steward admissions 11600 Gayton Road Lower School: 804-565-2310
Richmond, Virginia 23238
Admissions: 804-565-2334
Main: 804-740-3394
Fax: 804-740-1464
www.stewardschool.org
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The Steward School is an independent school and does not discriminate in its admissions policies on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, or national or ethnic origin.
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Our Passion is Helping Students Discover Theirs
Our mission: Prepare our students for college and life in a community defined by robust academics, inspiration, engagement, and care. We invite you to learn why so many other families have chosen to become part of our community.
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FRONT COVER: Physics teacher and Bryan Innovation Lab Academic Dean Laura Akesson sets music on fire. In a lab with Upper School students, Mrs. Akesson presents a unique Rubens’ tube demonstration that creates a special mixture of fire and sound, producing a visual oscilloscope representation of different sound frequencies. A Rubens’ tube, also known as a standing wave flame tube, is a special apparatus for demonstrating the relationship between sound waves and sound pressure. When the gas venting from the openings is ignited and the sound source is activated, a standing sine wave is formed within the tube, represented by the heights and patterns of the flames.
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the steward school by the numbers
a message from the chair of the board of trustees
Our core character values are honor, responsibility, and achievement, balanced by caring and respect for oneself and for others. Steward is committed to small classes and to small overall size, which allow for discovery and development of each student’s unique talents and passions while providing more opportunities for individual participation. We believe an environment with a diversity of talents, abilities, cultures, and backgrounds provides the richest and most fully rounded educational experience.
One question drives the faculty, administrators, and parents who help shape The
campus, which includes five academic buildings, a $10-million Center for the Arts, a newly renovated, technologically rich library, a multi-purpose athletic center, three athletic fields, a state-of-the-art baseball stadium, and nine tennis courts. Our newest addition, the Bryan Innovation Lab, is an interactive
success in a rapidly changing world? Our passionate group of educators meets this challenge by combining the best elements of traditional education with an enduring commitment to innovation and discovery in a welcoming and nurturing environment. Our teachers are driven each day to seek and develop the uniqueness of each child and to help him or her grow into a true steward by offering challenging academics and creating opportunities for students to learn interpersonal skills beyond the classroom. From junior kindergarten through twelfth grade, we work hard to prepare students to greet the world with greater knowledge, excitement, humor, and energy while embracing technology and innovation. To this end, Steward is the first JK-12 school in Richmond to implement a one-to-one technology program. Empowering each student with a device extends academic potential and allows teachers to bring a
learning facility that serves as a living classroom and provides innovative opportunities for learning
new perspective to the learning process. Imagination and curiosity abound in the
through 21st-century, real world problem solving.
Bryan Innovation Lab, inspiring a new generation of innovators by placing emphasis on Steward’s value of self-discovery. Through experiential learning in this
number of jk–12 students: 630
class size: JK–1: Target 15
2–5: Target 16
student to faculty ratio: accredited by:
cutting-edge facility, students grapple with real-world issues, challenging their 6–12: Target 17
critical thinking and resourcefulness. By interacting with the building and utilizing its grounds, students are learning and acquiring the skills necessary to succeed —
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Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS) and Southern Association of
and lead — in our rapidly changing world. Here, students learn to challenge themselves and, in doing so, discover their
Independent Schools (SAIS)
strengths. They are provided the tools and support they need to become lifelong
memberships:
independent thinkers and leaders and compassionate caretakers of their
Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS); Southern Association of
Independent Schools (SAIS); National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS); Virginia Council for Private Education (VCPE); Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE); Independent School Management (ISM); Potomac and Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling (PCACAC); National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACA)
school profile and message from the board of trustees
campus: The Steward School, located on 37 acres in western Henrico County, has a stunning
Steward School’s curriculum and culture: How do we set students on the path to
communities. This is stewardship in its truest sense.
board of trustees 2014-2015 Aaron Brooks Timothy S. Burress Marion S. Chenault Tanya M. Cummings Lawrence S. Eiben Matthew J. Ernst Laura W. Fornash Larry W. French Melanie M. Goodpasture Deborah B. Hanger Steven C. Henderson Maria Brent Jones Walter J. O’Brien, Jr. J. Kim Penberthy R. Jay Poling Faisal S. Qureshi Susan B. Scott Donald E. Steeber James F. Stutts Charles V. Terry Ann-Marie Trepp J. Neil Turnage Susan C. Twining Anne C. Woodfin
Officers of the Corporation Dan Frank President
Maria Brent Jones Chairman
To us, the common pursuit of our ideals — rigorous academics, inspiration,
James F. Stutts
engagement, and care — positions Steward as one of the best schools, not only
Lawrence S. Eiben
Vice Chair
in Richmond but also in the entire state of Virginia. And, the spirit, warmth, and
Treasurer
vitality of our community will move you the moment you step on to our campus.
