
Core Academic Programs
The math department offers a unique and personalized approach to mathematics education, providing courses that range from Pre-Algebra to college-level math, tailored to meet the individual needs and abilities of each student. The department is committed to fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while supporting students at every level of proficiency.
Each student’s mathematical journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation based on their previous transcripts, standardized test scores, and when needed end-of-course exams. This allows the department to assess their current level of understanding and place them in the most appropriate course for their skills. The goal is to challenge students appropriately, regardless of the students’ age or grade level.
Course Offerings:
- Pre-Algebra: For students who need to solidify their understanding of basic algebraic concepts, including integers, fractions, equations, and introductory geometry.
- Algebra I and II: Students progress to algebraic concepts such as linear equations, functions, systems of equations, and polynomials, building the foundation for more advanced topics.
- Geometry: A focus on shapes, angles, theorems, and proofs, helping students understand spatial relationships and apply problem-solving strategies in two- and three-dimensional contexts.
- Pre-Calculus: Key topics include functions and their properties, trigonometry and identities, analytic geometry (conic sections), polynomials and rational functions, sequences and series, vectors and matrices, and an introduction to limits as foundational concepts for calculus.
- Trigonometry: Key concepts include the study of trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent, etc.), the unit circle, trigonometric identities, solving trigonometric equations, and applying these concepts to model periodic phenomena and real-world situations.
- Calculus: Key concepts include limits, derivatives, integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, which are used to analyze rates of change, accumulation, and the behavior of functions over intervals.
- Statistics: Includes advanced data collection methods, probability theory, probability distributions, descriptive statistics (including measures of central tendency and spread), inferential statistics (hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, and significance tests), regression analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the application of statistical models to real-world data.
The science department offers a robust and engaging curriculum that meets state-mandated requirements while also providing high-performing students with opportunities to explore advanced topics in science. The department’s mission is to cultivate scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in all students, while offering a broad range of courses that cater to diverse interests and academic abilities.
Course Offerings:
- Life Science and Earth Science (Middle School): Students explore the basics of biology, ecosystems, and the physical properties of the Earth, fostering an understanding of living organisms and the environment.
- Physical Science (Middle School): Students study the fundamental principles of physics and chemistry, including motion, forces, energy, matter, and chemical reactions, while also building laboratory and experimental skills.
- Biology: An in-depth exploration of living organisms, including their structure, function, evolution, and ecology. Students study cellular biology, genetics, and the diversity of life.
- Chemistry: A foundational course focusing on the properties and behavior of matter, chemical reactions, atomic theory, and the periodic table, preparing students for more advanced scientific studies.
- Physics: Students study the laws of motion, forces, energy, waves, and electricity, using mathematical and conceptual tools to understand the physical world.
- Environmental Science: A course focusing on environmental issues, sustainability, conservation, and human impact on ecosystems, blending biology, chemistry, and ecology.
- Forensic Science: Students apply scientific principles to criminal investigations, learning about evidence collection, analysis techniques, and the role of science in solving crimes.
- Astronomy: This course introduces students to the study of celestial bodies, space exploration, and the physical laws governing the universe.
- Genetics and Biotechnology: Students explore molecular biology, genetic engineering, cloning, and the latest advancements in biotechnology.
- Marine Biology: Focuses on the study of ocean ecosystems, marine organisms, and environmental issues affecting oceans and coastlines.
- Anatomy/Physiology: This course provides an in-depth study of the structure and function of the human body, exploring systems such as the skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems, and emphasizing the relationship between body parts and their functions.
The humanities department is designed to develop strong writing and literacy skills while also gaining a deeper understanding of social, cultural, political, economic systems, and historical awareness.
This interdisciplinary approach aims to foster critical thinking, effective communication, and an understanding of the world through the lens of human interaction and societal development.
- Literacy in this context goes beyond reading and writing; it includes skills that help students engage with complex texts, analyze information, and develop critical thinking. These skills are crucial for understanding social issues and engaging in meaningful discussions. Key areas include:
- Reading Comprehension and Analysis: Students engage with a variety of texts—such as informational articles, novels (fiction and non-fiction), historical documents, and political speeches—that provide insight into different societies, cultures, and historical periods.
