Upper School

Holland Hall’s Upper School prepares each student for success in college and in life by sharpening the ability to make sound decisions, solve difficult problems, and cultivate healthy values. Our students have the self-confidence that comes from being taken seriously in school, and from being encouraged to reach beyond their grasp.

Holland Hall is proud of its students for many reasons: their character, their contributions and their accomplishments. While test scores are not the only signs of success, it is notable that our students score substantially above the local, state and national averages on S.A.T. and A.C.T. tests. National Merit Semi-Finalists and Commended Scholars routinely make up 10% of the Senior Class. Much of this success comes because Upper School teachers challenge each student to think critically, pose questions and seek solutions.

The Upper School curriculum offers a rich and varied program in the liberal arts tradition. The collegiate modular schedule, Advanced Placement courses, and exceptional college counseling all contribute to each student’s ability to learn according to his or her talent and potential.

The center of the Upper School academic facility is an enclosed open space known as The Barnard Commons. Here, before classes each day, Upper School students from all four grades and their teachers assemble for “morning meeting,” and here each day students gather, when free, to socialize. Around the perimeter of the student commons on the first floor are the offices of the class deans, the dean of student activities, the college counselors, and the Head of Upper School. The library/study center, the lecture center, conference rooms and facilities for student publications are also adjacent to the commons. The self-contained academic building provides ample space for classes in a congenial environment that encourages healthy social interaction among the students and ready access to the faculty for extra help sessions.