Upper School

Grades 9 - 12

Our dedicated teachers challenge students in grades 9 through 12 to think critically, creatively solve problems, appreciate the arts, communicate effectively, collaborate with peers, respect individual differences, and play competitively.

Curriculum

The Upper School curriculum is based on a course of study essential to a quality college preparatory education, along with elective courses designed to broaden and deepen the students' academic experiences. Diploma requirements are specifically established to provide each student with an education that combines breadth, depth, and flexibility.

All Providence Day School students embrace a global mindset. Our global curriculum and a Global Studies Diploma program prepare students for today's highly interconnected world. Students in the Global Studies Diploma program take courses in international relations, select from a number of related electives, attend a variety of multicultural events, receive leadership training, and have the opportunity for international travel.

Course offerings include:

Arts 22 courses, including 2 APs	Math 18 courses, including 4 APs
Computer Science 9 courses, including 2 APs	Science 19 courses, including 5 APs and 3 STEM courses
English 17 courses, including 2 APs	Physical Education 8 courses, including life fitness, dancercise, and international games
History 27 courses, including 8 APs and 12 Global Studies	World Language 38 courses in French, German, Latin, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese, including 5 APs

Eric Hedinger
Head of Upper School

Tosha Arriola, Assistant Head of Upper School

Tosha Arriola
Assistant Head of Upper School

Gordon Bynum, Assistant Head of Upper School/Dean of Students

Gordon Bynum
Assistant Head of Upper School/Dean of Students

Upper School Course of Study

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Upper School girl studying her 3-ring binder notes — Honor Code and Honor Council
The primary purpose of the Honor Code is to promote and support an atmosphere of learning and trust. Any possible or perceived infraction is referred to the Honor Council for a recommendation to the Upper School Head. The Honor Council, composed of students of each grade along with Upper School faculty, exists to help students who have made mistakes to learn from those experiences while also supporting the integrity of Providence Day School. The Council strives to recommend sanctions that will genuinely help and support the student who has committed an honor infraction.

Upper School students performing social responsibility acts by helping dig — Social Responsibility
In Upper School, the focus on social responsibility is centered on investigation, innovation, and reflection. Classroom curriculum and campus initiatives direct students to investigate the economic, cultural, social, political, educational, and environmental obstacles that impede community development. Through their experiences in problem-based or experiential learning coursework, Upper School students are encouraged to propose and implement innovative solutions to community challenges.

In 9th Grade, students learn about the impediments that obstruct upward mobility and social justice for thousands of their neighbors throughout Mecklenburg County through the Charger Impact Challenge. Throughout all four grades, student-centered Service Clubs work with area organizations support community needs. And a student-led Foundation Board lends financial support to student-centered social responsibility initiatives.

Upper School students standing and kneeling around a table while the two kneeling are working on iPads/tablets — Clubs and Activities
The Providence Day upper school offers over 42 clubs that cater to a wide variety of student interests, spanning from community service and social responsibility to politics and current events to robotics and craftsmanship to the arts & athletics. Students may also contribute to one of Providence Day’s publications, or serve in a leadership role through the Student Government Association, Honor Council, or class office. Clubs are intended to augment student life, promoting the development of student leadership, communication, and innovation. Each year, students initiate the creation of new clubs, allowing them to pursue interests beyond the classroom.