Welcome to Upper School
Upper School is an exciting and challenging time for our students as they begin to think about the future beyond Parrott Academy. Upon entering 9th grade, students have begun to learn the importance of time management, study skills, and succeeding independently in scholastic endeavors. Throughout the course of Upper School, students will continue to strengthen these skills as they challenge themselves in the classroom. We encourage students to become involved in athletics, fine arts, and SERV to discover more about themselves and their communities, and to continue to develop into a more well-rounded people.
As students progress through Upper School, our goal is to assist them in choosing a challenging course load that will highlight their strengths. Our administrative team works together closely to ensure each student’s schedule is individualized to meet his or her needs as the college application process begins. Our Upper School faculty cares deeply for students and works hard to make sure each student obtains the skills necessary to find success in the classroom. Teachers enjoy getting to know students and continue to support them in the various activities offered outside the classroom as well. Following our annual honor convocation during the first week of school, our faculty continues to stress the importance of upholding the Honor Code throughout the year so that students learn the importance of respect and responsibility.
In tenth grade, students are permitted to begin challenging themselves with Advanced Placement courses. APA offers 14 AP courses and students annually record an 80% or higher pass rate on all AP exams. Many students acquire college credit upon completion of their AP courses.
Whether a student has been at APA since Lower School or has enrolled more recently, it is our hope that he or she feels part of the APA family. Our daily aim is to allow students to grow independently while continuing to help them make good choices and exhibit the characteristics of honor, truth, and initiative as outlined by the Academy’s mission statement. While Arendell Parrott Academy has a history of academic excellence, the development of the “whole child” is our ultimate goal.
It is an honor to serve as the Head of Upper School. I look forward to getting to know your family as you join me in the “final four” years of school.
Best,
Robert Kravitz
Head of Upper School