The Upper School seeks to challenge and encourage each student to find a passion, pursue an interest and become an ever-more independent learner. Small class sizes and the one-on-one personal attention from the school’s adult community provide students with a supportive learning environment as they pursue academic excellence in a rigorous course of study.
ACADEMIC CHALLENGE
As an outstanding college preparatory school, Menlo places great emphasis on helping students acquire the academic foundation and sense of responsibility needed to achieve success in college and beyond. The scope and sequence of the program provide students with an outstanding education in the arts, humanities, sciences and mathematics, with an emphasis on critical thinking skills.
INTELLECTUAL ENGAGEMENT
The program is designed so that students can meet most of their distribution requirements by the end of junior year, allowing ample opportunity to shape their own course of learning during their final year in high school. Classes are mostly discussion based with hands-on learning:
- Primary source analysis is a fundamental part of all studies in history
- Small-group discussion about literature is a key feature of all our English courses;
- Team problem solving is a hallmark of our mathematics classes;
- Hands-on lab work is integral to the study of science;
- Modern language classes all emphasize speaking in the target language;
- Creative Arts classes offer multiple opportunities for public performance and presentations.
NURTURING COMMUNITY: THE “SOUL” OF THE SCHOOL
A dedicated and energetic faculty and coaching staff is committed to promoting positive values, school unity and a sense of community.
Menlo values students’ range of talents, interests, ideas, customs and cultures, and through programs such as Interscholastic sports, Health and Wellness, Senior Leadership, and Student Government, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves while contributing to the school community. Menlo prides itself on fostering respect and trust among all its members. Individual and group outreach activities, through programs such as Advocacy and community service, help students find their place as citizens of the world.