the guide to walnut hill | 2015–2016

Transcription

SECTION HEAD: DESC
THE GUIDE TO WALNUT HILL | 2015–2016
WWW.WALNUTHILLARTS.ORG | 12 HIGHLAND ST. | NATICK, MA 01760
WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
It is my sincere pleasure to welcome you to Walnut Hill School for the Arts! For those of you
who are returning students, you know that each academic year brings new challenges and
wonderful new opportunities. For those of you who are the newest members of our community,
we look forward to all you have to offer.
Walnut Hill is truly a very special place. It provides every student with challenges in the classroom and studio, as well as with the resources you need to meet those challenges and be your
very best self.
Our school motto, Non Nobis Solum (Not for ourselves alone) speaks to how much we value
community and commitment to one another, and to our work together. Each student can be certain that faculty, staff, and
administration will offer the highest level of support, advice, and counsel as you work to achieve your dreams. Be sure to
seek us out and find those members of our community who can assist you as your pursue your passion. Remember that
the learning process involves many possibilities for personal, artistic, and academic growth, some of which you have yet
to even imagine.
Walnut Hill is also a unique place. Our ability to combine academic and arts training for young artists is, and will continue
to be, central to our mission. In the weeks, months, and years ahead, we are confident that you will benefit from being part
of thisamazing community. As many alumni will share, their experiences at Walnut Hill have proven transformative and remain etched forever as part of their development as artists, and as individuals. Therefore, I urge you to remember that your
participation in our community relies on your commitment to its continued success, and more importantly, to one another.
The Guide to Walnut Hill is an important representation of the values and expectations we place on one another to participate as productive and successful members of our school. The policies, procedures, and advice contained herein operate
to create a school climate marked by a caring about, a civility toward, and a concern for all who inhabit our campus. We
ask that you read it carefully and understand completely the commitment and responsibilities you take on as you join us.
We are excited and enthusiastic about having you here, and look forward to sharing with you all this school year has to offer.
Sincerely yours,
Antonio Viva
Head of School
Walnut Hill School reserves the right to change the policies, fees, curricula, or any other matter in this publication without prior notice and to cancel programs and
courses. This publication is to be read neither as part of a contractual agreement nor as a guarantee of the classes, courses, or programs described herein.
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SECTION
TABLE
OFHEAD:
CONTENTS
DESC
please click on a heading below to go directly to the specified section
PART I: ACADEMICS & ARTS
6
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
& STRUCTURE
Diploma Requirements, Active Learning, Depth of Study, Ethical Dimension,
The Nexus Program, Depth of Understanding, Authentic Learning Experiences,
Humane Pace, Creating a Schedule, Selecting Courses, For Music Students,
Academic Course Load, Academic Course Structure, “X Block,”
Sample One-Day Schedules
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
11 HUMANITIES: ENGLISH AND HISTORY
Requirements in English, Requirements in History,
Courses in English (list & descriptions), Courses in History (list & descriptions), Courses in Humanities (list & descriptions)
14 MATH & SCIENCE
Requirements in Mathematics, Courses in Mathematics (list & descriptions)
Requirements in Science, Courses in Science (list & descriptions)
18 WORLD LANGUAGES
Requirements in French/Spanish, Requirements in English Language Learning,
Courses in French (list & descriptions), Courses in Spanish (list & descriptions), Courses in English Language Learning (list & descriptions)
ARTS PROGRAM
21
23
25
29
32
DANCE
WRITING, FILM & MEDIA ARTS
MUSIC
THEATER
VISUAL ART
Requirements in Dance, Courses in Dance (list & descriptions)
Requirements in Writing, Film & Media Arts,
Courses in Writing, Film & Media Arts
Requirements for Instrumental Concentration, Requirements for Piano Concentration, Requirements for Composition Concentration, Requirements for Voice Concentration, Courses in Music (list & descriptions)
Requirements for Theater, Courses in Theater (list & descriptions)
Requirements for Visual Art, Courses in Visual Art (list & descriptions)
PART II: PROGRAM POLICIES & RESOURCES
34 PROGRAM POLICIES
Grades, Changes to Course Schedules, Incomplete Grades,
Attendance and Grading Penalties, Academic Dishonesty, Academic Warning,
Program Probation, Administrative Withdrawal from a Course, Independent Study, Awarding Credit for Summer Coursework
36 PROGRAM HONORS
Bigelow Society, Conant Society, Graduating with Honors, Cum Laude Society
37 PERFORMING ARTS
PLACEMENT & CASTING
Placement, Casting
38 PROGRAM RESOURCES
