Upper School

In their first three years, Upper School students take Civilizations, exploring Ancient, Modern, and American eras through literature, history, philosophy, and the arts. Through seminar-style discussions, analytical and creative writing, and hands-on projects, students delve deeply into the big ideas that have shaped the human experience. The result is a richer understanding of the past and the tools to think critically about the present.

At Key, science is taught as a connected discipline, not in silos. In grades 9–11, students engage in Integrated Science: Data (Physics), Integrated Science: Energy (Chemistry), and Integrated Science: Systems (Biology)—courses that weave together core scientific concepts to deepen understanding and make learning more relevant.

This integrated approach allows for more hands-on, experimental, and design-based projects, giving students the opportunity to think like scientists and engineers while solving real-world problems.

At Key, learning goes beyond the classroom. Multi-day Outdoor Education trips that include camping, canoeing, and rock climbing connect academics to the natural world. Whether studying ecosystems on the Chesapeake Bay islands or the physics of rock climbing in real time, students gain a deeper understanding, lasting memories, and a strong sense of place.

All Upper School courses at Key are college preparatory, designed to challenge students and support their growth. Rather than limiting learning to a College Board-defined AP curriculum, Key offers a more expansive and intellectually driven approach, with many courses that prepare students for AP-level work while going beyond the constraints of teaching to a test.

Ten of these courses are designated as “advanced,” the highest level offered, and require students to sit for the corresponding AP exams. An additional five courses provide students with the broad content that the College Board defines, with the option to take the AP exam aligned with individual learning goals.

Arts (Visual & Performing)
2 Credits
Art I is required for all students; 1/2 credit must be in the performing arts

English
4 Credits
Includes
Ancient Civilizations Literature & History (9th)
Modern Civilizations Literature & History (10th)
American Civilization Literature & History (11th)
Comparative Literature (12th)

History
3 Credits
Includes
Ancient Civilizations (9th)
Modern Civilizations (10th)
American Civilization (11th)

World Languages
2 Credits
Two years of world language are required

Mathematics
3 Credits
Required through Algebra II and junior year

Physical Education
1 Credit
Required through junior year. Students receive .33 credit for each year completed through 11th grade

Science
3 Credits
Integrated Science: Data (Chemistry) (9th)
Integrated Science: Energy (Physics) (10th)
Integrated Science: Systems (Biology) (11th)

Social & Emotional Learning
.25 Credit
Community Seminar (9th)