Head, Heart, and Hands
Life at LWHS
discover
Lick-Wilmerding High School
Founded in 1895, Lick-Wilmerding High School stands apart as a unique educational institution. In the pages to follow, you will learn more about our dynamic and challenging academic program, the way we weave innovation into our curriculum through the study of the technical arts, the opportunities students have to explore their emotional and physical selves through visual arts, performing arts, and athletics, and how we ask students to engage with the world in order to enact positive change. What may be a bit less visible in these pages are the relationships embedded in the fabric of the school that support these many endeavors of our students. At Lick-Wilmerding, students forge life-long connections with their peers, faculty, and the subjects they study, and with those individuals who need their talents and compassion in order to realize their full potential. These relationships are born out of a passion shared by all members of our community to be fully engaged with each other and with all that our world has to offer, both locally and globally. Our mission affirms our commitment to developing the head, heart, and hands of our students, “inspiring them to become life-long learners who contribute to the world with confidence and compassion.� This attention to the whole person ensures that a Lick-Wilmerding graduate is an accomplished scholar, a creative thinker, and an agent for creating a better world. I look forward to meeting you at one of our Open Houses and invite you to attend any of our athletics, performing arts, or community events to become acquainted with our school. I appreciate your interest in Lick-Wilmerding, and as you continue to attain a more complete picture of life at LWHS, I hope you, too, will be captivated by our spirit and dedication to helping students succeed in becoming their authentic selves.
Eric J. Temple Head of School
passionate involved inspired innovative joyful fearless
be yourself
“As my junior year at Lick is coming to an end, I realize that if there is one thing I’ve learned about this school it
the opportunities are boundless. As a freshman, I played
is that
a sport every season, and therefore found it hard to get involved in the theatre (which had been a passion of mine in middle school). However, through my Stagecraft class I got the opportunity to work backstage on the spring play where I built sets and worked behind the scenes.
In my three years at Lick-Wilmerding, the school has provided me with the opportunity to pursue all of my passions. Lick isn’t a place that fosters just academics, athletes, and artists, but encourages all three to manifest in one person.”
—James Evans ’14
“One of the things that has been the most important to me throughout my time at Lick has been the warm community that has supported and pushed me to continue to push myself. Not
only have I made lifelong friends here at Lick, I’ve also become a lifelong learner and thinker.
I’ll be graduating with the ability and drive I need to make a positive impact in the world using the practical knowledge I’ve gained at Lick.”
—Caroline Doyle ’13
“Lick-Wilmerding is a place of infinite opportunity where the only limiting factors are time and energy. In my four years here I tried many different clubs, created two new ones, immersed myself in distance running, tried basketball and badminton, acted in the One Acts with no acting experience, and took as many classes as my schedule would allow. Yet, I leave feeling like I have barely scratched the surface of all that this school has to offer.
The Lick-Wilmerding community is incredibly flexible and supportive in helping students pursue their ideas and passions. In my time here, I have gained so much confidence from knowing that I can try something, fail, laugh a bit, and learn from that experience. Being a student at Lick-Wilmerding has given me a strong sense of curiosity and a drive to do as much as I can, the best I can. I am eternally grateful to have spent four transformative years here.”
— Connor Jordan ’13
Learn to weld, write a memoir, untangle differential equations, choreograph a
Honors and advanced classes are offered across
hip-hop dance routine, study the history of
elective coursework from the following areas:
revolutions in Latin America, sandblast glass and stone, contemplate Plato’s ideas, conjugate French verbs in the perfect tense, unravel the mysteries of DNA, play the oboe, build your own robot — our course offerings inspire students to think analytically and creatively and develop physical,
the curriculum as students select their required and
• Body-Mind Education • Counseling • English • History and Social Studies • Mathematics
cognitive, emotional, and aesthetic skills. Our
• Performing Arts
75-minute “Tiger Block” Plan allows students to
• Science
delve deeply in their academic pursuits and make
• Technical Arts
connections across disciplines, while considering
• Visual Arts
multiple perspectives and viewpoints.
• World Languages
be passionate
academics at lwhs What sets LWHS apart?
The Lick-Wilmerding community is incredibly diverse.
Our students come from around the corner and around the globe; from public, private, and parochial schools.