Secretary
I encourage you to visit us and experience The Steward School first-hand.
Faisal S. Qureshi Stephanie Ayres Bowlin Assistant Secretary
We welcome your interest and look forward to meeting you and your family.
Maria Brent Jones chair, board of trustees
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the bryan innovation lab
the bryan innovation lab
A New Way – and A New Place – to Learn Tomorrow’s Skills The Bryan Innovation Lab has become a catalyst for collaboration and for discovering new ways of learning that reinforce problem solving and encourage students to engage with the world around them. Balancing self-awareness with the needs of others helps create better thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers. All students have access to the Bryan Lab, working on interdisciplinary projects such as RAMPS, the Growing Leaders club, and the Robotics team. Programs often merge academics with the professional world through
®
“The Steward School community understands that leadership begins with asking the right questions and surrounding ourselves with the best and brightest in order to effectively, learn, inspire, and engage.” — Cary Jamieson, director of the bryan innovation lab
visiting speakers and presenters.
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the bryan innovation lab
An Interactive Educational Journey 1
and
G ardens
the bryan innovation lab
K itchen S tudio
Students engage in the production, preparation, consumption, and composting of food, fostering lifelong, healthy decision-making skills.
R eynolds S tudios Spaces encourage scientific inquiry using cutting-edge equipment to develop creative, innovative, and collaborative solutions to real-world problems.
class example: Experience a meal from farm to table—harvesting vegetables from the Ipsen Gardens and cooking a healthy meal in the kitchen studio.
class example: Students design prosthetic arms using a 3-D printer.
The C ore
W ellness S tudio
Students in all disciplines explore and apply natural laws and systems thinking to the interaction of outdoor spaces and human design.
Exposed, labeled, and metered mechanical systems generate real-time data for students to investigate how energy is being generated and consumed.
Students learn the importance of nutrition, lifestyle choices, and how we interact with our living environments from a systems perspective focused on the overall health of student.
class example: Examine water samples from Petronis Pond to determine the health of native organisms.
class example: Measure and compare the Bryan Innovation Lab’s current energy use with the previous week’s and brainstorm energy-saving solutions.
class example: Students learn human development first-hand from visiting infants and their parents with local pediatrician.
O utdoor L earning E nvironments
“Innovation is creativity with a job to do.” — john emmerling
exploration. Innovation. Discovery.
To focus our approach on the big questions, the curriculum is organized by an interdisciplinary examination of the three main themes. Through the observation and exploration of these themes, students are better able to understand the “big picture” and the connectivity of the systems on which we depend.
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t h e m e #1
theme #2
theme #3
Energy and Resources
Health and Wellness
Natural and Built Environment
Modern health awareness is
Building on a foundation of
vital to both medical research
scientific research and analysis,
and practice as well as personal
architecture, environmental
this section of our curriculum
longevity. Through gardening,
sciences, and the unique
engages students in strategic
nutrition, and developing a
interactions of all living and
and physical engineering, such as
relationship with nature, our
nonliving things. Special emphasis
analyzing the Bryan Lab’s energy
students learn healthful practices
is placed on the fact that the
use or designing runoff water
for themselves, their community,
solutions for many current
recycling programs on campus.
and the environment.
problems can be found in nature.
Students explore engineering,
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An Education as Unique as Your Child
e w o l
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ol o h c rs
e school l d d i m
uppe rs
cho
ol
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the lower school
The Lower School provides the foundation. From an
A Sampling of Lower School Activities
early age, Steward students begin to discover that the
JK Visits by the Petting Zoo and Parrots of Paradise
world is a fascinating place. Field trips, performances,
4th Grade Reading Buddies
Special Guest Readers
Service Projects for Lakewood Manor and Children’s Hospital
and community service are creatively integrated into
Kindergarten Field Trips to the Pet Store, Pumpkin
the academic curriculum at every level.
