Our Program » Upper School

Upper School

9th grade

Beginning in 2025-2026 academic year, Stratford Friends School will add one grade level each year, starting with the introduction of 10th grade in September 2025.  

Stratford Friends Schools' inclusive curriculum for 10th grade will combine individualized academics with hands-on, project-based experiences that aligned with PA Standard HS requirements. Through community engagement and practical learning, students will develop the confidence and independence they need to thrive in life beyond the classroom.

The goals of the 10th Grade are to: 

  • Provide strong, multisensory, small group instruction to teach curriculum that is standards-based and provides all students with the opportunities to develop the skills of analysis, synthesis, evaluation and problem solving, and information literacy.  

  • Direct instruction lessons designed to provide our students with lessons focused on the five standards for English Language Arts including foundational skills, reading informational text, reading literature, writing, and speaking. 

  • Teach intensive small group instruction in Orton Gillingham decoding lessons throughout all four years. 

  • Use direct instruction to teach fundamental math skills focused on the four PA Core Standards in Mathematics- Numbers and Operation, Algebraic Concepts, Geometry, and Measurement, Data, and Probability.  

  • Offer Science instruction focused on Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth & Space. 

  • Teach History curriculum meeting the PA standards and focus on PA History, United States History, World History, and Civics and Government.  

  • Provide lessons on how to navigate peer relationships, self-advocacy, executive functioning skills, and career and life readiness transitions programming. 

  • Engage students in a variety of elective courses and hands-on opportunities centered around career, and technical education, financial literacy, technology, and family & consumer sciences.  

  • Engage students in physical, art, music, and health education as a holistic approach to educating our students. 

  • Incorporate project-based learning opportunities focused on real world experiences.