Upper Division

The Upper Division at Garden School encompasses grades 7–12. The classes are small, averaging 15 students, yet it is not only our small class size that defines Garden but also the atmosphere within those classes. Middle school and high school classes provide students with the opportunity to have interpersonal relationships with their teachers, individual attention and mentoring, and meaningful educational experiences.

Garden School’s educational philosophy stresses learning for learning’s sake. Our students are taught that no one can know everything but that they have the ability and teacher support to learn anything, be it on their own, as part of a team project, or as a contributor to their class, grade, or the school as a whole.

Our academic plan for students includes study of the five major academic disciplines—English, social studies/history, mathematics, science, and foreign language. Starting in grade 9, students are part of our detailed and targeted college planning program. Through the years, students follow a continuum of courses that prepares them for the college application process.

There is more to life than academics at Garden School. Periods are set aside each afternoon for supplementary help in every subject. Clubs tap into our students’ desire for community service values and socialization over shared interests. Our sports program is exciting, vibrant, and important to many of our students, with three seasons of varsity sports—soccer, volleyball, boys’ and girls’ basketball, tennis, and softball—and participation in the Girls’ and the Boys’ Independent School Athletic League.

Upon graduation, Garden School students are ready to move out into the world as caring, knowledgeable people.

Upper Division Highlights

Grades 7 and 8 Preparation for the transition to high school Foreign language requirement Extra-curricular activities Full inter-departmentalization Interscholastic sports program International and domestic group trips

Grades 9–12 Five academic courses required each year Advanced Placement program Extensive Electives for grades 11–12 Health lectures and seminars with professionals Comprehensive college counseling Community service Full club program Three seasons of varsity sports Boys’ and Girls’ Independent School Athletic Leagues International group trips