Curriculum & Community

The Upper School curriculum offers a challenging and innovative academic program that thoroughly prepares students to excel and lead at the most demanding colleges and universities. SPA has chosen not to offer the designated AP (Advanced Placement) program. Our classes intentionally extend well beyond the prescribed AP curriculum in depth and complexity. When SPA students elect to take AP exams, they are very successful: more than two-thirds of students who take an AP exam earn a score of 4 or 5, and more than 90 percent earn a score of 3 or above.

At the heart of SPA’s approach is discussion-based, collaborative learning. In humanities classes, seats are arranged in a circle with the teacher typically seated with students facilitating conversation and lines of inquiry. Students know that they are to speak and listen carefully, collaboratively building on one another’s ideas. STEM courses engage students through a pedagogy that emphasizes collaborative and interactive problem-solving. In lieu of cumulative exams, many classes conclude with projects, papers, or lab practicum that ask students to demonstrate skills, synthesize learning, and carefully apply concepts learned to new situations and questions.

Advisories serve as a "home base" for students and faculty in the Upper School. Each advisory group is made up of a faculty advisor and a group of 8-12 students. Students meet with their advisor each morning at the start of the day for a check-in, and on Wednesdays for a longer meeting during X-Period.

During advisory meetings, students develop strong and supportive relationships with their peers and the advisor, who strives to know the child beyond the student. The advisory system fosters students’ social and personal growth and helps them manage the demands of a rigorous academic program. Advisors serve as coaches and mentors who support students while encouraging them to advocate for themselves and balance their various commitments; the advisor also serves as the primary liaison between student, parents, and teachers. Some elements of an advisor's role include:

• serving as the first point of contact when questions or concerns arise
• serving as an advocate in school matters for students
• encouraging students in their extracurricular and athletic commitments
• communicating with other teachers and parents when needed
• facilitating advisory discussions
• monitoring course selections and schedule

Technology as a Learning Tool: Upper School students are both skilled users and creators of technology. Each student uses a school-issued laptop for research, collaboration, and creative work across the curriculum. Supported by digital library resources and guided by the school’s Acceptable Use Policy, students learn to use technology responsibly while presenting ideas in a variety of media.

Computer Science and Engineering: Upper School Computer Science and Engineering electives give students hands-on opportunities to explore programming, robotics, and specialized engineering fields. Courses range from introductory programming to advanced and AP-aligned classes. In robotics and engineering labs, students design, build, and prototype projects while developing real-world problem-solving skills.