Academic Program Students prepare for college and beyond through a challenging curriculum that stresses the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as the expansion of knowledge. Regular homework assignments, averaging about three hours each school day, complement seminars, class discussions, simulations, lectures, and laboratories. Portledge expects students to be active participants in their own education; they are expected to exhibit initiative, intellectual curiosity, focus, and perseverance in their academic endeavors. To earn a diploma a student must (1) complete a minimum of 18-1/2 academic credits in the Upper School, (2) satisfy the Schoolís quality-credit and distributive requirements and the computer literacy requirements and (3) fulfill the State physical education requirements. Course sequences depend on the abilities and prior education of each student. Minimum course distribution requirements in the Upper School include four credits each in English and mathematics, three each in history and laboratory sciences, two in one foreign language, one-half in performing arts, one-half in visual arts, one-half in computer, and one-half in health. English, mathematics and physical education are required every year. A half-credit course in leadership, ethics and “LEAPS” is required in twelfth grade. Students must take at least four one-credit courses, or the equivalent, each year. At graduation select students may be recognized for achievements as Arts Scholars and/or as inductees to the Cum Laude Society. The Director of Middle and Upper School works with students to create their courses of study drawing upon placement recommendations from advisors, department heads, the college counselor and parents. He also coordinates the advisor system and guides the disciplinary program for this division. Most students carry 5 1/2 credits in ninth and tenth grades, and 5 credits in eleventh and twelfth grades, for a total of 21 credits. Students entering after the ninth grade may have diploma requirements adjusted upon acceptance in order to make possible the most beneficial academic program. As a result, they may have fewer elective possibilities in their senior year. Students who have demonstrated strong ability and high achievement are placed in advanced level sections. These students may go on to take Advanced Placement courses and/or examinations in most disciplines. While the physical education course carries no credit, the minimum requirement has been mandated by the State, and students must pass each year in order to be considered for a diploma. The majority of Upper School students elect after-school sports, which they take in lieu of physical education. A strong advisor system in the Upper School supports the academic, athletic and extracurricular programs. Each Upper School student selects a faculty advisor who serves as a liaison among the student, the studentís family, and the school. Further, the advisor provides the advisee with academic and social guidance to help the student cope independently and responsibly with the challenges of learning. Advisor groups meet each morning; advisors also meet individually with advisees as necessary. The academic program is complemented by a wide-ranging field trip program which utilizes the rich cultural opportunities available in New York City, laboratory investigations at the DNA Learning Center, and the diverse environmental habitats of Long Island. There are extended class retreats for grades nine and ten during which the students learn about environmental issues as well as physical and mental challenges in an outdoor setting. Finally, each senior develops an individual senior project to be completed during the last few weeks of the spring of senior year. The course descriptions have been organized by department to emphasize the year-to-year continuity of each discipline. Elective courses may change to reflect student interest or staff expertise. Under special circumstances students are also able to arrange independent study. Interdepartmental coordination is an important feature. English and history courses parallel each other through the eleventh grade; math and science are also closely interwoven. In all subjects students learn how to plan for specific short-term and long-range assignments as they deal with quizzes, tests, written homework assignments, reports and research papers. Some subjects have semester examinations in June and others just have a final exam. Where appropriate, teachers help classes review for the SAT Tests.