Dancing
Patch, Metro Zoo, Alvis Farm, and Theatre IV Chinese New Year Celebration
NOVA Swimming Lessons Bazaar Projects with 4th Grade
Russian African
Collaborative
Grade 3 Expert Project
Field Trips to the Science
Museum, IMAX Theater, and VMFA Special Guest Readers
lower school: jk - 5
Beginning a Lifelong Love of Discovery
Toy Challenge
Collaborative Learning Projects
Grade 4 Field Trips to Jamestown, Williamsburg, Agecroft Hall, Henricus, Capitol of Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Minds in Motion
Mini-Economy
with Virginia Council of Economics Educators
Pet Day
Colonial Project
Our JK students get a hands-on look at life on a real farm, while our fourth graders help our kindergartners travel the virtual globe. In our library, you’ll find books
Grade 1 Field Trips to the Vulcan Rock Quarry, Virginia
written and published by our first graders, and each second grader gets a feel for
Historical Society, and Metro Zoo
African culture through the art of dramatic storytelling. The third-grade safety patrol warmly greets Lower School students every morning. Those same students look forward to visiting state landmarks when they delve into Virginia history as fourth graders. By fifth grade, our students are busy getting to know early explorers through art and journalism. Each grade level brings a new horizon, with a journey full of exciting discoveries along the way.
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Monthly Parent Activities Walk
1st Grade Garden
“How To” Project
Maymont
James River
Powhatan Indian Study
Grade 5 Field Trips to Blackfriars Playhouse, Virginia Beach Aquarium, and Pamplin Park
Student Council
Leading Roles in Spring and Holiday Programs Final Recognition Assembly
Junior Achievement Economics
Grade 2 Field Trips to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, Virginia Museum, and Three Lakes Park
Metro Zoo
Friday Fun Days: Curriculum-Driven School Visit Centers, Games, Activities, and Crafts
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English/Language Arts Because communication is the path that connects all disciplines, our Lower School curriculum focuses on language development in all forms. High-level skills in reading, writing, and public speaking give students the tools to express what they’ve learned in all subjects. We reinforce language skills through activities such as journal entries, narrative stories, poetry, essays, and creative writing. The Steward School transforms students into independent, autonomous readers, writers, speakers, and thinkers who understand the importance and the beauty of language.
“Because of our small classes, teachers are able to build relationships with their students and help them realize their potential in an environment where they feel valued, challenged, and encouraged.” — Melanie Casper, Director of the Lower School
Students further develop their love of language in our arts program. Their participation in dramatic productions provides an engaging opportunity for them to increase their comfort level in front of large audiences, to the delight of their family and friends.
Math Logical problem solving lies at the heart of many of the challenges we face as adults. To give our Lower School students a head start, we’ve designed our math curriculum around concepts like quantity and number, order and patterns, relationships, measurement, space, and time. Students use creative and exploratory methods to reinforce basic hands-on and cognitive learning. This builds the foundation for more difficult math concepts down the road.
Science By learning to observe, measure, hypothesize, and create experiments, children build more structure into their natural curiosity. Lower School students discover a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biological, physical, chemical, and environmental sciences. Our Discovery Lab and the Bryan Innovation Lab give students opportunities to apply their scientific knowledge in practical ways. This hands-on component of our program is not only fun for the students, but it also helps them retain the valuable information that they’ve learned.
Social Studies Our social studies curriculum broadens students’ perspectives of themselves, their peers, and their society, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the world around them. Each year brings lively discussions, fascinating readings, exciting field trips, and individual or group projects that expand students’ knowledge, as well as their world views.
Theatre In the Lower School, our theatre program emphasizes the importance of working as a team, building performance skills, and effectively communicating thoughts and ideas to an audience. Each Lower School student performs in two annual musicals: Grandparents and Special Friends Day and our Holiday Program. At every grade level, theatre classes are taught in four- to six-week units that culminate in grade-level productions. For those who love the limelight, the annual Talent Show and the Oratorical Program are open to Lower School students of all ages.
Music Musical expression harmonizes perfectly with academic success. Note-reading and music theory help strengthen students’ critical thinking and mathematical skills. Students gain an understanding of music on both emotional and intellectual levels while they sing, move, listen, and play various rhythmic and melodic instruments. Exploring a wide range of composers, allows our Lower School students to experience the thrill of discovering their own musical talents.
lower school: jk - 5 Curriculum
Fundamentals of the Lower School
Character Education Our commitment to helping students become responsible, caring, and contributing citizens of the School and community forms the basis of the character education program. The Lower School dean of students visits classrooms weekly to teach the Six Pillars of Character – trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Lessons include specific relational tools, followed by application of the tools through games and role-play. Students are also encouraged to demonstrate leadership and care in various community service projects throughout the year.
Health and Physical Education We teach students to respect their physical selves by instilling good living and exercise habits at an early age. Students and faculty alike look forward to annual Lower School events like our Fall Carnival and Field Day, which encourage friendly sportsmanship in a supportive atmosphere.
