At WDS, we’re all about embracing challenges, nurturing your creativity, and making meaningful connections. It’s a place to be yourself, explore your passions, and feel like you truly belong.
We blend academics with real-life experience. We want you to stretch your abilities by exploring and expressing yourself through the arts, media, music, athletics, nature, community connections, and play.
This practical learning style helps you understand and engage in each subject, making your high school journey both fun and educational.
As a student in our Upper School, you’ll grow, learn, and be part of a supportive community. When students graduate, they’re ready to speak up for themselves, work well with others, think critically, and make a positive impact in their world.
We offer personalized learning and support from caring teachers. You’re not just a student here; you’re part of a close-knit community where everyone supports each other every day.
We kick off the year with a time-honored tradition – the Upper School Trip. The entire high school goes on a retreat filled with outdoor games, arts and crafts, bonfires, hiking, cooking together, and more. It’s a time to build relationships and have fun together, bonds which will extend to the classroom and WDS campus beyond the trip.
Every week, you’ll participate in activities planned by advisory groups, teachers, and Student Council. It’s a mix of team-building, games, and fun, fostering a sense of togetherness across different grade levels.
You’ll also experience our Buddies Program, where you’ll be paired with younger peers for various activities, projects, and social time. It’s a chance to connect and build lasting relationships throughout your student journey.
Our Advisory Program boosts communication between students, parents, and teachers. In Advisory, you’ll connect with peers and advisors for recognition and belonging. We focus on your overall growth—emotionally, socially, and academically. Advisors team up with the Dean of Students, fellow advisors, and the School Counselor to create a safe space where you’re supported, can express yourself, and feel valued.
Our Upper School students get amazing opportunities. Student films get shown in New York City and our literary journal gets top awards. Plus our Advanced Ensemble performs with professional musicians locally.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved in student life outside the classroom. And, if you have an idea of something we should offer, you can propose it – your voice matters! At WDS, you can:
Our NYSAIS-accredited high school program offers a rigorous, well-rounded education grounded in practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for higher education, meaningful careers, and active citizenship.
Students also have access to an extensive selection of courses designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving – allowing them to shape a program that reflects their individual interests and aspirations.
We know every student is different so we offer lots of support. We have special periods for academic help and after-school programs for homework. We’re all about creating personal connections between students, teachers, and administrators, helping students thrive in and out of class.
In your last year at WDS, you’ll be chasing your passion as you complete your Senior Project. You’ll do your own research, team up with a mentor, make something good for the community, and share your ideas with the whole school. Past projects include building a wind turbine, teaching a world government class, creating music therapy songs, and more.
At WDS, our college process is designed to empower seniors for the journey ahead. Whether you’re considering college or exploring alternative paths after graduation, we provide comprehensive guidance throughout the application process.
Our goal is to empower you to take charge of your experience, offering support not only in applying to colleges but also in addressing aspects like campus life, safety, financial aid, graduation planning, and the transition from home.
Our students find their ideal fit, attending a range of universities, smaller colleges, or specialized institutions in areas like art, design, drama, film, and music. It’s all about ensuring you embark on the right path for your future.