Academics

Upper School

Strive for Excellence

Upper School is where high school (grades 9-12) students take ownership of the learning process, both individually and collaboratively. They are guided by passionate teachers who set high academic standards and forge strong relationships. By the time they graduate, Upper School students are becoming ethical leaders, insightful scholars, winning athletes, and talented artists. They demonstrate integrity, strength of character, curiosity, open-mindedness, and a sense of social responsibility. Confident in who they are and who they want to be, they leave St. Luke’s fully prepared for their next endeavors.

St. Luke’s has established a reputation for taking the lead in rethinking norms and traditions that don't serve our students. To decrease excessive stress and constant exposure to digital distractions, we were the first private school in our area to introduce later start times (the start of school is now 9:00am across all grades) as well as limits on homework and cell phone use. We were also the first to introduce an original, Advanced Curriculum—courses that go "Above and Beyond" the traditional AP curriculum. This confidence to lead in education is driven by a mission and the explicit promise that a St. Luke's education will be exceptional.

Upper School Viewbook

Liz Perry, Assistant Head of School for Academics

We owe our students the best possible learning environment we can create for their minds—and their hearts. We work with parents to create a partnership right through graduation day, preparing each young person for academic success and strong character in college and beyond.”

A Balance of Tradition & Innovation

Our rigorous academic program balances traditional and innovative curriculum. St. Luke’s focuses on learning that lasts. If you can’t remember what you learned after the test...what’s the point? Our student-centric approach, featuring immersive, experiential programs, empowers learners to take charge of their educational journeys. Initiatives like J-Term (see video below), the Scholars Symposium, Global Online Academy, and Independent Study, alongside dynamic core curricula such as Emerging Technologies and Leading with Humanity, exemplify our dedication to empowering students to shape their learning experiences actively. These distinctive opportunities not only equip our students to excel in high school but also to thrive well into the future.

J-Term (now J-Serve)—A Signature 9th Grade Experience

Eliot Patty, SLS Parent

Several St. Luke's teachers in particular have been extraordinary in their caring guidance. They have encouraged our children to work through challenges and grow in their confidence and abilities. They approach teaching with creativity and passion, are generous with their time, and interested in the development of each child."

Upper School News

List of 8 news stories.

Explore Our Upper School

J-Term

Scholars Program

Where Our Graduates Go

Alumni Reflections

designLab

Meditations

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St. Luke’s School is a secular (non-religious), private school in New Canaan, CT for grades 5 through 12 serving over 40 towns in Connecticut and New York. Our exceptional academics and diverse co-educational community foster students’ intellectual and ethical development and prepare them for top colleges. St. Luke’s Leading with Humanity curriculum builds the commitment to serve and the confidence to lead.