Divisions

Wildwood uses a multi-aged divisional approach that allows for long-term relationships between students and teachers, flexibility in student placement, and a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate.

In order to best meet the needs of adolescent learners, Wildwood’s secondary program has four Divisions, rather than single grades. Division One is a transition year for 6th graders. Division Two (grades 7 and 8) encompasses the middle school years. Division Three (grades 9 and 10) and The Senior Institute, (grades 11 and 12) span the traditional high school years.

This structure accomplishes several objectives:

Division One is a single year, allowing the faculty to focus on the student’s transition from an elementary program to a secondary program. A major part of the work in Division One is to introduce students to the way in which Wildwood Secondary operates and what is expected of students. To this end students spend significant time in exploring the meaning of Wildwood’s Habits of Mind and Heart and learning how to meet the standards set by the school.
Divisions Two through the Senior Institute are 2 year programs, providing the opportunity for each Division’s faculty to get to know their students well. In turn, students have the opportunity to be in the same advisory group for 2 years, giving them a strong sense of community and a safe environment in which to experience their formative years. These two-year programs give students the time to delve deeply into core subjects.
To progress from one division to the next, students must fulfill a set of portfolio requirements in the curricular areas of mathematics, science, humanities, languages and the arts, as well as community involvement, personal reflections and goals for their future. At the end of Division Two, Three and the Senior Institute, students make a “gateway” presentation to their advisors, other faculty, parents, peers and community members. Students work closely with their advisors, to ensure that they are prepared for their presentations and have completed their portfolio items.