This early awareness of the ever-changing world helps students develop critical thinking skills as they explore multiple points of view on a wide range of issues.
Beyond the Basics Foreign Language Younger children have an incredible ability to learn new languages, which is why we offer conversational Spanish beginning in junior kindergarten. Through consecutive years of studying this beautiful and useful language, students expand their vocabulary, as well as their understanding of other cultures.
Technology Technical proficiency is increasingly important today and will be essential in the near future. At Steward, technology education begins in junior kindergarten. Starting in 2014, we will be implementing a program to put a digital device in the hands of every student. Our 1:1 Technology Program will allow teachers to broaden students’ access to information, encourage collaboration, and inspire good digital citizenship from an early age.
Art Participation in our art program twice a week helps unlock the inner artist in each student. While art classes reinforce and integrate grade-level curriculum, students are also learning concentration, focus, imagination, discipline, and cooperation — each of which is a key component for excelling in both academic areas and everyday experiences.
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celebration. Students participate in various activities including the ever-popular dress up days. The all-school pep rally at the end of Spirit Week is a kick-off for a weekend full of SpartaFest events! Elections are held in early September for fourth and fifth graders interested in leadership positions on the Student Council. Council members select the themes for Spirit Week and help plan and execute the community service projects for Lower School. Our fourth graders participate in Minds in Motion, a city-wide program offered through the Richmond Ballet. The program culminates in a performance at the Carpenter Center, which combines a song and dance routine with an educational tie to our fourth-grade curriculum. Based on their individual interests, students form Destination Imagination
Opportunities and Traditions Begin Early
teams each year. Teachers and parents supervise this student-driven program to
Steward students participate in a number of school-wide activities to celebrate each other’s talents, strengths, and differences—while bringing the concept of “one school” to life.
foster ingenuity, creativity, and teamwork. Teams have advanced to global-level competition three times in the last five years.
Lower School Jamboree is a special week full of school spirit that begins with the “Meet the Player” assembly. Each Lower School class adopts a varsity
Students of all ages celebrate the beginning of each school year with
basketball player and creates signs for the Jamboree celebration at a home
Convocation, an opportunity to welcome new students, to hear from a guest
basketball game. The half-time show focuses on our Lower School spirit.
speaker, and to collectively and ceremonially embark on another year together.
International Day is a fun-filled, educational day coordinated by our
The Honor Code Signing represents each student’s commitment to being
Lower School foreign language teachers. Students travel throughout the building
truthful, exhibiting integrity, and demonstrating respect towards their peers,
to visit various “country” stations to learn about art, culture, and food from
faculty, staff, and the School at all times.
around the world.
Each year, art students from all divisions participate in the international art and
The Center for the Advancement of Learning (CAL) , is a school-
literacy project known as Pinwheels for Peace. In the fall, students “plant” their
wide resource that enables students to explore their strengths and weaknesses
handmade pinwheels with messages of peace across the School’s front lawn in what
and to utilize this knowledge about themselves to become lifelong learners.
has become known at Steward as “Whirled Peace Day.”
With a full-time enrichment coordinator and highly
The Oratorical Program provides Upper School students from Public Speaking class an opportunity to teach their Lower School “buddies” oratorical skills.
– Matt and Amy Ernst, parents of Anna (Class of 2024), and Tyler (Class of 2021)
qualified tutors, CAL helps to personalize and augment Steward’s educational programs.
The culminating event is a program in the spring when parents and Upper School students watch students’ hard work come to fruition. Our young performers have an opportunity to showcase their talents at Talent
Night before an audience of their peers and parents. This tradition continues in the Middle School and Upper School for students with a passion for performance.
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lower school: jk - 5
Lower School Spirit Week is a part of our SpartaFest and Homecoming
“Becoming part of The Steward School family has been the best decision that we could have ever imagined for our children. The nurturing and creative learning environment provided by Steward’s exceptional teachers and incredible support staff has not only propelled our children’s academic growth, but it has also challenged them in meaningful ways to become stronger individuals while learning to respect and work well with others.”
the middle school opportunities present themselves alongside new academic challenges. Our small classes allow teachers to engage each student, closely monitor progress, and provide extra help and encouragement as needed. Middle School students focus more strongly on the core academic subjects: English, history, Spanish, math, and science. In addition, all students participate in physical education and health. Instrumental music, chorus, art, and theatre round out the curriculum and emphasize our commitment to learning through the arts.