Information Technology, The Keefe Library, The Morse Institute,
Practice Rooms and Studios, Advising Program, College and Conservatory Counseling
40 RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
Extra Help, The Skills Center, Study Hour, Fee-for-Service Tutoring
continued on page 4
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART III: ORIENTATION & CAMPUS LIFE
41 REGISTRATION & ORIENTATION
Registration Packets, Items to Bring, Local Shopping, Bedding
42 MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
TO START SCHOOL
Immunizations, Medical Insurance, Medication Policy
44 ORIENTATION
Student ID/Chip Cards, Email Accounts, New Student Buddies,
Driving to Campus Policy, Accommodations for Parents and Family Members
46 INTERNATIONAL TRANSITIONS
New International Student Orientation, Electronic Devices and U.S. Voltage,
Bank Account, Mobile Phone, I-20’s/Visas/Passports, Local Information,
School Vacations, Travel Days
48 TRANSPORTATION
Transportation Policies and Guidelines, Mall Shuttle Service, Public Transportation,
Traveling to/from Logan Airport, Signing Up for Vacation Travel,
Important Departure/Arrival Information
51 CAMPUS LIFE
Campus Center, Bookstore and “Charge Home,” Reception, Fax Machine, Mail,
Day Student Lockers, Dining Hall, Information Technology, Lost and Found, Banking, Fitness Center, On/Off-Campus Jobs, Religious Observance
53 STUDENT ACTIVITES
Student Clubs, Student Leadership (elected and appointed positions), Community Council (CC), House Council, Dorm Presidents and Vice Presidents
56 SCHOOL TRADITIONS
Leadership Retreat/Orientation, Mountain Day, Class Night, Senior Privileges,
Boar’s Head Procession/Holiday Dinner, Tree Day, Ring Day, Senior Trip Day,
Candlelight Service, Awards Night, Graduation Dance, Dress Code for Special Events
58 LEAVING CAMPUS
Permission to Leave Campus: Overview, Sign-Out Procedures, Blue Cards,
Dorm Parent On/Off-Duty Schedules, Leaving Campus by Foot,
Leaving Campus by Motorized Transportation, Leaving Campus for Overnights,
Weekend Overnight Permissions, Blanket Permissions, Leaving Campus for Vacations
61 DORM LIFE
Dorm Parents, Dorm Presidents, Student Room Changes, Dormitory Meetings,
Day Student Dorm Affiliation, Housekeeping and Maintenance, Laundry, Television,
Evening Schedule and “E-List,” (with curfew and check-in schedule), Dormitory Property, Bed Checks, Room Inspections, Room Searches, Room Keys, Summer Storage
PART IV: SCHOOL POLICIES & DISCIPLINE
65 SCHOOL POLICIES
Alcohol and Drugs Policy, Legal Drinking Age, Dress and Appearance,
Blue Card Violation Policy, Conduct Off Campus, Harassment Policy,
Bullying Policy/Plan of Action, AIDS Policy, Respect for School Property,
Sexual Activity, Smoking/Tobacco Use, Weapons, Acceptable Use of Technology Policy, Technology Vandalism, Cell Phone Requirement and Use Policy
72 ENROLLMENT POLICIES
Matriculating at the End of the Junior Year, Voluntary Withdrawal from the School,
continued on page 5
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
74 ATTENDANCE POLICIES
Administrative Withdrawal from the School,
Leaves of Absence (Familial, Administrative, Medical),
School Reenrollment Contract: Review and Issuance, Attendance Policy and Cycle,
Excused Absences, Medical Clearance, College/University Travel,
Unexcused Absences, Tardiness, Late Absence
77 RESIDENTIAL POLICIES
Noise, Practicing in Student Rooms, One Person Per Bed Policy, Parietals,
Common Room Parietals, Room Parietals, Same-Sex Parietals,
Day Student On-Campus Overnights, Interdorm Sleepovers,
Non-Walnut Hill Student Overnight Guests, Visitors to Campus, Pets, Check-ins,
Study Hour, Curfews, Appliances, Ceilings
80 DISCIPLINE
Philosophy of Discipline, Disciplinary Committee (DC),
Disciplinary Committee Process, Judiciary Board (JB),
Behaviors Subject to Discipline (list of examples), Suspension, Expulsion, Attendance Consequences, Grade Penalty, Other Consequences
84 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Health Services, Physical Therapy, Counseling Services, Advising Program
HMO Coverage and Insurance, Interventions, Suicide Attempts, Eating Disorders Policy
87 FIRE SAFETY &
CAMPUS SECURITY
Guidelines for Decorating Public Spaces on Campus,
Fire Drill General Guidelines and Policy, Fire Safety Inspections,
Fire Safety Regulations, Security on Campus, Theft,
Replacement of Personal Belongings
88 REFERENCES
School contact information by department
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SECTION
PART
I: EDUCATIONAL
HEAD: DESC PHILOSOPHY & STRUCTURE
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY & STRUCTURE
The Walnut Hill educational program is designed to serve young people who have demonstrated artistic talent and a commitment to
developing themselves as artists. While the study of the arts plays a particularly strong role in the values of the community, the program seeks to support students in developing skills and understanding in three domains: a specific arts discipline; academic study;
and social and personal development. In addition, we believe that all experiences are learning experiences, and therefore attention to
the way in which we live and work together has a strong influence on educational outcomes.
