upper school
Welcome to Upper School!
In our Upper School, students are focused, ambitious, and ready to take ownership of their education. Guided by passionate faculty, they are challenged to pursue excellence, think critically and independently, and discover joy in both achievement and personal growth. These years are a time of deepening knowledge, broadening perspectives, and preparing for the opportunities that lie ahead in college and beyond.
Every student contributes in meaningful ways to our community, stepping into leadership, shaping our culture, and leaving a lasting impact on the world they are poised to lead.
I invite you to visit our Upper School and witness the confidence, drive, and spirit of young adults who are not only preparing for the future but actively creating it.
Warmly,
Kate Sutherland
Head of Middle and Upper School
SIGNATURE PROGRAMS
PROGRAM
INTENSIVES
SERVICE
What happens when learning comes alive?
We believe every student should have the opportunity to take the lead in their learning journey. Our SAIL Program (Student-Centered Active Inquiry & Learning) empowers students by placing them at the helm of their education, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking through an inquiry-based approach that engages them with real-world challenges.
SAIL transforms the classroom into an interactive space where students explore topics, ask questions, and develop solutions. Instead of passively receiving information, they collaborate on hands-on projects, strengthening problem-solving skills and preparing for the future. At the heart of SAIL is the Harkness Method, where small, discussion-driven classes encourage deep dialogue, diverse perspectives, and independent thinking. Students engage directly with their peers, shaping their learning through active participation.
Introduced in Middle School and fully integrated into Upper School, SAIL cultivates leadership, confidence, and collaboration-essential skills for success in college, careers, and beyond. By offering personalized learning, self-discovery, and real-world application, SAIL provides each student with a front-row seat to a transformative educational experience.
COLLEGE COUNSELING
As a nurturing school community, we encourage our students to become good global citizens and lifelong learners, guiding them as they strive for knowledge and self-awareness.
Through the development of competencies, and fostering self-awareness and advocacy, we encourage our students to define and reach their goals.
35
Graduating
Class
12
Average Class
Size
SIGNATURE Experiences
Bahamas
Overnight Camping
Backpacking adventure
Student-Led
Senior Experience
Senior Experience is a key part of Rocky Hill’s Upper School program, giving seniors the opportunity to explore a passion, career, or community initiative through an independent project or internship. Over the course of a month, students take full ownership of their experience—identifying community partners, setting goals, and managing their schedules, all while receiving guidance from faculty mentors.
This program focuses on growth and learning, encouraging independence, initiative, and self-direction. Students work on meaningful projects without financial compensation, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the experience. At the end of the month, they present their work to the community, reflecting on their journey and preparing to lead with purpose. The Senior Experience is more than just a graduation requirement; it’s a transformative opportunity that equips students with the skills and confidence to thrive in college and beyond.
LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
At Rocky Hill Country Day, leadership is cultivated through a dynamic range of experiences that inspire confidence and initiative at every grade level. Whether through peer-elected roles or self-initiated projects, our students have countless opportunities to take the lead. From building connections in our ‘buddies’ program, where older students mentor younger ones in both literacy and lunchtime activities, to leading morning meetings and serving as class or school ambassadors, leadership is woven into every part of our community. Whether on the athletic fields, in the classrooms, or beyond, our students are developing the skills to lead with purpose and impact in any setting.
SELECTED | ELECTED
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
More than just an honor roll, the Society serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship (academic achievement), leadership, character, and service to the community.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Consisting of two chambers, Student Life and Policy, the Student Council works to promote school spirit and proposes initiatives for the good of the community.
PREFECTS
Prefects are members of the rising senior class who are elected by the student body in grades 8-12 to lead the Student Council and serve on the Disciplinary Committee.
NATHAN HALE
Middle and Upper School students gain valuable leadership skills as members of the Nathan Hale Society, working directly with the Admission Office to promote the School.
SELECTED | ELECTED
STUDENT COUNCIL
The Student Council works to promote school spirit and proposes initiatives for the good of the community.
PREFECTS
Prefects are members of the rising senior class who are elected by the student body in grades 8-12 to lead the Student Council.
NATHAN HALE
Middle and Upper School students gain valuable leadership skills and represent the school as members of the Nathan Hale Society.
leadership opportunities
CLUB LEADERS
Students collaborate with peers, develop club goals, and organize meeting times, activities, and share their interests and passions with the Rocky Hill Country Day community.
PEER MENTORing
From our youngest to our oldest students, Rocky Hill Country Day provides opportunities to mentor one another based on developmental age and stage, as well as mastery of specific subject matter or extracurricular skill sets.
arts & athletics
Students are provided opportunities to lead and mentor one another in the arts and athletics through creative collaboration and guiding teammates with skill and sportsmanship. These experiences cultivate leadership that extends far beyond the classroom, stage, and playing field.