Upper School

Exploring Ideas from Every Angle

The goal of the Cascades Academy upper school program is to successfully prepare students for the years ahead of them, both in college and beyond. We’re proud of the fact that our graduates unanimously report feeling prepared for college. But, we’re even more proud that our students report feeling inspired and engaged throughout their four years at Cascades Academy.

Preparation is important, but engaged learning is paramount.

At Cascades Academy, the concept of exploring ideas from every angle applies to both the academic curriculum as well as the overall program experience. Both the fall and spring trimesters are approached in a place-based thematic format, with each culminating with an expedition to the studied region. By approaching the curriculum through an integrated studies method, upper school students gain a better understanding of all of the different “angles” to examine a topic. Learning becomes more meaningful. Students become more engaged.

"The community here is so open and welcoming. It just feels like home."
-9th Grade Student

Similarly, an academics only approach to education is not an “every angle” approach. As such, the school’s college preparatory curriculum balances engaging classroom work with meaningful experiences outside of the classroom including professional internships, service learning, fine arts classes, exciting travel and outdoor education. This dynamic learning environment fosters lifelong learners, critical, independent thinkers, and socially conscious individuals.

Our intimate learning environment also cultivates a unique sense of community. With class sizes of 10-20 students, teachers identify how to help each individual student reach his/her unique potential. And, students develop supportive, meaningful relationships with each other. This kind of caring, collaborative community is an important part of who we are, and we invite you to come and experience it for yourself!

From Our Upper School Students in Their Own Words

How Did Cascades Academy Prepare You for College?