achieve S t. Lu k e ’s S c h o o l upper school G r a d e s 9 –12
“Our students’ evolution from learning to leadership is at the heart of the St. Luke’s experience. “ M a r k D av i s , H e a d o f S c h o o l
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eyond Where will a St. Luke’s education take you? Above and beyond what you ever thought possible. Our dynamic community will inspire you to work harder, to achieve more, and to make a difference in the lives of others. From Global Scholars to community service, AP Calculus to weekly college counseling sessions, St. Luke’s will provide you with endless opportunities to dive in and take initiative—as team members, future experts, and leaders. Backed by teachers, advisors, and peers, there’s no limit to where you’ll go or what you’ll do.
strive for ex Dedicated to all that they do, Upper School students take ownership of the learning process, both individually and collaboratively, in a diverse community that drives success. Our rigorous academic program balances traditional curriculum with innovative lessons, service opportunities, technology, and signature programs that extend and promote learning beyond the classroom. Passionate about their subjects, accomplished faculty forge strong relationships with students in their additional roles as advisors and coaches and set high academic standards. As a result, students push themselves to exceed expectations, developing the skills they need for success, leadership, and service in the world. www.stlukesct.org
Incorporating Technology into the Learning Process After reading the “blogonovelas” of an Argentine author, the Spanish III Honors class debates the legitimacy of this new genre; then students try their hand at the craft. Choosing a common theme, they post new work to a class blog. “Writing becomes a very interactive process that doesn’t stop with a simple posting to the blog,” says Spanish Teacher Lee Bruner. “Students comment on one another’s work and engage their classmates through their writing. “ Skills acquired: Media literacy, collaboration, creativity Added benefits: Becoming a published online author
xcellence “Engaged in our dynamic curriculum, students develop the intellectual confidence, expressive competence, and versatility to tackle any situation. They bring their best to each project, be it individual or collaborative, online or in front of the class. “ L i s a G o l d s c h m i dt, E n g l i s h t e a c h e r
St. Luke’s School at a Glance 280 Upper School students 29
Towns represented in our community
16% Students of color 79% Faculty with advanced degrees
Testing the Effectiveness of a Brand-Name Product Is it worth it to pay extra for a name-brand antacid? Students in 10th grade chemistry set out to determine this, testing the effectiveness of a name-brand antacid versus a generic one. A former St. Luke’s student himself, Science Teacher Alec LeBris ’95 adapted this experiment from a college-level lab. “One of the best parts of this experiment is when it goes wrong,” says LeBris. “This reveals to students the difference between theoretical and laboratory chemistry; in the lab, very little works the first time. They also learn that it’s okay to fail—if there’s anything that failure guarantees, it’s that the next time, you just have to work a little harder. ”
85% Seniors admitted to Barron’s most and highly competitive colleges and universities
Skills acquired: Precision, using lab equipment, evaluating results
12 Average class size
Added benefits: Overcoming uncertainty, learning from lab failure
4 Average AP score 80/120 Required community service hours/average hours completed per student
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curiosity Our students’ desire to explore, collaborate, research, present, and reflect defines the quality of the St. Luke’s experience. As students gain a broad base of knowledge through their courses, our unique programs, leadership opportunities, and study abroad options allow them to follow their passions and create their own educational pursuits, be they local or global, in the science lab or on Shakespeare’s stage. Students choose from a variety of innovative electives that provide an in-depth study of key areas of interest. In shaping their own paths, students actively participate in real-world projects, view life through different lenses, and gain a global perspective, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning.
www.stlukesct.org
Global Scholar McKenzie, Grade 12, Rowayton, CT, attending Stanford University Topic: Health Crisis in Haiti How do nations that are unstable politically, socially, and economically create a functioning health care system? McKenzie sought to answer this question as a Global Scholar. Continuing the work she started in her 8th Grade Declamation, the future valedictorian “wanted to look into Haiti’s situation in further detail, find out what people like Dr. Paul Farmer were dealing with, and understand the reasoning behind their
decisions. “ McKenzie’s extensive research resulted in a 60-page proposal for a long-term solution. “St. Luke’s strength is providing opportunities to pursue whatever you’re interested in,” she says. “The school really lets each student have his or her own unique experience. “ Skills acquired: Conducting and presenting research, writing, problem-solving Added benefits: Global awareness, future career paths
“To be a good citizen in today’s world, you have to understand issues that cut across different cultures. We teach our students to ask questions and be aware of other perspectives and worldviews different from their own. “ B e t h Yav e n d i tt i , D i r e c to r o f G lo b a l e d u c at i o n & F r e n c h T e a c h e r
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Independent Research Project Brian, Grade 11, New Canaan, CT Topic: Facial Affect Recognition
Upper School students are better at understanding other people’s facial expressions than 5th graders are. He tested his theory and proved a positive correlation. “Part of college is figuring out what you want to do, but I feel like I have a head start,” he says.
