Discover The Sharon Academy’s high school curriculum in Sharon, Vermont—where rigorous academics meet project-based learning. In a supportive, student-centered community, TSA fosters independent, creative thinkers through a balanced program in Humanities, Math, Science, and World Languages, with enriching opportunities like Electives, Exhibitions, Musical Interim, and Flexible Learning Pathways.
High School Curriculum at The Sharon Academy
Nurturing intelligent, independent, and creative thinkers in Vermont’s Upper Valley. At The Sharon Academy (Sharon, Vermont), our high school curriculum blends rigorous academics with project-based learning and real-world application.
In a small, supportive community, students build strong foundations in Humanities, Math, Science, and World Languages, while extending their learning through Electives, Exhibitions & Capstones, Musical Interim and Flexible Learning Pathways.
Curriculum at a Glance
TSA’s program is designed to help students discover interests, develop voice, and meet Graduation Requirements through a balanced, personalized pathway.
- Core academic sequence in Humanities, Mathematics, Sciences, and World Languages
- Deeper learning through Electives, Exhibitions & Capstones, and Musical Interim
- Skill development in research, writing, public speaking, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving
- Flexible Learning Pathways offer students the chance to customize their path to graduation with goal-aligned options that support career exploration, academic growth and post-high school readiness.
Science
Science is about relevance—connecting scientific principles to real-world challenges like climate change and genetic engineering.
Courses are grounded in four pillars of scientific literacy:
- Inquiry & Experimentation: Designing and conducting lab and field investigations.
- Critical Thinking: Evaluating evidence, questioning assumptions, and identifying pseudoscience.
- Interdisciplinary Connections: Linking science with math, ethics, and history.
- Communication: Presenting findings clearly in both written and oral formats. Students build the skills and confidence to explore scientific questions independently and collaboratively.
Courses include:
- Science Methods
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Environmental Science
Humanities (Literature & Social Studies)
The Humanities program at The Sharon Academy (TSA) blends literature, history, philosophy, and the arts to foster critical thinking, self-awareness, and global understanding.
Students explore how ideas and experiences shape societies—and how their voices can impact the world. Through reading, discussion, research, and creative projects, students learn to analyze texts, think independently, and communicate clearly. The program progresses from integrated studies in grades 9–10 to advanced, discipline-specific courses in grades 11–12.
Courses include:
Division II Humanities: The Beliefs Year, Literature: Finding Our Way, 11/12 Social Studies
Mathematics
Math is a language for exploring patterns, structures, and relationships. Through a progression of courses focused on problem-solving, collaboration, and conceptual understanding, students build not only computational skills but also the insight to apply math creatively and meaningfully.
Our curriculum challenges students to tackle complex problems, think systematically, and communicate their reasoning clearly. Whether designing with geometry, modeling with statistics, or exploring calculus, students learn that math is not just about answers—but about understanding why they’re right.
Typical Course Progression:
Algebra I → Geometry → Algebra II → Precalculus →
Calculus Electives/Advanced Options:
Introduction to Statistics, Advanced Math / Linear Algebra (offered in alternate years)
World Languages (Spanish & French)
World Languages program fosters confident, curious communication in Spanish or French, emphasizing authentic language use, cultural understanding, and personal growth.
Rooted in ACTFL standards, it prioritizes connection over rote learning, helping students build real-world skills that promote global citizenship and empathy.
Spanish
Novice I–II → Intermediate I–II → Advanced (literature, film, music, fluent conversation)
French
Novice I → Novice II & Intermediate I → Intermediate II & Advanced (francophone texts, increased immersion)
Signature Programs
Exhibition is TSA’s signature Capstone project where students present an in-depth, independent research project in either their 11th or 12th year.
With a faculty mentor, each student chooses a topic they care about and spends months investigating the topic from multiple perspectives. Their research culminates in a presentation to teachers, peers, and community members.
Electives are dedicated blocks of time for students to explore new topics, interests and passions. Electives are vital for students to shape their own learning. TSA Staff and guest instructors offer varied programming beyond our traditional curriculum.
Topics vary from year to year but all offer opportunities to learn and develop TSA Essential Transferable skills that can be counted towards graduation requirements.
A school-wide creative immersion that builds collaboration, confidence, and performance skills.
Flexible Learning Pathways
Under Vermont’s Flexible Pathways Initiative (Act 77), TSA students can customize their path to graduation with free, goal-aligned options that support career exploration, academic growth, and post-high school readiness.
Students should plan these opportunities with their Advisor and the College & Career Advisor.
