Learn to Love Learning

Our philosophy recognizes that people learn in social, creative and emotional ways, and that these are just as important as academic growth. Some students have had difficult or even shaming educational experiences from the one learning style accommodated at most large schools. We work with our students, including those with learning disabilities, to meet their needs and interests and to help them regain their love of learning.

For almost 40 years, Holden has been developing a fully integrated teaching style for successfully working with a broad range of learners. Because our class sizes are small, a strong, personal environment is created allowing for trust to develop within the community, which opens students up to the full range of their abilities and interests.

Math

Holden utilizes a research-based mathematics assessment to carefully guide instruction in our mathematics curriculum. We work to help students develop mastery of skills in our Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II and Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry courses. In addition to traditional high school mathematics, we offer a Life Math course that explores real-life uses of mathematics, including budgets and measurement, while reviewing rational numbers, ratios and proportions. In all math classes, we strive to empower students to feel that they can enjoy and succeed at math.

Social Science and History

Rather than following traditional texts and time-lines, we use theme-based classes that focus on or can be related to socially relevant subjects. Through World, U.S. and elective social sciences, students learn critical thinking and analysis. Past social science classes have included Ancient Egypt and Rome, Psychology: Personality Systems, Social Relations (life skills, conflict resolution), Radical Political Movements, and History of U.S. Consumerism.

Science

Our science classes catalyze curiosity while broadening conceptual skills and increasing understanding of the natural and physical world. Classes often focus on working with plant and animal life. Our student-maintained organic garden is the lab where students learn basic ecology, biology and chemistry. Evolution of Life, Science of Food, Herps & Herbs, and Agriculture & the Environment are a few of the science classes we have offered.

English

English classes also incorporate the interests of students. Besides classics and current literary works of importance, it is not uncommon for students to be reading horror or science fiction. These texts often grab the interest of students while allowing them to learn vocabulary, writing, critiquing and reading comprehension. Holden English classes encourage students to think critically, deeply and creatively and to express their ideas and feelings accurately.