Upper School
Grades 9-12
208
Students Enrolled
42
Faculty Members
16
Average Class Size
5:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
100+
Hours of Outdoor Ed Experiences
14
Advanced Courses Offered
90+
Hours of College Advising and Support
40
Interscholastic Teams
8
Student Affinity Groups
60+
Clubs and Activities
35+
Visual and Performing Arts Opportunities
4
World Languages
Known for the quality of its college preparatory curriculum, the Upper School encourages intellectual rigor, independence of thought and openness to differing ideas and perspectives.
The Upper School is distinguished by its emphasis on writing, critical reading and thinking, interdisciplinary approaches to learning, and experiential education. Students learn by doing—in the classroom or laboratory, on the athletic field, on the stage or in the studio, on campus or off.
In a culture that fosters participation, collaboration, exploration of ideas, and discourse, Upper School students develop intellectual maturity and form the kind of leadership skills that empower them to have an impact on the larger world. All students are encouraged to take an active role in the community and seize opportunities to clarify and act on their own convictions.
Openness to student input—coupled with strong faculty support both inside and outside the classroom—ensures Key students’ investment in their work. Students flourish as they take risks, ask questions and go beyond their own comfort levels, beyond that which comes easily.
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Defining Elements
- Interdisciplinary & Integrated Curriculum
Students pursue knowledge, ideas and understanding within and among academic disciplines. They are actively engaged in the learning process and encouraged to draw from a variety of sources as they solve problems. - Emphasis on Skill Development
Critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills are valued above rote content memorization. Upper School students build an understanding of concepts from research, class discussions and group and individual project work, and use primary sources to present and defend their points of view. - Academic Advisory & Support
The Advisory program exists to enhance students' academic performance and overall well-being by ensuring that each student has ready access to an adult in the School who knows the student well and can provide informed advocacy, oversight and guidance. Additionally, all faculty are available when the need for occasional assistance arises and Upper School Learning Specialists are resources for students with specific learning needs. - Individualized College Counseling
Beginning in ninth grade, students and families receive one-on-one, tailored guidance from Key's Director of College Advising throughout the college search and admission process with the ultimate goal of finding the institution and program with the best "fit" for each student. - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
The Upper School program approaches diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in myriad ways, both explicitly through the academic curriculum and implicitly through student and faculty collaboration and interaction.
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