Upper School (9th-12th)
Welcome to Our Upper School Division
Welcome to Our Upper School Division
Meet Dr. Ira Pernick, Director of Upper School Division
Welcome to the Upper School at Ģý, where our academic offerings are rooted in experiential learning.
At Ģý, faculty bring learning to life, presenting students with authentic and relevant content, and preparing them to lead in our ever-changing world. Our rigorous curriculum includes a wide range of , Experience-Centered Seminars, mixed grade-level advisory groups, college counseling, and social-emotional learning, equipping students with skills and knowledge to succeed in college and beyond.
Walking through the hallways of El Pomar, our Upper School building, you’ll see students creating, modeling, presenting, and taking ownership of their learning – whether playing an instrument in the Band, participating in a club such as Model United Nations, or conducting a lab experiment in a science class. Ģý also offers a variety of Advanced Placement courses for students interested in completing college-level coursework.
Regardless of their interests, there’s something for everyone in the Upper School. Beyond the classroom, students also experience growth through our sports programs and engage with others via a robust community service program and a wide range of events. These activities add significant value to students’ overall high school experience and provide authentic opportunities to practice the skills needed to function successfully and ethically in a dynamic world.
From Kindergarten to College: A Ģý Student’s Journey to $1 Million in Scholarships
Senior Coltin B. '26, a student at Ģý since Kindergarten, has earned more than $1 million in scholarship offers, a rare and remarkable achievement among high school seniors.
His college journey reflects far more than academic success—it is shaped by mentorship, family support, and a community deeply committed to educating the whole student.
Our newest feature highlights Coltin’s path at Ģý, including the guidance of Director of College Counseling Erik Playe, the transformative impact of experiential learning, and the confidence built through lasting relationships.
“Ģý has provided me with everything I could have asked for when it comes to academic rigor and experiences outside of the classroom,” Coltin said. “It has grown me into the person I am.”
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