Upper School GRADES 9-12
Find your passions!
WELCOME I am excited that you are considering the Harker upper school! Many ingredients make Harker a special place, but the students are the most important one. Our student body consists of deep thinkers, incredible musicians, skilled athletes, creative artists, beautiful singers, dramatic actors, inventive robotics team members, amazing dancers, computer science enthusiasts, social thinkers and people who like to have fun. We have just about everything you can think of – and if we don’t have it, it’s just a matter of proposing an idea to a teacher, advisor or coach. We are here to support you in every way because helping you succeed is what motivates us! What you accomplish as a Harker Eagle is limited only by your imagination and commitment to learning and improving.Come explore our extensive offerings and please let us know how we can help!
“
Butch Keller
UPPER SCHOOL DIVISION HEAD
I like to say that Harker’s community is like a grilled cheese sandwich—we stick together to form a cohesive whole. After a day of class, I laugh with my student council friends while we organize the next school talent show, or I join the sweaty family that is the cross country team for a run. The unwavering support of peers and community has allowed me to experiment with and develop my passions: I never imagined that my love for Michael Bay movies would turn me into a documentarian, or that my appreciation of Percy Jackson books would smoothly translate into devouring Juvenal’s Latin texts. Surrounded by Harker’s innumerable opportunities and resources, I work and play, and I feel empowered and self-actualized. I could not be more excited for you to join us on campus. And if you do, be sure to grab a grilled cheese sandwich from the cafeteria during lunch. Go Eagles!
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Jason Lin, grade 12 2020-21 ASSOCIATED STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT
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HARKER’S UPPER SCHOOL Free to be yourself. Inspired to be your best. Our extraordinary teachers, coaches and program directors have deep knowledge in and excitement for their subject areas and create a learning environment that is encouraging, stimulating and close-knit. Your academic courses are tailored to meet your individual needs and personal interests and, partnered with our vast extracurricular opportunities, creates a Harker journey unique to you.
Discover new interests We encourage students to explore, discover and dive deep into a rich array of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Our 200+ academic electives, 65 clubs and 14 sports provide many avenues to explore your interests, and we are constantly adding new programs. Whether you choose business & entrepreneurship or sculpture or water polo, you’ll be inspired to pursue extracurricular programs in our top-notch facilities, including our new athletic center and Rothschild Performing Arts Center. At Harker you aren’t just a performer, an athlete, a writer or a researcher. You are uniquely you and we make space for you to be your best self.
Welcome to our community Kindness is one of our four key tenets – along with integrity, personal accountability and respect – and that, combined with our students’ natural curiosity, extends to genuine interest in and welcoming of students new to Harker. Teachers, counselors and advisors are there for you every step of the way. Our students’ emotional, physical and social health and well-being are a top priority, and it is our privilege to witness a student grow and blossom into a young adult ready to take on any challenge. We invite you to join us on this wonderful journey!
When I first came to Harker, “ I met so many welcoming people.
They instantly invited me to be a part of the Harker community and even within the first couple days at a new high school, I felt like I had a new family.
”
—Calais Poirson, grade 10
GRADES 9-12
by the numbers
74% 11:1 65 45% 68% 55%
Teachers with Advanced Degrees
Student-Teacher Ratio
Student Clubs Participation in Performing Arts
100% 29 26 200+ 15 3
Students Recognized by the College Board in National Merit Program
Participation in Sports Teams
Students who Love Harker Lunches
AP Courses Offered
Post-AP Courses Offered Academic Elective Courses Offered Computer Science Courses Offered Number of Leed Certified Buildings
100% recycled paper
O of C: Revise 8/20 (BHDG-JQ/DQP) 1,200
Upper School | 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | 408.249.2510 | admission@harker.org | www.harker.org
ADMISSION INFORMATION l GRADES 9-12
We look forward to meeting you! Hello! We’re delighted to share Harker with you. Thank you for your interest in our school. Please join us at one of our admission events to get to know our teachers, students and parents and learn what makes Harker such a vibrant and dynamic community. We welcome your questions and are happy to help you any way we can. See you soon!
Jennifer Hargreaves
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSION GRADES 9-12
September 1, 2020: Event registration and application open
key dates
January 7, 2021: Application deadline, 5 p.m.
March 19, 2021: Decision notification released in Ravenna after 4 p.m.
March 26, 2021: Contract and deposit due, 12 p.m.
admission events
June 15, 2021: Tuition balance due
GETTING TO KNOW US You are invited to attend our informational events to hear from administration, faculty, current students and parents about the Harker community, culture, curriculum and programs. Please check out www.harker.org/admission on our Admission Events page for a wide variety of opportunities to get to know us. While we hope you come to at least one event, please do not feel you have to attend all events. The number of events you attend will not affect your application.
application
tuition & fees
To apply, visit www.harker.org/admission We invite you to submit an inquiry at www.harker.org/admission which creates an account on Ravenna, a very user-friendly system, that streamlines the application process for our families. Through your Ravenna account, you will be able to receive notifications from Harker, register for Harker admission events, and apply and track your progress toward application completion. You may access your application at any time at www.ravenna-hub.com.
Upper school tuition for the current 2020-21 academic year is $53,800. Tuition for next year is determined in February and there is some increase in tuition each year. Tuition balance is due in full on June 15, 2021. Annual tuition is carefully established to include everything needed to fully participate in our academic and extracurricular programs. Also included are lunch, before- and after-school care, intercampus shuttles, yearbooks, athletic uniforms and transportation to/from athletic events and all local field trips, to name a few. The most common annual additional expenses are: • Textbooks and laptop: $500-$1,000 • Non-local travel expenses for a particular extracurricular like debate tournaments: varies. • Global education trips (optional): varies.
annual giving
Annual giving is a vital source of support for the Harker programs, materials and opportunities that allow students to experience an exceptional education. Parent participation at a level consistent with your ability is a key component of community involvement.
financial aid
Financial aid awards are based on need, and we work with families to make a Harker education affordable. We encourage families who have a need to apply for assistance. Financial aid and admission are separate processes, but must be done simultaneously if a family anticipates needing aid. The financial aid application deadline is Jan. 7, 2021. We welcome any questions you may have about the financial aid process. Please contact Kathy Caveney at fainfo@harker.org to discuss how we can make Harker affordable for your family.
The Harker School does not discriminate on any basis prohibited by law. The school considers applicants of any race, color, gender, gender orientation, and national and ethnic origin for admission. All students are accorded access to all rights, privileges and activities available to students at the school. It does not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies, its scholarship and loan programs, or its athletic and other extracurricular programs based on race, color, gender, gender orientation, disability, or ethnic and national origin.
