Upper School Vision Statement
Mary McDowell Upper School will offer a rich, supportive and challenging college preparatory program for students with learning disabilities who have completed eighth grade at the school or who enter from other specialized and mainstream programs. The new division will begin with approximately twenty ninth graders in the fall of 2010, adding a grade each year until full enrollment of 144 is reached.
Quaker belief and practice will remain at the center of the school's approach to education, as it has throughout the history of Mary McDowell Friends School. As a Quaker school, MMFS cherishes and nurtures the inherent value of each student. It recognizes that each individual has unique and important contributions to make and that these gifts are best fostered in community. Mary McDowell Friends School is committed to the Quaker testimonies reflected in the acronym SPICES: simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship.
The program will be tailored to the various needs of each student, preparing him or her for matriculation into public and private two and four-year colleges or other post-secondary options. A continuation of the Lower and Middle School programs, the Upper School will offer a structured, multisensory and interdisciplinary approach. It will utilize individualized instruction, small group and full class activities and hands-on learning aimed at fostering students' ability to self-advocate and establish effective study skills. Guidance to students as they prepare for the next steps in their educational and professional lives will be provided. The school will not offer vocational training; however, all students will be taught the skills and habits that are required to live successful, fulfilling adult lives.
Instruction will be provided in mathematics, English language arts, social studies, laboratory science, Spanish and American Sign Language. Traditional subjects will be augmented by a three part experiential education program that will include: expanding the core curriculum beyond the physical walls of the classroom, outdoor education components and educational travel. Physical education and athletics, as well as rich visual, music and performing arts components will complete the core academic program.
The school is also committed to offering a variety of meaningful student leadership opportunities. Clubs and activities, such as a newspaper, yearbook and student government will be led by students under the guidance of faculty advisors who will bring both expertise and enthusiasm to such activities.
The new Upper School will provide an exciting and much needed addition to the array of high school options in New York City for students with learning disabilities and for Friends education as a whole.