Upper School (9-12)

This is how we learn.

Athenian’s Upper School pushes students to think big, then bigger—to push beyond limits and lead with curiosity. That’s what discovery demands. In the classroom and under the stars, students build self-awareness, critical insight, and boundary-challenging critical thinking skills to carry them anywhere their dreams take them.

The block schedule creates space for experiential learning, with longer class periods that allow for meaningful collaboration, in-depth lessons, hands-on labs, and engaging project work.

In 9th and 10th grades, students build their foundation through core courses, including year-long literature and history classes. With additional semester-long options in subjects like computer science, engineering, students are encouraged to pursue existing interests and explore new subject matter. As they progress to 11th and 12th grades, they continue their journey through year-long courses while also branching out into an array of seminar-style offerings. These perspective-shifting seminars in history and literature give students a chance to dive deeply into topics in a way that mirrors the intellectual challenges of college. 

Art is a cornerstone of the Upper School experience, with opportunities for students to find and refine their creative voice. From filmmaking and 3D design and fabrication, to an impressive lineup of performing arts, students have countless ways to express themselves and explore their talents.

Support that goes the distance

Our guidance is boundless here at the base of Mt. Diablo. Our advisors, deans, learning support and student life teams, and our school counselor uplift every facet of our students—inside and out. Combine that with college counselors who are devoted to helping each student build the confidence, skills, and portfolio to go big post-graduation, and you’ve got a network of unparalleled support.

• College Counseling
• Wellness
• Academic Support

Explore, wander, get involved

As one of our six pillars, we engage our Upper School students in community service to inspire them to live out our ideals fully. It starts with structured group initiatives and builds to individual service projects. Throughout their four years, our students give back in big ways. There are also many ways to venture out at Athenian, from student clubs to affinity groups and leadership opportunities.