Upper School | 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | 408.345.9207 | admission@harker.org | www.harker.org OofC: 9/3/20 (RM) 925
2020-21 ADMINISTRATION & UPPER SCHOOL FACULTY/STAFF | GRADES 9-12 UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMIC STAFF
UPPER SCHOOL FACULTY
Samuel “Butch” Keller, Upper School Head B.A. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian College M.Ed. Delta State University Jonah Alves, Counselor B.A. California State University, Hayward M.A. Santa Clara University Nicole Burrell, Director of College Counseling B.A. Stanford University M.A. Stanford University Hui Hui Chang, Counselor B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz M.A. John F. Kennedy University Meredith Cranston, Librarian B.A. Stanford University M.A. Stanford University M.L.I.S. University of California, Los Angeles Kerry Enzensperger, Community Service Director & Activities Coordinator Jennifer Hargreaves, Director of Admission 9-12 B.A. University of California, Berkeley M.B.A. Northwestern University Kelly Horan, Academic Dean B.A. Pomona College M.A. Stanford University Qi Huang, Electronic Resources Librarian B.S. Zhejiang University (China) M.S. Northeastern University, Shenyang (China) M.L.I.S. University of British Columbia (Canada) Lori Kohan, Counselor B.A. Stephens College M.A. College of Notre Dame Kevin Lum Lung, College Counselor B.S. Santa Clara University M.A. Santa Clara University Diane Main, Director of Learning, Innovation & Design, Upper School B.A. College of New Jersey M.A. San Diego State University Amy Pelman, Librarian B.A. University of California, Berkeley M.L.I.S. University of California, Los Angeles Josie Porcella, 6-12 Learning Specialist B.A. University of San Francisco M.A. San Francisco State University Andrew Quinn, College Counselor B.A. Gonzaga University M.A. Gonzaga University Rosalyn Schreiman, Counselor B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz M.S.W. California State University, Long Beach Troy Thiele, Director of Standardized Testing & Scheduling B.S. (2) Loras College B.A. Loras College Lauri Vaughan, TK-12 Library Director B.A. St. Bonaventure University M.L.I.S. Rutgers University Jennifer Walrod, Director of Global Education B.S. State University of New York at Geneseosa M.A. Teachers College, Columbia University Martin Walsh, College Counselor B.S. Santa Clara University J.D. Hastings College Kevin Williamson, Dean of Students B.A. Tulane University M.A.T. Emory University
Michael Acheatel, Business & Entrepreneurship B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz MBA Tel Aviv University (Israel) Gregory Achten, Speech & Debate B.F.A. Emporia State University M.A. Kansas State University Jenny Achten, Speech & Debate, Dept. Chair B.A. Macalester College Victor Adler, Mathematics B.S. Duke University M.S. University of Rochester Ph.D. University of Rochester Pilar Agüero-Esparza, Art B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz Certificate, Graduate Program, University of California, Santa Cruz Anuradha Aiyer, Math & Physics B.S. New Mexico State University M.S. Stanford University Ph.D. Stanford University Miriam Allersma, Physics B.S. Bryn Mawr College M.S. University of Michigan Ph.D. University of Michigan Yumiko Aridomi, Japanese B.A. Kobe University (Japan) M.A. San Jose State University M.A. San Francisco State University Thomas Artiss, Biology B.Sc. University of Western Ontario (Canada) M.S. Univrsity of Toronto (Canada) B.Ed. St. Francis Xavier University (Canada) Ellen Austin, Journalism B.S. University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana M.Ed. University of Minnesota Tia Barth, English B.A. Stanford University M.A. Boston College Martin Baynes, Computer Science B.Sc. Southampton University (U.K.) M.Sc. Brunel University (U.K.) Bune Bloomquist, Mathematics B.S. Ewha University (Korea) M.S. Ewha University (Korea) M.S. University of California, Los Angeles Ph.D. University of California, Los Angeles Mark Brada, Physics B.S. Colorado School of Mines Ph.D. University of California, Santa Barbara Casey Brown, Chemistry B.A. Swarthmore College M.A. Loyola Marymount University Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley Anita Chetty, Biology, Dept. Chair B.S. University of Calgary (Canada) B.Ed. University of Lethbridge (Canada) M.Ed. University of Portland Anu Datar, Computer Science B.S. Pune University (India) M.S. Pune University (India) Chris Davies, Mathematics B.A. Dartmouth College M.Ed. Harvard Graduate School of Education Jeffrey Draper, Performing Arts B.A. San Jose State University M.F.A. American Conservatory Theatre Jeanette Fernandez, Mathematics B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz
Xiuyu Gao, Mandarin Graduate The Normal College of Jianghan University Graduate Wuhan University Isabel Garcia, Spanish B.A. University of Salamanca (Spain) M.A. University of Salamanca (Spain) Chris Gatto, History B.A. University of Chicago M.A. University of Chicago Ph.D. University of Chicago Donna Gilbert, History, Dept. Chair B.A. Trinity College M.A.T. Simmons College M.A. Tufts University Juston Glass, Business & Entrepreneurship B.S. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo M.S. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Carol Green, History A.A. San Joaquin Delta College B.S. University of Wyoming M.A. University of the Pacific Damon Halback, History B.A. Franklin Pierce College M.A. University of Boston Karen Haley, History B.S. James Madison University M.A. James Madison University Matthew Harley, Biology B.S. Haverford College Ph.D. Johns Hopkins University David Hart, Performing Arts B.F.A. University of California, Los Angeles M.M. Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester D.M.A. Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester Rachelle Haun, Performing Arts B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz Clifford Hull, Latin & History B.A. University of Stellenbosch (South Africa) M.A. Indiana University MLIS Indiana University Christopher Hurshman, English B.A. Williams College M.A. Yale University M.Phil. Yale University Ph.D. Yale University Noriyo Ikeda, Japanese B.A Hosei University (Japan) Andrew Irvine, Chemistry B.S. Brown University Shaun Kelley Jahshan, Mandarin B.A. Brown University M.A. Stanford University Ph.D. Stanford University Mark Janda, History, Dept Chair B.A. University of Missouri M.A. Columbia College Jane Keller, Mathematics B.S. Randolph-Macon Woman’s College Susan King, Computer Science B.A. Montana State University M.A. University of Central Florida Robbie Korin, Chemistry B.Sc. Montana State University, Bozeman Karl Kuehn, Performing Arts B.A. Santa Clara University Laura Lang-Ree, Performing Arts, Dept. Chair B.A. University of California, Los Angeles M.A. San Jose State University (continued on next page)
2019-20 ADMINISTRATION & UPPER SCHOOL FACULTY/STAFF | GRADES 9-12 Brian Larsen, Performing Arts, Production Manager B.A. California State University, Hayward Samuel Lepler, Economics B.A. University of Pennsylvania Dana Lieberman, Mathematics B.S. University of Massachusetts M.S. University of Massachusetts Dean Lizardo, Economics B.A. University of San Francisco Patricia Ludovici, Art B.F.A. California College of Arts & Crafts M.F.A. San Jose State University Nicholas Manjoine, English B.A. University of Iowa M.A. University of Iowa Beverley Manning, English B.A. Staffordshire University (U.K.) M.A. Warwick University (U.K.) Joshua Martinez, Art, 6-12 Dept. Chair B.A. Humboldt State University M.F.A. California College of the Arts Brigid Miller, English B.A. Pennsylvania State University M.A. DePaul University Dan Molin, Athletic Director B.A. University of California, Santa Barbara Sheva Momenian, Mathematics B.S. Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University M.A. Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University Diana Moss, Spanish B.A. University of California, Santa Barbara Lola Muldrew, Mathematics B.A. Occidental College M.A.T. University of California, Davis Ph.D. University of California, Davis Susan Nace, Performing Arts B.A. Western State College M.M. University of Northern Colorado Eric Nelson, Physics B.S. New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology Ph.D. University of New Mexico Bridget Nixon ‘12, English B.A. Mills College M.Ed. Santa Clara University Scott Odekirk, Speech & Debate B.A. Idaho State University Abel Olivas, Spanish, Dept. Chair B.A. University of Notre Dame M.A. University of Notre Dame Jaron Olson, Athletic Trainer B.S. California State University, Sacramento M.A. California University of Pennsylvania Ohad Paran, English B.A. University of California, San Diego M.Ed. National University Pauline Paskali, English, Dept. Chair B.A. Brandeis University M.A. Brandeis University Ph.D. Brandeis University Scott Paterson, Latin B.S. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo B.A. San Jose State University M.A. San Francisco State University
