Where students are known, challenged, and ready for what's next.
Upper School | Grades 9 - 12
At The Independent School, students aren't expected to fit into a mold. They're encouraged to ask bigger questions, pursue their interests, challenge themselves academically, and build meaningful relationships with teachers who know them well.
Here, every student is seen, supported, and prepared for whatever comes next.
Jack Roe's Story: What Should High School Really Prepare Students For?
Small classes.
Teachers who know every student.
A community where every student belongs.
AP.
Dual Credit.
Research.
Discussion-based learning.
Leadership.
College counseling.
Service.
Confidence.
Rudd Scholar Shawn Winn | Known. Challenged. Ready.
Finding Your People | Senior Story: Maya Reddy
Academic Approach
Academic excellence begins with knowing each student. In the Upper School, we challenge every student to achieve their personal best while celebrating their unique strengths, interests, and goals.
Learning extends well beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to explore leadership, athletics, the arts, and meaningful service while developing the confidence to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and engage with the world around them.
Our rigorous college preparatory curriculum includes a wide range of core courses, electives, Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and Dual Credit opportunities through local university partners, giving students the flexibility to pursue their interests while preparing for what's next.
At a Glance
- 25+ credits required for graduation
- 50+ hours of community service
- Two-semester academic calendar
- Minimum of six credited courses each semester
- 15 AP courses
- 19 Dual Credit courses
Signature Programs
Hours - 8:15 AM - 3:25 PM
Students may be dropped off as early as 7:30 AM
"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire."
-William Butler Yeats
Meet Mrs. Kubish
For more than 25 years, Alison Kubish has helped students discover not only what they can achieve, but who they can become. As Head of Upper School at The Independent School, she believes every student deserves to be known, challenged, and supported while preparing for success in college and beyond.
Having taught and led schools in the United Kingdom, Kenya, Canada, and the United States, Alison brings a global perspective and a deep commitment to inquiry, academic excellence, and meaningful relationships. Since joining TIS in 2016, she has helped strengthen school culture, expand academic opportunities, and launch the school's Honors Program, creating new pathways for students seeking additional academic challenge.
Alison Kubish | Head of Upper School | alison.kubish@theindependentschool.com