Interested in facial affect recognition and the work of Dr. Paul Ekman, Brian decided to research and conduct his own experiment. “I really wanted to make my own class and take advantage of the curriculum in psychology,” he says. Through his research, Brian discovered that facial affect recognition is a learned skill, perfected through social interaction. His hypothesis?
Skills acquired: Data analysis, time management, critical thinking Added benefits: Pursuing your passion, preparation for college
Signature Programs Global Scholars Seniors selected as Global Scholars complete in-depth analysis of a global issue, extensive language study, and an interdisciplinary capstone project. Honors distinction is noted on the student’s diploma. Classical Diploma Students earn a Classical Diploma by participating in an enriched study of Latin and Greek and a senior-year research project. Honors distinction is noted on the student’s diploma.
Partner Schools St. Luke’s partners with schools in China, Argentina, and France, with plans to connect with other schools in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Students participate in exchange programs and, using new media, work with partner schools on projects throughout the year.
Independent Research Projects Working one-on-one with a faculty advisor, juniors and seniors pursue a semester-long study, culminating in a final presentation.
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“St. Luke’s kids are different. They connect, they care, they work, they seem eager to learn and, most important, in every imaginable way, they display the greatest respect for our children. “ D u n c a n E d wa r d s , e x e c u t i v e d i r e c to r , Wat e r s i d e S c h o o l
Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve. Every day, Upper School students take our motto to heart. The strength of our community is built on the shared vision that all students contribute to the School. Our small class size, low student-to-faculty ratio, and weekly town meetings ensure that each student is known, by teachers and by peers of all grade levels. With numerous opportunities to lead, our students understand the importance of teamwork, and respect and appreciate differences. They take this knowledge with them as they serve the larger community—and the world—by participating in projects such as food drives, Midnight Runs, tutoring, and our summer Waterside program. Beyond our doors, St. Luke’s students address the issues that are most important to them, truly making a difference in the lives of others.
Each summer, St. Luke’s students serve as counselors for the Waterside School camp and volunteer at the school during the year. Waterside is an independent school for grades K–5 in Stamford, CT.
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College preparation begins the day that each student takes his or her first class, and becomes more focused during the junior and senior years. Individualized to suit each student and family, our college counseling program boasts three key strengths: we know our students, we know colleges, and colleges know St. Luke’s. While our counselors serve as teachers and advisors, they’ve also worked as college admission officers and have a better understanding of the needs and wants of selective colleges. Benefitting from school-sponsored college visits and regular one-on-one and group meetings with their counselors, students are equipped with the information they need to make the best decision, setting the stage for admission to their top-choice colleges.
www.stlukesct.org
Director of College Counseling Sonia Bell meets regularly with students to discuss college options and the admissions process.
