learning to take risks whether they are speaking up in class or performing on stage.
The curriculum is designed to help students master the skills necessary for success in secondary school and realize their unique assets. The traditional class offerings challenge our students academically, physically, and socially. Daily physical education and enrichment opportunities contribute to a well rounded program. The fifth grade year is transitional. Most academic classes are still taught in the fifth grade room, but recess is on the upper school playground and fifth graders are eligible to serve as representatives on the Student Leadership Council. The sixth graders change classes for history, math, and science. Math classes are split developmentally between Math 6 and Pre-Algebra.Seventh and eighth graders move from class to class for every subject. Most of these classes have two sections which ensure class sizes of 12 or less. A fifteen-minute homeroom period for all upper school classes gives teachers and students the time to discuss issues of character and social relevance. There is a strong feeling of support as students navigate the challenges of middle school.
Once in the upper school, each student becomes the "big buddy" to a lower school student. Fifth graders are paired with a kindergartener and so on, and get together throughout the year for partner activites such as ornament making at Christmas time, shared reading time, game days, or making Valentines for our troops in Iraq. Each student is expected to set a good example for others in behavior and attitude. All are expected to adhere to the honor code. Leadership opportunities, including the Student Leadership Council, are available for upper school students as well as interscholastic sports teams for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade boys and girls.