Upper School
Linder’s Upper School blends academic rigor with real-world purpose. Flexible and student-centered, our middle and high school program is designed to launch confident, college-ready graduates into the world.
Academics with purpose
All Upper School students dive deep into core subjects—math, science, reading/writing, and history—while applying their knowledge in meaningful ways. Interdisciplinary, project-based units challenge students to connect ideas across subjects and think critically about real-world problems.
Whether designing a sustainable city in science or debating the moral conflicts in Macbeth, our middle and high school students actively engage with content, developing both academic mastery and a love for learning.
Executive function, study skills, & scaffolding for independence
Linder students don’t just follow a schedule—they learn to own it.
Organization and time management don’t come naturally to every learner—so we teach them directly. All middle and high school students receive regular executive-functioning instruction focused on planning, prioritizing, and managing tasks.
Teacher-supported study halls give students structured time to complete assignments with guidance, while personalized strategies help them build independence, reduce stress, and prepare for the demands of higher education. Our model mirrors college life while providing the scaffolding and guardrails students still need to grow
Regular one-on-one check-ins with advisors help students reflect, set goals, and build self-awareness—skills essential for academic and personal success. For students with executive functioning challenges, this isn’t just helpful—it’s transformative. They develop time management, planning, organization, and self-advocacy skills in a low-stress environment where mistakes are part of the learning process.
The result? They enter college fluent in these habits and with a mindset that leads to success.
A smarter schedule—
without the fire hose
Linder’s student-centered block schedule provides an alternative to the more traditional “fire hose” model of middle and high school education. Instead of eight shorter classes per day, students have five longer blocks—allowing for deeper focus, fewer transitions, and more engaging, hands-on project-based work. Semester-long courses offer flexibility—students can take Part I then Part II, or switch subjects entirely.
Built-in breaks create space for students. Whether they choose an early-morning swim, mid-morning study session, or afternoon art project, students have the space to experiment with what’s best for them. They learn to regulate, reset, and refocus.
For neurodiverse and 2E learners, this structure reduces stress, supports self-regulation, and teaches students how to manage their time—preparing them for college and life with more confidence and less burnout.
Choose your own major
Whether it’s Math & Engineering, Fine Arts, Science, or Humanities, high school students at Linder are able to dive deep into what excites them most—while meeting the state of Virginia’s graduation requirements.
This strength-based model empowers students to shine in their areas of passion and ability—it’s about building confidence, motivation, and purpose. When students engage in areas where they naturally shine, they become more independent, more invested, and better prepared to turn passion into possibility in college and beyond.
Advanced academics, reimagined
At Linder, we make a deliberate decision not to offer Advanced Placement (AP) classes. That may seem surprising—especially for a school that serves many high-achieving learners. But here’s why we believe it’s the right choice.
AP courses are built around preparing for one high-stakes test. That often means rushing through content, memorizing facts, and teaching to the test. Research shows students retain less and engage less deeply when learning is reduced to test prep—and that’s the opposite of what we want.
We’re here to spark curiosity, not cram for exams. Instead of APs, we offer something more meaningful: college-level courses taught through direct partnerships with universities. Our students get the challenge they’re ready for—and earn real college credit, not just a score.
This approach honors what we care about most: deep learning, independent thinking, and a lasting love of discovery.
We don’t do AP. We do better.
College planning
At Linder, college planning is a team effort. Starting in 10th grade, students and their families meet regularly with a dedicated counselor to explore best-fit options—whether that’s college or a specialized program.
We guide every step: course selection, building college lists, essay writing, interview prep, and navigating applications. We also advise on testing timelines, scholarships, and how to talk about learning differences in a way that reflects strength and self-awareness.
When it comes to selecting a college, our focus is on fit over prestige—making sure each student lands where they’ll thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Prioritizing wellness
At Linder, we recognize that young people need physical movement and mental breaks to stay healthy and focused. That’s why every day, we build in time for physical activity and mental breaks.
Students can reset with a walk, a trip to a nearby park or green space, or an outing to our local public library (only a block away!). They can grab an after-school bite with friends at a nearby restaurant. Our location in the middle of Old Town Alexandria allows our Upper School students the opportunity to enjoy freedom and flexibility.
Students learn to manage their energy and take ownership of their well being—skills that will last a lifetime.
