Academics

As to John’s academic re-entry... his grades for the trimester were the best of his career. Thank you for the incredible experience that John had at the RMS. What a great group of teachers you have! - Peggy Harwood, RMS Alumnus Parent; Westport, Connecticut

Potential students often ask, "Will I fall behind in school if I attend the RMS?" The simple answer is no.

A basic premise underlies academics at the Rocky Mountain Semester: We offer an honors and AP-level curriculum to prepare students to thrive during their senior year and in college. We design our courses to match the content and rigor of our sending schools to ensure smooth transitions for our graduates.

Behind this premise is an intellectual vibrancy that strikes all visitors to campus. Students huddle with teachers at lunch to complete their discussion about Thomas Jefferson's America. Laughter fills the main building as students read-in Spanish-the manifestos that Ben has assigned. In the Hope Library, four students work to finish the field study they began on a recent expedition when they observed the behavior of a group of elk passing by their camp.

Whenever possible, we focus on local questions and topics. Lessons based on the issues students see and experience each day promote dynamic discussions and problem solving.

We improve student performance with small class size (an average of ten students) and focus on discussion, analysis, and experiential learning. Our environment rewards hard work and cherishes academic achievement, helping further our goal of creating active and life-long learners.