The Upper School is comprised of grades nine through twelve and operates on a semester block schedule during which students complete traditional year courses in one semester by taking only four classes at a time rather than seven. This scheduling system increases time on task and reduces fragmentation of the instructional day. Class periods last approximately 85 minutes, providing instructional flexibility. In addition to a wide range of courses on campus, including advanced placement and honors options, students are able to take courses at Southside Virginia Community College, Hampden-Sydney College, and Longwood University. Class sizes range from four to twenty-two, with the average size being sixteen. After school, the library is open to all students, Monday-Thursday, until 5:00 pm at no additional charge.

CURRICULUM/COURSE OF STUDY

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Students have the option of pursuing one of three diplomas: a general high school diploma, a college prep diploma, or an advanced studies diploma. A seal on the diploma reflects which option was earned, and transcripts will indicate which program of study was followed.

*Students pursuing an advanced studies diploma must include at least 6 advanced classes (AP, Honors, College) in their course selection during the four high school years. These classes must include at least 3 AP classes or college courses.

  **Students pursuing a college prep diploma must include Algebra II and chemistry in their course selection.

***Economics/Personal Finance may count as a math credit for the general diploma.

  Community Service required for graduation: 40 hours 

COMMUNITY SERVICE

In an effort to encourage responsible citizenship, Fuqua School students are required to complete 40 hours of community service in the upper school as a requirement for graduation. Participation in community service provides opportunities for students to become involved in the needs and concerns of others and acquaints them with organizations that work to meet those needs.

Students are required to complete a minimum of 10 hours per year; hours accumulated beyond the required 10 will be credited to the following year(s). For more information regarding our community service requirements, please refer to the Parent-Student Handbook (provide link here).

EXTENDED CAMPUS

Through the Extended Campus Program, upper school students have the option of taking college courses off campus (beginning in grade 9), taking on-line courses, and/or working part-time during their senior year. Students wishing to pursue these options must have permission from both their parents and the Upper School head. For more information about our Extended Campus Program, please visit the Parent-Student Handbook.

HONOR ROLL

Students in grades 4-12 may earn Honor Roll each quarter. Honor Roll consists of three categories: High Academic Honors, Academic Honors, and Honors. During a grading period, students who earn all A’s attain High Academic Honors; students with all A’s and B’s attain Academic Honors; and those with a 3.0 GPA with no grade less than a C- for the grading period attain Honors.  To be named to the Honor Roll for the semester, students must meet the same criteria outlined above for the two grading periods which comprise the semester. To be named for the year, students must meet the criteria for both semesters (Upper School) or all four grading periods (Lower and Middle School).