Marina Peregrino, Computer Science B.S.E.E. University of California, Davis Scott Pflaumer, Physics B.S. Northern Illinois University M.S. Arizona State University Roxana Pianko, History B.A. California Baptist University M.A. Claremont Graduate University Michael Pistacchi, Biology B.S. University of California, San Diego M.S. University of California, San Diego M.A. Santa Clara University Agnes Pommier, French B.A. NEOMA Business School (France) Lisa Radice, Physics B.A. Wesleyan University Mala Raghavan, Chemistry B.S. Delhi University (India) M.Sc. Indian Institute of Technology (India) Ph.D. Indian Institute of Technology (India) Katy Rees, History B.A. Brigham Young University M.A.T. Boston University Jonathan Rim, History B.A. California State University, East Bay Sarah Roberts, MS Speech & Debate & US Journalism B.A. University of California, Berkeley Susanne Salhab, English B.A. Temple University M.S. University of Edinburgh (U.K.) Jennifer Sandusky, Performing Arts B.A. Illinois Wesleyan University M.A. San Francisco Conservatory of Music Kate Schafer, Biology B.S. Stanford University Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley Elizabeth Schimenti, English B.A. University of Vermont M.S. Ed. University of Pennsylvania Neil Shaw, Chemistry B.S. University of Hull (U.K.) Charles Shuttleworth, English B.A. New York University M.A. New York University Anthony Silk, Mathematics, Dept. Chair B.S. University of Michigan M.S. Purdue University
Jennifer Siraganian, English B.A. Brown University M.F.A. University of Arkansas Nikolai Slivka, English B.A. Yale University M.Phil. Cambridge University Christopher Spenner, Physics B.A. University of Pennsylvania M.A. University of California, Santa Barbara M.Ed. Harvard University Gabriele Stahl, Mathematics B.S. Aachen University of Technology (Germany) M.S. Aachen University of Technology (Germany) Byron Stevens, History B.A. University of Notre Dame M.A.T. Washington University St. Louis Bradley Stoll, Mathematics B.S. California State University, Hayward M.S. California State University, Hayward Jeff Sutton, Biology & Psychology B.A. Central College M.Sc. Birkbeck College, University of London (U.K.) David Takamoto, Architecture B.A. University of California, Berkeley Galina Tchourilova, French M.A. Rostov Pedagogical Institute (Russia) Carmela Tejada, Spanish B.A. Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú M.A. Instituto Universitario de Pesquisas do Rio de Janeiro M.A Stanford University Julie Turchin, Psychology B.A. Dartmouth College M.A. Stanford University Ph.D. Stanford University Beth Wahl, English B.A. Yale University Ph.D. Stanford University Julie Wheeler, History B.A. Boston College M.A.T. Simmons College Graduate School of Education Michael Wilt, Mathematics B.A. The Ohio State University B.A. Otterbein University M.S. California State University, Los Angeles
A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Brian Yager Jennifer Gargano Greg Lawson Martin Bradford Danielle Holquin Kimberly Lobe Kristin Giammona Joe Rosenthal Mike Bassoni Evan Barth Pam Dickinson Sarah Leonard Samuel “Butch” Keller
Head of School Assistant Head of School, Academic Affairs Assistant Head of School, Student Affairs Chief Financial Officer Director of Admission, TK-12 Director of Advancement Elementary School Division Head Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives Facility Manager Middle School Division Head Office of Communication, Director Primary School Division Head Upper School Division Head
Upper School | 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | 408.249.2510 | admission@harker.org | www.harker.org OofC: 8/17/20 (RM) 525
Upper School GRADES 9-12
PROGRAMS 2020-21
THE HARKER SCHOOL UPPER SCHOOL PROGRAMS GRADES 9-12 • 2020-21
TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................................. 2 LIFE AND WELLNESS.................................................................................. 2 STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS......................................................................... 3 COMPETITIVE ATHLETICS............................................................................ 3 SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE.......................................................................... 4 AREAS OF STUDY*
Business and Entrepreneurship............................................................. 5
Computer Science................................................................................ 5
English................................................................................................ 5
Global Online Academy......................................................................... 6
History and Social Science.................................................................... 6
Journalism........................................................................................... 6 Mathematics........................................................................................ 7
Modern and Classical Languages.......................................................... 7
Physical Education................................................................................ 8
Science............................................................................................... 8
Speech and Debate.............................................................................. 8
Visual and Performing Arts, Conservatory............................................... 8
ADVANCED CURRICULUM........................................................................... 9 CURRICULUM INFORMATION......................................................................10
Academic Planning Chart.................................................................... 11
COLLEGE COUNSELING............................................................................ 13
*Note: Elective courses rotate, and may not be offered every year.
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GENERAL INFORMATION Harker strives to create lifelong learners. Curious and thoughtful students encounter a multitude of opportunities in and out of the classroom, sparking discovery throughout their time at our upper school. From the basketball court to the debate podium, from the research lab to the stage, and in so many other ways, students discover their unique paths with the opportunity to explore each interest in depth. We advocate for students finding balance among their commitments with our wellness program, advisors, counselors, extensive teacher office hours, and block schedule. Engaging teachers and classmates truly care for each other and create a warm and supportive community. Harker graduates are more than ready to take their place as global citizens and leaders. These pages are intended to, in one place, convey the vast possibilities to craft an experience unique to you. Enjoy learning about the possibilities!
LIFE AND WELLNESS PURPOSE LIFE at Harker stands for Living with Intent, Focus and Enthusiasm, and these tenets inform the skills, attitudes and behaviors necessary to ethically and compassionately respond to everyday decisions and challenges. During these formative years, a student’s personal growth happens in relation to others, from teachers and peers to coaches and staff members. LIFE models forming such vital connections through our work with well-established organizations such as Challenge Success, Common Sense Media and Freedom from Chemical Dependency (FCD).
LIFE SESSIONS The purpose of LIFE sessions is to designate a time for students at each grade level to engage with professionals and other knowledgeable adults on topics vital to their overall development into healthy, happy and successful adults. Topics vary by grade and from year to year so that students are receiving the most pertinent, up-to-date information. All LIFE sessions are mandatory. General topics include: • Decision-making • Planning for a positive high school experience • Sexuality • Alumni Q&A • Mindfulness • Digital awareness • Substance abuse • Distracted driving • Healthy relationships
WORKSHOPS Workshops are held periodically for students to join voluntarily. The workshops are typically 30 minutes in length and occur during the days that the student body has an hour and a half lunch break. General topics include: • Adulting 101 • Mindfulness • Female wellness • Time management • Male wellness • College preparation with alumni • Self defense
EAGLE BUDDIES Each year grade 10 students are paired with grade 3 students to be Eagle Buddies. These buddies will remain together throughout the following three years. The upper school and lower school Eagle Buddies have three opportunities each year to get together to have lunch, play games and enjoy various activities. The buddies write each other several times each year.
