Exploring Pathways Together: Connections and Possibilities at the Upper School Course Selection Fair

The Upper School Course Selection Fair brought over 200 students, families, and faculty together for an event designed to support thoughtful planning and meaningful conversations about the academic journey ahead. 

The fair welcomed students in Grades 8-11 and their families to explore the many courses and learning pathways available for the 2026-27 school year. More than simply an information session, the event created space for students and families to connect directly with teachers, ask questions, and begin imagining what their next year of learning might look like. 

Throughout the Upper School area, academic departments hosted tables where faculty members spoke with families about course offerings, classroom experiences, and how different subjects can grow and develop across a student’s high school years. These conversations helped students better understand the range of opportunities available and consider which courses might best align with their interests and goals. 

Many students said the opportunity to speak directly to teachers helped them better understand what different courses may offer and how their interests could evolve over time. “Before the fair, I only knew about a few courses, but after speaking with teachers, I discovered classes I hadn’t even considered. It helped me start thinking about what I might want my next year to look like,” said an Upper School student about their experience at the fair.  

In addition to academic departments, representatives from several programs and offices were present to help guide students through the course selection process. Families had opportunities to connect with teams from the Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs, Athletics, the Dean of Student Life Office, the Library, and Summer Academy. College Counseling and Personal and Academic Counselors also offered brief micro-sessions throughout the afternoon, helping families better understand how course selection connects with students’ academic growth and future planning. 

The fair also placed special attention on supporting students preparing to enter Upper School for the first time. In partnership with Middle School colleagues, the event included counselors and the academic dean who were available to support Grade 8 students and their families as they began preparing for the transition to Grade 9. 

Upper School Academic Dean, Ms. Courtney Cameron, shared the following insight: “Events like this allow students and families to have meaningful conversations with teachers early in the process, which helps them make thoughtful and informed decisions.” Faculty and counselors emphasized that the fair is designed to give families early access to information and conversations that can make the course selection process more thoughtful and less overwhelming. 

By bringing together teachers, counselors, and school programs in one place, the event reflects the school’s collaborative approach to supporting students as they make decisions about their academic paths. For many families, the opportunity to have conversations directly with educators helps make the process feel more approachable and personal. 

Parents also shared that the opportunity to speak directly to faculty and counselors helped clarify how different courses and programs support students’ academic growth throughout Upper School. One parent stated that it was reassuring to speak with teachers and counselors directly. The conversations helped them better understand how the courses fit together and how to support their children’s choices.  

As course selection season begins, the Upper School Course Selection Fair offers a helpful starting point for students and families to explore possibilities, ask questions, and think about the experiences that will shape the year ahead. With guidance from teachers and counselors, and the support of their families, students are encouraged to take an active role in building an academic pathway that reflects their interests, strengths, and aspirations.