Thinking Critically, Acting Thoughtfully
Students in the Upper School are expected to take an active part in their education, to think critically, and act thoughtfully, in and out of the classroom. They participate in classes that are dynamic, hands-on, and often student-directed; they voice their opinions in assemblies, in school publications, and on school committees; they exchange ideas with adults and peers from a variety of backgrounds and professions who come to Santa Fe Prep from the local community and from around the world. Close relationships with their teachers, who act as advisors, mentors, and role models, inspire them to give voice to their passion and translate that passion into a full and fulfilling life.
To meet the needs of a wide range of learners, each academic department offers courses designated as Accelerated, Honors, or AP. These classes challenge students to dive into their passions in greater depth.
Sequence of Courses
The standard course load consists of five academic courses per semester plus an elective that may be an academic or an arts course. Electives vary from year to year but have included: Creative Writing, Art History, Anatomy & Physiology, Astronomy, Web Code, Makerspace, Ceramics, Photography, Painting, Yearbook, Vocal Performance, Jazz Band, Acting, and Advanced Drama. Students also participate in Athletics/Physical Education on a yearly basis to fulfill their graduation requirements. Click here for the complete list of Upper School Course Offerings.
| Course | Minimum Requirements |
| English | 4 Years (Grades 9-12) |
| History | 4 Years (Grades 9-12) |
| Science | 3 Years (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) |
| Language | Completion of Spanish III or III Accelerated* |
| Mathematics | 3 Years (Integrated I, Integrated II, Algebra II) |
| Health | 1 Semester (Grade 10) |
| Arts | 4 Semesters (at least 1 Visual Arts and 1 Performing Arts course) |
| Athletics/Physical Education | Yearly participation (9th and 10th grades – both semesters/2 seasons; 11th and 12th grades – one semester/season) |
| Community Service | 4 Years (Grades 9-12) |
| Senior Internship (SIP) | Senior year (May be completed the summer before senior year through the end of senior year) |
| ASL | *Completion of ASL III with the permission of the Assistant Head of School and the Language Department Chair |