Academics

Overview

From the Associate Head of School

Our curriculum provides the best educational experiences and growth opportunities purposefully geared to how boys learn. We are mindful about each student's trajectory, both within each school year and over the longer term, knowing that the needs of students in each grade level differ markedly. Our students thus pursue a thoughtfully planned and rigorous curricular path that provides both continuity and increased challenge over time as they build their individual academic and co-curricular foundations for the future.

Our curricular planning and review process guides regular and ongoing consideration of what and how we teach in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12 in each subject area. It includes thoughtful review of our current practices with benchmarking against other leading schools and best practices within academic areas, while also preserving what is exceptional about a University School education.

University School is an extraordinary academic environment, a place where each boy will be challenged and supported to grow as a learner in so many different ways. I hope you will join us for a visit to see our learning community in action.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Rohan Beros
Associate Head of School
 

Our Academic Program

With over a century of experience helping young boys unlock their academic potential, University School is proud to have a hand in shaping our students into accomplished young men. Our academic program begins in Junior Kindergarten and continues through 12th Grade.

Lower School

In the close-knit community of the Lower School (grades Junior K-4), the youngest members of University School explore and interact while acquiring the essential skills for academic success. The theme-based curriculum is tailored to the way young boys learn best. Caring and talented faculty members have a deep knowledge of the subjects they teach and a unique understanding of young boys and their learning styles.

Middle School

Middle School students (grades 5–8) become more independent as they start to question the world around them. The academic program is increasingly challenging as boys are now ready to tackle more abstract concepts. Our teachers implicitly understand adolescent boys and work hard to provide a structured yet supportive environment in which each boy can build confidence and discover his own ideas and talents.

Upper School

The Upper School (grades 9–12) academic program offers a range of subjects within a rigorous college preparatory curriculum. Students hone their abilities to converse intelligently, to think deeply, and to study effectively. The wide offering of electives, independent studies, advanced placement, and college-level courses give University School boys an unparalleled advantage in college admissions. In countless interactions with students each day, our teachers give their time, friendship, and support to ensure every boy thrives in a community where he is known and loved.

Shaker Heights Campus JUNIOR K – GRADE 8

20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122
Phone: (216) 321-8260

Hunting Valley Campus GRADES 9 – 12

2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley, Ohio 44022
Phone: (216) 831-2200