A Sampling of Middle School Activities Alternate Program Art Walk Clubs Choral Performances and Tours Community Service Destination Imagination Eighth-Grade Speeches Field Day Grandparents and Special Friends Day Instrumental Performances
middle school: 6 - 8
A Journey Toward Growth, Exploration, and Change
As students segue into adolescence, exciting
Middle School Dances Pancake Breakfasts School Plays Spirit Week and SpartaFest Talent Night Wilderness Adventure Trip
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The Middle School Curriculum
Academics, fine arts, technology, and athletics are
Subjects
Available Courses
Advanced Course Offerings
at the center of a curriculum designed to challenge
English
• English 6 • English 7 • English 8
• Advanced English 7 • Advanced English 8
Math
• Math 6 • Math 7 • Pre-Algebra • Algebra (Upper School Credit)
• Accelerated Math 6 • Honors Algebra I (Upper School Credit) • Honors Geometry (Upper School Credit) • Honors Algebra II (Upper School Credit)
History
• World Cultures I • American History • World Cultures II
• Advanced American History
Science
• General Science • Life Science • Earth Science
• Advanced Life Science • Advanced Earth Science
Spanish
• Spanish 6 • Spanish 1A • Spanish I (Upper School Credit)
Fine Arts
• Art • Instrumental Music • Choral Music • Theatre
Health/PE
• Health/PE 6 • Health/PE 7 • Health/PE 8
of security and good humor.
Integration
• Grade 6 Academic Integration
Middle School students attend seven challenging classes, as well as a study hall
Seminar
• Grade 8 Seminar
and inspire our students. From the time they enter Middle School as sixth graders, they’ll begin to cultivate lifelong skills in communication, “We have created an educational program that supports the healthy growth and development of adolescents. Students are provided with numerous opportunities to build positive relationships in a nurturing environment where students feel safe to take risks and learn from their choices.” — susan atkinson, Director of the Middle School
collaboration, and creativity. Teachers help each student reach his or her potential in every discipline. As important as these disciplines are, we understand that many lessons are learned outside the classroom. That’s why our students participate in community service, field trips, and extracurricular activities. Our Honor Code becomes the framework that supports our character-based mission in every facet of student life. We teach students to act with integrity, as they reap the rewards of teamwork, citizenship, and stewardship.
A Day in the Life of a Middle School Student Our students begin each morning with time devoted to connecting with their
middle school: 6 - 8 Curriculum
The Middle School Curriculum
• Grade 6 rotates through all four areas • Grades 7 and 8 choose a specific full-year fine art elective
fellow students in either an assembly or an advisory group. At the morning assembly, students and teachers share upcoming events, celebrate each other’s accomplishments, and motivate one another with inspiring success stories. Twice-weekly advisory sessions of small, single-gender groups provide the opportunity to discuss issues and topics related to adolescence in an atmosphere
that allows each student to check in with teachers, get organized, and work on homework. Throughout the rigorous school week, we’ve also built in a number of opportunities for relaxation with friends, morning breaks, and outdoor free-play.
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middle school: 6 through 8
Continuing Opportunities and Traditions For most children, the three years of Middle School are a time when great energies and great anxieties spring up simultaneously. Being an independent individual and a productive member of a peer group go hand-in-hand. School takes on a social importance as never before. Traditions such as the Honor Code signing and Convocation continue in Middle School to reinforce values of personal and academic integrity. A vital component of our Middle School—and another way teachers and students get to know each other—is through our Advisory System. Small groups of same-gendered students are partnered with the same advisor for all three years
For one week in the fall, Alternate Program is offered for all students. Sixth graders leave the classroom to explore Richmond through a different lens. Students are exposed to a variety of businesses, historical landmarks and organizations, and the Richmond arts community. During this time, seventh graders participate in community service projects and an overnight trip while
A wide range of Clubs and activities is available to students. Clubs include areas of interest ranging from exploring the outdoors and technology to cooking and community service. These are available on a rotating schedule throughout the year and offer students opportunities to develop leadership skills.
eighth graders journey to western Virginia to take part in the greatly anticipated
Every student at The Steward School participates in our Community Service
Wilderness Adventure. Whether climbing a ropes course high in
programs. The Student Council raises money and provides in-kind gifts and
the forest canopy, zooming down a zip line, caving, canoeing, or rappelling,
services to a student-selected, Richmond-area community agency. In recent years,
eighth graders develop class spirit and a sense of teamwork while building
the Middle School has supported the Daily Planet, FeedMore, Camp Comfort Zone,
unforgettable memories.
International Hospital for Children, C.A.R.I.T.A.S., and the HomeAgain homeless shelter.
