In the high school years, students develop the ability to perceive meaning, to make connections, to respond imaginatively and to form independent judgments and decisions. A demanding academic program helps them develop an independent and disciplined approach to learning. Through practical work that is integrated with academic studies, they gain the self – confidence that supports a willingness to take risks. When they study cartography in the eleventh grade, for example, students learn about different types of map projections and how mapmaking evolved throughout history. They become competent in the use of topographical maps and compasses and learn to navigate their way through the woods. Then, the students put these skills to work. They are dropped off in small groups miles from Camp Glen Brook and must use their orienteering skills to find their way back.

In subject matter, the high school program offers a solid and rigorous liberal arts curriculum. The main lesson is central to the high school student’s academic experience. This seminar-type class meets every day and focuses on ten specific topics, in a defined sequence, each year. Its extended length makes it possible for students to approach the topic through many modalities, adding depth and breadth to their understanding. They also create notebooks on each main lesson topic that demonstrate their understanding of the subjects. These main lesson books are works of art in themselves, filled with written responses to readings and discussions and often richly illustrated.

A high school student’s schedule also includes daily subjects such as math, English, social studies and foreign language. Juniors and seniors elect a two-year sequence of topics in either science or the humanities and may also choose other electives. Throughout high school, the arts continue to deepen the understanding of intellectual studies. At the same time, students expand their skills and work in new genres and media. They experience the joy of movement through eurythmy, physical education and ballroom dancing. They perform as singers, instrumentalists, speakers, actors and athletes.

All these learning activities are strengthened by their interconnections, as in the study of the Middle Ages, which interweaves history, literature, art and music. Special events such as the annual trip to Camp Glen Brook provides rich experiential links with the curriculum. At a deeper level of integration, all these experiences are related to specific points on the trajectory of intellectual and emotional growth. The cartography adventure, for instance, comes at a time when students are ready to venture out and challenge their abilities.