Diploma Requirements
A minimum of 16 academic credits is required for graduation from Walnut Hill, with a minimum of 4 academic credits to be completed each year at the School.
Academic requirements are as follows:
4 credits of English
3 credits of mathematics
2 credits of history, one of which must be United States History
2 credits of a laboratory science
2 credits of consecutive courses of the same modern world language
3 additional academic credits in any of the departments
Every academic course confers one credit; Music History and Music Theory are also considered academic courses and confer one
credit each.
International students for whom English is not their first language must fulfill all of the above requirements with the exception of the
modern world language requirement. Courses in English Language Learning count toward the English graduation requirement.
Students must meet all the requirements of their arts concentration every year they are enrolled, including senior year. Arts requirements are found under the appropriate arts major.
Students entering Walnut Hill from other secondary schools may have their prior credits applied toward Walnut Hill diploma
requirements upon admission to the School, pending approval of the Director of Academic Studies and the appropriate department.
After they have begun at Walnut Hill, students must complete their diploma requirements with courses taken at the School.
A Walnut Hill diploma is awarded upon completion of a four year high school program with at least the senior year being completed
at Walnut Hill. Students are admitted at specific grade levels based on their academic and artistic development prior to coming
to Walnut Hill. Because of the unique nature of the arts programs, enrolled students are not permitted to take semesters or years
abroad or participate in other alternative programs during the academic year.
A student who fails a course in the second semester of senior year may not be permitted to graduate.
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PART I: EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY & STRUCTURE
Active Learning
We believe in the power of authentic educational experiences. Students should be actively engaged in and have ownership of their
own learning process.
Depth of Study
We believe in the value of depth of study, a focus on the core, or enduring, understandings of each discipline, as opposed to a broad
but shallow exposure to content. Programmatic examples demonstrating this emphasis include the School’s policy of arts specialization and the Nexus academic program designed for extended class time, supporting in-depth exploration of course topics.
Ethical Dimension
We believe each student should develop a sense of the ethical dimensions of ideas and actions and that such development is the responsibility of every adult at the School. We believe that a healthy, open, and respectful adult community that serves as a role model
for students fosters such development and that students should also be active learners in their social and ethical development.
The Nexus Program
The Nexus program is an innovative approach to college-preparatory academics for young artists. The Nexus schedule and the
pedagogies it supports allow for depth of study and authentic learning experiences, as well as providing a humane pace to the day
for our busy students.
Depth of Understanding
Across the arts programs, students learn in classes designed to support adequate time to develop depth of understanding—a ballet
class or a theater rehearsal cannot be effective in a traditional 50-minute class period. Similarly, an arts student does not have to
master the entire content of the arts area, but focuses on one element at a time.
To support depth of understanding in traditional academic areas, we provide semester courses that carry one full academic credit.
Each course meets 70 minutes per day five days per week.
Authentic Learning Experiences
The arts are designed for learning experiences with real “stakes”—students face both public performances and internal juries in
the performing arts, while in visual art and writing, students’ work is on display for the public in the biannual Arts Show and in the
publication of The Blue Pencil.
In academics, the schedule supports in-depth, process learning, and hands-on, project-based work. Through hands-on science labs,
debates, immersive foreign language classes, class discussions, and small group work, students learn to engage with real problems
and real problem solving in each academic discipline.
Humane Pace
The Nexus schedule enables students to take only two to three academic courses in a semester, so their energy is split between
fewer obligations than in a traditional high school schedule. A sample semester schedule appears on the next page.
Creating a Schedule
At Walnut Hill, all students elect a single arts concentration while committing to a full-time, college-preparatory academic curriculum.
Coursework in the arts concentrations is demanding; most require work done outside of class time and the performing artists must
factor in time for rehearsals, lessons, and practice. For this reason, the customary load is four or five courses.
Walnut Hill’s schedule is optimized to accommodate students taking one class in each of the five major disciplines of math, science,
history, English, and world language. While the schedule can often accommodate students who wish to take more than one course in
a discipline, it cannot always do so. In scheduling courses the registrar will give priority to one course request in each discipline.
