At Polytechnic School, our name conveys both a sense of our history and of our philosophical base. Polytechnic literally means “many arts,” and since 1907, Poly has been a place where students become multi-talented, intellectually ambitious citizens of the world.
School Profile
Grade Levels: K- 12
COED
Welcome to Polytechnic School
At Polytechnic School, our name conveys both a sense of our history and of our philosophical base. Polytechnic literally means “many arts,” and since 1907, Poly has been a place where students become multi-talented, intellectually ambitious citizens of the world. On any given day, our community overflows with activities and ideas that challenge and inspire us — adults and students alike. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time member of our community, I encourage you to explore the Poly website, where the range of programs, events, athletic competitions, and performances put our name into action.
As a K-12 school, we are able to create a coordinated sequence of learning across all grades and developmental stages. Our Lower, Middle, and Upper School programs provide continuity for students and allow Poly teachers to invest deeply in each child’s progress over the long term. One of the great joys of working for Poly is to watch children and families from all walks of life grow up here together, in a community that is full of friendship, creativity, and intellectual ambition.
While Poly is nationally recognized for the strength of its programs, the lessons we hope our students take with them transcend those measured by test scores and matriculation lists. A Poly education goes far beyond getting into college — it inspires a lifelong thirst for knowledge, an appreciation of individuality, and a true desire to be of service in the larger world. Our graduates leave Poly ready to fulfill the promise of their own talents and to lead meaningful, purposeful lives.
—John W. Bracker
Head of School
Gallery
School Profile
Grade Levels: K- 12
Lower School by the Numbers: Our community includes approximately 270 students
Full-time classroom teachers and assistants: 20
Support and specialized instruction personnel: 15
Kindergarten through second grade: 14 to 15 students per class
Third through fifth grade: 22 to 23 students per class
Middle School by the Numbers: Our community includes approximately 215 students
Full-time classroom teachers and assistants: 20 (additional 15 in PE and Art)
Support and specialized instruction personnel: 10
Average students per class: 18
Upper School by the Numbers: Our community includes approximately 375 students
A dynamic, cohesive experience from grade to grade
Poly’s K-12 structure enables us to build challenge, creativity, and myriad extracurricular activities into the Poly experience at every age. From grade to grade, students learn to master skills that allow them to strive for their very best while at Poly and beyond.
In the Lower School, our youngest students master essential language and quantitative skills. They develop their powers of observation and their abilities to draw reasonable conclusions from data. They learn to speak and write clearly. We want them to work collaboratively with others and to think for themselves.
In the Middle School, school work becomes more complex, and so do our students. In the classroom, students move from learning facts to managing and analyzing them. They confront the fundamental questions of adolescence: Who am I? Where am I going? They have experiences that develop the confidence to lead, take calculated risks, and express themselves in front of their peers.
Armed with knowledge, organization, and study skills, our Middle School students are ready to excel in a vigorous Upper School program. Here, students immerse themselves in a richly-diverse and advanced curriculum, a vibrant campus culture, and broadening experiences in outdoor education, community outreach, and global exploration.