Advanced Placement & Honors Courses • AP Art History • AP Biology • AP Calculus AB • AP Calculus BC • AP Chemistry • AP Computer Science A • AP English Language and Composition • AP English Literature and Composition • AP European History • AP French Language • AP Government and Politics: United States • AP Latin: Vergil • AP Music Theory • AP Physics C: Mechanics • AP Spanish Language • AP Studio Art: 2-D Design • AP Studio Art: Drawing • AP United States History • Honors Algebra II with Trigonometry • Honors Ancient Greek • Honors Biology • Honors Chemistry • Honors Chinese IV • Honors English 9, 10 • Honors English 12: Shakespeare • Honors French II, III, IV • Honors Geometry • Honors Latin II, III, IV • Honors Physics • Honors Pre-Calculus • Honors Spanish II, III, IV • Honors United States History • Honors World History I: The Ancient World through the Middle Ages • Honors World History II: Renaissance to the Present
“The counselors not only spent time getting to know our kids, and therefore had a view as to what kind of schools might be right for them, but they also challenged them along the way. They take a holistic approach, focusing on academics, but also on where the student is going to be a good fit personality-wise and interest-wise. They helped us pick schools that are a great fit for our children, for the right reasons. “ Peter 1 2 t h g r a d e pa r e n t New Canaan, C T
Consider the Unexpected Ryan, Grade 12, New Canaan, CT Where I’m going: Johns Hopkins University As he reflected upon what had contributed to his success as a student at St. Luke’s, Ryan “realized that the relationships I had with my teachers set my experience apart. “ With the help of college counseling, he defined his priorities: a college big enough to have a variety of academic opportunities, but small enough to have approachable faculty. “I hadn’t considered Johns Hopkins at first,” says Ryan, “but knowing my interests and priorities, Ms. Bell saw it as a great fit for me. “
Where I applied: Bates College, Boston College, Georgetown University, Johns Hopkins University, Tufts University, and the University of Connecticut. How I made the decision: “For me, the most important factor was what current students had to say about the school. Throughout the process, I had learned what questions to ask, and was able to get the information I needed to make the best choice. “ Why I feel prepared: “During my years at St. Luke’s, I applied a work ethic and personal drive that I’ll carry with me to college. “
“We focus on what students can do, their interests and passions, and encourage them to take risks. If students know what they want, we tell them to go for it. Using the knowledge that we have—of both our students and of colleges—we guide them toward achieving their dreams. “ sonia bell d i r e c to r o f co l l e g e co u n s e l i n g & english teacher
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Students at St. Luke’s are as dedicated on the playing field as they are in the classroom. Our athletic program is an integral part of the Upper School experience—90 percent of the School participates—fueling our school spirit and providing students with another area in which to excel. As individuals and as part of a team, our athletes grow into themselves, becoming role models. At football games, during Homecoming, and at every sporting event in between, they cheer on their peers as players and fans. They build strength in our extensive athletic facilities, compete at top levels against local schools and throughout New England, and go on to play sports in college. Engaged both physically and mentally, our students develop focus and drive, qualities that will help them reach—and exceed—their goals. www.stlukesct.org
“Everyone supports one another—the boys’ lacrosse team cheers on the girls’ lacrosse team, or the girls’ soccer team watches the volleyball team. At the same time, you’re expected to give your all, to push yourself. I was encouraged to give my best, and that made me a better player. “ Carla g r a d e 1 2 , R o wayto n , C T, att e n d i n g W i l l i a m s Co l l e g e
“We have a place for all student athletes, from the nationally ranked to the less experienced. Sportsmanship sets St. Luke’s program apart— how our athletes carry themselves on and off the field. Above and beyond the wins and losses, we focus on the quality of the experience from a character, leadership, and team perspective. “
Varsity Sports Boys • Baseball • Basketball • Crew (Club) • Cross Country • Football • Golf • Ice Hockey • Lacrosse • Skiing • Soccer • Squash • Tennis
Kevin Butler d i r e c to r o f at h l e t i c s
Girls • Basketball • Crew (Club) • Cross Country • Field Hockey • Lacrosse • Skiing • Soccer • Softball • Squash • Tennis • Volleyball
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create
dimensio Exposing students to music, theater, and the visual arts, St. Luke’s fine arts program meets the needs of all students, from highly skilled artists to beginners, allowing them to experiment, hone talents, and express themselves in rich and varied courses. Led by talented, expert faculty, students compose their own music in the MIDI lab; paint, sketch, design, and sculpt in the Art House; or dance, sing, act, build, produce, and perform in our state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center. While the Blues Band wows its audience, students bring complex themes to life on stage, assisted by our tech crew. St. Luke’s singers regularly receive All-State Honors, and our artists continue to pursue their passions in college. Through their creative endeavors, our students add dimension—to themselves, their School, and their community. www.stlukesct.org
As part of the tech crew, students manage the sound for school plays, musicals, and other performances in our state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center.