“What I have been so impressed with here is the academic rigor in an environment that is caring, welcoming, and encouraging.” – melanie goodpasture, parent of gracie (class of 2019)
The curriculum for every Middle School student includes one Fine Arts class. In addition, students have numerous opportunities to participate in school plays and musicals. More than 80 percent of Middle School students participate in Team
Athletics. A no-cut policy allows Middle Schoolers to try new sports or hone established athletic passions. Sports with larger participation are divided into multiple teams. Athletic teams include cross country, tennis, field hockey (girls), baseball, lacrosse, volleyball (girls), basketball, cheerleading, soccer, golf (co-ed), and swimming. The Center for the Advancement of Learning (CAL), is an additional resource to provide academic support to all students. The Dean of Student Support offers students assistance in identifying their varied learning styles and enhancing academic opportunities.
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middle school: 6 - 8
to stay connected and informed.
the upper school
upper school: 9 - 12
Preparing for College and Beyond
To help light the way through the complexities of the “As students prepare for the sometimes intimidating world of college admissions, our role can shift between mentor, teacher, advisor, and friend. Throughout each student’s Upper School education, we maintain a steadfast commitment to individual attention.” – heather jeter, Director of college counseling
important years before college, our Upper School
In grade-level seminars, Upper School students explore the fundamentals of design research, health and wellness, writing, and public speaking. Students
advisory program matches each student with his or
create their own unforgettable experiences during our one-week Minimester
her own advisor. The college admission process
travel, and the capstone Senior Project.
intensifies as our students move from ninth through
A Sampling of Upper School Activities
twelfth grade, and the College Counseling Office
program that includes internships, community service, foreign and domestic
Alumni Panel
Talent Night
Art Walk
Whirled Peace Day Exclusive to Seniors:
helps each student find the best fit from among an
Choral Performances and Tours Clubs
Assembly Speeches,
often overwhelming number of options.
Dances
Senior Breakfast,
Field Day
To keep students challenged and engaged as they progress further in their
Instrumental Performances
Headmaster’s Holiday Rafting Trip, Senior Lounge, Senior Egg
courses. Each Upper School student attends five core courses in the areas of
Hunt, Senior Project, Grandparents and Special Friends Day Baccalaureate, and Graduation School Plays
English, social studies, mathematics, foreign language, and science, plus one or
Spirit Week and SpartaFest
educational journeys, we offer numerous honors and Advanced Placement (AP)
more academic or fine arts electives.
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better, faster” ethic. At Steward, we are driven by the notion that smaller is better; that a smaller environment in fact means deeper relationships and more opportunities. “In keeping with the School’s mission, the Upper School focuses on providing a personalized and rigorous program in a supportive learning environment, while utilizing technology to enhance our students’ modern skills.” – carol moore, Director of the Upper School
While competition is important, students thrive in an atmosphere that doesn’t place competition above character, balance, and the profound need to feel comfortable stepping beyond one’s comfort zone in order to grow. In a small school, we know one another well enough that we can strike that balance between supporting and challenging, which is important because in the real world, one needs both.
Grade Computation
subjects
Courses
Honors and AP Courses
English
English 9 English 10 English 11 American Literature English 12 Seminars (4): Intro to Poetry, 20th-Century American Authors, Creative Writing, American Pastoral
Honors English 9 Honors English 10 Honors English 11 American Literature (AP Exam offered) Honors English 12 Seminars (2): Dystopian Novels, Shakespeare AP English Literature
4 credits
7 credits (Math/Science credits combined)
Algebra I Algebra II College Algebra
Geometry Precalculus Statistics
Honors Algebra I Honors Algebra II Honors Geometry Honors Precalculus
Honors Calculus AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Statistics
Social Studies
World Studies I World Studies II
US History Government/Economics
Honors World Studies I Honors World Studies II Honors Government/Economics
Honors US History AP US History AP US Government
Physics I Physics II Chemistry
Biology Environmental Science Human Anatomy/Physiology
Honors Physics I Honors Physics II AP Environmental Science AP Physics
Honors Biology AP Biology Honors Chemistry AP Chemistry
Math
4 credits
Science 7 credits (Math/Science credits combined)
Foreign Language 3 credits
Grades are calculated on a 10-point scale (i.e., 90–92 = A-; 93–96 = A; 97–100
Honors Latin IV Honors Spanish I AP Latin Honors Spanish II Honors Spanish III Honors Spanish IV Honors Spanish Advanced Language and Literature V AP Spanish
Art I Design and Visual Thinking Art II Visual Literacy in Drawing, Painting, and 3D Art III Aesthetic Theory: Portfolio Construction Art IV Advanced Perceptual Awareness: Portfolio Construction Art V Professional Portfolio Construction
AP Studio Art Drawing
= A+) and converted to a 4.0 scale for determining cumulative GPA. The GPA is weighted, adding one point for honors and AP courses. Steward does not rank
FINE ARTS
students. Honor Roll includes students with all grades of B- or better.
