A Message from the Dean of Academics
The Academic Program at Besant Hill School emphasizes the school motto, Aun Aprendo, I am still learning. Instilling a lifelong love of learning is the goal of our vigorous college preparatory curriculum. Within a framework of Universal Design, teachers employ multiple best practices in the classroom including, Socratic Method, Mastery Teaching and Cooperative Learning. We value and encourage creativity and the creative mindset in all classes, teaching how to think, not what to think. Academic classes, art classes and physical education classes are all valued equally in the pursuit of educating the whole person.
In each class we demand that students take full responsibility for their education. We offer honors and AP classes in the junior and senior years. Instructors in our ISP Instructional Support Program) help students to better understand their learning styles and to utilize strategies and techniques in support of their academic success.
The foundation of our curriculum is based on the University of California A-G class requirements and our courses are approved through the University of California System. This, along with our WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation ensures that our classes are of the highest academic level.
The basic graduation requirements at Besant Hill School are as follows:
| English | 4 years |
| Science | 3 years-including 1 year biology and 1 year chemistry |
| Foreign Language | 2 years of the same language/3 years highly recommended |
| Math | 3 years, through Algebra II |
| Social Sciences | 3 years-including World History and American (U.S.) History |
| Arts | 2 years (visual or performing)-at least one year of the same art |
| Fitness | each year while attending Besant Hill School |
| Electives | at least 3 classes, one must be Senior Capstone |
These graduation requirements surpass both the University of California and the California State University systems, and prepare students for admission into American colleges and universities.
At Besant Hill School we believe that our learning community embraces our motto, Aun Aprendo. To that end, we offer a curriculum that inspires students while demanding excellence and his or her best effort. We teach our students to use their knowledge to become thoughtful, ethical members of the world community.
Portia Pelow
Dean of Academics
For more information contact Portia Pelow at ppelow@besanthill.org or by phone: (805) 646-4343 extension 133.