General Information

The SYP curriculum is designed to provide students with a quality education in non-traditional settings. SYP students can complete a rigorous course of study that meets the entrance requirements of the country’s most prestigious colleges and universities while retaining the flexibility to pursue their personal or professional goals.

Curricula at SYP are devised to meet the needs of students at all academic levels. In addition to challenging grade level courses, honors level courses are available to students possessing above-level skills, and remedial courses are provided for students needing additional help with their basic skills. High expectations are maintained for all SYP students, regardless of ability level.

Click here to review a printable copy of the Student Handbook which includes a list of available courses

School Programs

The School for Young Performers is composed of a Lower School, housing our elementary and middle school programs, and an Upper School housing our high school program. The calendar is based on a forty week school year but our students may fulfill the attendance requirements in a manner compatible with their personal and professional obligations. When necessary, this may be accomplished by an accelerated or extended school year.

The SYP Elementary School

SYP offers a comprehensive first through fifth grade program. Students are presented with a challenging and up-to-date curriculum designed to provide them with the foundation needed for future academic success. A Kindergarten curriculum is available upon request.

The SYP Middle School

SYP offers a quality middle school education that prepares students for the rigors of high school. By combining new texts and teaching tools with traditional coursework, SYP provides its middle school students with a rich and well-rounded education. The SYP curriculum is unique in that the course schedule includes a wide range of subjects across all areas of math, language, social studies and science. Students learn U.S. history, world history, and geography as well as earth, physical and life sciences. The curriculum also includes the option for 8th grade students to take Algebra I and a foreign language for high school credit.

The SYP High School

The high school program was specifically designed with busy professional students in mind. Students have access to a quality college preparatory education with the added component of the flexibility their careers demand.

Course of Study

Language Arts
SYP English courses take a multi-faceted approach to the study of literature, incorporating practical applications of grammar and composition. Through expository writing assignments based on the core literature, students learn critical analysis, the organization of ideas, and the use of correct grammar and syntax. Each course provides instruction in research techniques, as well as SAT preparation and strategy, including vocabulary work.

Social Sciences
SYP Social Science courses focus on the study of culture and cultural diversity; structures of power, authority, and governance; the influence of art, science, and technology on society; global connections and interdependence; and ideals, principles, and practices of democracy. Students are required to incorporate research techniques and writing strategies introduced in corresponding English courses. Additionally, the United States History and World History courses prepare students to take the SYP Subject Exams required for graduation.

Sciences
The SYP science curriculum provides a solid foundation in the facts, concepts, and principles that constitute the structure of science. The understanding and use of the process of scientific inquiry is a goal for all students. Technology is incorporated into the science curriculum, enhancing students’ understanding of science. Many of SYP’s science courses have specially designed laboratory components to further enhance the understanding of scientific concepts.

Mathematics
The SYP Math curriculum provides students with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and understanding of mathematical principles and to increase their ability to apply these principles in practice. SYP high school math courses require that students have a graphing calculator.

Foreign Languages
SYP strongly encourages the study of foreign language as part of a well-rounded high school curriculum. Students may choose from a selection of modern and classical languages. Each foreign language course is a full-year, one-credit course that counts toward elective credits required for graduation. It is recommended that students taking a foreign language pursue it for a minimum of two years.

Health and Physical Education
All SYP students are required to take a health course in which they are educated about the benefits of healthy living. Upon approval from the overseeing Dean of Students, students may be given physical education credit for private athletic instruction and supervised dance rehearsal.

Fine Arts
The fine arts are an integral part of the SYP curriculum. The focus of the curriculum for all students is to develop an understanding and appreciation of all art forms. In addition to the fine arts classes offered by SYP, students may be given fine arts credit when private instruction, supervised rehearsal, and performances can be verified.

Electives
SYP offers elective courses that serve to help students achieve a well-rounded education.

Graduation Requirements

New York State graduation requirements mandate that students successfully complete a minimum of 22 academic credits in grades 9 through 12, with each credit consisting of at least 100 course hours. In addition to the minimum credit requirements, students are required to earn a minimum score on subject-specific exit exams and either the SAT or ACT. For a complete course listing,  click here  and scroll to pages 18 and 19 of our Student Handbook.