2 credits
Visual
Headmaster’s List includes students with all grades of A- or better.
Additional Requirements Theatre
Community Service — All Upper School students are required to complete 20 hours of off-campus service and 10 hours of on-campus service annually. Senior Project — Seniors complete a long-term project designed to help each
Photography
student explore his or her passion. Organizational and time management skills are incorporated in the research, creation, and oral presentation of a final product. Music Freshman
seminars
1 credit
Sophomore 1 credit
Junior 1 1/4 credits
senior 3/4 credit
Transdisciplinary offered each semester
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Spanish I Spanish II Spanish III Spanish IV Spanish Advanced Language & Literature V
Acting I–IV
ATHLETICS/PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Technical Theatre I–IV
Six seasons of athletic participation, weight training/conditioning, or contact sports required
Introduction to Imaging Graphic Design Media Studies Documentary Filmmaking Studio and Natural Lighting Chorus Select Ensemble Chorus Research Skills (1/4) Applied Technology (1/2)
upper school: 9 - 12 Curriculum
Many private schools are driven by a “bigger,
Core Subjects and Graduation credit requirements
The Upper School Curriculum
Instrumental Music: Concert, Jazz Ensemble, and Pep Band Wellness (1/4)
Health and Wellness Research Writing (1/4) Fundamentals in Design and Innovation (1/2)
(1/4)
Innovation Studies (1/2) Junior College Seminar (1/4)
Biomedical Design
Senior Project (1/4) Public Speaking (1/4)
Senior College Seminar
Ethical Leadership Music in Protest Sports Management
Beginner’s Guide to Wall Street Entrepreneurship and Small Business
(1/2)
(1/4)
Fall Cross Country (boys/girls) JV/Varsity Field Hockey (girls) JV/Varsity Soccer (boys) JV/Varsity Volleyball (girls) Winter JV/Varsity Basketball (boys/girls) JV/Varsity Cheerleading (boys/girls) Varsity Swimming Futsal Spring JV/Varsity Baseball (boys) Varsity Golf (boys/girls) JV/Varsity Lacrosse (boys) JV/Varsity Lacrosse (girls) Varsity Soccer (girls) Varsity Tennis (boys/girls)
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upper school: 9 through 12
Opportunities and Traditions Worth the Wait Extracurricular activities are especially popular among Upper School students, and the School works hard to ensure that such opportunities fit comfortably into their schedules. Throughout all academics and extracurricular activities, Leadership
Opportunities are offered, such as honor council, student council, student life committee, and student athletic committee. These leadership groups meet regularly and serve as a channel of communication between students and administration. The Community Service Program fosters civic engagement through supports diverse organizations, and instills continued leadership, public service, and community engagement. The Upper School welcomes a host of International students each year. A student club, the International Ambassadors, helps acclimate our foreign students to the School and the greater Richmond community. The Ambassadors, in turn, gain experience in forming cross-cultural relationships. For seniors, Convocation takes on a new meaning as they lead JK and kindergarten students into the ceremony hand in hand. The second semester of each year includes a one-week Minimester in March. During this time, ninth graders participate in off-campus community service and college visits, tenth and eleventh graders participate in off-campus internships and travel (both domestic and foreign), and twelfth graders finalize their senior projects Each year, faculty members draw from their varied experiences and interests to create partial-credit Transdisciplinary Classes that are both educational and experiential. Offerings change yearly, but classes have included such topics as Ethical Leadership, Introduction to Linguistics and Modern Language, Scene Design, Psychology, Art and Culture, Art and the Science of Sustainability, and Forensics. The Center for the Advancement of Learning (CAL), is a schoolwide resource that enables students to explore their strengths and challenge themselves to become lifelong learners. With an open-door policy, our Upper School CAL liaison encourages students to utilize and benefit from our full range
“The Steward experience for both of our children has been transformational! Our daughter has blossomed academically, artistically, and socially. Our son’s passion for baseball continues to fuel him, while he is also being challenged in the classroom. The personal relationships our children have with their teachers, administrators, coaches, and peers make The Steward School unlike any other.� -Conchy Martinez, parent of Cassandra (Class of 2014) and Nico (Class of 2016)
of educational resources. Some of these resources include help with study, organization, and time management skills; subject-specific tutoring; and scholarship application assistance. 26
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upper school: 9 - 12
service. The program provides students with hands-on, collaborative experiences,
Beyond the Classroom
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comm
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unlocking the power of self-expression
Whether setting the stage, striking a chord, creating a masterpiece, or simply exploring individual talents and interests, exposure to the arts develops important life skills necessary for students to succeed in The $10 million Paul R. Cramer Center for the Arts provides the
academic areas as well as everyday life experiences.
