Upper School

Doane Academy's mission sets it apart from most traditional college prep schools in that it emphasizes character and leadership development in every facet of the school climate and program. Even the course work, which certainly has college prep value in its own right is designed, promoted and perceived as an opportunity and a challenge where personal initiative, self discipline, self esteem, integrity and balance are every bit as important as the AP, SAT and GPA results.

The extra curricular offerings, which are extensive given the size of the school, are "extra" in that they are separate from the academic program, but they are an integral part of the strategy to develop character and leadership skills. The graduation requirements and the student/faculty culture encourage and inspire students to stretch and explore their full and unique potential. It is difficult to predict, after all, what, when, where and with whom a student will discover his or her fire.

The Academy has a well established track record of igniting individual fires and fanning the flames so that they engulf the full range of academic and extra curricular activity. The inspiration and inclination to run for president of the senior class could come as readily from success in AP biology, a Special Olympics bowling tournament, an award at the Teen Arts Festival, a difficult but respected decision by Honor Council, an unexpected first place finish in a novice crew boat or a mentoring relationship with an individual coach or teacher. Developing the full range of positive character and personality traits is at the crossroads for everything Doane Academy offers and requires.