- Critical Thinking and Interpretation: Literacy instruction focuses on helping students analyze texts, assess arguments, identify biases, and make connections between various ideas. This helps them evaluate social systems and current events from multiple perspectives.
- Vocabulary and Syntax Development: Exposure to complex readings in social studies helps students build academic vocabulary and master more advanced sentence structures, improving both their reading comprehension and writing skills.
- Media Literacy: Students learn to evaluate and analyze media sources, which is especially important in a world where information can be manipulated or presented in misleading ways. They explore how social media, news, and advertisements shape perceptions of society and current events.
- Social Studies instruction focuses on understanding human societies, cultures, political systems, economies and history. It involves studying how people organize themselves and interact, both historically and in the contemporary world. Key components include:
- Civics and Government: Students learn about the structure and functions of government at local, national, and global levels. Topics may include democracy, voting rights, political ideologies, civil rights, and international relations.
- Economics and Geography: Social studies includes understanding basic economic principles, such as supply and demand, economic systems (capitalism, socialism), and the role of trade and commerce. Geography instruction helps students understand how the physical environment influences societies, including the impact of geography on trade, culture, and migration.
- Cultural Studies and Global Awareness: Students explore different cultures, traditions, and belief systems to develop an appreciation of cultural diversity and global interconnectedness. This may involve studying the impact of migration, globalization, and intercultural exchanges.
- Historical Inquiry and Research: Using historical texts there is an emphasis on research and inquiry. Students learn how to analyze primary sources, consider multiple viewpoints, and understand the social forces that shape societies over time.
- Contemporary Issues: Social studies often involves studying current global challenges, such as climate change, inequality, conflict, and technological advancements, and considering how societies can address these issues.
- Writing instruction in a humanities program is designed to help students express their ideas clearly, creatively, and persuasively. Key aspects of writing instruction include:
- Creative and Analytical Writing: Students are encouraged to write essays, research papers, persuasive arguments, and narratives that help them explore and communicate their understanding of social issues and historical contexts.
- Writing Process: Emphasis is placed on the writing process, which includes prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. Peer reviews, self-assessment, and teacher feedback are incorporated to help students refine their writing.
- Argumentation and Persuasion: A central component is helping students craft clear, coherent arguments. They learn how to use evidence effectively, structure their writing logically, and develop persuasive points of view on social issues.
- Research and Citations: Students learn how to conduct thorough research, evaluate sources for credibility, and cite their work properly, which strengthens their academic integrity and writing quality.
The world language program focuses on providing students with the opportunity to learn critical languages identified by the United States, offering a diverse selection of language options that prepare students for global citizenship and enhance their future career prospects. The program prioritizes languages that are strategically important for diplomacy, security, and international business.
Course Offerings:
Students are provided with the opportunity to study languages that are in high demand in global contexts, such as:
- Spanish
- American Sign Language
- Chinese (Mandarin): Focusing on listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Mandarin, one of the world’s most widely spoken and economically important languages.
- Arabic: Teaching students to communicate in both Modern Standard Arabic and regional dialects, with an emphasis on the cultural and historical contexts of the Arab world.
- Russian: A language program that includes both the Cyrillic alphabet and grammar structures, preparing students to understand Russian culture and engage in international relations.
Elective Language Courses (Additional Cost):
These elective languages are available at an additional cost to students, and may include:
French
German
Italian
Arabic
Japanese
Korean
Chinese (Mandarin)
Russian
Portugese
Greek
Hindi
The elective courses offered are designed to provide students with dynamic, engaging opportunities to explore a wide range of subjects based on their interests and the needs of the community. These courses will change on a quarterly basis, ensuring that the curriculum stays fresh, relevant, and responsive to student passions and local trends. By allowing students to have a say in the courses offered, the school fosters a sense of ownership over their learning while encouraging curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
Required Electives:
- Health (.5) (Middle School)
- Speech (.5) (Middle School)
- Personal Finance (.5) (High School)
- Life Skills (.5) (High School)