These bright students come to LWHS eager, curious, and excited to learn and challenge themselves. Our supportive and stimulating atmosphere enables
students to take risks, value who they are, and envision unbounded futures.
be innovative
Truly a Bay Area school — our 461 students represent more than 70 middle schools and reside in San Francisco, the East Bay, Marin, the South Bay, and the Peninsula. Furthermore, 40% of the student body comes from public and parochial middle schools, and students of color make up 55% of the population. LWHS is dedicated to sustaining and strengthening a diverse and truly inclusive community — one that is welcoming, safe, and respectful — where all students and
life at lwhs
families will thrive.
t e c h n i c a l a r ts
Courses within this program will give students
In our 118th year, Lick-Wilmerding is the only
the opportunity to build a strong foundation in
independent high school in the nation that, in
computer science principles and gain the skills
addition to its rigorous college preparatory
necessary to program processors for motor
program, also requires extensive work in technical
control, sensor input, and data storage/retrieval.
arts and design. LWHS offers a unique collection of shop classes in electronics, wood, fabrications, jewelry, and robotics. Students are required to take a minimum of four semesters in the shops exploring one or more of the technical arts disciplines. As a pioneering institution in the technical arts, LWHS students work conceptually and physically with both their minds and hands.
the ethics initiative
Lick-Wilmerding’s Ethics Initiative engages students in the practice of ethical thinking and discourse, and challenges them to consider various perspectives and implications when faced with moral and ethical dilemmas. For example, the 10th grade English curriculum examines the question: “What is the universe of my moral
machine intelligence and computer science program
responsibility?” Sophomores explore terms like ethics and morality and relate them to themes
LWHS’ faculty are continuously examining and
such as integrity and authenticity during their
evolving the curricula to reflect the contemporary
study of literature. A long-term goal of the Ethics
needs and interests of its student body. In the fall
Initiative is to build an inclusive, ethical community
of 2013, LWHS will be launching a unique technical
as students complete their academic coursework
arts program that merges the fields of robotics,
through the lens of ethical reasoning.
computer programming, and physical computing.
a sampling of lwhs student clubs and activities
Admissions “Hospitality Club” African Service Partnership Agape Christian Club A.S.I.A. Black Student Union Coding Club Community Action Club Drama Productions (Fall and Spring) Gay/Straight Alliance Hapa Club Jewish Student Union Junior Statesmen of America Kiva Club Latinos Unidos Lit Magazine Paper Tiger (school newspaper) Spoken Word Student Council Surf Club Teens Turning Green “The Waves” A Capella Group
activities at lwhs
be involved
the campus
Lick-Wilmerding’s campus is architecturally spectacular and has been nationally recognized for its innovative design. You will find LWHS students studying on a grassy knoll, rehearsing in the music studio, meeting with a teacher on the cafeteria patio, milling and soldering metal in the fabrications shop, creating an iMovie in the Mac lab, learning how to rock climb, or relaxing in the student lounge. Each student can find a place to call his or her own among the many places and spaces on our campus. co-curricular activities
LWHS offers a variety of clubs that play an active part in students’ lives. These activities provide opportunities to interact with fellow students around a common interest — whether it’s advocating for women’s rights, learning a new BBQ marinade, writing original poetry, or rehearsing for an upcoming theatre production.
service learning
Lick-Wilmerding is committed to being a private school with public purpose. The Center for Civic Engagement and Leadership offers opportunities for LWHS students to participate in programs related to social justice and equity, service learning, and student leadership. In every case, LWHS students are making a difference — both in the lives of those they serve and in their own.
student leadership
LWHS encourages its students to make their voices heard and to make a difference in the world. Whether it is by joining student council, running a school club, or facilitating diversity and educational programs like Walk with a Purpose, LWHS students make a positive impact on the culture of the School and the values it upholds.
athletics at lwhs
be fearless
Beyond the trophies and pennants won in many league, conference, and sectional championships, LWHS values athletics because participation brings out the best in our community. In 2013, Bay Counties League-schools honored LWHS with the BCL West Sportsmanship Award for demonstrating excellent sportsmanship at league contests.
Lick-Wilmerding’s athletic program offers opportunities for the serious student-athlete as well as the recreational player. Competing on 30 interscholastic teams over three seasons in the Bay Counties League (BCL), LWHS student-athletes gain physical self-confidence and learn the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline through athletic competition. Throughout the year, over 75 percent of the student body participates on athletic teams where the emphasis is not winning at all costs, but rather challenging students to excel to the best of their athletic abilities. Lick-Wilmerding has a rich athletic history. From the days of our powerhouse football program vying for the state championship game in 1923 to the present day where not a game goes by without hearing Coach Smith’s patented “Lick” cheer — sports memories are made and cherished at LWHS.
Lick-Wilmerding’s partnership with City College of San Francisco allows our student-athletes access and use of their athletic facilities. CCSF opened its $84 million state-of-the-art Community Health and Wellness Center in the Spring of 2008. The athletic complex consists of three levels and is designed to accommodate all levels of fitness — from the competitive athlete to a person solely interested in maintaining a healthy physical regimen. The Fitness Center houses 80+ individual workout and cardiovascular machines, a natatorium with an Olympicsized swimming pool, and multi-purpose spaces for martial arts, yoga, and dance. LWHS athletic teams also practice and play matches and games on eight lighted tennis courts, an all-weather track, and on soccer and lacrosse fields located directly across the street from our campus.
lwhs athletic teams
Girls’ Sports • Fall: Cross-Country, Tennis (Varsity and JV), Volleyball (Varsity and JV) • Winter: Basketball (Varsity, JV, and Frosh/Soph), Wrestling • Spring: Badminton, Lacrosse, Swimming, Soccer (Varsity and JV), Track & Field Boys’ Sports • Fall: Cross-Country, Soccer (Varsity, JV, and Frosh/Soph) • Winter: Basketball (Varsity, JV, and Frosh/Soph), Wrestling • Spring: Badminton, Baseball, Lacrosse, Swimming, Tennis (Varsity and JV), Track & Field
Our mission: To enrich the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of our students through competitive athletics where lifelong lessons of sportsmanship, individual effort, teamwork, integrity, commitment, and self-discipline are emphasized.
