The Ridgefield Academy Upper School consists of grades 6th through 8th and embodies a more traditional “middle school” schedule. It is a division that strives to bring the best out of each student whether his/her passion lies in geometry, French, creative writing, art, athletics or on the stage. During these unsure adolescent years where confidence can mean being able to fit into the crowd, Ridgefield Academy challenges students to be confident by recognizing their individual strengths. During the first week of school each year the Upper School students co-sign with their parents an Upper School Pledge. This Pledge discusses the characteristics and role model behavior we value here at RA. It is a formal and public way that we are able to start each year discussing what means most in our community – character. It helps student’s realize the responsibility of being the oldest students on campus and brings to the forefront the respect we should all share for each other. It is the way we set the tone and check in with our Mission annually. This is the first step in creating a safe environment for our students to begin feeling comfortable and the student participation in the process means much more than simply reading a Mission Statement on the wall. Students are not only required to take English, History, Math, and science, but must also have a foreign language, computer, robotics, visual art, music (history & guitar), chorus, athletics and health. Requiring the electives throughout all school years allows students to find new interests and success in areas they may not have attempted otherwise (see curriculum page). Ridgefield Academy is also proud of our community awareness programs. Each day prior to lunch students spend 10 minutes doing chores around campus. This is a simple act that provides students with a sense of pride and ownership of the school. We also incorporate numerous service opportunities throughout the year to encourage all members of our community to give back. We continue to ask students to improve in many ways throughout their tenure here at RA and expect them to know how they learn best and what they enjoy doing. Requiring students to take a core of academic and artistic offerings where the “bar” is raised each year in order to develop strong study habits and passions allows Upper School graduates to enter secondary schools poised to succeed - ready to take advantage of their new opportunities. (See sample list of Alum placement) After looking through our pages, please call for a visit, we would love to show you around in person. Joseph Perry Head of Middle & Upper School