Curriculum and Course Overview
Core Subjects
Lynnhaven School’s curriculum is rooted in the Progressive Education Theory championed by John Dewey, emphasizing experiential learning, critical thinking, and student agency.
We believe education should be meaningful, relevant, and grounded in real-world application. Students are not just preparing for life, they are living it now through inquiry-driven coursework, collaborative projects, and reflective practice.
Our academic program balances rigorous liberal arts instruction with hands on experiences, ensuring both academic competence and personal growth.
Lynnhaven School: Academic Overview (2026-2027 SY)
At Lynnhaven School, learning should be meaningful, relevant, and student-driven. Grounded in the Progressive Education Theory championed by Dr. John Dewey, our curriculum emphasizes active engagement, intellectual exploration, and authentic application of knowledge.
Lynnhaven students are not simply preparing for life beyond school, they are living it now, through experiences that develop both academic competence and personal confidence.
We prioritize depth of understanding, curiosity, and skill-building across all disciplines. Whether conducting environmental fieldwork, writing original research papers, engaging in seminar discussions, or presenting final exhibitions of learning, students are continually encouraged to connect ideas, think critically, and reflect on their growth.
Our academic program is intentionally designed to evolve with our students' needs, our faculty's strengths, and the changing demands of the world. It includes a broad liberal arts foundation alongside immersive experiences that allow students to explore their interests and develop their identities as learners and citizens.
To graduate, students must complete a minimum of 24 credits, including course work in English, Math, Science, and History; along with a series of electives and World Languages.
Lynnhaven offers multiple academic pathways so every student can be challenged, supported, and inspired. All students follow our Standard Program, a college-preparatory course of study. Beginning in 10th grade, students who meet the eligibility threshold may pursue Honors coursework, and juniors and seniors may take from a growing selection of Advanced Placement courses. Each pathway carries high expectations, encourages individual ownership of learning, and affirms our commitment to academic equity.
What core subjects are offered at Lynnhaven?
Students take core subjects including:
English
Math
Science
Social Studies
World Language
Seminar
Electives
These are complemented by a wide variety of elective courses, a five-year Seminar sequence (Learning to Learn → Identity & Community → Communication & Voice → Ethics & Decision-Making → Launch), and unique experiences like Mini-Mester, Senior Project, Senior Speech, Throughline portfolio, and 25 service hours/year.
How are courses structured at Lynnhaven?
Courses are organized by nine-week and semester marking periods, allowing for regular checkpoints in student progress. The curriculum emphasizes depth of understanding rather than solely focusing on memorization to demonstrate mastery.
How does Lynnhaven assess student learning?
Courses at Lynnhaven School are assessed using a mastery-based approach, which emphasizes student growth, skill development, and content understanding over time. Rather than relying solely on traditional tests and quizzes, students also demonstrate mastery through a variety of methods, including projects, written reflections, presentations, and performance-based tasks.
Academic Pathways
Standard Diploma Program of Study
The Standard Program forms the core of a Lynnhaven education. It offers students a balanced and rigorous college preparatory course of study that integrates academic content with experiential learning, self-reflection, and skill development. Students in this program explore a variety of disciplines while building strong foundations in analytical thinking, effective communication, and responsible decision-making.
Honors and Advanced Placement
The Honors Program of Study is for students who seek deeper intellectual challenge and are eager to engage in independent and interdisciplinary work. Beginning in 10th grade, eligible students may take Honors coursework that asks them to develop original ideas, pursue complex questions, and demonstrate leadership in their learning communities. Juniors and seniors may also choose from a growing selection of Advanced Placement courses, which offer college-level learning within Lynnhaven’s supportive, student-centered environment. Students ready for additional challenge may explore dual and concurrent enrollment opportunities, taking approved courses beyond Lynnhaven’s campus, many of which earn college credit.
