Students in grades eight, nine, 10, and 11 and their families explored academic offerings available at the Upper School and experienced a lively performance from the rock band from Tuesday, Jan. 13-15 in the Hu Court. The event was designed to expose students to a variety of core classes, signature programs, and electives while helping them understand how course selection can shape their future academic paths in college and beyond.
Eighth-grade students from the MCK Campus attended the expo on the morning of Jan. 14 in preparation for the Upper School, while students in grades 9-11 visited during their DS classes Jan. 14-15. Parents of eighth-graders were invited to attend on the evening of Jan. 13 to learn about the course selection process and to meet and speak with department chairs and teachers.
The student and teacher run booths representing departments across campus, including core subjects, signature programs, health and physical education, and visual and performing arts courses. The booths featured hands-on activities to learn more about the different curricula.
In the morning, the rock band performance created an upbeat atmosphere, getting the eighth graders excited about their high school experience. Students moved between booths and interacted with presenters to fill out their expo cards with stickers from respective departments.
For many eighth-graders, the Course Expo offered insight into the academic flexibility available at the Upper School. Isabella Uzcategui, an eighth grader, was particularly interested in the Digital Mass Media Department, which encompasses broadcast, yearbook, newspaper, and, the newest edition to the program, film.
“I think it’s [Digital Mass Media] a really cool and interesting program. I would definitely consider joining for next year,” Uzcategui said.
Uzcategui said the variety of course offerings made her more excited about what is to come.
“The Upper School is going to open up my choices, especially in preparation for college,” Uzcategui said.
Upper School students said the Course Expo is a testament to the importance of taking advantage of the academic opportunities offered early on. Bruno Gubeissi Francez, a junior, said the range of courses helps students make informed decisions before committing to a future path.
“I think having a variety of courses allows you to explore a lot of options for what you want to do in college and throughout the rest of your career,” Francez said. “In my case, it’s the Business Program.”
The Course Expo was organized by Academic Dean Michelle Diaz to help students navigate the course selection process and better understand their options, emphasizing the Upper School’s commitment to allowing students to challenge themselves in the classroom while still exploring interests outside of the classroom.
“We pride ourselves on being a school for the whole family,” Diaz said.
Students will receive a Google Form with course selection requests later today, which must be completed by Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. By combining academic exploration with an interactive environment, the annual Course Expo provided students with excitement and tools to make educated decisions for their futures.
