Custom Upper School Education

With a foundation of core academic excellence and the ability to choose a major, students create their own high school journey that reflects their strengths, passions, and future goals.

Graduation requirements

Linder is in the process of becoming accredited, and aligns its curriculum with the state of Virginia’s graduation standards. But that’s just the starting point. We’ve re-imagined the learning experience to include student choice, advanced coursework, and real-world learning—creating a high school experience that reflects each student’s strengths, interests, and goals.

Virginia state graduation requirements include:

  • 4 years of English, Math, Science, and Social Studies


  • 2 years of Foreign Language – students may choose from traditional options, American Sign Language (ASL), or a coding language like Python


  • 2 years of Health and Physical Education – fulfilled through personalized fitness electives and/or off-campus athletics


  • 1 year of Arts – students choose between visual, performing, and musical arts


  • 4 years of Electives – often aligned with the student’s chosen major. For example, Science majors may opt to peruse Advanced Lab Research, Bioethics, or Community-Based Science Projects. Engineering majors might take Robotics I & II, Python Coding, or Tech Design Studio. Humanities majors may choose Public Speaking, World Religions, or Political Theory. Art majors can specialize with Studio Art Portfolio, Choreography, or Film Studies.

  • Internship and Applied Learning – including annual one-week internships and a community-based service component

Choosing a major

At Linder, students choose a major in 10th grade, allowing them to tailor their education to their strengths, interests, and future goals. Majors provide a structured pathway for deeper learning in a specific discipline, while still meeting all Virginia graduation requirements. Students may also double major or pursue a general studies track with more flexibility.

Each major is supported by electives, advanced coursework, and experiential learning such as internships and service projects. Below are sample pathways for each major:

  • Math & Engineering Major - For students who love logic, design, and problem-solving, this major focuses on mathematical reasoning, computer science, and engineering principles. Hands-on projects, coding, and competitions help bring concepts to life.



    Sample courses include: Discrete Calculus, Robotics I & II, Python Coding, Engineering Design Studio, Data Science & Statistical Modeling, Applied Physics for Engineers, Math in the Real World, Circuitry & Microcontrollers, Computer Science I, 3D Modeling & Advanced Prototyping, and Math Competition Lab.



  • Science Major – Designed for students curious about the natural world and scientific discovery. Students explore a wide range of disciplines from biology and chemistry to environmental and quantum sciences, often working alongside real researchers.



    Sample courses include: Animal Science & Behavior, Quantum Mechanics, Environmental Science, Advanced Lab Research, Science Writing, Special Topics in Genetics, Bioethics, Research Methods, Astronomy, Psychology, and Field-Based Ecology.



  • Fine & Performing Arts Major – This major allows students to develop and showcase their creativity through visual arts, music, dance, and theater. With access to dedicated studios and community partnerships, students build portfolios and performance experience.



    Sample courses include: Music Composition, Digital Media, Theater Production, Studio Art, Choreography & Performance, Advanced Piano, Portfolio Development, Art History, Costume & Set Design, and Creative Writing.



  • Humanities Major – Ideal for students passionate about reading, writing, history, philosophy, or politics. Students learn to communicate effectively, think critically, and analyze complex issues across cultures and time periods.



    Sample courses include: Political Theory, Global Studies, Comparative Economics, Creative Writing, South Asian History, Advanced Literature, Writing Workshop, Public Speaking, Mock Trial, and College Essay Seminar.


  • General Studies Track – For students who are still exploring, this track offers a broader range of electives and interdisciplinary courses. It allows students to try classes across all disciplines while still fulfilling graduation requirements.

Physical movement in the Upper School

Movement is essential for focus, well-being, and self-regulation. With a two-story rock wall, weight room, and professional dance studio right in the building, students have daily opportunities to recharge, stay active, and return to class energized and ready to learn.

Our daily schedule includes flexible blocks that allow students to pause, move, and refocus. Students might participate in running club after lunch, or climb our 2-story rock wall during a mid-morning break.

With locker rooms, showers, and a campus culture that encourages balance, students learn to take care of their bodies as part of their daily routine.

Learn about movement & health

One-on-one guidance

Every Linder student receives individualized support to map out their academic journey. Starting in 9th grade, students meet regularly with a faculty mentor to select courses that align with their goals, interests, and strengths. These meetings ensure each student’s schedule supports their major, meets graduation requirements, and allows for enrichment opportunities.

As students move through high school, this mentorship expands to include college planning. Starting in 10th grade, counselors work one-on-one with students and families to explore career paths, research schools, build application timelines, and identify colleges with strong academic supports. Whether pursuing highly selective universities or specialized programs, students are guided to make thoughtful, personalized choices—backed by a transcript that reflects their unique strengths.

More on college planning at Linder