MIDDLE SCHOOL
Fifth and Sixth Grade
In 5th grade, Lower School students transition to our full four day class program and receive additional instruction in Latin and Math. A special emphasis is placed on honing independent study skills and organization as they prepare for the Upper School grades. Sixth grade is a capstone year solidifying content from the lower school as students complete a multi-year study of geography, arithmetic, the Old & New Testament, and are near completion of memorizing the Latin grammar. By the end of 6th grade, students have been uniquely prepared to read classical literature like the Iliad & Odyssey and The Aeneid, begin a study of Shakespeare and continue with advanced language instruction in both Latin and Greek.
New students beginning their classical education in 6th grade assimilate well into our program. Latin courses are available for beginning, intermediate and advanced levels. The review and content embedded in the sixth grade curriculum make this year a solid entry point for new students to be successful at HLS Indy.
Seventh and Eighth Grade
Seventh grade is a pivotal year that begins a student’s transition from more concrete fact-based learning in the lower school, to conceptual learning required for high school courses in mathematics, science, history, and literature and Latin. The curriculum and instructional model carefully trains students through this transition by continuing to teach for mastery, coaching students in advanced study skills, and acquiring key content that equips them for success at the high school level.
At Highlands, 7th and 8th grade is treated as preliminary work for high school which prepares students for a smooth continuation to 9th and 10th grade where the primary substance of the standard high school curriculum is fulfilled. HLS students who have completed 7th-10th grade are prepared to take advanced math, science and language courses during 11th and 12th grade and Students take courses in six subject areas each year, with the addition of Greek in 7th grade continuing as an elective through high school taken by students each year.
1. Math 2. Latin/Greek 3. Science 4. Classical/Christian Studies 5. English Studies 6. Modern Studies
Upon entering the Upper School, 7th graders join one of the HLS Houses which provides an opportunity for competition and camaraderie with other students through intramural sports, service projects, and leadership training. All students participate in music instruction through Chorale, the Upper School choir, and receive not only a musical experience but training in presentation and public speaking skills.
HIGH SCHOOL
The HLS Indianapolis high school program is an excellent choice for motivated students who enjoy the challenge of learning and are in pursuit of a distinct college preparatory course of study. Our curriculum is unique in that the subject matter is integrated and builds upon previous study throughout the four years of high school. This format provides for greater retention and student enjoyment as they observe connections between various subjects.
We operate on a four-day class schedule that maximizes efficiency in the classroom and allows students a three-day weekend with a flexible home study day to incorporate college visits, volunteering, internships, extracurriculars and appointments. Our community is enriched by a diverse group of students from various backgrounds, communities, churches, abilities and perspectives. Together we enter this learning environment to encourage one another and spur each other on to strive for our best both in academics and Christian character.
In all our instruction, an emphasis is placed on development of study skills, time management, test preparation, and presentation skills, all of which equip students to move on to college campuses and the adult world with confidence and impact. The HLS high school faculty consists of dedicated professionals who are both educators and have experience in various professions. Many hold Masters degrees in their fields and are highly committed to helping grow and develop the caliber of this distinct high school program as well as our students. Our teachers are mentors who demonstrate a passion for learning and a commitment to Christian ideals of Character.
Course Catalog
All high school students take one class in each of the following six subject areas during each of their four years of high school:
1. Math 2. Latin 3. Science 4. Classical/Christian Studies 5. English Studies (Logic & Rhetoric) 6. American/Modern Studies
Fine art and P.E. requirements are met through yearly participation in our upper school choir and our House System’s Club Sports program. Our choral program not only provides a musical experience but an enhanced opportunity to rehearse and hone public speaking and presentation skills. Through our House program, students are developed into leaders and learn principles of teamwork and group interaction. In addition, the high school provides various academic, athletic and social opportunities through various clubs, sports and the debate program.
New students who are beginning a classical education in high school are enrolled in beginning Latin courses and may select math and science courses based on placement tests and guidance counselor recommendation. Through our curriculum, students are uniquely equipped to pursue select AP, Dual College/HIgh school courses as well as various CLEP exams for college credit.
HLS Graduation Requirements
Highlands Latin School has an integrated course of studies that leads to a high school diploma of the highest quality. Our transcripts include course descriptions and book lists so that colleges may understand the nature of our curriculum and the level of reading our graduates have experienced.