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2015
–2016 ACADEMIC
SCHEDULE
PART I: EDUCATIONAL
PHILOSOPHY
& STRUCTURE
MONDAY
8:00–9:10
TUESDAY
9:15–10:25
10:25–11:00
ACADEMIC X
11:00–12:10
C
12:10–1:20
D
A
B
9:15–10:25
9:15–10:25
B
10:25–11:00
10:25–11:00
ACADEMIC X
D
12:10
–12:50
LUNCH
11:00
–11:40
ACADEMIC X
11:00–12:10
LUNCH
11:40
–12:50
C
D
C
12:55–1:50
1:25–1:50
ASSEMBLY
1:50–2:05
TRANSITION TIME
2:05–6:10
ARTS
CLASSES
COMMUNITY
PROGRAMS
1:50–2:05
TRANSITION TIME
2:05–6:10
ARTS
CLASSES
8:00–9:10
11:00
–12:10
C
11:00
–11:40
ACADEMIC X
11:00–12:10
LUNCH
11:40
–12:50
LUNCH
D
C
12:10–1:20
D
12:55–1:50
1:25–1:50
ADVISORY
1:50–2:05
TRANSITION TIME
2:05–6:10
ARTS
CLASSES
ASSEMBLY
1:50–2:05
TRANSITION TIME
2:05–6:10
ARTS
CLASSES
7:45 Check-in
8:00–9:30
8:00–9:30
8:00–9:30
8:00–9:30
10:00 Check-in (E-list)
10:25–11:00
ACADEMIC X
7:45 Check-in
B
10:25–11:00
7:45 Check-in
STUDY HALL
9:15–10:25
A
7:45 Check-in
STUDY HALL
A
9:15–10:25
12:10
–12:50
12:10–1:20
FRIDAY
B
B
A
11:00
–12:10
THURSDAY
8:00–9:10
8:00–9:10
8:00–9:10
A
WEDNESDAY
STUDY HALL
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1:25–1:50
ARTS DEPT.
1:50–2:05
TRANSITION TIME
2:05–6:10
ARTS
CLASSES
STUDY HALL
11:00 Check-in
Selecting Courses
In the spring, students meet with their advisors to discuss their academic course of study for the coming year. Their proposed schedules are forwarded to their families so that parents can review and discuss their plans before being returned to the Registrar.
Arts courses are added to student schedules immediately before the opening of classes in the fall after auditions and placement
exams. Placement in arts courses, including Music Theory, occurs during Student Orientation in the fall.
For Music Students
For students in the music concentration, the customary load for 9th, 10th, and 11th graders is four or five academic courses plus
Music Theory. Music Theory carries academic credit, but does not conflict with other academic courses, as it meets during the time
scheduled for arts classes. (See Music student sample schedule.) Music Theory may be accepted as a student’s fourth academic
course by permission of the Director of Studies, the Director of Music, and the student’s advisor.
As seniors, music students may take Music Theory and Music History as two of their four yearly academic courses.
Academic Course Load
In the Nexus program students generally take two or three academic courses in each semester.
All academic courses are one semester in length and may be scheduled in either fall or spring semester. Exceptions to this are Introductory
French and Spanish which must be taken in the fall and followed by French or Spanish 1 in the spring.
While some students, after careful consideration and consultation with their advisors and teachers, choose to elect more than four
courses, no student may elect fewer than four.
Students may elect six academic classes in one school year by permission of the Director of Academic Studies and their advisor.
Generally, students must have an A average to be given permission.
Academic Course Structure
In the 9th grade year, students generally take English 9 and World History I (both required for 9th grade), French or Spanish 1 (depending on placement test), and a math class (usually Algebra I or Geometry, depending on placement test). After careful consideration and consultation with his or her advisor and the Director of Studies, a student may elect to add Biology to the academic course
load in the 9th grade year.
In the 10th grade year, students generally take English 10, French or Spanish II, a math class (Geometry or Algebra II), and Biology.
If a student has chosen to take Biology in the 9th grade, after careful consideration and successful completion of five courses in the
9th grade year, he or she may elect to take World History II, an additional math course, or Chemistry.
In the 11th grade year, students generally take English (required), a math class (Algebra II and/or Advanced Algebra II), United States
History, and Chemistry. A student who has finished through Advanced Algebra II in the 10th grade may advance to Precalculus and
may also advance to an upper-level French or Spanish course.
In the 12th grade year, students generally take English (required) and can then choose from a variety of electives—advanced
coursework in math, science, French, Spanish, English, History, of the Humanities.
“X Block”
“X block” is a 35-minute period each day reserved for meeting with teachers or advisors, study time, tutoring, practicing, or similar
activities. No classes are scheduled during “X block.”
