Performing Arts
March 05, 2026
The Upper School offers a dynamic and academically rigorous experience for students in Grades 6 through 9. As a junior boarding and day school, Rumsey provides a close-knit, supportive environment where students are truly known, supported, and challenged to achieve at the highest levels.
These middle school years are a time of meaningful growth. At Rumsey, students are held to high standards while receiving the guidance and encouragement they need to meet them with confidence. Small class sizes, personalized advising, and honors-level coursework foster critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and strong study habits. Leadership opportunities and a values-based approach to character development further shape students who are prepared not only for top secondary schools, but for continued success beyond.
Upper School
Effort is Valued
Learning is more than just outcomes, it’s about how students engage with the process. The Effort List and Dean’s List recognize students who demonstrate consistent focus, participation, and follow-through, helping them develop strong habits and intrinsic motivation. Effort is assessed through class engagement, extra credit projects, and submitting homework on time. Students make the Dean’s List by demonstrating superior effort in four or more classes, three of which must be the core academic classes.
Personalized Advising
Each student is assigned a dedicated faculty advisor who provides weekly check-ins and ongoing mentorship. Advisors support students academically and personally while also serving as a key point of contact for families throughout the year.
Honors Courses
VIIth Form (Grade 9) students who have demonstrated academic excellence may apply for Honors-level coursework in English, mathematics (Algebra II), science (Biology), and World Languages (French IV, Spanish IV, and Latin IV). Admission is based on teacher recommendations, standardized test scores, and previous course grades.
Integrated Academic Support
Extra Help sessions are scheduled as part of the academic day. These sessions allow students to review that day’s material, reinforce understanding, or pursue deeper challenges. This can be at the teacher’s or student’s request.
A Balanced and Intentional Curriculum
Upper School students engage in a well-rounded curriculum that includes Math, science, English, world languages, and history, as well as co-curriculars in the arts, technology, and character skills.
Signature Programs
VIIth Form (Grade 9) can choose from one of four Signature Programs in Makerspace Design, Civics and Current Events, Fine Arts Studies, and Social and Community Leadership.
I was nowhere near who I am today… Teachers here push you, but they’re always there for you.