PARENT EDUCATION One thing is certain in childhood and adolescence: change is constant. As such, the challenge for parents is to continually evolve to meet the unique needs of their child in order to remain supportive of their unique development. At The 2
Harker School, we believe that parents and teachers are partners in this journey. On our website and in our libraries, we offer parenting resources that could be valuable in meeting typical developmental opportunities. We provide digital family resources and regular presentations from our learning, innovation and design directors about media and digital literacy. We also provide parent presentations regarding normal developmental growth and challenges such as managing stress and current topics of teen culture.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS The following is a list of the clubs, societies and programs. Lists may vary slightly each year, especially for clubs. CLUBS ACS Chem Club Art Club Artificial Intelligence Club Astronomy Club Bollywood Club Book Club Business Analytics Club Calligraphy Club Car Club Contemporary Hip Hop Club Cooking Club E-Sports Club Ethics in Technology F.E.M. Club Friendship Bracelet Club Future Problem Solvers Green Team GSA HarkerDev HELM Horizon Publication Interact JCL Junior State of America
Key Club Law Club Language and Linguistics LaunchX Make a Birthday Wish Marine Bio Club Medical Club Multimedia Club Philosophy Club Podcast Network Power of Words Programming Club Psychology Club Quiz Bowl Random Acts of Kindness Red Cross Science Competitions Club Silicon Valley Club Socio-Economics Club Spirit Club Students Partnered with Veterans Spectrum (A Capella) Tutoring Club UNICEF UnPlugged
Voices for Youth Wildlife and Nature Photography WiSTEM Writer’s Advocate PROGRAMS Career Connect DECA Economics Program Honor Council Junior Classical League Math Competitions Research Program Robotics Team Spirit Leadership TedX SOCIETIES Chinese National Honor Society French National Honor Society Japanese National Honor Society National Honor Society Oeconomia Spanish National Honor Society Tri-M Music Society
COMPETITIVE ATHLETICS Harker students benefit from our talented coaching staff and athletic trainers. We field more than 40 teams in 15 different sports. These are Harker’s competitive sports which do earn students .5 credit of P.E. per season. For non-competitive P.E. options, see page 8. FALL SPORTS Cheerleading Cross country Football Golf - girls Tennis - girls Volleyball - girls Water polo
WINTER SPORTS Basketball - boys Basketball - girls Cheerleading Soccer - boys Soccer - girls
SPRING SPORTS Baseball Golf - boys Lacrosse - girls Softball Swimming Track & field Tennis - boys Volleyball - boys
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SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE
School begins every day at 8 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. Our block schedule rotates through four different schedules and any schedule can occur on any day of the week. For example, if the week begins with an A schedule it ends on Friday with the A schedule and starts with the B schedule on Monday. Classes meet every other day for 85 minutes each, allowing for indepth discussion and a variety of teaching methods. • Great access to teachers and extra help during office hours. Teachers are in their rooms to meet with any students every other day for 30 minutes, after school every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. • 10-minute passing periods to allow time to relax and refocus for next class. • Extra period options, such as journalism or orchestra, meet during the school day during a class period. • Long lunch periods of 70 minutes every other day, which is also a time that clubs meet. • Advisory is group of 8-10 students who meet during D days with a teacher. The advisory stays together all four years and is great for downtime and developing a close bond with a diverse group. • School meeting is an opportunity for the whole school to gather as a community to share important news. • Class meeting offers each grade level a separate opportunity to address matters salient to their smaller community. 4
AREAS OF STUDY BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Principles of Business and Entrepreneurship Business Leadership Honors Entrepreneurship: Startup Incubator I and II Economics* Behavioral Economics* AP Economics (Micro and Macro) Honors Advanced Topics in Economics: Game Theory* Honors Advanced Topics in Economics: Econometrics
COMPUTER SCIENCE Digital World* Programming* Advanced Programming* Robotics Principles: Hardware* AP Computer Science A AP Computer Science with Data Structures Honors Data Structures*
Honors Advanced Topics in Computer Science* (fall and spring) Topics Offered: • Compilers and Interpreters • Computer Architecture • Expert Systems • Neural Networks 2 • Numerical Methods 2 • Programming Languages • Robot Kinematics Software 2 2 symbol indicates course is calculus intensive
ENGLISH English 1: The Study of Literary Genres English 2: A Survey of British Literature English 3: A Survey of American Literature Honors English 1: The Study of Literary Genres Honors English 2: A Survey of British Literature Honors English 3: A Survey of American Literature ELECTIVE CLASSES: English senior electives are semesterlong classes and rotate each year. Every elective may not be offered every year. AP English: Literature and Composition (year-long class) English 4: 20th-Century American Drama 20th-Century American Poetics Art of Poetry and Fiction Asian Masterpieces Gothic Literature: Vampires and the Macabre The Graphic Narrative Great Novels
Jack Kerouac and the Beat Generation Justice in Literature Literature into Film Literature of the Holocaust Madness in Literature Modern European Drama Mystery and Detective Fiction Postmodern Literature Satire and Comedy Shakespeare — Comedies, Tragedies and Romances Southern Fiction Speculative Fiction and Society: Science Fiction and Fantasy A Study of Short Fiction
* = semester-long class 5
GLOBAL ONLINE ACADEMY YEARLONG (1.0 units): Arabic Language through Culture I Arabic Language through Culture II Chinese Language through Culture I Japanese Language through Culture I Japanese Language through Culture II Multivariable Calculus SEMESTER-LONG: Applying Philosophy to Global Issues Business Problem-Solving Creative Nonfiction Filmmaking International Relations Introduction to Investments Introduction to Legal Thinking Microeconomics Number Theory Poetry Writing Problem-Solving with Engineering Design Race & Society Social Psychology Bioethics
Computer Science I: Computational Thinking Global Health Graphic Design 9/11 in a Global Context Abnormal Psychology Advocacy Architecture Climate Changes & Global Inequality Computer Science II: Analyzing Data with Python Computer Science II: Game Design and Development Computer Science II: Java Digital Photography Entrepreneurship in a Global Context Fiction Writing Game Theory Gender Studies Genocide and Human Rights Graphic Design Linear Algebra Macroeconomics Medical Problem-Solving II Neuropsychology Prisons and the Criminal Law
HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE Required Courses - Grade 9 World History 1: Early Civilizations through the Renaissance or World History 1 Honors Required Courses - Grade 10 World History 2, World History 2 Honors, AP World History, or AP European History Required Courses - Grade 11 U.S. History, Honors U.S. History, or AP U.S. History
JOURNALISM Journalism: Yearbook Concentration Advanced Journalism: Yearbook Concentration Journalism: Newspaper Concentration Advanced Journalism: Newspaper Concentration
* = semester-long class 6
YEARLONG ELECTIVES: AP Art History AP Psychology AP United States Government and Politics SEMESTER ELECTIVES: History of the Holocaust and Genocide* Honors Modern International Affairs* Psychology* Western Political Thought and Philosophy* World Religions and Philosophy*
MATHEMATICS Algebra 1 Algebra 2 & Trigonometry Honors Algebra 2 & Trigonometry Geometry Honors Geometry Precalculus Honors Precalculus Finite Mathematics Calculus AP Calculus AB Honors Calculus C with Multivariable Calculus AP Calculus BC
AP Statistics Honors Multivariate Calculus* Honors Differential Equations* Honors Linear Algebra* Honors Discrete Mathematics* Engineering* Honors Advanced Topics in Mathematics* Topics Offered: • Information Theory I and II* • Signals and Systems • Differential Equations II
MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES SPANISH Spanish 1 Spanish 2 Honors Spanish 2 Spanish 3 Honors Spanish 3 Spanish 4: Advanced Conversation and Composition Honors Spanish 4 AP Spanish Language and Culture AP Spanish Literature and Culture Literature and Film of the Spanish-Speaking World* Contemporary Issues in the Spanish-Speaking World* The Latin American Short Story* FRENCH French 1** French 2 French 3 Honors French 3 French 4: Advanced Conversation and Composition Honors French 4 AP French Language & Culture French Prose* French Literature & Film* Honors Advanced Topics in French: Renaissance & Classical Literature* Honors Advanced Topics in French: Romantic & Modern Literature*
JAPANESE Japanese 1** Japanese 2 Japanese 3 Honors Japanese 3 Japanese 4 Honors Japanese 4 Japanese 5 Contemporary Japan AP Japanese Language and Culture LATIN Latin 1** Latin 2 Latin 3 Honors Latin 3 Latin 4: Advanced Study of Roman Prose and Poetry AP Latin Honors Advanced Latin Literature: Epic* Honors Advanced Latin Literature: Satire* Honors Advanced Latin Literature: Prose* Honors Advanced Latin Literature: Lyric Poetry* CHINESE Mandarin 1** Mandarin 2 Mandarin 3 Honors Mandarin 3 Mandarin 4 Honors Mandarin 4 AP Chinese Language and Culture
* = semester-long class ** = Level 1 offered if enough students enroll 7
PHYSICAL EDUCATION NONCOMPETITIVE Capoeira* Personal Fitness (P.E. and Weightlifting)* Yoga*
ACADEMIC COURSES IN P.E. Kinesiology and Sports Medicine 1 Kinesiology and Sports Medicine 2
SCIENCE Required Courses - Grade 9 Physics or Honors Physics Required Courses - Grade 10 Chemistry, Honors Chemistry or AP Chemistry Required Courses - Grade 11 Biology, Honors Biology or AP Biology ELECTIVE CLASSES Honors Analytical Chemistry* AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Environmental Science AP Physics 2
AP Physics C Astronomy* Biotechnology* Electronics* Evolution* Honors Human Anatomy and Physiology Honors Nanoscience* Marine Biology* Research Methods Advanced Research Methods* The Science of Food* Seminar in Modern Physics* Study of Organic Chemistry*
SPEECH AND DEBATE Introduction to Speech and Debate Intermediate & Competitive Speech and Debate Lincoln-Douglas Individual Events
Public Forum Congressional Debate Policy Debate
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS REQUIRED COURSES (One of the following full-year courses) Study of Dance Study of Music Study of Theater Arts Study of Visual Arts AP Art History ELECTIVE COURSES Advanced Acting* Scene Study*: Advanced Scene Study Vocal Interpretation Shakespeare in Performance Student-Directed Showcase* Acting for the Camera* Technical Theater* Music Fundamentals* AP Music Theory Bel Canto Camerata Cantilena * = semester-long class 8
Downbeat JV and Varsity Dance Troupes Dance Composition* Performance Practice for Dancers* Choreography* Lab Band Jazz Band Orchestra Performance Practice for Instrumentalists* VISUAL ARTS Architecture* Ceramics* Advanced Ceramics* Drawing* Advanced Drawing* Graphic Arts* Advanced Graphic Arts* Painting* Advanced Painting* Photography* Advanced Photography* Sculpture*
Advanced Sculpture* Stone Carving* Advanced Stone Carving*
Filmmaking AP Studio Art (Drawing, 2-D & 3-D) Honors Art: Directed Portfolio*
CONSERVATORY CERTIFICATE PROGRAM Students especially interested in the performing arts may apply for participation in the Harker Conservatory Certificate program in one of the following areas: dance, instrumental music, vocal music, acting, musical theater or technical theater. To receive the certificate, students engage in a rigorous four-year program; they are guided through a comprehensive course of study in all of the performing arts, with special emphasis in the discipline of the student’s choice. Program requirements include courses and workshops in disciplines other than the student’s emphasis, involvement in productions/ensembles/festivals, sophomore juries and through live performance critiques in a variety of genres, including dramas, musicals and concerts. The program culminates in the senior year with a final presentation to the faculty advisory panel and a formal performance of pieces from the student’s portfolio, accompanied by the presentation of the Certificate. Most Conservatory requirements do not appear on the transcript.
