Upper School
PCS offers a rigorous Upper School program which prepares students for application to competitive universities, colleges, and conservatories. A minimum of 18 credits is required for graduation, but many of our students graduate with 22-25 credits.
All students take 4 years of English and a minimum of 3 ½ credits of History. Math courses may proceed through Calculus or Advanced Calculus, and Science courses proceed through Advanced Physics and/or Advanced Biology. Language study (Spanish and French) goes through level V. Students’ individual programs are decided annually by their interest, ability, and professional responsibilities.
PCS is committed to integrating technology into the classroom and the Upper School program enables students to learn in part through online exchange of ideas, content and instruction. This opportunity offers an enhanced classroom-centered experience as well as an element of student control over time, place, path and/or place of learning.
Communication between students, parents, grade advisors, faculty and the administration is encouraged. Since about one-third of our high school students live away from home, communication with the family is essential.
The PCS Upper School is a vibrant, supportive, creative community that celebrates our students’ scholarly and professional successes. There is always space for students to grow, change, and try new things, even if they are deeply rooted in their professions. It is a place where the sometimes unconventional nature of professional life is recognized and fully understood by peers. It is a place that students come to know as their second home.
Sarah Rutledge, Head of Upper School
Upper School Advisory
The Upper School advising program is designed to support students’ academic and social-emotional needs and encourage student self-advocacy. Students meet with their advisor in small, grade-specific groups as well as individually, both formally and informally, over the course of the year. Advisors assist students with class registration and are an ongoing source of support and encouragement during the school year. In addition to supporting our students, advisors are available to respond to any questions or concerns parents have regarding their child’s experience at PCS.
Upper School Advisory
The Upper School advising program is designed to support students’ academic and social-emotional needs and encourage student self-advocacy. Students meet with their advisor in small, grade-specific groups as well as individually, both formally and informally, over the course of the year. Advisors assist students with class registration and are an ongoing source of support and encouragement during the school year. In addition to supporting our students, advisors are available to respond to any questions or concerns parents have regarding their child’s experience at PCS.