Something unique happens to LWHS students — they develop a confidence in their ability to learn, to communicate their ideas, to express themselves and to work with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. LWHS graduates are self-aware, compassionate, and positive contributing citizens of the world.
school day
A six-day, rotating, “Tiger Block” schedule with 75-minute blocks allows students to take up to seven courses each semester. The school day starts at 8:00am with the exception of Mondays, when it begins at 8:45am. School ends either at 3:15pm or 3:30pm, based on the rotating schedule. Athletic team practices and performing arts rehearsals are held after school, and most club meetings take place during lunch.
college counseling
Choosing a college can be an exciting process of self-discovery. Lick-Wilmerding’s college
onward bound... where they go from here
counselors assist students with identifying colleges and universities that best match their
Amherst College
interests and needs. Beginning in the junior year,
Brown University
our counselors meet individually with students
University of California, Berkeley
McGill University
University of California, Los Angeles
New York University
and their families and host workshops, such as application planning, essay writing, interview tips, and playing collegiate sports.
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Carnegie Mellon University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Middlebury College Northwestern University University of Pennsylvania Pomona College
Cooper Union
Princeton University
Columbia University
Rhode Island School of Design
Cornell University Dartmouth College Duke University
University of Southern California
University of Edinburgh
Stanford University
Harvard University
Washington University in St. Louis
Johns Hopkins University Macalester College
Williams College Yale University
* Partial list of colleges and universities attended by recent LWHS graduates
be inspired
students at lwhs
Lick-Wilmerding attracts well-rounded students with high academic potential who are self-motivated, resourceful, respectful of others, and excited about learning. The school empowers students to be self-directed, lifelong learners.
being yourself at lwhs
be joyful
“In my opinion, to call Lick-Wilmerding just a school would be a vast understatement. While Lick provides a challenging yet rewarding academic program for its students, for me, this place has been so much more. I have found myself on campus on countless weekends, either rehearsing for an upcoming dance concert, painting photo booth backdrops with fellow student council members for spirit day, or helping out at the open houses.
Through the countless activities that Lick offers beyond the classroom, I’ve built friendships with unique individuals who share similar interests with me, and I believe that those are the genuine experiences that have made my time here at LWHS worthwhile.”
—Julianne Sison ’14
“Going to Lick-Wilmerding has sparked my interest in so many different areas outside of the classroom. Starting out as a freshman, I was not fond of English classes or working out, but I am now in love with reading, writing, and competing in sports. This love stemmed from academic and personal challenges, but my teachers and coaches at Lick helped me better myself and pushed me beyond ‘good enough.’
I have learned more than how to write an essay or perform a takedown in wrestling, what I learned from Lick-Wilmerding High School is sportsmanship and perseverance.”
—Michael Galathe ’13
“Lick is a loving place. It’s a place where your English teacher will bring in her guitar to sing with you about labor unions. It’s a place where you will have a fête in French class for Noël. It’s a place where root beer floats after badminton matches are a time-honored tradition.
What I’ve learned from Lick is that when you begin something, you never know what it will become; when you first meet someone, you never know what he or she will mean to you. This thing that I began four years ago — this adventure — has led me to people that now mean so much. For that, and for everything in between, I am grateful.”
—Sydney King ’13
Lick-Wilmerding is more than a school — it is a community of
Lick-Wilmerding welcomes and depends
families from different backgrounds,
in the school community, and there are
experiences, and perspectives committed
ample opportunities to get involved.
to educating our children in becoming
Periodic communication with teachers,
compassionate and confident citizens
parent-advisor conferences, the school’s
of the world. The family portraits that
website, and weekly publications all
follow capture moments and reflections
provide continuous dialogue and support
that reveal why families choose
the essential triangular relationship
Lick-Wilmerding, how they feel about
between students, parents, and the
the one-of-a-kind curriculum, and their
school. The Lick-Wilmerding Parents’
thoughts about being part of the LWHS
Association (LWPA) connects parents
community. Their sentiments affirm
with each other, as well as with the
the educational mission built upon the
administration, faculty, students, and
foundation of a diverse and inclusive
alumni. Parents are invited to attend
community dedicated to developing the
monthly LWPA meetings that spotlight
qualities of the head, heart, and hands in
pertinent and meaningful topics.
on the active engagement of families
all LWHS students.
