Academic classes at Holden are deliberately kept small in order to better differentiate instruction and meet individual student needs. This fosters a prime learning environment for engagement, reasoning, interpretation, and critical thinking skills.
Holden’s academics provide a comprehensive high school program that includes a wide range of classes in language arts, mathematics, social science, lab science, and electives including second languages, computer science, art, music, and drama. Classes focus on depth over breadth and give students ample opportunities for success. Many are discussion and project-based. Teachers create and adjust the curriculum to engage students’ interests and move them forward academically.
Developing strong positive connections with our students is key to supporting them academically. Studies show that a trusting relationship with an adult can drastically improve scholastic performance by increasing student motivation and engagement in academics.
Students are better able to learn when they feel safe.
Neuroscience and cognitive psychology have proven that physical and emotional stress have profound negative impacts on working memory and self-control. Students who experienced emotional or physical bullying find safety and community at Holden. Holden staff create a safe, nurturing environment for our students to be their authentic selves. Our program encourages students to engage positively in the school community and learn social responsibility.
At Holden, there is no busy work. Our program has great success in empowering homework-adverse students to take ownership of their education and their workload. Holden homework provides meaningful supplemental information and practice to further improve our student’s skills. There are multiple opportunities every day for students to complete homework at school rather than at home.
In addition, Holden runs several no homework electives and academics, and teachers differentiate the homework to each student’s strengths and challenges. Many classes have a 1 hour limit per homework assignment to ensure a manageable workload.
Students who have developed a negative relationship with school rekindle their innate curiosity at Holden. For over 50 years, Holden has helped students to overcome self-limiting beliefs and supported them in becoming lifelong learners.
5 days per week of academic, elective, and social-emotional support services
HOLDEN HIGH SCHOOL
FINALLY, A SCHOOL THAT FITS.