Upper School

An Upper School Built for Growth and Perspective

Upper School at Pine Crest is a time of intentional growth when students begin to define their interests, strengthen their voices and take ownership of their learning. The Upper School experience balances depth of learning with flexibility, allowing students to explore new pathways and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Through a wide range of advanced academic opportunities, vibrant co-curricular experiences and personalized guidance, Pine Crest students are challenged to think critically, lead with integrity and develop perspective. Supported by dedicated faculty and a strong sense of community, students graduate prepared not only for college, but for a future shaped by curiosity, confidence and purpose.

Pine Crest Upper School students and faculty thrive in an academically stimulating, supportive environment where they have the freedom to explore their academic and extracurricular interests on a deep level.

Beginning in ninth grade, students may choose from regular and honors courses, more than 30 Advanced Placement (AP) and several Post-AP Seminar courses. As students progress to twelfth grade, they have increasing opportunities to create a schedule that best matches their ability and interests, with room to explore new courses and activities as well.

The Upper School Experience

Growing Independence with Guidance and Perspective

Upper School at Pine Crest is designed to support students as they step into greater independence academically, socially and personally. In grades nine through 12, students are encouraged to think critically, engage deeply with their learning and take increasing ownership of their choices, all within a supportive and connected community.

Faculty build meaningful relationships with students, offering mentorship and guidance as they navigate more complex coursework, broader opportunities and expanding responsibilities. With high expectations balanced by thoughtful support, students learn how to manage their time, advocate for themselves and approach challenges with confidence.

This intentional environment allows students to grow into capable, engaged learners, developing not only academic strength, but the perspective, character and self-awareness needed for success in college and beyond.

Depth, Choice and Purposeful Learning

Academics in the Upper School are designed to offer both depth and flexibility, allowing students to shape a learning experience that reflects their interests, strengths and goals. Beginning in grade nine, students engage in a college-preparatory curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, clear communication and meaningful inquiry across disciplines.

As students progress, they have access to a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and Post-AP seminar offerings, providing opportunities to pursue subjects in greater depth while continuing to explore new areas of interest. With guidance from faculty and advisors, students make thoughtful academic choices that support both challenge and balance.

Throughout Upper School, learning is purposeful and connected, encouraging students to apply knowledge, ask meaningful questions and engage with ideas in ways that prepare them for college and life beyond the classroom.

Course Spotlight

Pine Crest Upper School students explore the AP Data Analytics course.

Choice, Agency and Exploration

Opportunities to Go Deeper

Upper School students at Pine Crest are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning through meaningful choice and exploration. In addition to a broad range of academic and co-curricular options, students may pursue multi-year pathways that allow them to develop interests over time and engage deeply with real-world challenges.

Signature programs such as the three-year Science Research Program and three-year Social Entrepreneurship Program offer students the opportunity to think critically, collaborate with mentors and apply their learning beyond the classroom. Through these extended experiences, students build independence, initiative and perspective, preparing them for college and future leadership.

Student Life, Arts and Athletics

A Balanced Upper School Experience

Life beyond the classroom is an essential part of the Upper School experience at Pine Crest. Through student life programs, arts, athletics and co-curricular activities, students build relationships, discover interests and contribute meaningfully to a vibrant school community.

Opportunities in the arts and athletics allow students to pursue passions, collaborate with peers and develop confidence through performance, competition and leadership. Whether on the stage, on the field or in student-led organizations, Upper School students learn teamwork, responsibility and resilience, skills that complement their academic growth and support a well-rounded high school experience.

College Preparation and Future Ready

Thoughtful Guidance, Personalized Support

College preparation at Pine Crest is grounded in intentional guidance and long-term planning. Beginning in Upper School, students are supported by grade-level Deans for College and Academic Advising who serve as advocates and resources helping students balance academic priorities, co-curricular involvement and personal interests as they plan for what’s ahead.

As students move into the college admission process, dedicated College Counselors partner with families to provide individualized guidance. Through one-on-one advising, structured programming and planning tools that support reflection and organization, students are encouraged to explore options thoughtfully, build balanced college lists and approach the process with clarity and perspective.

This collaborative, experience-driven approach ensures students are supported at every step, prepared not only to apply to college, but to find environments where they will thrive.