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Eighteen credits, excluding Physical Education, are required for graduation, including four credits of English; four credits of mathematics through Algebra II; three credits of history, including World Civilizations I and II and U.S. History; three credits in the same foreign language; three credits of laboratory science, including biology, chemistry, and physics with a fourth strongly recommended; one credit of fine arts; participation in our health program and fulfillment of community service. All students are required to carry a minimum of five major academic courses each year.
Ninth Graders take a one-term ethics class, and ninth and tenth graders take health. In addition, students are expected to pursue courses beyond the required level in most curriculum areas. some students may receive permission to pursue independent study of topics of special interest to them, under the direction of a faculty mentor.
A wide variety of elective courses reflects the diverse interests of Senior School students. They include astronomy, environmental science, physchology, contemporary world issues, economics, and several creative writing and literature options. Research, writing, critical thinking, and appropriate use of technology resources are basic skills taught in all required and elective courses.
Advanced Placement preparation is offered in chemistry, biology, physics, calculus, statistics, computer science, U.S. history, European history, English, studio art, psychology, French, German and Spanish.
Arts are an important component of the Senior School curriculum with many popular courses in studio art, ceramics, photography, technical theater, acting, song and dance, and both instrumental and choral music. Many opportunities for performance are available through our strong schedule of concerts, recitals and theatrical productions.
Expanding Horizons
To challenge students to look beyond themselves and their immediate surroundings, multiple opportunities are offered to travel and explore foreign cultures including France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Australia. Closer to home, semester programs are available on the Maine Coast and in the Rocky Mountains.
Continuing a commitment established in Lower and Middle School to community service, students are encouraged to maintain a relationship with a particular agency to fulfill their service requirements. Some devote dozens of hours to their project of choice.
Advising and College Counseling
In Senior School, as in other divisions, strong bonds between students and teachers are crucial to the Sewickley Academy experience. Each student selects a faculty advisor who provides support and guidance in scholastic and personal matters through the Senior School years.
Guiding students and parents through the college selection and application process is integral to the Senior School program. Beginning in the junior year, families meet with their assigned college guidance counselor to begin exploring choices. Great care is given to helping each student identify the colleges that will best match his or her interests and strengths.
Representatives from more than 150 colleges and universities visit the campus each year, and juniors and seniors are encouraged to visit campuses during summer and vacation weeks. Virtually all graduating seniors continue their education at a four-year college or university.
Extracurricular Activities
Participation in out-of-class activities is strongly encouraged as students continue to explore their individual talents and strengths. Leadership skills, good sportsmanship, time management, teamwork, and consensus-building are among the benefits of group activities. Teachers, coaches and advisors support students as they learn to prioritize commitments and organize their time.
Many different extracurricular activities have been established by students based on their diverse interests. The student newspaper and literary magazine win state and national awards regularly. A year book and annual history journal also are produced entirely by students.
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