The Upper School offers Woodlynde students a challenging college-preparatory education within a small classroom setting. A Woodlynde graduate has learned to read for meaning, motive, and context; write clearly, colorfully, and effectively; engage in thoughtful discussion and debate; research, evaluate, and present information in multiple formats; and make effective and appropriate use of time-management and study strategies. In recent years, 100% of our seniors have been accepted to college; on average, 95% matriculate the following fall.
Our smaller classes (average 8-12 students) allow Woodlynde students the opportunity to learn the "how" as well as the "what" of a college-preparatory curriculum. Woodlynde faculty are expected to use the more intimate classroom atmosphere to explain the importance and application of the material presented, and to directly teach effective study habits and study strategies for mastering the material in that content area. Student progress is evaluated with authentic "hands-on" assessments as well as traditional pencil-and-paper tests.
Every year, the 9th grade class is assigned a learning specialist who will stay with them through graduation. Our Metacognition program helps each student understand and share his or her unique learning strengths and needs, providing each Woodlynde student the self-awareness and self-advocacy required for success in college. Starting in the spring of 11th grade, our Director of College Guidance holds several individual meetings with each student and his or her family to ensure the best fit of student and college.
All students in grades 9, 10, and 11 take a year-long Writing course that meets every other day, as effective writing skills are a critical component of college success. Students in all grade levels participate in our Metacognition course, which enables students to "learn how you learn" and to put this knowledge to use as they set and move toward academic and career goals.
Woodlynde graduates must complete 4 years each of English, History, and Mathematics, and at least 3 years each of Science and World Languages (seniors choose to take a 4th year of either science or World Language; many take a 4th year of both). Honors sections, which move more quickly and go more deeply into the subject area than our standard college-preparatory sections, are available at every grade level in English, History, Mathematics, and Science. Seniors may take AP English and AP Art. Independent study options are evaluated and arranged on a case-by-case basis.
Elective choices in 9th and 10th grade include Music, Art, and Technology. In 11th and 12th grade, the range of electives broadens considerably, to include Yearbook, Journalism, Photography, Computer Graphics, Web Design and Fashion among others.
Activities and athletics are integral parts of school life, developing talents, building social skills and fostering school pride. Every student participates in at least one approved extracurricular activity each year, although several pursue other interests beyond the requirement. Most students join one of our athletic teams (Woodlynde has a no-cut policy), while others participate in drama productions; the school newspaper; or fifty hours of community service. |