Episcopal’s challenging curriculum is thoughtfully designed to prepare students to be successful in some of the most selective universities in the country. An Episcopal education instills a passion for life-long learning and dedication to living as citizens of strong character.
The school’s faculty displays an outstanding academic background, excellent character, and dedication to the overall well-being of the students. Episcopal employs more than 200 faculty members, all of whom have four-year degrees or higher – and more than half of whom have graduate degrees. Annually, Episcopal invests heavily in professional development and training for faculty and staff, ensuring best practices and innovative teaching methods are continually incorporated into our classrooms, as well as inclusion and sensitivity to diversity. The faculty affirms the ultimate worth of each student to form healthy self-esteem and respect for others.
Episcopal is committed to small class size and an environment that is safe, achievement-oriented, supportive, and positive. The school enrolls approximately 1,500 total students from age 1 to grade 12. Lower School campuses (age 1 through grade five) enroll more than 500 students; Middle School (grades six through eight) enrolls more than 400 students; Upper School (grades nine through twelve) enrolls more than 600 students.
Episcopal’s teachers are the heart and soul of our school community and are who truly make our school remarkable. Our teachers have the freedom to innovate, and they seek to create enthusiasm for learning. Episcopal teachers are committed to nurturing our students into responsible, inquiring adults who will go on to achieve success in all walks of life. Our faculty and staff are constantly reevaluating and improving our curriculum and academic placement in order to best address the needs and goals of each student. Faculty attend professional opportunities throughout the year. Read more>>
At Episcopal, a learner-centered approach to teaching is a priority in the classroom. This approach to learning is intended to address the distinct learning needs, interests, aspirations, and cultural backgrounds of our students. Since every student is different, it is important that the school provides many different opportunities for learning through athletics, the arts, religious faith and service, and most importantly, academics.
At the Lower School levels there is an emphasis on independent study skills, a mastery of basic concepts, enrichment, and character development as they prepare for a lifetime of learning. Students learn to think critically, allowing them to solve problems in a group setting, tackle academic challenges, and become joyful learners. Our well-rounded, vertically integrated curriculum allows students to reach their potential, develop talents and passions, explore their faith, and build character through Fruit of the Spirit concepts incorporated into daily lessons.
At the Middle and Upper School levels, students are encouraged to select appropriate and challenging coursework. Episcopal offers 23 Advanced Placement classes as well as Honors Courses. The Harkness Method in humanities courses, Node desks in language classes, and the Modeling method in science classes are all methods of learner-centered teaching that Episcopal’s faculty at the Upper and Middle School levels incorporate into their classrooms for an exceptional instructional experience for students.
We offer support systems for all ESJ students. Depending on the subject and grade level, students are placed in courses based on teacher recommendations, transcripts and scores from both standardized testing and subject-specific competency testing. Students are not placed on an academic “track” at Episcopal but are instead encouraged to take advanced courses that suit their strengths.
Harkness was the vision of philanthropist Edward Harkness and began in 1930 at Phillips Exeter Academy, one of the leading independent secondary schools in the world. This teaching and learning method seats students in a large, oval shape to discuss ideas in an encouraging, open-minded environment. At Episcopal we utilize the Harkness method for all upper school English and History courses with an age-appropriate introduction to Harkness in Middle School. Harkness places a premium on the depth of contribution over frequency and allows each student to find their voice and value everybody’s thoughts and participation. Student questions drive a Harkness discussion, and when necessary, teachers will insert ideas into the conversation or guide it back on track. The Harkness Method seamlessly aligns with the skill-building of detailed analysis, effective communication, and a collaborative learning spirit.
Students create or collaborate in our library and media centers supported by professional staff on all three campuses. Read more>>
