High School

At Tessellations, our accelerated core curriculum engages students with depth and relevance with a mix of direct instruction, facilitated discussion, and interdisciplinary hands-on projects. Alongside traditional subjects, all students take Tessellations Studio, a class in which they develop research methods, design thinking, and collaboration skills by working on complex, long-term projects with real-world impact.

Complementing the core curriculum and Studio, our Signature Programs provide students with opportunities to explore, make real-world connections, and learn by doing. During our 3-week experiential elective term, students can choose an intensive class, participate in an internship, or propose an advisor-guided project. In our week-long outdoor experiences, students develop environmental stewardship, practice self-sufficiency, and bond with their classmates. Finally, through two 10-day international exchange programs per year, students are given a global perspective, visiting four continents in four years.

Tessellations prioritizes Student Wellness – students benefit from a reasonable homework load and regular 1-on-1 check-ins with staff mentors. In small-group Learning Communities, students learn social-emotional and executive functioning skills through the lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Co-curricular Activities at Tessellations includes after school experiences, student-led clubs, and athletics offerings. Opportunities reflect the interests of our students – Tessellations has an award-winning debate team, multiple Live Action Role Playing (LARP) clubs and a resident Dungeon Master for D&D. Students are empowered and supported in starting clubs and events.

Tessellations students engage in deep self-discovery, tailor their experiences and projects to their interests, and create a portfolio that represents their authentic academic journey, articulated in a competency-based transcript. After four years, they have the clarity of purpose, agency, and durable skills needed for graduation and college admissions and success in a rapidly changing world.