4 years of English: All students graduate knowing how to write thoughtful, well-organized essays in standard English, to read world class literature with understanding, and to speak effectively.
3 years of History: All students graduate knowing how to defend their views on historical and contemporary issues, and to analyze/appreciate important primary source documents. All students study Civics, World History, and U.S History. Students may also choose to take Advanced 20th Century History, AP Government, or AP Art History in their senior year.
4 years of Mathematics: All students graduate being able to reason, communicate, and solve problems mathematically. All students study Algebra, Geometry, Advanced Algebra, and Pre-Calculus. Generally, 25-50% of the senior class also studies Calculus.
3 years of Science: All students graduate able to understand scientific aspects of civic problems, and to design, perform and analyze scientific experiments and understand scientific data. All students study Unified Science, Biology, and Chemistry, and conduct labs at Northeastern University. Students may also take a Physics course in their senior year.
3 years of Spanish: All students graduate conversant in a second language. The top ten Spanish III students also study for two-weeks in Spain.
City Project: Students annually complete an independent City Project in their senior year. City Project requires extensive research in a field of interest, a written paper encapsulating their findings, 100 hours or more of service at a related site, and an oral presentation of their results. Passing City Project is a graduation requirement.
Physical Education: Students graduate able to swim and able to practice healthy habits and meet personal fitness goals.
The Arts: Visual art electives are offered every year, and an optional AP Art History course is offered in the senior year.
Town Meeting: The entire City on a Hill community gathers every Friday to discuss and debate important issues facing our school, our city, and our world. Town Meeting is a required part of school. We invite parents/guardians and members of the public to attend.