Curriculum
Wolcott College Prep prepares students for higher learning. With a ‘beyond mastery’ approach, we lay the groundwork for critical thinking—which is the ultimate goal. ‘How We Teach’ is as important as ‘What We Teach’. Our curriculum is guided by these tenets. Rigorous coursework meets students’ strengths, and together learning deepens. Class discussion and technology also foster academic connections and bring out the intellect that characterizes Wolcott students.
We support students as they master content and naturally become comfortable stretching themselves to apply critical thinking skills throughout their lives. We achieve this by providing ‘scaffolded’ support in 9th grade, that is gradually adapted over the 4 years of high school. Students progress to college with an understanding of how they learn best and the strong relationship between self-advocacy and success.
Strong relationships with teachers and classmates, group work, routine check-ins, notes and reference materials posted on-line, note taking guidance, and so much more create a dynamic learning environment. The high school experience is transformed.
“The strong writing and analytical skills that I developed at Wolcott helped me succeed in college.”
Advanced Coursework
We provide students with opportunities to take college prep, honors, and advanced courses. Honors and advanced level courses are offered in English, Mathematics, Social Studies, World Languages, and Science. Students may also enroll in approved dual enrollment courses with colleges and universities.
“I didn’t think of myself as a science person until Wolcott. I’m choosing to study applied engineering in college.”
Graduation requirements exceed those of most high schools. Students must complete a minimum of 51 credits. In addition, students have opportunities for elective courses based upon their personal goals and aspirations.
CORE REQUIREMENTS
Each semester of study equals 1 credit
English: 8
Mathematics: 8
Science: 6
Social Studies: 7
World Language: 4
Arts & Electives: 2
P.E. & Wellness: 8
Learning Strategies: 8
Total Credits: 51
ELECTIVES
AP Computer Science
Applied Economics
Art & Visual Culture
Business and Entrepreneurship
Computer Hardware & Software
Computer Science I-III
Contemporary Practices: Art Portfolio
Creative Writing
Economics Honors
Engineering Design: From Concept to Production
Instrumental Music I-IV
Internship
Introduction to Psychology
Journalism
Media Studies, Advanced I & II
Modern European History
Photography I & II
Political Science
Psychology of Human Development
Robotics
Sociology
Studio Art I & II
Theatre I-IV
Vocal Ensemble I-IV
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Curriculum By Grade
Transfer Students
Academic credit for high school is awarded for comparable high school subjects from accredited institutions. Academic grades transferring into Wolcott are listed as Pass or Fail on Wolcott transcripts and are not included in the GPA.
Accreditations and Associations
- Independent School Association of Central States—Provisional Member (ISACS)
- National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
- Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools (LMAIS)
- Illinois State Board of Education-Recognition (ISBE)
- Illinois High School Association (IHSA)
- National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
- Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC)
- Registered with the NCAA Eligibility Center