centerpiece for Steward’s
Each week students have music and art instruction that corresponds to the units
outstanding arts program.
of study in the classroom. Music classes produce the popular Holiday Program
With a 500-seat theatre,
and Grandparents and Special Friends Day Program each year. Grade-level theatre
graphic design, and photographic studios, the center is one of the best venues for the arts in the region. Our multifaceted
classes develop each student’s acting ability, stage presence, and oral delivery throughout the year, showcasing these learned skills in annual class plays. Middle School Sixth graders rotate through academic quarters of art, choral music, instrumental
curriculum and wide variety
music, and theatre, while seventh and eighth graders choose the full-year fine arts
of extracurricular activities
elective that best allows them to express themselves.
foster artistic expression in Steward students of all ages.
steward arts
Finding the Artist within Every Child
arts at steward
black box theatre, art,
Lower School
Upper School The Upper School Select Ensemble gives a voice to those who enjoy singing, and students who are instrumentally inclined can choose to be part of Pep Band, Jazz Band, and Concert Band. Theatre students can find out more about the lure of the stage by taking introductory and advanced acting and technical theatre classes. Upper School students also have the opportunity to explore visual arts through photography, digital photography, videography, media studies, and studio art. Steward artists regularly display their work on campus, at community art shows,
and at local businesses. Every year, students across divisions put on three main stage productions, each of which is predominantly student-run. These productions provide participants numerous opportunities to get involved on stage and behind the scenes, building and painting sets, working the sound board and lights, and directing and assisting with makeup and costumes.
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steward athletics
spartans Participation, skill building, and sportsmanship
Reaching new levels of accomplishment and engaging opponents in a respectful
are the cornerstones of The Steward School’s
playing field. Our students become comfortable with trying new things, learning
athletic program. At all levels, our coaching program is dedicated to giving students the training and experience necessary to develop a lifelong appreciation of physical activity, skill development, and, above all, teamwork. More than eight out of ten students in the Middle and Upper Schools participate in
manner equips our students for what lies ahead in their lives, both on and off the from fellow players, and challenging themselves—all with the encouragement of expert coaches. The Steward Spartans compete in the League of Independent Schools (LIS) and independently.
Spartan Sports Baseball Basketball Cheerleading Cross Country Field Hockey Futsal Golf Lacrosse Soccer Swimming Tennis Volleyball
team sports, and our coaches are always available to help any interested students find an athletic activity that interests them. Although we have grown over the years to support 37 competitive teams, our philosophy remains the same: it’s not the number of trophies you’ve won, but the respect you’ve earned.
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steward athletics
One School. One Team.
Becoming Lifelong Stewards
At the heart of our curriculum is the value of
Past Service Projects
responsible citizenship—caring for a cause beyond
Belle Meade Elementary
oneself. Instilled at every grade level, citizenship is
Central Asia Institute
strengthened by programs and traditions that bridge
Children’s Museum of
the Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools.
FeedMore Richmond Fairfield Court Elementary School
Caring at every level
Faison School for Autism
Lower School students learn the value of community early, as they participate in
Goochland Free Clinic and
activities ranging from one-on-one school buddy programs to international projects such as Pinwheels for Peace.
Family Services National Marrow Donor
Program
Each year, the Middle School “adopts” an organization in the greater Richmond
Northside YMCA
area. Led by the Student Council, the students raise money and provide in-kind
Anna Julia Cooper
gifts and services.
community outreach
community outreach
Episcopal School UNICEF
Each member of the Upper School spends a portion of his or her time involved in civic engagement. The program has had great success reinforcing Steward’s commitment to the greater Richmond community, supporting diverse
Virginia Blood Services Woodville Elementary School
organizations and providing students with hands-on, collaborative experiences while cultivating a strong spirit of leadership and public service.
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Now that you’ve read about The Steward School, come experience it. Discover what a Steward education can mean for your child. Call our Admissions Office at (804) 565-2334 to request a personal tour. 11600 Gayton Road, Richmond, Virginia 23238 School Hours: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Lower School); 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. (Middle and Upper Schools)
We look forward to seeing you soon! www.stewardschool.org
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