At the heart of Chewonki Semester School is a challenging academic program for students who love learning. Our classes require commitment, curiosity, participation, and a great sense of adventure.

Classes are small—averaging fewer than eight students each—and take place around tables or outside where everyone contributes. Discussion is important in all classes, and our teachers expect and encourage lively questioning. During a visit, you might see students lead a discussion in Literature and the Land, teach a problem in Pre-Calculus, or present a research project to the community in Environmental Issues.

Expectations for work in and out of the classroom are high. Students generally receive three to four hours of outside work each day, with significant reading, problem sets, or writing, depending on the class. For many writing assignments, whether creative or expository, teachers guide students through a multiple-draft revision process, essential for clear and concise writing.

All courses are guided by our mission to help students take ownership for their own education and gain awareness of their place in the natural world. Our curriculum is best described as integrated: course content and themes flow directly from our mission and philosophy.

Students take five courses in traditional disciplines while at Chewonki. Science and English are both core courses and are required, although students choose one of two English options. In addition, students take three electives to complete a full course schedule. Other courses that we offer include US History, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, French & Spanish (at level 3 or higher), Environmental Issues, Art & The Natural World. Finally, whenever possible, students register for an elective course: Environmental Issues, Art and the Natural World, or other unique courses.

For more photos of Academics, click here.
For more about Our Approach, click here.