Upper School Academics

"It was at Dunn that I met the teachers who influenced me the most thus far, both academically and personally. I owe much of my success at UCLA to the Dunn teachers who inspired me to work hard and dream big" — Divo Martin Class of 1998

Every year the Outstanding Faculty Award is given to teachers who go above and beyond the call of duty.

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills through roundtable discussion and debate.

Academic endeavors are the cornerstone of Dunn School. Students will be challenged, supported and given every opportunity to achieve their best. Academic achievement is gained through preparation, involvement, responsibility and hard work. As the Dunn School philosophy states, "the depth and quality of the relationship between students and teachers are central to our process of education". Small classroom sizes and continuous contact with personal advisors help forge this relationship to support students in their intellectual growth.

With an average size of 12, the learning environment at Dunn allows students to feel comfortable formulating and expressing their opinions openly. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills through roundtable discussion and debate as they learn to respect the opinions of others. Research and writing proficiencies are refined as students apply their skills across all subject matters.

In the classroom, courtesy and scholastic decorum constitute the norm. Classroom integrity is vital. Honesty is expected of all students both inside and outside of the classroom. Academic challenges should be focused upon with maximum effort. Students are expected to be prepared with homework completed for each class day and are expected to help each other learn and to be supportive of others in the classroom. Faculty and advisors are always available for extra help and are required to maintain office hours for students.

A wide variety of classes are available within each discipline, including Honors and Advanced Placement courses. Dunn students learn at a pace and at levels that challenge their abilities.

For the daily academic schedule, please visit Student Life.

The process of academic probation is described in the student handbook.