prepare him well for college; what we didn’t realize was that it would also prepare him well for life! Xander left LWHS with a strong sense of himself, compassion for others, and a vision for how he might contribute to the world. Our son Dominic, who is in the Class of 2016, is very different from his brother and will likely pursue an entirely different set of academic and co-curricular Dominic ’16, Xander ’12, Tom, Sandra, and Zachary
the Masotto-Yie family Xander’s four years at LWHS were all that we had hoped for and more. His teachers and peers pushed
interests. The
extraordinary thing about LWHS, especially given its small size, is that there is a multitude of opportunities for its students. No matter where their interests lie, each student will be enriched by their LWHS experience.
him to think more critically, feel more deeply, and
The Lick-Wilmerding community is diverse along
express more freely than he would have otherwise.
many dimensions, but there is a shared spirit of
We knew his Lick-Wilmerding education would
warmth and inclusion that binds us all.
families at lwhs
be together
Financial support of LWHS beyond tuition is yet another way parents are involved in the school community. Every child who attends the school benefits from the generosity of others. LWHS sponsors annual fundraisers that support the financial needs of the school, and parents are at the heart of these important community events. Each gift, regardless of size, helps ensure the strength and excellence of Lick-Wilmerding for students of today and tomorrow.
Sarah ’14, Peter ’16, Chip, Tricia, Lily ’16
the Stone-Koch family All three of our children chose Lick-Wilmerding because of the students. There are many compelling things about LWHS’ academic program and community, but the students stood out to each of them as being the most motivating factor. LWHS
students are smart, engaged, and creative, as you would expect, but it’s their heart that really stands out. You can hear it on the sidelines of a track meet — they’re cheering for everyone. You can sense it in the audience during a LWHS’ performance — they are proud of each other. When listening to LWHS students speak informally, they make positive comments about one another. This is a really kind place with really kind kids. Lick-Wilmerding is a dynamic high school comprised of interesting and unique students who come together to create a compassionate and diverse community.
school friends didn’t faze her. A big draw for Bahar was LWHS’s diverse community as it mirrors the Bay Area’s melting pot of cultures and beliefs, and very much aligned with her interest and respect for people from all walks of life.
Simin, Bahar ’12, Farhang
the Ostadan-Naaseh family When considering high schools, East Bay schools seemed to be the logical choice as a couple are only within a few minutes from our Oakland home. Yet for Bahar it was love at first sight when we introduced her to Lick-Wilmerding. The thought of the commute or being away from most of her middle
Being at LWHS gives Bahar an incredible opportunity to develop as a whole person. The academics are a healthy challenge, with amazing faculty who do more than just teach the subject — they encourage intellectual curiosity and instill a love of learning; a much valued treasure that she will have for the rest of her life. Bahar has found a higher purpose in life through the myriad of meaningful volunteer and community activities. And lastly, she has strong relationships with LWHS students and teachers, which is priceless. We truly feel very fortunate that our family is taking this journey together through Lick-Wilmerding.
the Balladares family When Johnny began his high school search, we knew very little about Lick-Wilmerding. But, from the first moment we visited, we sensed it was a very special school. Coming
from 9 years in a parochial school community, we quickly realized that the learning environment at LWHS was very different. We were impressed with the School’s deep commitment to quality teaching, strong sense of community, and developing lifelong learners.
Brandon ’16, Carolina, John ’09, John
his time as a LWHS Tiger, we look forward to him
At LWHS, Johnny not only challenged himself
embracing all that Lick-Wilmerding has to offer
academically, but was involved in various clubs, and
and are confident that he will receive a high-quality
pursued his love of baseball. Being a part of LWHS’
education in a supportive and enriching environment.
baseball program for four years helped us find a
As parents, we feel fortunate for the amazing
new family within the Lick-Wilmerding community
opportunities that LWHS offered Johnny and will
and served as a vital part of Johnny’s high school
undoubtedly provide for Brandon. Here’s to another
experience. As our second son, Brandon, begins
four amazing years!
History and Social Studies
All freshmen participate in two semesters of Body-Mind Education. This credited course incorporates a range of tools for making healthy life choices, combining activity-based sessions with discussion, presentation, journaling, and home exploration.
Students are provided with a global perspective on how the past has shaped the present. Paying attention to the political, economic, religious, and social forces that have influenced the modern age, students learn through writing, research, document analysis, projects, discussions, and other class activities. The department is committed to teaching critical thinking, stimulating intellectual curiosity, and examining multiple perspectives. History faculty collaborate with the School’s library in order to keep pace with contemporary research methods.