SAMPLE ONE-DAY SCHEDULES
Ballet Student – 9th Grade
7:15 Breakfast – Dining Hall
8:00 World History
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9:30 English 9
10:20 “X block” – meet with English teacher for help regarding
an essay; stop by the Bookstore
11:05 French I
12:00 Lunch – Dining Hall
12:30 Research History homework in the Library
1:30 Dance Center – change for Ballet, begin warmup before
class
2:15 Ballet class begins
6:00 Dinner, visit with friends, finish French homework
7:00 Rehearsal for upcoming performance
8:45 Check-in at dormitory, snack from Dorm Parents
9:00 Quiet time – Study Hour
10:00 Shower, visit with friends
10:30 Quiet time – finish homework
Theater Student – 10th Grade
8:00 Algebra II
9:30 English 10
10:20 All-School Assembly in the Keiter Center
10:55 “X block” – Algebra II homework
12:35 French II
1:30 Stay in class to start French homework and ask teacher
questions
2:00 Movement class
3:00 Work with scene partner for homework in Theater II
4:40 Theater II
6:10 Dinner – Dining Hall
7:00 Tech Rehearsal – Keiter Center (bring reading assignment
for English to read during “down time”)
10:00 Check-in at dormitory, visit with friends
10:30 Quiet time – finish homework
Music Student – 11th Grade
8:00 Breakfast, finish homework in the Library
9:30 English 11
10:55 “X block” – meet with advisor
10:40 Calculus
1:30 Music Department meeting
2:00 Concert Choir
3:00 Ear Training
4:00 Practice viola
7:00 Practice viola
10:00 Check-in at dormitory, start homework (On “E-list” –
permission to check in at 10:00pm as he is preparing for
a competition)
11:00 Use planner to determine if Calculus homework can be
finished during free period in the morning
Visual Art Student – 11th Grade
8:00 English 11
9:30 Guitar lesson
10:20 “X block” – meeting of Judiciary Board
11:40 Chemistry
1:30 Meet with advisor
2:00 Drawing
5:30 Dinner – Dining Hall, visit with friends
6:30 Driver’s Education Class – Academic Center
7:30 Meet lab partner in Library to write up Chemistry lab report
8:45 Check-in at dormitory
9:00 Quiet time – finish English homework
10:00 Dorm meeting
10:30 Quiet time
Writing Student – 12th Grade
8:00 Spanish V
9:30 Weekly meeting with faculty for Writing Studio Senior
Tutorial on student-chosen subject – W. B. Yeats
10:20 All-School Assembly in the Keiter Center
10:55 “X block” – Process recent entries in the Writing Studio’s
national prose and verse competition for young writers
11:40 Physics
1:30 Meet with Spanish V teacher to review for upcoming test
2:00 Writing Studio Class – Playwriting
4:30 Walk downtown with friends
6:30 Finish Physics homework
7:30 Return to Writing Studio to finish processing competition
essays
8:30 Check-in at dormitory, study for Spanish V test
10:00 Visit with friends
10:30 Quiet time – finish studying for Spanish test
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PART I: ACADEMIC PROGRAM—HUMANITIES
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
HUMANITIES: ENGLISH AND HISTORY
How do English and history classes fit at a school for the arts? Perfectly. A good artist is a thinking artist: one who observes carefully,
thinks flexibly and creatively, and demonstrates persistence in the face of complexity andambiguity. These habits of mind are central
to both the arts and the humanities. Through the study of great literature in English and a range of historical periods and sources in
history, we train students to think critically and write powerfully.
Requirements in English
All students must complete four years of English for the Walnut Hill diploma. International students may apply work in English as a
Second Language (ESL) toward this four-year requirement.
Requirements in History
The Walnut Hill diploma requires two years of study in history, one of which must be United States History. Incoming 9th graders are
also required to take World History I. It is strongly recommended that students enroll in additional departmental offerings.
ENGLISH
All English classes are designed around a program of core skills and habits, including close reading, critical thinking, analytical
writing, and reflection. Throughout, students are encouraged to view writing as a process best learned through drafting, revising, and
discussing their work in conference with teachers. Courses promote a love of reading and a heightened appreciation of literature
through the study of various genres, including short story, novel, drama, and poetry. Through class discussion, courses also promote
clarity of expression as well as the willingness to share ideas openly.
COURSES IN ENGLISH
English 9 - How the Ancients Saw the World
In English 9, students practice looking patiently, thoroughly, and objectively at texts while working on the art of summary and of
description. Through texts such as Sophocles’ Antigone, Dante’s Inferno, and Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, students
explore the worldviews of several cultures far removed from ours in time and space.
English 10 - The Individual in Society
English 10 builds upon skills learned in English 9 and prepares students for more rigorous skills training in English 11. The focus of
English 10 is to strengthen students’ skills of observation and interpretation, making them more critical readers and thinkers, and
more persuasive writers and speakers. Through the study of classic and contemporary literature, students will be asked to question
the role and place of the individual in society.
Writing and Thinking
Through close investigations of a range of great literature and art, this class presents a focused course of training and practice in the skills
and habits of the department’s core skills curriculum including close reading, critical thinking, and analytical writing. The course aims
to guide students in the patient crafting of precise observations on which to build inferences and, ultimately, arguable claims for fresh,
persuasive analytical prose. Incoming juniors and seniors must take Writing and Thinking in their first year at Walnut Hill.
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English 11 - Writing and the Self
English 11 is designed for returning students in the 11th grade. In this course, students will gain more experience in applying the
skills that lead to accomplished reading and writing: patient observation, careful drawing of inferences from observations,
and thoughtful developments of claims about various forms of literature, image, and film. In particular, the course focuses on the
concept of the self as it is revealed in those art forms. The centerpiece of the course is a project that will require students to create
an in-depth, evocative personal essay.