ADVANCED CURRICULUM ADVANCED PLACEMENT™ COURSES AP English Literature & Composition AP U.S. History AP U.S. Government & Politics AP European History AP World History AP Psychology AP Economics - Macro AP Economics - Micro AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Statistics AP Spanish Language & Culture AP Spanish Literature AP French Language & Culture AP Japanese Language & Culture AP Chinese Language & Culture
AP Latin AP Chemistry* AP Biology* AP Physics 2 AP Physics C Mechanics Electricity & Magnetism AP Environmental Science AP Computer Science AP Art History AP Music Theory AP Studio Art 2-D Design 3-D Design Drawing
* Students who enroll directly into AP Chemistry or AP Biology without previous study of that subject in high school are required to complete a summer course.
* = semester-long class 9
POST-ADVANCED PLACEMENT™ COURSES These courses require completion of an AP Course as a prerequisite. Advanced Topics in Computer Science: Honors Data Structures Computer Architecture Compilers and Interpreters Expert Systems Robot Kinematics Software Programming Languages Numerical Methods Neural Networks Honors Multivariable Calculus Honors Linear Algebra Honors Differential Equations Honors Discrete Math
Honors Advanced Topics in Mathematics: Number Theory College Geometry Signal & Systems Differential Equations II Honors Advanced Topics in French: Renaissance & Classical Literature Romantic & Modern Literature Honors Advanced Latin Literature: Epic Satire Lyric Poetry Prose
CURRICULUM INFORMATION The curriculum at The Harker School is composed of a core of required courses which forms the basis of a strong liberal arts education. A broad array of elective offerings, particularly in the senior year, helps to meet the individual needs and interests of students. As a college preparatory school, Harker provides each student with a personal course of study which is challenging but which also offers extensive extracurricular opportunities. Our extensive offering of clubs, activities, sports and performance opportunities beyond the classroom are critical pieces of the Harker educational experience.
Developing a Curriculum Plan Students are asked in the freshman year to develop, with the guidance of the academic dean/pre-college counselor, a four-year plan that satisfies the graduation requirements as well as their personal education goals. The purpose of this plan is to ensure that students will think through all elective choices carefully. This use of elective courses will help students explore areas of interest and possibly develop depth in those areas of study which most appeal to them. Careful planning helps students avoid being unable to take desired subjects because they have run out of time in their schedules. Advance planning also allows students to make sure they will be prepared for important college admissions exams such as the SAT Subject Tests. Students will make revisions to their plans in subsequent years, but it is important always to have a realistic plan that extends to graduation.
Graduation Requirements To graduate from The Harker School students must: • complete at least 22 academic credits which must include all required courses and credit totals within each department; • complete at least two credits (four semesters or seasons) of physical education credit; • complete the 30-hour community service requirement described in the student/parent handbook; and • abide by the behavior expectations described in the Honor Code and the Code of Conduct in the student/parent handbook. Academic credit is only given for courses taken at Harker.
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Academic Planning Chart with Graduation Requirements The following chart will be used when the students meet with the academic dean/pre-college counselor to create the fouryear plan. It graphically shows the requirements as well as the slots available for the required (shaded) and elective (not shaded) courses. Students must take a minimum of five academic classes (always including English) for each of their eight semesters and a maximum of six academic classes. The Extra Period Option courses are not included in this five/ six class requirement, but students do earn a grade and one half credit for the year in most (but not all) of these courses. See the course description section for more details, including credit information, on the Extra Period Options which include music (Bel Canto, Downbeat, Cantilena, Camerata, Orchestra and Jazz Band), Dance (JV and Varsity), Journalism (Newspaper and Yearbook), Speech and Debate (Introductory and Competitive), and Business and Entrepreneurship (Principles, Advanced and Business Leadership). There is no grade for P.E., but students may take a P.E. class during the school day in this Extra Period Option course slot.
Non-Academic Classes or Free Period
Up to Six Academic Classes
English
9th
10th
11th
12th
Graduation Requirements
English 1: The Study of Literary Genres
English 2: British Lit
English 3: American Lit
English 4: 2 semester courses or AP English Lit
4 years 3 years 4 recommended
Math Science
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
3 years
History
World 1
World 2, AP World, or AP European
United States
3 years
Language
Complete Level 3
Arts / Computer Science
Study of Visual Arts, Technical Theater, Music, Dance or Theater Arts
Extra Period Option
Your choice
Total Credits (min)
6
Arts – 1 year Comp Sci – 1 sem
5–6
5–6
5–6
22 credits minimum
English – 4 years/8 semesters The first three years have a set curriculum. The senior year students take AP English Literature or choose two semesterlong courses from a list with many options.
Mathematics – 3 years/6 semesters Students must complete a minimum of three years of mathematics in the upper school and have completed the following courses: Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2/Trigonometry. We strongly recommend that students take four years of mathematics. 11
Science – 3 years/6 semesters The three years have a set curriculum and order – Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
History – 3 years/6 semesters The first and third years are set with, respectively, World History 1 and U.S. History. The second year students choose between World History 2, Honors World History 2, AP World History or AP European History.
Foreign Language – completion of level 3 Students must pass a level 3 or higher course to satisfy this requirement. This does not necessarily require three years of study in the upper school. While we encourage students to continue beyond level 3, and many do, it is not required.
Study of the Arts – 1 year Students must take a yearlong course in the arts, generally in the freshman year. Students choose between Study of Visual Arts, Study of Theater Arts, Study of Music and Study of Dance. Students may instead take AP Art History in grades 10-12 if they qualify and are approved; most upperclassmen who enjoy this challenging course take it as an elective in addition to the Study of the Arts course as a freshman.
