Curriculum

Students’ Perspective on Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School’s Curriculum

Lower School: Building Foundations

In the Lower School at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School, students from Pre-K to 5th grade delve into the fundamentals. Here, the focus is on core subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. The aim? To ignite a passion for learning while honing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Alongside these essentials, enrichment programs in the arts, physical education, and technology enrich our learning journey.

Middle School: Expanding Horizons

Moving into Middle School (6th to 8th grade), Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School students build upon their foundational skills. Here, we encounter more complex concepts in core subjects. But it’s not all about textbooks. We’re encouraged to explore our interests through elective courses and extracurricular activities. This phase also emphasizes the importance of study skills and personal responsibility, laying the groundwork for success in high school and beyond.

Upper School: Preparing for the Future

As we transition to the Upper School (9th to 12th grade), Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School ramps up the preparation for college and beyond. With a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, we dive deep into core academic subjects. Humanities courses integrate history and English, fostering critical thinking and meaningful discourse. Math courses span from Algebra to Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus, while science offerings include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Science, with AP options available. Additionally, we have the opportunity to learn French, Spanish, or Mandarin, with advanced courses available.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Challenging Ourselves

For those seeking extra challenges, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School offers a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses across various disciplines. From Calculus to Biology, English Literature to World History, these courses allow us to push our boundaries and prepare for college-level work.

STEAM Program: Exploring Interdisciplinary Connections

The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) program at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is seamlessly integrated into our curriculum. With elective courses and afterschool programs available, we have the opportunity to explore interdisciplinary connections and engage in hands-on learning experiences. The Dess Oliver STEAM Center provides cutting-edge facilities for our projects and experiments, fostering innovation and creativity.

Applied Learning: Connecting Theory with Practice

At Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School, learning goes beyond the classroom. Through applied learning, we tackle real-world projects and problem-solving activities. This approach equips us with essential soft skills like collaboration, cultural competency, and creative thinking, preparing us for success in an ever-changing world.

Extracurricular Activities: Finding Our Passions

Outside of academics, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School offers a vibrant array of extracurricular activities. From athletics to the arts, and a diverse range of clubs and organizations, there’s something for everyone. Whether we’re on the field, stage, or in a club meeting, these activities enrich our school experience and help us develop as well-rounded individuals.

Boarding and Community Life: Building Connections

For boarding students, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School becomes not just a school but a home away from home. With a significant portion of the Upper School population residing on campus, we form a tight-knit and supportive community. Weekend activities and local excursions further enhance our boarding experience, creating lasting memories and friendships.

College Counseling: Charting Our Paths

As we approach the end of our high school journey, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School provides invaluable college counseling services. From crafting a four-year academic plan to guiding us through the college application process, the school’s dedicated counselors ensure that each student is prepared for the next step. With a remarkable 100% college acceptance rate, we leave Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School confident and ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives.

In Conclusion: Preparing for Success

In summary, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum that prepares students for academic success and personal growth. From building foundations in the Lower School to exploring advanced coursework in the Upper School, every step of our educational journey is carefully crafted to equip us with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in college and beyond. With a focus on rigorous academics, applied learning, and a rich array of extracurricular activities, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School ensures that we are well-prepared for whatever the future may hold.