Prerequisite: English 10 or American Literature and Culture.
English 12 - Art and Response
How do artists respond to works of art? Students in English 12 examine poetry, fiction, and drama as well as images and examples
of their own art in order to explore this question. Writing is central to the course, not only as a means of communicating conclusions about a text, but also as an aid to their discovery. Practicing skills they have obtained throughout their high school career, they
complete writing assignments that call on them to think both critically and creatively. The course finishes with students presenting a
detailed analysis of a work of art they created or performed.
Prerequisite: English 11, Writing and Thinking, or American Literature and Culture
Senior Seminar (grade 12)
Students in the Seminar engage in college-level literary discussion and analysis. Through their essays, collaborative projects, and
a variety of other “experiments,” students explore how language creates meanings and how to best articulate an understanding in
speech and writing.
The Seminar is open to seniors by application to the Humanities Department in the spring of junior year.
American Literature and Culture
This course draws on literary works from the rich diversity of the american cultural and ethnic landscape. These literary voices provide the context for rich lessons in multiculturalism and the american mosaic as well as for lessons in reading, writing and language.
This course is for international students who are building their English skills beyond the ESL curriculum.
Prerequisite: ESL Advanced or permission of the department
HISTORY
The study of the past and of human culture is essential to the creation of an educated mind. History courses are intended to give
students a rich understanding of the past, an empathy for other cultures and peoples, and a civic awareness of the catalysts for—
and consequences of—social, political, economic, and cultural change. Students explore and examine these ideas at the same time
that they develop and refine their reading, writing, synthetic, and analytical skills.
COURSES IN HISTORY
World History 1 - The Ancient, Classical, and Medieval Worlds
The ancient and classical worlds serve as our texts as students explore universal human questions of government, social organization, and religion. Students will learn skills and habits basic to the humanities through focused training in observation and argument,
close readings of images and primary texts, and the construction of structured written and verbal arguments.
This course is required of all 9th graders and open to 9th and 10th graders.
World History 2 - Foundations of the Modern World in Europe, Asia, and Africa
Continuing the work of World History 1, this course explores the cultures of Europe, Asia, and Africa from the end of the Middle Ages
to the 19th century, focusing on the forces of economy, government, religion, art, and individual rights. Our work includes developing
skills of observation, inference, and analysis of crucial works of art from these cultures, as well as close reading in Renaissance and
Enlightenment philosophy.
United States History - The Evolution of Culture and Identity in America (grade 11)
How have american culture and identity been shaped through the years? Is there such a thing as a true american identity? In United
States History, students will explore these questions and the many dimensions of the american experience from the colonial period
through the 20th century. Our studies of american identity will be richly informed by close readings of primary and secondary texts
and careful attention to select images and film.
Prerequisite: International students must have completed or placed out of ESL courses.
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20th-Century America Through Art & Media (grade 12)
How did Americans understand, shape, and participate in their society in the 20th century? Students in this course will examine
20th-century U.S. history through the lens of art and media, discovering how these reveal vital information about American culture
across different decades. Careful consideration will be given to the power of the arts and the media to both influence and reflect
upon social movements, politics, and the shaping of various American identities.
This course is open to seniors and juniors by permission of the department. This course does not fulfill the U.S. History requirement.
Globalism, Development, and the Middle East (grade 12)
This course explores several major trends in economics, culture, and power across the 20th century. Why have some countries become so rich while others have not? How has economic development influenced the West, the Middle East, and prospects for global
war and peace?
This course is open to seniors and to juniors by permission of the department.
HUMANITIES
Humanities courses explore the relationships and boundaries between art, literature, history, culture, and community. These courses
are electives and are open to seniors and to juniors with permission from the department. These courses confer academic credit but
do not satisfy diploma requirements in either English or history.
COURSES IN HUMANITIES
Art History (grade 12)
This course is designed to provide a foundation of understanding of art and art making post-Renaissance. Each week will focus on a
particular, iconic artist to explore the role of artist identity and to analyze artistic evolution. The course aims to explore a wide range
of media and aesthetics, and expose students to artists of diverse cultures, gender identities, and backgrounds. Works of art will
be examined in relation to their function, artistic expression, and cultural impact—all of which are tied to their social, political, and
technological contexts.
This course is open to seniors and to juniors by permission of the department.
Introduction to Creative Writing (grade 12)
In this course, the class will explore techniques for writing poetry and fiction. Creative assignments will help the students expand
their imagination, discover a process of invention, shape an original voice, and tackle the discipline of revision. Through workshops,
they will learn to respond critically to the work of others and apply feedback to their own work in a healthy and productive way.
Additional coursework will include assigned readings and short responses. A commitment to active and thoughtful participation is
essential for success in this course. No previous creative writing experience necessary!
