Upper Perk High School delivers a project-based curriculum designed to prepare students for competitive colleges and modern careers. The school emphasizes leadership, real-world problem solving, and a tight-knit community within a diverse suburban district.
Small class sizes, advisory periods, and a range of honors and Advanced Placement options help students build strong academic habits. With active clubs, athletics, and internship partnerships, Upper Perk High School offers a balanced pathway for both personal growth and postsecondary success.
| Grade | Core Focus | Signature Program | Counseling Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Transition & Foundations | Freshman Seminar & Portfolio | Course planning, study skills |
| 10 | Exploration | Career Shadow Day | Extracurricular matching |
| 11 | Leadership & Depth | Capstone Project Start | PSAT, college lists |
| 12 | Application & Readiness | Capstone Presentation | FAFSA, essays, scholarships |
Project-Based Learning Approach
Interdisciplinary Units
Teachers design cross-subject projects where students investigate local issues, design solutions, and present to community partners. This structure reinforces research, collaboration, and communication skills across disciplines.
Industry Mentorships
Starting in tenth grade, students connect with mentors from tech, healthcare, and business for guided internships and feedback on prototypes. These experiences help learners test career interests and build professional references.
Academic Pathways And College Prep
Honors And Advanced Placement
Upper Perk High School offers a curated set of honors and AP courses in math, science, English, and social studies. Students choose based on past performance and teacher recommendation to maximize challenge while maintaining balance.
Dual Enrollment Options
Qualified juniors and seniors can enroll in partnered community college courses, earning transferable credits tuition-free. This pathway reduces future college costs and introduces rigorous, independent coursework.
Student Support And Wellness
Advisory And Social Emotional Learning
Weekly advisory sessions focus on goal setting, time management, and relationship building. Counselors integrate SEL practices to support stress management and healthy decision-making.
Special Education And Personalized Plans
Students with IEPs or 504 plans receive tailored accommodations, including extended time, modified assignments, and collaborative teaching. Case managers coordinate with families and teachers to track progress each term.
Extracurricular And Career Development
Clubs, Arts, And Athletics
Robotics, debate, cultural affinity groups, and theater programs provide outlets for creativity and leadership. Varsity and junior varsity teams compete regionally, promoting teamwork and school spirit.
Work-Based Learning
Senior-year internships align with student interests and local industry needs. Participants complete job applications, interviews, and workplace professionalism training before placement.
Next Steps For Families
- Review course catalogs and pathway maps each spring.
- Attend information nights to meet teachers and ask program-specific questions.
- Monitor student progress through the parent portal and advisory feedback.
- Connect with counselors early to discuss testing, internships, and college lists.
- Encourage balanced course loads that mix challenge with well-being.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does project-based learning at Upper Perk High School prepare students for college?
Project-based learning builds research, writing, and presentation skills that directly mirror college expectations. Students practice time management, critical analysis, and collaboration, which smooths the transition to university coursework.
What support systems exist for students struggling with the honors curriculum?
Teachers offer office hours, peer tutoring, and differentiated assignments. Academic support specialists coordinate with families to adjust pacing and provide targeted interventions when needed.
Can students earn college credit without taking Advanced Placement exams?
Yes, through dual enrollment courses, students can earn transferable college credits by completing approved community college classes. Passing grades fulfill both high school and college requirements without AP exam fees.
How does the advisory program address mental health and college planning?
Advisory sessions integrate lessons on stress reduction, mindfulness, and healthy habits. Counselors guide grade-specific college planning, from building activity resumes in ninth grade to submitting applications in twelfth grade.