Curriculum Overview

Charting the Path to Knowledge: Explore Our Curriculum Overview

FIND out more about the Upper School Academics

Our upper school students combine academic curiosity and emotional intelligence to seek answers through critical thinking and problem-solving as they continue to gain knowledge through an ever-expanding global academic lens.
 
Our forward-thinking curriculum uniquely prepares students through academic rigor and intellectual discourse within a supportive environment. We encourage our students to ask questions, reflect, take risks, try, fail, succeed, lead, and grow into confident and critical thinkers. We create immersive opportunities for students to dive into their passions while simultaneously reaching their academic goals. The result? An education with a deep level of personal connection that opens doors (and minds) to broad opportunities for achievement.
 
Portledge is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. While the IB Diploma Programme is not required, the philosophies of the IB Programme anchor our curriculum throughout the school. The attributes of the IB Learner Profile aim to develop learners who are open-minded, reflective, principled, caring, and knowledgeable. As such, the Upper School curriculum is designed to foster curiosity and encourage students to learn the value of knowledge, with these attributes guiding our academic pathways. On this page, you will find the options our Upper School students have in each department as they build their academic journey at Portledge. 

Curriculum Overview by Department

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

  • English

    The English Department at Portledge is crafted to ignite a passion for literature, critical thinking, and effective communication. From analyzing timeless classics to exploring contemporary narratives, our curriculum encompasses a rich tapestry of literary works that will inspire and challenge you. Whether you're crafting eloquent essays, engaging in lively discussions, or honing your creative writing skills, our courses offer a platform for personal growth and intellectual exploration.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

  • History

    The goals of history courses include fostering an understanding of and ongoing interest in the past. They also aim to cultivate awareness among students regarding the diversity of human attitudes and opinions, essential for comprehending society. The history department further strives to nurture a grasp of history as a discipline and promote historical consciousness, encompassing chronology, context, and various perspectives. Throughout these courses, students will refine crucial historical skills, including adeptly engaging with sources.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

  • Mathematics

    The Mathematics Department offers a diversity of mathematics courses to upper school students. Students must take mathematics each year. Seniors will have several choices for their fourth year of math. They are Calculus AB, Precalculus, Calculus, IB Math or Statistics. Students should check with their math teacher or the mathematics department chairperson in order to select the appropriate sequential course.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

  • Science

    All students must complete three years of laboratory science at Portledge School.  The department determines placement in advanced and regular sections based on past performances in science classes, the recommendations of a student’s previous instructor, standardized test scores, and, depending upon the course, the student’s aptitude in mathematics. The department tries to identify the most able students for advanced classes which proceed at a faster pace and explore the subject material in greater depth with abstract thinking. The usual laboratory sequence includes, in this order, courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. Additional science electives, IB, and AP courses may be available to students and vary from year to year based on student enrollment and staffing availability. Students are encouraged to take a science course each of their four years in the upper school.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

  • Theatre

    From the stage to behind the scenes, our curriculum provides a comprehensive exploration of theatre, allowing students to develop essential skills, gain confidence, and discover their unique voice in the world of dramatic arts. Whether you're drawn to acting, directing, technical production, or the rich history of theatre, our courses provide a platform for personal growth, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the powerful impact of live performance.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

    **For more information about Visual Arts and our Music program, visit our Arts page. 

  • French

    In order to meet the graduation requirement, each Upper School student must successfully complete at least 2 credits during their high school years in French, Mandarin, or Spanish, culminating in at least level 3. We encourage students to enroll in a language course during all four years. Interested students may study a second foreign language as an elective.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

  • Spanish

    In order to meet the graduation requirement, each Upper School student must successfully complete at least 2 credits during their high school years in French, Mandarin, or Spanish, culminating in at least level 3. We encourage students to enroll in a language course during all four years. Interested students may study a second foreign language as an elective.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

  • Mandarin

    In order to meet the graduation requirement, each Upper School student must successfully complete at least 2 credits during their high school years in French, Mandarin, or Spanish, culminating in at least level 3. We encourage students to enroll in a language course during all four years. Interested students may study a second foreign language as an elective.
    See the graphic on this page for our Pathways to Success.

Upper School Sample Schedules

Pathways to Success by Department

Contacts

List of 4 members.

  • Photo of Chris Disimile

    Chris Disimile 

    Portledge School
    Division Director - Upper School
    (516) 750-3206
  • Photo of Francisco Lameiro

    Francisco Lameiro 

    Portledge School
    Assistant Director of Upper School, Dean of Faculty, US Dean of Students
    (516) 750-3119
  • Photo of Susan Simon

    Susan Simon 

    Portledge School
    Associate Director of Upper School / Registrar
    (516) 750-3204
  • Photo of Peggy Balsam

    Peggy Balsam 

    Portledge School
    Attendance Officer / Assistant to Upper School Director
    (516) 750-3236

Middle & Upper Schools Hours

6th - 12th Grade: 
8:20 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
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