Students will reflect, respond, play, grapple, and experiment, ultimately cultivating practices of body and mind that will sustain them through the many challenges their lives will offer. The Body-Mind Education curriculum includes three distinct areas of study: Climbing, Health & Wellness, and Yoga. Upper grade level students can choose from a range of more specialized Body-Mind Education electives that require varying levels of commitment and offer continued practice and development of skills presented during the freshman year. • Freshman requirement: Health & Wellness, Climbing, and Yoga • Sophomore, Junior or Senior year electives: Backpacking Basics, Introduction to Meditation • Junior or Senior year electives: Peer Educators, Teaching Assistantship
The three-year curriculum begins with World History in the sophomore year and U.S. History in the junior year. The LWHS History Department senior seminar classes are a culmination of these two years of survey coursework. They are intended to offer students an intensive study on an array of topics in both Modern World and United States History. • Sophomore Requirement: World History • Junior Requirement: U.S. History Honors • Senior Electives (recent offerings): Globalization, Power and Politics in Post WWII America, International Politics, Revolutions
Counseling Growing up in an increasingly complex world is not easy. LWHS counselors provide support in a safe, confidential space where consultation, counseling, and therapy are offered by drop-in or scheduled appointments. Students often self-refer, and may also be referred by parents, faculty or staff. Also offered are consultation services with faculty, staff, parents and guardians. The Counseling Department consists of the Director of Counseling, who is a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT), and the Counseling Intern (MFTI)/Health Educator. In addition, the Director of Counseling facilitates the Peer Counseling Program. Students of all grade levels may volunteer to be part of this program. These students learn counseling and group facilitation skills, and are then a resource to the community.
English Courses in the English Department focus on the reading and interpretation of a diverse set of texts from a variety of genres. Students deepen their knowledge and understanding of these works through pair, small group, and whole class discussions. Writing assignments stress the development of literary analysis and offer students opportunities to stretch themselves creatively. Students are encouraged (and sometimes required) to revise their written work, engendering development of skill, discipline and an understanding of writing as a process. • Freshman Requirement: English 1 • Sophomore Requirement: English 2 • Junior Requirement: English 3: Literature of the U.S. • Senior Seminars Requirement (recent offerings): Shakespeare and Twain, Contemporary American Poetry, Gender and Sexuality in Literature, Literature of the Pacific Islands, Brave New Worlds, Hybrid Narrative: Stories that Break the Rules, The Immigrant Experience in Literature
Mathematics The beauty and power of mathematics make it a vital component of secondary education. LWHS requires all students to complete at least three years of mathematics, and the vast majority of students opt for four years. Math is approached not just as a body of knowledge, but as a way of thinking. Students learn best, and are best able to apply what they learn, when they have the opportunity to construct their own understanding of mathematical concepts, so the faculty strives at all times to make the students active participants in the learning process. Cooperative investigation and problem solving in small groups are used extensively. Diverse means are used in order to assess student understanding and mastery, and in several classes this includes writing about math concepts. Lick’s offerings begin with Algebra 1 and include college-level classes in Calculus and Statistics. A test is given to incoming students to help determine appropriate placement. All classes are full-year and UC-eligible. • Algebra 1 • Geometry: Inductive and Deductive • Algebra 2: Regular and Accelerated • Precalculus: Regular and Honors • Calculus: Regular and Honors • Statistics: Regular and Honors
Performing Arts The Performing Arts Department consists of four program areas: Dance, Instrumental Music, Theatre, and Vocal Music. Students in the Performing Arts learn to understand the role of art in the world as a powerful means of communication, expression, and reflection. The skills and habits of mind learned in all our programs serve them across the school-wide curriculum and beyond. The faculty encourages students to explore their creative potential, provides a supportive environment to take artistic risks, and teaches the importance of persistence in each artistic endeavor. Introductory through advanced academic credit classes are offered within each program. Public performance is an essential part of the Performing
academic program
Body-Mind Education
Arts curriculum and students are given opportunities to participate in a variety of extracurricular theatre productions. the school
Lick-Wilmerding is a non-profit, independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school serving grades 9-12 with a tradition of integrating demanding academic courses with technical and fine arts. Endowed by San Francisco entrepreneur, James Lick, the California School of Mechanical Arts opened its doors in 1895. Subsequently, the “Lick School” merged with the Wilmerding School of Industrial Arts and the Lux School of Industrial Training. The School’s 461 students reflect LWHS’ strong commitment to cultural, social and socioeconomic diversity. The student body is 3% African American, 14% Asian American, 45% Caucasian, 3% East Indian/Pakistani, 2% Filipino, 6% Latino, 1% Middle Eastern, 26% Multiracial. In 2013, there were 776 applicants for 118 places in the ninth grade; 118 ninth graders enrolled from 65 middle schools. The Flexible Tuition Program awarded over $4 million to 39% of all enrolled students. faculty and administration
Our 72 full and part time teachers, administrators, and program directors hold 46 Master’s degrees and 7 Doctorates. Performing, technical, and fine arts teachers have supplemented their formal degrees with extensive work and performance experience.