Introduction to Film
This course introduces students to narrative filmmaking and film analysis. Students will engage with visual storytelling and film
history both as creators and as interpreters. Projects may include visual poems, mock television sequences, non-dialogue shorts and
written analysis of the medium.
Introduction to Psychology
Introduction to Psychology explores the scientific study of thought and behavior. This course is designed to facilitate meaningful
experiences for students to develop their own philosophy of psychology that connects to their day-to-day life. This course
approaches the history, current status, and promise of scientific and applied psychology through the five main branches of
psychology: neurological, developmental, cognitive, social, and clinical.
This course is open to seniors and to juniors with permission of the department.
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PART I: ACADEMIC PROGRAM—MATH & SCIENCE
MATH & SCIENCE
The Math & Science department at Walnut Hill offers hands-on laboratory science classes and technology-supported mathematics
courses, all taught by expert faculty who are committed to teaching student artists. Coursework empowers learners with tools to
creatively address the problems and situations they face today, while also preparing them to nimbly adjust to face issues they may
encounter in the future. A Walnut Hill science and math education puts the student in the driver seat, allowing them to take on
challenging problems and develop solutions.
Requirements in Math
All students are required to complete three credits of high school mathematics. The minimum sequence is Algebra 1, Geometry,
and Introductory Algebra 2. In addition, students are encouraged to take Advanced Algebra 2. Students who successfully complete
Advanced Algebra 2 may be recommended for Precalculus, and then Calculus. Electives in Statistics and Math Applications are
available for students once they have completed Introductory Algebra 2.
Requirements in Science
All students are required to take two years of a laboratory science (Biology, Chemistry or Accelerated Chemistry, Physics, Biology II, or
Chemistry II). It is highly recommended that students enroll in courses from at least two different disciplines. Students who have
already met the minimum requirement can elect to take Science and Social Issues their senior year.
MATHEMATICS
The Mathematics Department strives for its students to attain mastery in high school mathematics so that they may be fully
prepared for any post secondary curriculum that they may choose. Various approaches are utilized in an effort to provide
greater depth of comprehension. Handheld technology is consistently integrated into the curriculum, as it quickly and easily
enhances learning from a numeric and graphical standpoint. Traditional algebraic methods support the observations made during
investigations and explorations, and students learn to use both deductive and inductive reasoning processes to confirm their
findings. Students should also be able to discuss mathematics in their own words and be able to apply their knowledge to real-world
situations. Placement in a Walnut Hill math course is determined by level of math completed prior to acceptance to the School and a
math placement test, when necessary.
COURSES IN MATHEMATICS
Introductory Algebra 1
This course covers the foundations for algebra, which include a study of the real number system and its properties as well as the
operations on real numbers. Also included in this course are topics on solving equations and inequalities, working with functions, and
an introduction to linear functions. This course is offered only when enrollment is sufficient and is for those students with no experience in algebra.
Advanced Algebra 1
This course continues the Algebra 1 curriculum with topics that include solving systems of linear equations and inequalities, properties of exponents and exponential functions, polynomials and factoring, and quadratic equations and functions. When time permits,
the student will be introduced to radical and rational functions. Students registering for this course have previous algebra experience
but may require an additional term on these topics to enable them to move forward in their math studies.
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Geometry
This course covers the basic geometric concepts of reasoning and proof, along with the traditional topics, which include a study of
parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, and other relationships involving triangles. Students will also observe various
properties of quadrilaterals, polygons, and circles. Constructions, using both the tools of geometry and the latest technology, are
utilized to enhance understanding.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Introductory Algebra 2
This course covers the first half of a traditional Algebra 2 course, including a review of topics from Algebra 1 with greater depth and
more challenge. Additional topics include functions, equations, and their graphs, with emphasis on families of functions, transformations of functions, and operations on functions. Emphasis is on linear, quadratic, and polynomial functions.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Advanced Algebra 2
This course covers advanced topics in algebra that are necessary to fully complete an Algebra 2 course. Topics include the study of
rational and radical functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, conic sections, and sequences and series. When time permits,
students will have an introduction to probability and statistics.
Prerequisite: Introductory Algebra 2
Precalculus
This course provides foundational skills necessary for success in Calculus. It includes the study of polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions, all in greater depth. Students also do an in-depth study of trigonometry as part of the
curriculum. Applications of the mathematics are seen throughout the course, in areas of science, economics, and business. The
course concludes with an introduction to limits.
Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra 2
Calculus 1
This course includes an in-depth study of the limit as it pertains to functions, as well as the continuity theorems, and leads to the
study of differentiation. The derivative is presented from a four-point perspective and students see how the various differentiation
formulae are derived. These are then applied to polynomial, rational, trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, implicit, exponential, and
logarithmic functions in a effort to more deeply address their behavior. Application topics include extrema, related rates problems,
curve sketching, growth and decay applications, and functions from physics.