on Courses in the Arts • Acting I: Beginning Acting • Acting II: Scene Study • Acting III: Advanced Acting • AP Art History • Ceramics I, II, III • Chorale • Chorus • Concert Band • Digital Imaging I, II • Digital Music Production I, II, III • Drawing I, II, III • History of Jazz • Introduction to Blues • Music Theory • AP Music Theory • Painting I, II, III • Photography I, II, III • Piano • Sculpture • Stagecraft I • Studio Art • AP Studio Art: 2-D Design • AP Studio Art: Drawing
“While at St. Luke’s, I discovered my true passion: painting. Because my teachers gave me the freedom to explore this medium, I became more imaginative in other areas, such as writing.” Lena g r a d e 1 2 , N o r wa l k , C T, att e n d i n g B r o w n U n i v e r s i ty
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Our multi-dimensional students are newspaper editors and student government officers, painters and scientists, football players and a capella singers. They are able to step out of their comfort zones and take part in all that the school has to offer, from the Debate Team to robotics to our very own radio station. St. Luke’s expects students to participate and lead as part of our community, and every day they rise to the challenge. As they balance activities and manage busy schedules, students learn to prioritize, a skill that will serve them well in college. Teachers and advisors see to it that students explore every interest and develop many talents. Consequently, students learn more about themselves, broadening the scope of their future.
www.stlukesct.org
“I started with WSLX in the fall of my freshman year when I wanted to try an activity I had never done before. I really like to listen to music and talk about sports—so our radio show combines two things I like and allows us to try something new. “ Lu k e grade 10, Darien, C T
Meditation Series
Clubs & Activities
During our weekly Meditations, Upper School students gather to listen to a volunteer speaker—a student, teacher, parent, administrator, or alumnus—reflect upon a matter of personal interest. Topics vary each week and have included science fiction and technology, resiliency, cultural differences, and running a marathon.
• Art Club • Asian Cultural Society • Black Student Alliance • Blues Band • Caduceus (yearbook) • China Care • Cooking • Cultural Awareness for Everyone (CAFÉ) • Dance • Debate Team • Drama • Environmental Club • Gay-Straight Alliance • Honor Council • Model UN • Music Club • Pendulum (literary magazine) • Photo Club • Rock ’n’ Record • The Sentinel (newspaper) • SLS Sixth Man • Spanish Student Alliance • Student Council • Student Service Board • Technical Theatre • WSLX Radio Station
Listen to the Luke & Luke radio show on St. Luke’s station, WSLX, broadcasting weekly on air and online, and live from home games.
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St. Luke’ s By the time they graduate, Upper School students are ethical leaders, insightful scholars, winning athletes, and talented artists. On a daily basis, they demonstrate integrity, strength of character, curiosity, open-mindedness, and a sense of social responsibility. From the way we incorporate technology into our curriculum to the individualized
“We see to it that our students grow in all areas, that they are well-rounded in both academics and character. This ensures that they are academically, emotionally, and socially prepared for their next steps—in college and beyond.”
attention we give our students during the college search process, St. Luke’s is forward-thinking. So, too, are our students. Confident in who they are and who
j i m yav e n d i tt i Head of Upper School & l at i n t e a c h e r
they want to be, they leave St. Luke’s fully prepared for their next endeavors. They are eager to move into the next phase of their lives, achieving above and beyond all possible expectations.
Recent College Matriculation • Amherst College • Barnard College • Bates College • Boston College • Bowdoin College • Brown University • Bucknell University • Colby College • Colgate University • Columbia University • Cornell University • Dartmouth College • Dickinson College • Drexel University • Elon University • George Washington University • Georgetown University • Gettysburg College
• Hamilton College • Hobart and William Smith Colleges • Johns Hopkins University • Lafayette College • Miami University (OH) • Middlebury College • New York University • Northwestern University • Princeton University • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute • Rhode Island School of Design • Rollins College • Skidmore College • Stanford University • Swarthmore College • Tufts University • Tulane University • University of Chicago
• University of Michigan • University of Notre Dame • University of Pennsylvania • University of Richmond • University of Southern California • University of Virginia • Villanova University • Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University • Wake Forest University • Washington University • Wellesley College • Williams College • Yale University For a complete list, view our College Profile at www.stlukesct.org.
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“My teachers at St. Luke’s encouraged me to pursue a variety of interests, and I took full advantage of the resources available to me through Independent Research Projects, study abroad opportunities, and Global Scholars. Now at Dartmouth, I draw upon the skills I gained from St. Luke’s: a strong work ethic, organization, leadership, confidence, initiative, and a relentless excitement for learning.” Helena St. Lu k e ’ s a lu m n a ’ 0 9 , att e n d i n g D a r tm o u t h Co l l e g e
Primary photography: Desiree Smock, St. Luke’s School parent ’12, ’15; other photography: Bob Handelman, Peter Mahakin, & Chi Chi Ubina; design & copywriting: studio-e.
377 North Wilton Road New Canaan, CT 06840 203.966.5612 | www.stlukesct.org