Curriculum

Introduction to Darlington School

Darlington School, nestled in the heart of Rome, Georgia, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and holistic education. Students at Darlington embark on a journey from pre-K through grade 12, with the option of boarding for grades 9-12. This overview sheds light on the structure of the curriculum and highlights key academic features that enrich the educational experience.

The Primary Grades: Nurturing Foundations

From pre-K to 8th grade, Darlington places a strong emphasis on nurturing young minds through play, imagination, and skill development. In these formative years, students engage in projects such as the Third Grade Wax Museum and the Fourth Grade Invention Convention, which provide tangible applications of skills in real-world contexts.

The Upper School: Pathways to Success

As students progress to grades 9-12, they encounter a curriculum tailored to prepare them for the challenges of higher education and beyond. Graduation requirements mandate the completion of a minimum of 23 units, including core subjects like English, Math, Science, History, and World Languages.

Community Engagement: Shaping Global Citizens

Darlington instills a sense of social responsibility by requiring students to dedicate 15 hours per year to community service. This commitment fosters empathy, compassion, and a desire to effect positive change in the world.

Academic Rigor: Nurturing Excellence

The Upper School offers over 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, spanning disciplines such as Economics, U.S. History, World History, English Language, and Calculus. These rigorous courses challenge students to delve deeper into subjects of interest and demonstrate mastery of complex concepts.

Specialized Programs: Cultivating Leaders

Senior Ventures, a year-long project, provides students with the opportunity to explore personal interests while developing leadership skills and engaging with the community. Similarly, iPeriod grants students the freedom to pursue diverse interests, from robotics to filmmaking, fostering a spirit of innovation and curiosity.

Teaching and Learning: Empowering Every Student

Darlington recognizes and embraces the diversity of learning styles among its student body. Through the Glenn Teaching and Learning Center, personalized guidance is provided to ensure that each student receives the support they need to thrive academically.

Integration of Technology: Preparing for the Digital Age

In an ever-evolving technological landscape, Darlington remains at the forefront by integrating tools like Jamboard for collaborative learning and promoting digital fluency among students. These skills are essential for success in the 21st-century workforce.

Fostering Critical Thinking: Finding Solutions

Assignments at Darlington are thoughtfully crafted to cultivate critical and creative thinking skills. Students are encouraged to explore multiple solutions to problems, fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Supporting Academic Growth: A Culture of Care

The Teaching and Learning Center stands as a pillar of support for students, particularly those with learning differences, ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to excel academically. Additionally, comprehensive college counseling services guide students through the intricacies of the college admissions process, boasting a track record of 100% college acceptance.

Extracurricular Enrichment: Beyond the Classroom

Darlington offers a plethora of extracurricular activities to complement the academic experience. From athletics, including baseball, basketball, and soccer, to opportunities in the arts, such as drama and musical theater, students are encouraged to explore their passions and talents outside the confines of the classroom.

Notable Features: A Campus of Possibilities

Spanning 500 acres, Darlington’s campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including athletic fields, boarding homes, and modern classrooms. This expansive environment provides students with ample opportunities for growth, exploration, and discovery.

A Diverse Community: Strength in Unity

With a student body comprised of 20% international students and a student-teacher ratio of 10:1, Darlington fosters a diverse and inclusive community where every voice is valued and heard. This rich tapestry of perspectives enriches the educational experience and prepares students to thrive in an interconnected world.

In conclusion, Darlington School’s curriculum is meticulously crafted to provide students with a rigorous yet supportive educational experience, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to succeed in college and beyond. Through a blend of academic excellence, creative thinking, and community engagement, Darlington empowers students to become lifelong learners and leaders in their respective fields.