program areas Dance program The Dance Program is open to all students interested in dance from the beginner through the advanced dancer. Classes focus on technique, choreography and performance skills. Dance students study Contemporary and Urban techniques, learn the craft of dance composition, and approach the creation of dances as an artistic endeavor. Students choreograph dances and perform in each other’s pieces, as well as in faculty choreography for bi-annual dance concerts. The program strives to meet the individual goals and levels of all students, encourages the development of personal expression and style, and fosters a strong community of dancers through collaboration and group work. • Dance 1, 2 • Dance Ensemble instrumental Music program Instrumental Music students develop habits of mind that foster their growth as collaborators in the making of art. Students receive training and practice in instrumental technique, musicianship, and individual musical expression. They also receive the opportunity to continually develop their musical literacy. In musical ensembles, students rehearse and perform, listen and respond, improvise, and regularly reflect and articulate their understanding of music. Music students perform regularly in formal and informal settings both on and off campus. • Introduction to Instrumental Music • 21st Century Ensemble • Advanced Jazz Ensemble • Chamber Orchestra/Advanced Chamber Music Theatre program The LWHS theatre program consists of theatre classes, clubs and public performances providing ample opportunities to perform, direct, and design. Courses are designed to equip students with a solid understanding of the theatrical process in an atmosphere that values individual growth and collaboration. Each year, the theatre program presents three productions: The Fall production, Spring production, and the Annual Festival of Original One Act Plays. Rehearsals are held after school and culminate in evening performances for the public. • Acting • Acting Intensive • Directing • Improv • Playwrights and Performers • Stagecraft Vocal Music program The Vocal Music Program offers three courses: Women’s Chorus, Men’s Chorus, and Vocal Ensemble. Through the lens of choral music, students will learn more about themselves, the world around us, and the art of collaboration. The Vocal Music Program encourages students to explore their creativity, develop healthy vocal production, refine the art of music making, reflect on self-created work, and to learn expression through singing. Repertoire will range from Renaissance music to Modern and Popular pieces. Students are given the opportunity to sing in small groups and large ensembles. • Men’s Chorus • Women’s Chorus • Vocal Ensemble
Science Science is more than a collection of facts; it is a process. All courses offered by the department emphasize learning through group work, discussions, and laboratory experiments.
Students learn to ask questions, design experiments and analyze data. They learn to look at concepts from multiple perspectives. Through discovery and discussion, students form interconnections and relate science to everyday experiences. They also consider the social and ethical implications of science. • Freshman Requirement: Biology • Sophomore Requirement: Chemistry • Junior and Senior Electives: Anatomy and Physiology, Honors Biology, Brain and Behavior, Honors Chemistry, Genetics and Evolution, Marine Ecology, Physics, Honors Physics
Technical Arts The Technical Arts program is a place where the head, heart, and hands converge, providing opportunities to tackle real world design challenges. Remaining faithful to its century-old history as an innovative institution in the technical arts, Lick-Wilmerding High School offers a unique collection of shop classes. This is an important part of the school’s mission of developing in young people those “qualities of the head, heart, and hands” which will serve them well in college and in life. LWHS students learn to work conceptually and physically, moving from theory to practice in order to bring the designs of the mind into the physical world. Technical Arts department objectives include cross-disciplinary and collaborative learning, skills for engineering, effective problem solving, creative expression, competency in the language of craft and design, and personal empowerment through self-confidence and self-esteem. All courses can be taken multiple times for credit with the permission of the instructor and when space in the course is available. The school requires all students to take a minimum of four semesters in the Technical Arts. Besides taking Design and Technology (DT1) in the ninth grade, students must choose two other semester-long classes that meet in the shops: Electronics, Robotics, Metal Fabrications, Jewelry/Metal Art, or Woodworking. • Freshman Requirement: Design & Technology (DT1) • Electronics Shop: Circuits and Electronics: Analog and Digital, Circuits and Electronics: Device Invention, Sustainable Energy • Fabrications Shop: Metal Fabrications: Kinetics, Metal Fabrications: Rethinking Furniture, Metal Fabrications: Private Skills for a Public Purpose • Jewelry Shop: Jewelry/Metal Art 1, Jewelry/Metal Art 2, Jewelry: Mixed Media Lab • Wood Shop: Wood: Joinery and Turning, Wood: Engineering the Chair, Wood: Private Skills for a Public Purpose • Robotics/Computer Science: Building and Programming Intelligent Machines: Level 1, Building and Programming Intelligent Machines: Level 2
Visual Arts The Visual Arts Department nurtures perception, thinking and expression, with the belief that it empowers the discovery of creative promise within. Visual Arts teachers encourage students to explore their imagination, tap their experience and knowledge about the world, and trust their unique vision without fear of failure. Visual literacy, conceptual thinking, experimentation, craftsmanship and commitment are emphasized. Students are asked to explore, take risks, persevere and deepen their visual perceptions honestly, reflectively and carefully. The department’s intention is to inspire them to be curious, creative and courageous, but also disciplined and attentive. It is hoped that through the development of their visual literacy LWHS students will become more confident in the uniqueness of their vision and will become active contributors to a culture that values art.
