Academics
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Willard is a school where teachers tug at your mind, challenging you to reason, create, and communicate. In the classroom, your thoughts and your voice are essential to the conversation. The Emma Willard curriculum develops those abilities and qualities of mind that are essential to the successful woman. The rigorous college preparatory curriculum ensures a strong foundation in all major academic areas in addition to extensive exposure to the arts.
Each student's faculty advisor helps her plan her courses in coordination with her college counselor and the dean of academics. Graduation requirements include four years of English, completion of the third-year level in mathematics and foreign language, two years of lab science (one each in physics and biology), three years of history, three and one-half years of physical education, visual and performing arts courses which vary according to year of entry, and participation in the life skills seminar and community service program each year.
To fulfill these requirements, the school offers a wide range of courses in all disciplines including AP preparation in English, Spanish, French, Latin, statistics, calculus, chemistry, biology, physics, U.S. government, U.S. history, art history, studio art, and computer science. Students pursue advanced work on a tutorial basis under faculty supervision and by enrolling at area colleges. During the spring break, students can take trips abroad with faculty chaperones to countries such as France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Mexico, and Ecuador. In addition, practicum, Emma Willard’s independent study program, provides opportunities to earn credit and test career tracks through hands-on experience in many industries and professions.
