The Ninth Grade curriculum is based on presenting polarities, such as tragedy and comedy in the English curriculum, as the foundation of abstract thinking. In Tenth Grade the process inherent in what is studied in math, science and language leads the student toward integration of their inner and outer world. By Eleventh Grade, the individual becomes more able to self-reflect through self-knowledge and can move with ease between analytical thinking and imaginative thinking. The culmination in Twelfth Grade is a deep connection to the world and an objective approach to the Symptomotology of our modern times.
GRADING SYSTEM AND CREDITS
The following scale for a one-credit course is used throughout the high school:
| A+ |
97-100 |
4.3 GPA |
| A |
93-96 |
4.0 GPA |
| A- |
90-92 |
4.0 GPA |
| B |
83-86 |
3.0 GPA |
| C |
73-76 |
2.0 GPA |
| D |
63-66 |
1.0 GPA |
| F |
Below 60 |
0.0 GPA |
Grade Point Average (GPA) is based on academic as well as arts and crafts courses. Physical education, Career Elective, Social Service, and Gardening are not included. The minimum average required for graduation is C- or 1.7.Kimberton provides opportunities for advanced study to seniors in science and humanities. Advanced placement examinations are available upon student request. For an advanced course, the Grade Point Average is weighted for a one-credit course as follows: A = 5.0; B = 4.0; C = 3.0; D = 2.0; F = 0.0. To determine the credit value of a course, we assume that a one-credit course meets four times per week for 36 weeks. Each class period is 40 minutes long. The main lessons are each assigned a one-quarter credit.Because our senior classes are small, we do not rank students individually. Instead, we publish a Grade Distribution Sheet each year. For example, we show the number of students in Grade 11 who have made A, A-, B+, B, etc. in each major subject area. In this way, colleges get a fair picture of how our students are progressing academically without the use of class rank.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
The Waldorf curriculum does not limit learning to the classroom but brings the student into the world. Each year the curriculum includes an appropriate vocational practicum or outdoor adventure.
Foreign Exchange Program: The students can readily participate in foreign exchange programs with Waldorf Schools in Europe and in other parts of the world. During the last 20 years, Kimberton has had exchanges with schools in Europe, South America, and some Kimberton students have attended schools in Australia and New Zealand.
Senior Projects: During their Senior year, our students are given the opportunity to show personal initiative and independence in a study or project of their choice.
Career Elective: Seniors have an opportunity to learn about a specific career by being a volunteer in that field for a 1- or 2-week period.
Community Service Program: The Community Service Program starts in Grade 9 and encourages students to develop a concern and willingness to help those with special needs in our society. During Grade 11, the students have a 1- or 2-week Social Service Practicum.
Agricultural Practicum: In Grade 9, students have a Main Lesson called the Agricultural Practicum that offers students an opportunity to experience work on a farm or in a garden for a 2-week period.
Outdoor Education Program: In conjunction with certain Main Lessons (Geology, The Odyssey, etc.), each class participates in a week-long outdoor adventure that develops themes in the academic work.
Non-Academic Electives: Various Electives are offered during 1st and 2nd semesters of the school year: Acoustic Folk Music, Yearbook, Environmental Issues, Keyboard, Math S.A.T., Circus, Russian Language, Gardening, Geography. |
What is Waldorf Education