Computer Science – 1 semester Students must complete one semester of computer science in a course that emphasizes algorithmic thinking. Most satisfy this requirement with Digital World, Programming or Advanced Programming, but students with significant prior inclass course work may test directly into AP Computer Science or APCS with Data Structures (both yearlong courses).
Electives – as necessary Students choose electives as desired to ensure a minimum of five and a maximum of six academic courses at all times and a total of 22 credits by graduation.
Physical Education – 4 semesters (or sports seasons) Though ungraded, students must complete four semester-long P.E. courses or participate in competitive after-school sports for four seasons. Students can take a P.E. class during the day (instead of having a free period), or students can sign up for an after-school P.E. class. At a minimum, one P.E. class or sports season should be completed each year.
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COLLEGE COUNSELING Harker’s college counseling office helps students and families navigate the college search and admission process. We strive to alleviate some of the stress often associated with college admission and to ensure that each student has options for where to attend. College counseling is available to students all four years. For example, the academic dean meets with freshmen and their families to learn about their interests and craft a four-year academic plan.
PARENT COLLEGE NIGHTS Several College Nights educate parents of all grade levels about the current college admission scene and keep them informed of the progress of their students.
INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS Beginning in the second semester of the junior year, college counselors meet individually with students and parents. During the family meetings, the student’s academic record, interests and goals are discussed. During the individual appointments with students, college counselors seek to learn about the student’s personal and academic interests, explore possible college choices, and discuss expectations for the college search and college admission process. Meetings with students and parents continue in the senior year, so we can provide guidance and feedback on applications and help students with their final college decisions.
WEEKLY COLLEGE COUNSELING CLASSES During the second semester of the junior year and the first semester of the senior year, students meet weekly for College Counseling Class, which introduces all of the important college admissions topics. These include: evaluating colleges; staying calm and organized; early action and early decision; the University of California; writing college essays; and having productive college visits and interviews.
COLLEGE VISITS TO HARKER The college counseling office welcomes about 100 college admission representatives to the school each year. Seniors are encouraged to attend these presentations to learn more about the colleges and ask general questions of their representatives.
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Upper School | 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | 408.249.2510 | admissionus@harker.org | www.harker.org OofC: 05/20 (SW) 1,200
COLLEGE MATRICULATIONS | CLASSES OF 2018, 2019, 2020 Harker’s mission is to educate students for success at college and beyond. We help our students discover their passions and to find colleges that align with their talents, personalities and goals. We take pride in the wide range of colleges on our matriculation list, representing the great diversity of talent and interests possessed by Harker students and alumni. We celebrate that our seniors have phenomenal college options. Equally important, we celebrate that our students graduate from Harker having developed deep interests, a love of learning, and a desire to have social impact. Graduates from the classes of 2018-2020 matriculated to the following colleges and universities.
American University Amherst College Babson College Barnard College Baylor University Boston College Boston University Bowdoin College Brown University California Institute of Technology California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo) California State University (Fullerton) Carleton College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Chapman University City College of San Francisco Claremont McKenna College Clemson University Colgate University Colorado School of Mines Columbia University Cornell University Dartmouth College De Anza College DePaul University Drexel University Duke University Emerson College Emory University Foothill College Geneva College George Washington University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology (Main Campus) Goldsmiths, University of London Harvard University Harvey Mudd College Hofstra University Indiana University (Bloomington) Johns Hopkins University Loyola Marymount University Macalester College
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology 15 McDaniel College 1 Michigan State University 1 Mount Holyoke College 1 Naropa University 1 New York University 20 Northeastern University 4 Northern Arizona University 1 Northwestern University 3 Occidental College 2 Olin College of Engineering 1 Otis College of Art and Design 1 Oxford College of Emory University 1 Pitzer College 2 Pomona College 2 Princeton University 6 Purdue University (Main Campus) 10 Reed College 1 Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 1 Rhode Island School of Design 3 Rice University 3 San Francisco State University 1 San Jose City College 1 San Jose State University 5 Santa Clara University 13 Scripps College 3 Seattle University 1 Smith College 1 Springfield College 1 Stanford University 23 Swarthmore College 2 Syracuse University 2 Texas A & M University 2 The Juilliard School 1 The London School of Economics and Political Science 1 The New School 1 The University of Texas at Austin 2 Trinity College Dublin 1 Tufts University 4 University College London 1 University of British Columbia 2 University of California Berkeley 41 Davis 4 Irvine 8
Los Angeles Merced San Diego Santa Barbara Santa Cruz University of Chicago University of Colorado Boulder University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Maryland (College Park) University of Miami University of Michigan University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of Oregon University of Oxford University of Pennsylvania University of Puget Sound University of Southern California University of the Pacific University of Toronto University of Toronto Mississauga University of Utah University of Washington (Seattle Campus) University of Wisconsin (Madison) Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wake Forest University Washington University in St Louis Wellesley College Wesleyan University Whitman College Whittier College Williams College Worcester Polytechnic Institute Yale University
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Upper School | 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | 408.249.2510 | admission@harker.org | www.harker.org OofC: 8/12/20 (RM) 2,675
NEWSWORTHY HIGHLIGHTS ‘A trio of Harker alumni make Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list for 2018’ – Harker News, Feb. 26, 2018
‘First woman Bitcoin core developer’ – Forbes.com, July 15, 2020
In July, Forbes recognized Amiti Uttarwar ‘10 as the first woman developer of Bitcoin Core, described as “the protocol underlying a $170 billion market cap asset changing the face of privacy, security, and value.” Uttarwar began working in cryptocurrency in 2018 and has since become an important figure in the Bitcoin sphere, with her presentations and talks being widely circulated.
‘Cal-Hi Sports D4 school of the year’ – CalHiSports.com, July 23, 2019
In July, Harker was named a State School of the Year in Division IV by Cal-Hi Sports, the first such honor for the school. Strong performances from boys volleyball, boys swimming, girls golf and girls lacrosse were factors in Harker being chosen for this recognition.
Forbes’ 2018 “30 Under 30” lists featured three Harker alumni in three different categories. Siddarth Satish ’06’s healthcare technology company, Gauss Surgical, created an app that monitors blood loss in operating rooms using an iPad. ElectrIQ Power Inc., co-founded by Chadwick Manning ’07, was recognized in the energy category for technology it developed to help home and business owners save electricity. As director of retail partnerships for tech product company b8ta, Meghana Dhar ’06 was named in the retail and e-commerce category for the 700 b8ta stores she opened by 2018.
‘A 32-Year-Old’s Startup, Inspired By A Health Scare, Sells For $275 Million’ – Forbes Magazine, April 16, 2018
‘Debaters take first and second at nationals’ – Harker News, June 24, 2019
“At the National Speech & Debate Tournament in June, Haris Hosseini ’19 and rising senior Avi Gulati took first and second place, respectively, in original oratory. Also at this tournament, Alycia Cary ’19 reached the semifinals for original oratory, rising junior Andrew Sun placed 15th in congressional debate and Jason Huang ’19 was a semifinalist in congressional debate.”
‘Boys volleyball ranked fourth in the nation’ – CalHiSports.com, July 23, 2019
“Harker boys volleyball ranked fourth in the nation in the 2018-19 school year. In July 2019, two members of the upper school boys volleyball team – Jarrett Anderson ’19 and rising senior Jeffrey Kwan – helped the Mountain View Volleyball Club win the 18 Open Division national championship in Dallas.”
In April 2018, Surbhi Sarna ’03 was featured in Forbes after selling her startup healthcare firm, nVision Medical, for $275 million. Sarna, who experienced a health scare at the age of 13, founded nVision in 2009 to develop technology to promote the early detection of ovarian cancer. In 2014, Sarna was named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list of entrepreneurs in the science and healthcare field.