program areas Contemporary Media and Art (Year-long Freshman Requirement): Ninth graders take this multidisciplinary arts class in architecture, collage, digital photography, drawing, film and painting. Students get experience in a wide variety of visual languages and exposure to the practice and history of each medium. During this course, students work in traditional and digital media and learn how it can be used to create compelling and meaningful artwork. They develop creative and personal expressions in response to relevant social matters, individual interests and experience, as well as explorations of design, composition and form. Architectural Design Students learn the principles of the design process, addressing foundations such as form, function, proportion, scale and space. Emphasis is placed on creativity, design process, graphic presentation, and computer skills. Through a number of individual projects, students learn about defining and organizing public and private spaces. • Architectural Design • Advanced Architectural Design film Using the history of film as a context for learning, students will study various techniques and methods and apply their knowledge to their own original projects. Camera and tripod use, cinematography, editing techniques, sound, and the narrative form will be studied. Students also receive the technical training necessary in order to create their own films from inception to creation. Visual problem solving, long term planning, careful attention to process, and other habits of the filmmaker are emphasized, so that students may develop and communicate their individual points of view. • Film 1, 2 • Animation photography Students will pursue self-expression and develop their own artistic voice, while examining a variety of photographic methods and processes. Course work considers the particular qualities of photography as a visual art, and as a means of creative communication. Design, composition, and aesthetic perception will be emphasized. Skills in the use of the manual 35mm camera, as well as darkroom procedures and processes are taught. Topics may include the cultural and historical impact of photography, alternative photographic image making, and digital photography. • Photography 1, 2
studio art Students learn and refine new techniques, keeping expression and skill at the center of what they create. While a variety of materials and methods will be explored, assignments are structured to encourage thinking through exploration and discovery. Through the further examination of the technical, historical, aesthetic, cultural, and contemporary concerns of art and artists, students will develop their own personal and artistic ways of working. • Drawing and Painting • Drawing and Painting the Mural • Mixed Media
World Languages In an increasingly interdependent world, communication and interaction with people in their native languages helps foster positive relationships. In addition to the practical benefits of speaking other languages, knowledge of another language encourages different ways of viewing the world we share. Lick-Wilmerding is committed to fostering students’ proficiency in another language, as demonstrated by the depth of the curriculum and the length of study required: three years’ study in one language, or two years’ study in each of two different languages, or in one language through level 4 or 4 Honors. Students’ four basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) are developed while exploring the cultural contributions of diverse regions united by a common language. Teachers use a dynamic approach that incorporates a broad array of materials, such as up-to-date texts and workbooks, classic and contemporary literature, films and shorts, documentaries, current events, Internet sources, music and audio CDs. Class activities (designed to address various learning styles) may include pair and small group work, games, student-led classes, student presentations, skits and role-plays, student-made videos and iMovies, research projects, and exploration of community resources. Recognizing that students progress at different rates, the department is sensitive to each student’s unique needs and, when possible, offers accelerated or honors sections for students capable of a more demanding pace. All courses are year-long. • French 1, 2, 3, 4/4 Honors • Mandarin Chinese: 1, 2, 3, 4 Honors • Spanish: 1, 1 Accelerated, 2, 2 Accelerated, 3, 3 Honors, 4, 4 Honors
The LWHS course catalog is available online at www.lwhs.org.
lwhs graduation requirements (3 or 4 years)
1 year 9th
Mathematics (3 years) 3 years required, 4 years recommended
English (4 years) 1 year 9th
Science (3 years) 1 year 9th (Biology)
2 years each of two different languages*
1 year 10th
1 year 10th (Chemistry)
1 year 11th
1 year 11th or 12th
Body-Mind Education (1 year)
1 year 12th History and Social Studies (3 years) 1 year 10th 1 year 11th 1 year 12th
Technical Arts (2 years) 1 year 9th (Design and Technology) Visual and Performing Arts (1 year) 1 year 9th (Contemporary Media)
World Languages 3 years of the same language or
Jellis Block (4 years)
*A student who places into an advanced level of one of the languages offered and who completes the highest course offered in that language in the sophomore year will satisfy the requirement and will not be required to start another. The highest courses offered are Spanish 4 Honors, French 4/4 Honors, and Chinese 4 Honors. A student in this situation must still carry a total minimum course load of 6 courses.
