Academic Curriculum

Academics are the core of Harker's program.

The Harker School believes in fostering academic excellence, self-discovery and personal integrity in our students, and our comprehensive program and exceptional faculty and staff help students discover, develop and enjoy their unique talents.

Our administration and faculty continually collaborate to maintain a curriculum that keeps pace with the needs of our students and challenges them to reach their full potential. Outstanding faculty, small class sizes, comprehensive teaching techniques and support systems to address individual student needs are all essential components. We also believe academic specialists make the most effective teachers. Beginning at the primary level, trained specialists teach all subjects including science, foreign language, music, drama, dance, technology, physical education, library skills and art.

And through our extensive extracurricular offerings, students are empowered and encouraged to explore and discover their strengths and passions outside the classroom, whether it be in athletics, performing arts, service or leadership. State of the art facilities and the best resources are an integral part of the stimulating, inspirational and safe learning environment at Harker, and our new athletic field, aquatic center and science and technology center, Nichols Hall, are exciting examples of the facilities our students enjoy.

The College Board has identified Harker as having the highest AP Chemistry, AB Calculus, AP Computer Science and AP Psychology scores in the world. Three-quarters of all Harker students score above the 85th percentile nationally on nearly every ERB test. More than half of Harker’s seniors each year have been recognized in the College Board’s National Merit Program, and our outstanding college acceptances reflect the value of a Harker education.

Specific information about the academic program for each division are outlined in the Lower School, Middle School and Upper School sections.