‘Saving water is elementary for these Harker students’ – East Bay Times, March 15, 2018
In early 2018, Harker sixth graders Kabir Ramzan, Dustin Miao and Jordan Labio turned a group project for a robotics competition into a proposal for water conservation that has since been presented to companies such as Google, Home Depot and Orchard Supply Hardware. Continued on back
NEWSWORTHY HIGHLIGHTS
‘Maverick McNealy turning pro, not looking back’
and Malignant Proliferative Breast Cancer Lesions.” Developed primarily in the lab at Harvard Medical School, the core of the effort is an algorithm that learns from data and can diagnose a breast cancer tumor as either benign or malignant from a biopsy image, which, the article notes, “appears to have far-reaching implications.” Zhu said, “This model can reduce the chance of misdiagnosis and ensure that patients at risk of breast cancer will get the proper treatment.”
– Golf Week, August 23, 2017
Longtime golfer and U.S. Open qualifier Maverick McNealy ’13 made the decision to turn pro in August 2017, prompting coverage from Golfweek, which examined the Stanford graduate’s college golfing career and future prospects. While a student at Harker, McNealy was one of the final eight at the 2012 USGA Junior Amateur Championship, which was followed by a win at the Silver Creek Valley Junior and a quarterfinal finish at the Northern California Golf Association’s Amateur Match Play Championship.
‘Saratoga teen wins $50,000 for creation of medical app’ – Bay Area News Group, Aug. 31, 2017
Rishab Gargeya ’17 received coverage in The Mercury News for winning a $50,000 Davidson Fellows Scholarship for his smartphone app, called “EyeLogic.” The app detects and diagnoses vision diseases using a cost-effective lens attachment, empowering users to quickly identify vision problems and seek proper medical help.
‘Pair of Harker students win $20k for breast cancer diagnosis machine’ – San Jose Mercury News, Dec. 17, 2015
David Zhu and Evani Radiya-Dixit, both grade 11, were awardees at the 2015 Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology for their year-long project, titled “Automated Classification of Benign
‘San Jose High School Students Finalists in Intel Science and Talent Search’ – ABC7 News, Feb. 27, 2015
ABC7 News was one of several media outlets to provide coverage of the placement of three Harker finalists (and subsequent first-place medal winner Andrew Jin ’15) in the prestigious Intel Science Talent Search. Reporter Jonathan Bloom said, “He [Jin] is just doing what his school taught him to do - he’s following his passion.” Harker was the only school nationwide with more than two finalists; Jin won a first-place medal of distinction in the competition’s Global Good category, making him Harker’s first first-place winner, and the second Harker student since 2006 to be named a national winner. Harker also had 15 Intel semifinalists, the most of any school in the country.
‘Harker Conservatory invited to Edinburgh Fringe Festival for the fourth time’ Harker was featured in the April 8, 2015 issue of the San Jose Mercury News for being invited to perform at the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival for the third time. In 2019 Harker was invited again to bring its upper school spring music to the festival. In 2007 and 2019 they produced “Urinetown: The Musical,” in 2011 “Pippin,” and in 2015 “Into the Woods.”
‘The ‘it’ school for our next Einsteins’ – San Jose Mercury News, March 13, 2011
The school’s top-flight research program came to the attention of the San Jose Mercury News, which profiled the multiyear development of Harker’s science curriculum and facilities, the passion and work ethic of the students and faculty, and the subsequent achievements and contributions in the field of science.
| Visit news.harker.org.
Harker News | 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | 408.248.2510 | admission@harker.org | www.harker.org OofC: 8/13/20 (RM) - 3,150
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welcome to harker A Learning Environment Like No Other At Harker, we define success as something more than outstanding academic achievement: We believe in providing a world-class educational experience that both inspires and empowers students to explore, try new things, and discover their unique talents and passions. This is equally true during this time of COVID-19 as we provide a distance learning program that inspires and challenges our students - and ourselves - in new ways. A focus on the whole student leads us to offer the type of truly well-rounded education proven to lead to happier, more purposeful and more fulfilling lives – K through Life. In this dynamic community, our outstanding faculty and deep academic offerings are enriched with an incomparable array of opportunities for children to immerse themselves in the arts, athletics, extracurricular activities, global education and local community service. Since the school’s founding in 1893, Harker students have gone on to achieve great success in their colleges and careers. They have also continued to demonstrate a commitment to making the world a better place in ways that inspire us every day. We invite you to come experience the uniqueness of a Harker education for yourself!
Brian Yager, Head of School
Harker remains the most significant professional “ and personal influence on me. Harker provided me with the study skills to succeed in school, and more important, the ethics and values to succeed in life. John Owens ’85
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John is a judge on the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. He is currently the youngest serving federal appellate court judge in the nation.
lead the way Since 1893, The Harker School has been on a mission to develop students uncommonly prepared for college and beyond, and unusually enthusiastic about future possibilities. Prepared for success in an ever-changing world Renowned for instilling lifelong qualities of inquisitiveness, critical thinking and leadership, Harker has been on the leading edge of educational excellence since the day it was founded. For more than 125 years, our campuses and curriculum have continually evolved, incorporating the latest best practices, creating the innovative programs, and building the state-of-the-art facilities that have earned Harker its reputation for offering the most dynamic K through Life learning experience in Silicon Valley. From our innovative lower school methodologies to a university-quality upper school campus, Harker students dive deep into a rich array of academic and extracurricular programs that develop young adults uncommonly prepared for success in today’s global society.
I am impressed with Harker’s individual approach “ to students: the teachers’ efforts to learn who the
student is - how they are motivated and what their individual learning style is - and to address the needs of each student, factoring all of this into account. Alina Gicqueau, parent
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inspire passion Outstanding teachers, small classes When learning is inspired, exploring becomes excelling. We search nationwide for our faculty, then select and retain those who demonstrate the ability to bring out the best in our students. Many hold advanced degrees; each is passionate about teaching and focused on individual student success. Individualized curriculum, inspired learners As a student’s interests and talents evolve, each is evaluated for the course placement that will best engage and inspire him or her to personal and academic excellence. Our proven teaching techniques and comprehensive support systems ensure that high expectations are met through a nurturing balance of challenge and encouragement. It’s an approach proven successful to instill students with confidence, resilience and poise.
Harker provides the best combination of top “ quality academic and extracurricular programming,
dedicated and caring faculty, incredible resources and facilities, and a vibrant community that anyone living in the Silicon Valley could ever hope to share with their child.
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Bill Stevenson, parent
discover talents Where opportunities become accomplishments We help students hone talents they never knew they had – ones which they will always be grateful to have discovered. Our richly diverse offerings encourage students to pursue interests outside the classroom where extracurricular activities can become the accomplishments that inspire a lifelong joy of learning. Outside the classroom: from STEM to strings Our K-8 after-school program offers a myriad of learning adventures, including Mandarin, yoga, violin, cooking, storytelling, athletics, robotics, debate and Japanese anime; the middle school additionally has dozens of clubs and programs. The upper school boasts an amazing array of more than 100 student clubs, enriching electives, extracurricular activities, and programs from competitive sports to powerful research projects. Whether it’s our earth-conscious Green Team or the forward-thinking Future Problem Solvers, Harker students are empowered to implement ideas for clubs and introduce initiatives that reflect their own interests and passions to make a real impact in the world.
I was able to to explore every aspect of performing in ways that I couldn’t “ have foreseen when I chose Harker for its academic rigor. Having the breadth of performing experience from Harker gave me tremendous confidence that paid dividends in my performing life. Gabrielle DeMers ’03
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Gabrielle holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music and a Master of Music in opera performance from the University of Maryland, College Park. She currently performs with and is on the board of the Bizarre Noir Theatre Company.
perform & create The chance to perform and create Once you know that music fosters math comprehension in early learners and athletics help promote strong character development, it’s hard to see your child’s chance to participate in extracurricular activities as anything other than essential. That’s why Harker students perform in 25 major events each year – from musicals to dramas to concerts. Our groups have even been invited to perform internationally, including four times at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland. Visual arts students express themselves through a variety of mediums, including bronze casting and architecture, producing works that have been selected for national exhibitions. The opportunity to grow Through an array of opportunities they wouldn’t have elsewhere, and in ways they would never have otherwise imagined, Harker students discover and nurture their own talents, develop self-confidence and unleash their creative potential.
