Admissions

What is the homework load like?

At SGS, we focus on the quality of homework rather than the quantity. Teachers assign homework when they feel it will complement what students are learning in class. Many students who stay for an hour after school for Homework Center are able to complete most or all of their homework during that time.

Do students have to take state exams like the WASL?

We do not take any state exams at SGS. We prefer to let our teachers have the maximum amount of class time to teach our unique integrated curriculum.

Do students study all subjects or more math and science? What subjects do you focus on most? How do you divide the time among all the different subjects?

Students study a variety of subjects at SGS, including Math, Science, and Humanities (a combination of Language Arts and Social Studies). We don't focus on any one subject more than the other--we value each subject individually and think that when all the subjects are integrated together, we can learn a lot. Students spend roughly equal amounts of time in their Math, Science, and Humanities classes.

Is there a music program?

Yes. We have a developing music program. All fifth and sixth grade students take beginning guitar as part of the curriculum. Additionally, we offer Rock Band after school and during Wednesday Internships.

Do you have an art class?

Yes! Art is integrated into the curriculum, so the art projects students are creating directly relate to the topics they are learning about in other classes. Students have art twice a week for the entire school year.

Do you have special projects or reports?

Students complete many different types of projects and reports throughout each term. At the end of every term, students participate in Culminating Events where they showcase what they have learned to their families and friends.

What is it like being at all-girls school? Do you miss having boys around?

Being at an all-girls school is a lot like being at a co-ed school...it's still school! But, there are definitely some differences, and it takes some students time to adjust to the single-sex environment. SGS students tell us they often feel more comfortable being themselves, speaking out in class, and dressing how they want in the all-girls environment. SGS students still hang out with boys outside of school, and we think that's important.

Is there a dress code?

There is a dress code that was written by our inaugural class (the first girls who graduated from SGS). It is not overly strict and it emphasizes wearing clothing that is appropriate for a school environment. There are no school uniforms.

Do the lockers lock?

Our lockers do not lock, which is why we just call them "ers" (like lockers without the lock part...get it?). We do not have locks on the "ers" because we have an Honor Code that all students follow. An Honor Code is like an agreement to behave as your best self at all times, which includes respecting other students and their property.

Do students switch between classrooms?

Yes, students switch classrooms to go to Art, Guitar, Spanish, Adventure and Wellness, as well as some of their other academic classes.