Upper School

List of 9 items.

• Arts

  The Upper School offers programming in dance, drama, classical and modern music, filmmaking, music production and visual arts. Students display their artwork in the Sam Francis Gallery; perform in musical, dance and theater performances; shoot films; and build sets and run tech for performances. Arts faculty not only train students in the skills of their given disciplines; they teach them to examine meaning and intention in art-making and to stretch the bounds of their creativity, exploring new media and new modes of thinking, seeing and creating.

• English/Publications

  The English curriculum strives to instill in students a lifelong love and appreciation of reading, and to teach students to write in ways that—beyond mere correctness—fluently communicate deeper meanings and values. As students experience literature from diverse perspectives and backgrounds, teachers encourage them to develop critical thinking and reading skills and, to convey their understandings in clear, well-supported expository essays and creative, multi-genre projects that develop their authentic voices.
  
  

  The Publications program gives students an opportunity to take those reading, writing and editing skills into the area of print and online publications. They produce and solicit work from a variety of sources, edit and polish the pieces, and learn fundamentals of design to produce the award-winning student print and online newspaper; print and online literary magazine; and academic journal, as well as the annual yearbook.

• History/Film Studies

  The Upper School History Department strives to help students experience the “foreignness” of the past and its power, and to deepen their understanding of political, economic and social life. Historical study hones reason, deepens empathy, awakens responsibility and, when necessary, rings alarms. In all History Department classes, students write, discuss and debate arguments from original documents, interviews, scholarly journals, classic works of history, film and other sources. Assignments encourage analysis, synthesis, evaluation and original research.
  
  

  The History Department also houses the Film Studies Department, in which students examine the vital role that this popular culture medium plays in the social and political life of the United States and around the world.

• Innovation and Technology

  The Innovation and Technology Department is committed to cultivating students who possess the skills to imagine, design, build, code, engineer, and contribute meaningfully to their community. The department seeks to empower and inspire students to use new and emerging technologies, fostering their self-confidence. Courses include various levels of design and engineering, machine learning and AI, computer science and an independent study option, with a focus on project-based and experiential learning. Most courses in this department count for science credit.

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• Math

  The Math Department believes that every student has the potential to excel in mathematics with the right support and approach. Their mission is to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment where students can discover their strengths and build a solid foundation in mathematics. The department is dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential by embracing the challenges and rewards that mathematics offers. They understand that mathematics is a cumulative discipline and that each student learns at their own pace. As a result, math course sequences are designed to accommodate different learning styles and paces. 

  
  The Mathematics Department is committed to empowering students to become confident and capable problem solvers, preparing them for a variety of careers that require mathematical skills and fostering their logical and analytical thinking abilities for life.

• Physical Education

  The Physical Education Department seeks to promote the development of each student's physical well-being and full human potential. We place the emphasis upon personal and cooperative development rather than competition. Students gain an interest in various movement forms and the satisfaction that comes with exercise, enhancing their physical, mental and emotional well-being. All Upper School students are required to complete one year of Physical Education.

• Science

  The thorough understanding of science requires students to engage in hands-on experimentation. Course offerings include marine biology, organic chemistry, earth and space science, physics and global health. Students engage in inquiry-based labs, field trips and extended ecological field studies offered through the Experiential and Outdoor Education program. The Science Department teaches students to grow their curiosity and interest in the world around them and to engage in the scientific process through problem-solving, review, research and experimentation.

• Student Wellness

  Throughout their time at Crossroads, students engage in community service, Environmental and Outdoor Education trips, and Life Skills and Physical Education classes. These curricula work in tandem to instill healthy physical, mental and emotional development. Students learn to make meaningful social contributions; connect to the natural world; speak their truths and practice compassion; and engage in physical wellness. This approach encourages students to better understand, integrate and coordinate their bodies, minds and hearts.
  
  In addition to the comprehensive curriculum, Crossroads provides a dedicated school counseling program to support students in navigating social, emotional, developmental and personal challenges. Our counselors assist students with social, emotional, developmental and personal concerns. Crossroads counselors bring extensive experience, warmth and commitment to their work with young people and their families. Students may schedule appointments, drop in or be referred by other school staff. Our counselors can also provide consultations for parents, as well as referrals to community agencies and private therapists.

• World Languages

  Crossroads offers courses in Latin, French and Spanish. Teachers employ methodologies that focus on developing speaking, writing, reading and listening with an emphasis on language immersion. Courses are taught in the target language to help students reach proficiency. Students apply previously learned material to new contexts and are encouraged to take risks while developing their linguistic instincts. Beyond the acquisition of language skills, students learn about the cultures behind the language, studying issues including politics, social justice, economic systems, literature and the arts.