Unique Offerings in the Upper School
Fine and Performing Arts Programs
Our curriculum includes choir, orchestra/jazz ensemble, acting, theatrical make-up, directing, technical theatre, and AP music theory. Our Fine Arts offerings include painting, glassblowing, photography, ceramics, drawing, printmaking, and design. Upper School theatrical productions with auditions are open to all students. Major productions have included such classics as “Frankenstein,” “Man of La Mancha,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Phantom,” “Chicago,” and “Cabaret.” Our program also features annual student-directed plays. Both Fine and Performing Arts courses utilize visiting artists and field trips to enhance learning.
Juniors and seniors supplement their academic work with participation in a two-week Interim program involving real-life activities. From internships in medical labs and advertising agencies, to backpacking in the Grand Canyon and foreign travel, students reach outside the classroom to engage in serious academic exploration and research career options. Led by industry professionals, community groups, and Prairie faculty, these programs enable students to experience and succeed in areas that standard academic programs rarely touch. Testimonials from Prairie alumni continually tell us that Interim is one of the most valuable and unique educational options offered by our School.
Leadership and Outdoor Environmental Education Program
Being pushed to personal limits, exploring boundaries, learning to rely on others, developing leadership skills, and discovering the inner strength to be self-reliant are the major themes of this exhilarating program. Students learn about themselves and the environment in a beautiful wilderness setting where they spend several days being challenged by nature and learning to trust their peers. The curriculum includes ropes courses for freshmen and overnight backpacking, canoeing, and kayaking trips for upper classmen.
We offer the most comprehensive college counseling program in the area. Coordinated by a full-time college counselor, the program provides students and their parents with the guidance they need to ensure the best college match possible. Our recent graduates have attended such private universities as Cornell University, Stanford University, the University of Southern California, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Yale University, Vanderbilt University, Lawrence University, and Northwestern University – as well as outstanding public universities including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Minnesota, the University of Virginia, the University of Texas, and the University of Colorado. In addition to the many need-based financial aid packages our students receive from colleges and universities, they are also offered many merit-based scholarships.
Extracurricular Options
Our extracurricular offerings are numerous and help students develop character, leadership skills, and teambuilding skills. Students can participate in service groups including Key Club, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and Habitat for Humanity. Involvement in drama, music, technical theatre, and a variety of clubs also supports our students’ growth and enhances their applications to competitive colleges and universities.
