Frequently Asked Questions
Academics
How is a student's academic schedule determined?
Upon entry to St. Sebastian's, students are placed in grade-level courses
in English, science, and history. Initial mathematics and foreign language
placement reflects their prior exposure to each discipline and mastery
of acquired skills. Continuing students are placed in courses according
to the recommendations of their teachers. The Dean of Studies, in consultation
with teachers and parents, makes the final decision on all scheduling
matters.
Are
students grouped by ability?
Virtually all grouping in the Middle School is heterogeneous. In the Upper
School, most courses are available at standard, honors, and AP levels.
What
are the student/faculty ratio and average class size?
The student/faculty ratio is 7 to 1. The average class size is 11. The
School graduates roughly 60 students per year.
In
what areas are advanced placement (AP) courses available?
See the list
of AP courses.
What
is the School's educational philosophy?
The School subscribes to a classical educational philosophy that aims
to provide each student with a deep grounding in the skills necessary
to find success and fulfillment in life. Central among these skills are
writing and speaking, necessary elements of the critical thought process.
To that end, the School's writing program ensures that each student achieves
both the competence and the confidence to use the written word as an effective
tool throughout his life. Through a variety of public speaking opportunities,
each student also develops the poise and polish necessary to convey his
thoughts in the most persuasive and clearheaded manner.
Parent
- Teacher Conferences
Conferences are held in November and then again in February. Meetings
are held to ten minute appointments which are scheduled in advance. If a longer
meeting is required with your son's teacher or Advisor, one may be scheduled
at a mutually agreed upon time.
Athletics
What sports are offered?
See list of sports.
Is
there an athletic requirement?
Though students are not required to play sports, virtually all students
participate in at least one competitive sport. Many students play two
or three. St. Sebastian's makes it possible for every student to be actively
involved in athletics, offering as many as four of five different teams
in some sports.
With
what other schools does St. Sebastian's compete?
St. Sebastian's competes in the Independent School League (ISL). Learn more about the ISL.
Are
there any intramural sports opportunities?
Yes. Students have organized active clubs in Ultimate Frisbee, softball,
mountain biking, skiing, and weightlifting.
Extracurricular
What non-athletic activities are offered?
See list of clubs.
Is
there an extracurricular requirement?
Though students are not formally required to participate in extracurricular
activities, virtually all students remain on campus well after the formal
end of the school day, taking advantage of the numerous school-sponsored
activities available to them.
Can
a student play a sport and participate in an extracurricular activity
simultaneously?
Absolutely. In fact, the School works hard to ensure that major club activities
and athletics are scheduled not to conflict.
Are
activities ever scheduled with other schools?
All the time. The School regularly sponsors dances and trips with a number
of other schools. The School's three annual plays are staged with the
participation of girls from neighboring schools.
What
role do students play in the formation and organization of extracurricular
groups?
The student council plays an active role in the organization of activities
and the promotion of School spirit. New clubs are formed regularly as
student interest warrants