I still draw inspiration from my athletic “ experience at Harker, and our journey to the state championships! ” Tanya Schmidt ’08
Tanya is a Santa Clara University graduate and played professional volleyball in Germany and Belgium. She is pursuing a master’s degree in English and American literature at New York University.
compete and grow Eagle spirit: character with a competitive edge Teamwork, sportsmanship, dedication and leadership are the cornerstones of our athletic program. From the very start, our programs focus on character development and are designed to instill positive attitudes, strong core values and the habits of healthy living. Each campus features extensive athletic facilities and playing fields, from a lower school swimming pool to the upper school’s state-of-the-art Singh Aquatic Center and 33,000-square-foot athletic center. Eagle athletic offerings include football, soccer, volleyball, swimming, softball and lacrosse, to name a few. We participate in the South Valley Athletic League, West Bay Athletic League, Bay Football League and others. Whether student athletes pursue sports for pure enjoyment or have a desire to compete at the collegiate level, we provide the guidance, leadership and support they need to get and keep their game on. Go Eagles!
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Harker had a lot to do with my drive to be an entrepreneur and I’m grateful for all of the teachers who inspired me while I was there. It was a fantastic journey.
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Surbhi Sarna ’03 Surbhi earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. She founded venture-backed nVision Medical in 2009 to develop technology to more quickly detect ovarian cancer. The medical device that resulted received FDA approval in 2015.
explore the world Worldly classrooms As students move through the divisions with growing involvement in international programs, their experiences are consistently being filtered through the goals of our global education program: awareness, collaboration and experiential learning. Our students have collaborated with schools in 25 countries through projects or visits since the program began. Meaningful research Research programs enable upper school students to pursue the wonder of science through original, real-world research projects. The John Near and Mitra Family endowments allow students to engage in deep research in the humanities, and the annual Harker Research Symposium provides deep, college-level research opportunities. Business and entrepreneurship Our business & entrepreneurship program prepares students as emerging leaders in engineering, technology, finance, marketing, and hospitality and tourism. A new incubator program, BECon (Harker’s annual convention) and TEDx Harker School events offer unique opportunities to leverage the entrepreneurial engine of Silicon Valley.
Our kids are learning a lot, and have also “ made great friends. It shows because they are raring to go to school in the morning! � Raghu Subramanian, parent
enjoy friends Our students cheer each other on in athletics, applaud their friends in school performances, celebrate the activities of the student-run clubs, and just enjoy hanging out together from morning to evening. Schoolwide traditions We have some long-held social traditions – homecoming, a family and alumni picnic and our gala – that bring students, faculty, parents and alumni together just to have a great time! Campus communities Lower school students take pride in sharing fun events with family and friends at our annual Hat Parade, Grandparents’ Day and Halloween parade. Harker’s Eagle Buddies program pairs grade 3 students with an upper school buddy. Fun buddy events are planned throughout the year, which has formed warm connections between our youngest and oldest students. Middle school students are assigned to one of four “houses” which compete in spirit events throughout the year. Cheering for friends at sporting events and attending barbecues and dances all ensure your pre-teen has plenty of opportunities to make friends, build confidence and have fun. Upper school students form deep and lasting friendships at Harker, creating a warm, fun and supportive social life. Dozens of events like class competitions, spirit activities, events, dances and outings make for an engaging and exciting high school experience.
In addition to the academic rigor, Harker does a “ very good job of creating a caring and supportive
community for the kids. It’s been really rewarding to see our son’s friends, who are seniors, support and encourage our daughters as freshmen. It really does feel like a family. Kurt Leafstrand, parent
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nurture and thrive Harker students receive a world-class education within an intellectually challenging and supportive community. But to truly thrive we believe students also need to be healthy, self-aware, resilient and empathetic. The curriculum for developing these traits starts the moment students begin their journeys at Harker. The lower school uses a curriculum called The Toolbox Project, which is designed to empower the children with 12 specific tools that will guide them in managing their own social, emotional and academic success. Middle and upper school students are assigned to a faculty member’s advisory. They remain in that group throughout their time at that division. Advisories offer downtime to chat and play, to discuss topics of interest, give and receive guidance about wellness and social issues, and form a close-knit group of friends outside of one’s regular classes or pursuits. At the upper school, the LIFE (Living with Intent, Focus and Enthusiasm) program sponsors workshops throughout the year that help our students navigate through topics including healthy relationships, performance anxiety and college readiness. Harker students encourage and support one another and celebrate each other’s efforts and successes with hugs, high-fives and applause. It’s a supportive, safe, fun and nurturing place where kids thrive.
Harker students are always curious to learn, “ enthusiastic to help and are really connected to the importance of giving back. You have a tremendous group of future leaders in your midst.
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—Sarah Uldricks, Camp Okizu’s director of marketing and special events
give back We teach character development skills as a part of the regular curriculum, engaging our students to develop essential character traits including kindness, respect and integrity. With hands-on learning opportunities for character development both in the classroom and out in the community, students will have many options for participating in service and helping others. Big hearts, kind souls Students raise awareness and funds for both local and global issues, and they enthusiastically support each other in celebrating successes. Immersed in an environment of integrity and respect, our students are generous, kind, considerate and thoughtful. They learn to think of others and have a desire to help those around them. No wonder college reps say, “Harker kids have soul!�
Harker was a place where studying certainly was “ important, but not the most important. The options
were so numerous, and finding your passion was the most important goal of all. Kaavya Cherukuri ’11
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Kaavya is a master’s student at Purdue University’s Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering. Her goal is to make affordable and safe medical devices that are accessible to everyone.
Grammy nominee Taylor Eigsti has appeared four times at the Harker Concert Series.
share with others Harker Concert & Speaker Series Harker invites visionaries, innovators and artists from a kaleidoscope of disciplines to share their talents and expertise with our students and the greater Bay Area. Being green At Harker, being green means more than wearing our school color. From earning a commendation for our “dedication to environmental stewardship� for helping to implement San Jose’s new recycling program, to opening the first LEED Gold certified school building in Santa Clara County, our commitment to sustainability runs deep. Ready to change the world To be a true global citizen is to understand the impact one person can have on the world. Our students are guided to become knowledgeable, ethical and responsible contributors to society, empowered with the desire to share their gifts and make a difference.
ABC7 News Anchor Cheryl Jennings interviews author Khaled Hosseini at a 2012 Harker Speaker Series event. Photo by Kyle Cavallaro.
It’s been an awesome 13 years at “Harker! I will miss every part of Harker so
dearly, but I am happy that I will always be welcome back home. I’m a ‘Lifer,’ I love Harker, and go Eagles!
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Vikas Bhetanabhotla ’14 Vikas is attending U.C. Berkeley in the College of Engineering.
celebrate community Our community is vibrant, bustling and inspiring. Athetic events, musicals, parties, speaker events, workshops and more provide opportunities for faculty, parents, students, alumni and the greater community to gather, have fun and share their passions. We treasure our alumni and stay closely connected through nationwide alumni events, reunions and mentoring programs. Some of our alumni have come back to teach at Harker, while others serve on boards, present to classrooms and find reasons to come back to see their teachers (and have the famous Harker lunches again). We are also a community of passionate learners and constantly seek ways to understand, improve and explore new ways of thinking. From student classrooms to parent education events, to reunions, there is a shared love of learning that permeates our community. Join us!
connect with us We invite you to become a part of the Harker community. Whether it’s to attend Harker, participate in an event or become a mentor, we welcome you to join our commitment to excellence in education.
General: 408.249.2510 | communications@harker.org | www.harker.org Admission: admissions@harker.org Summer Programs: summerinfo@harker.org Subscribe to Harker News Online: http://news.harker.org
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