Special Programs independent study/ teaching assistants
Juniors and Seniors may request a semester-long Independent Study or Teaching Assistantship. An Independent Study investigates a topic not taught/covered in detail in a LWHS course. Teaching Assistantships allow students to experience what it means to be a teacher and process the opportunity through thoughtful reflection. jellis block
Public purpose is one of the three pillars of LWHS’ mission. During Jellis Block, students formally build relationships within and beyond LWHS by serving the community and applying school-based learning to real world challenges. Participation in Jellis Block is a graduation requirement for all students. philanthropy initiative
LWHS students learn about the history of philanthropy and current practices around giving. 10th and 12th grade students partner with LWHS’ student government to research a social dilemma related to one of four global issues: hunger, health, education, or the environment. Students work with non-profits and give a $25,000 gift to help address one issue.
cumulative unweighted gpa
sat Scores
sat subject test scores
(First six semesters—Class of 2014)
(Class of 2013)
(Class of 2013)
Quintile
Average GPA
Range GPA
1st
3.94
2nd 3rd
average scores
4.0-3.91
Critical Reading
Math
Writing
3.86
3.90-3.81
674
682
3.73
3.80-3.61
4th
3.50
3.60-3.37
5th
3.10
3.36-2.05
112 Students Mean Cumulative Unweighted GPA: 3.66
677
complete ran ge of scores
Critical Reading
Math
Writing
480-800 460-800 400-800
SAT Subject
Test Avg. # of Scores Students
Biology Ecology 640 5 Biology Molecular 673 3 Chemistry 652 18 Chinese w/Listening 692 5 656 70 English Literature 647 9 French French w/Listening 800 1 German w/Listening 630 2
SAT Subject
Test Avg. # of Scores Students
Korean w/Listening 730 1 Math Level I 621 9 Math Level II 716 68 Physics 713 16 688 36 Spanish Spanish w/Listening 680 6 U.S. History 613 14 450 1 World History
Over the past four years, 32 students have earned National Merit commendation; 10 have been named Finalists. There have been three Finalists in the National Achievement Scholarship Program and six have been selected for the National Hispanic Recognition Program.
college matriculation Each year, 98 to 100% of our graduates attend four-year colleges or universities; others will take a gap year or attend a community college. Lick-Wilmerding students from the past four years have attended the following schools: American University
4
Colorado College
3
Luther College
1
Santa Clara University
4
Amherst College
3
University of Colorado, Boulder
2
Macalester College
9
Sarah Lawrence College
1
Azusa Pacific University
1
Columbia University
6
Massachusetts Institute of Technology 5
Savannah College of Art and Design
1
Babson College
4
Cooper Union
1
McGill University
3
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
2
Bard College
4
Cornell University
8
University of Michigan
6
Scripps College
1
Barnard College
3
Dartmouth College
5
Middlebury College
4
Skidmore College
3
Bentley University
1
University of Denver
4
Mills College
1
Smith College
Boston College
1
Drexel University
1
Mount Holyoke College
1
University of Southern California
Boston University
8
Duke University
2
New York University
University of British Columbia
2
University of Edinburgh
3
North Carolina State University
1
Brown University
12
Emerson College
3
Northeastern University
3
Bryn Mawr College
2
Emory University
1
Northwestern University
5
Franklin and Marshall College
1
Oberlin College
3
The George Washington University
6
Occidental College
5
Georgetown University
3
Ohio Wesleyan University
1
Georgia Institute of Technology
1
University of Oregon
2
Goucher College
1
University of Pennsylvania
3
Hamilton College - NY
1
Pitzer College
3
Harvard College
4
Polytechnic Institute of NYU
2
Harvey Mudd College
1
Pomona College
5
Haverford College
2
Pratt Institute
2
University of Hawaii, Manoa
1
Princeton University
2
Hofstra University
1
University of Puget Sound
8
Howard University
2
University of Redlands
1
Reed College
3
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
3
Rhode Island School of Design
3
University of California Berkeley 9 Davis 9 Los Angeles 8 Merced 4 San Diego 2 Santa Barbara 6 California Institute of Technology 2 1 California Lutheran University California Polytechnic State University 7 San Luis Obispo Pomona 1 California State University East Bay 1 Sacramento 2 San Francisco 3 Carnegie Mellon University
6
University of Chicago
3
Claremont McKenna College
1
Clark University
2
Colby College
1
Colgate University
2
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 1 Ithaca College
1
Johns Hopkins University
7
University of Kentucky
1
Kenyon College
2
Lehigh University
1
Lewis & Clark College
6
Loyola University New Orleans
2
20
Rice University
1
University of Rochester
2
Rochester Institute of Technology
1
University of San Diego
1
University of San Francisco
4
3 18
Southern California Institute of Architecture 1 Stanford University
14
Stetson University
1
Syracuse University
2
Tufts University
12
Tulane University
5
University of Wisconsin, Madison
2
Vassar College
5
University of Victoria
1
University of Washington
5
Washington and Lee University
1
Washington University in St. Louis
6
Wesleyan University
7
Whitman College
4
Whittier College
1
Willamette University
2
Williams College
3
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
1
Yale University
5
Lick-Wilmerding is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the College Board and A Better Chance.
Lick-Wilmerding’s Mission Statement A private school with public purpose, Lick-Wilmerding High School develops the head, heart, and hands of highly motivated students from all walks of life, inspiring them to become life-long learners who contribute to the world with confidence and compassion.