Prerequisite: Precalculus
Calculus 2
Calculus 2 focuses on antidifferentiation, beginning with the area under a curve and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Students
learn to compute the customary antiderivatives of functions and to apply antidifferentiation to their study of volumes of solids of
revolution, finding the average value of a function, and they will see many applications to real-world phenomena. L’Hopital’s Rule
and the evaluation of improper integrals will conclude the topics studied. This course is only offered when enrollment is sufficient.
Interested students should contact the faculty of the Math Department or the Director of Studies to inquire.
Prerequisite: Calculus 1
Statistics
This is an introductory course and topics include statistical concepts, elementary probability theory, normal distributions and their
applications, statistical inference, hypotheses testing, regression lines, and correlation. Handheld technology enhances the study of
these topics. This course is designed to show students the use of statistics in the world around them.
Math Applications
This course is designed for juniors and seniors who have completed the math requirements through Introductory Algebra 2 and
would like an additional course in math to solidify those topics that they have studied in their previous classes. The goal is to help
students gain mathematical literacy by showing them how mathematics can be applied to their lives in interesting, enjoyable, and
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meaningful ways. Topics include inductive and deductive reasoning and problem solving, set theory, number theory, topics in algebra
and geometry, personal finance applications, and topics in probability and statistics.
SCIENCE
Science, like art, involves process. Our courses emphasize both a hands-on and a minds-on approach to learning that applies to
more than just science. Students practice skills necessary for success: observing, problem solving, and working cooperatively.
They become more familiar with the natural world and aware of their role in it. Having a basic background in science also helps
students be more informed consumers of current environmental, medical, and scientific news. Scientific literacy is important in an
increasingly complex and technological world.
COURSES IN SCIENCE
Biology
Biology is an introductory lab science course exploring life and living systems. Although the course may be organized into discrete
units of study such as cell biology, genetics, evolution, biochemistry, ecology, anatomy and physiology, the overall goal of the course
is to impart upon students an appreciation for the techniques and methods scientists use to observe and describe the natural world.
Prerequisite for International students: English level must be at a minimum of Advanced ESL
Biology II: Anatomy
This elective expands the student’s knowledge and appreciation of the natural world through targeted focus on the human body.
Using the scientific method, lab activities and dissection, we cover the structure and function of major systems of the body. In
addition to a college-level approach to traditional topics, students research and discuss current medical topics, disease processes
and disorders.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry or permission of the Biology II instructor
Biology II: Forensic Science
Forensic science is an integrated science that incorporates a variety of disciplines, including physics, biology, and chemistry, to
analyze and solve problems. Investigative techniques into the major branches of forensic science are explored by studying historic
cases and the use of hands-on lab techniques. Fingerprint properties and identification, toxicology, genetics, anthropology,
serology, entomology, ballistics, the physics behind shoe prints and blood spatter, and psychology are some of the major forensic
subdisciplines explored in this class. All these topics are presented and discussed as they are applied in court, the ultimate goal of all
forensic scientists. The course culminates in an end-of-semester project in which the students use the scientific method to examine,
solve, and present their side of a case to a jury.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry or permission of the Biology II instructor
Chemistry
This science course offers students a basic introduction to the study of matter. Major topics covered include the classification of
matter, atomic structure, bonding, and chemical reactions. Chemistry students will perform approximately 30 laboratory experiments
during the semester. They will also have the opportunity to collect and analyze the data for at least one experiment they design and
implement.
Prerequisite: The completion of Algebra 1 with a grade of B or higher, or the concurrent enrollment in Introduction to Algebra 2, or the
completion of Introduction to Algebra 2
Accelerated Chemistry
Accelerated Chemistry moves at a faster pace and uses a more mathematical approach than the traditional Chemistry course
offered at Walnut Hill. Topics studied include matter and energy, atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and
solutions. Students in this course will complete over 30 laboratory experiments. They will also have the opportunity to design, run,
and collect and analyze the data for at least two open-ended experiments.
Prerequisite: The completion of Algebra 1 with a grade of B+ or higher. Ideally, students should have already completed Introduction
to Algebra 2 or have concurrent enrollment in Introduction to Algebra 2
Chemistry II
The goal of Chemistry II is to offer students the opportunity for further study in Chemistry, beyond what is typically covered in the
first-year course. Students in this class will explore topics from both a mathematical and a theoretical approach. Students will have
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multiple opportunities to perform experiments and will learn how to produce a comprehensive laboratory report.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Chemistry or Accelerated Chemistry and Advanced Algebra 2, or permission of the Science
Department
Physics
Students are introduced to fundamental physical concepts while facilitating development of reasoning skills required to apply these
concepts. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on “discovering” the laws of physics using a hands-on approach. Physics
will also introduce various forms of science writing, and enrolled students should feel comfortable composing a lab report. Course
materials may cover the basics of Newtonian mechanics, work, energy, electricity and magnetism, and wave phenomena (including
sound and light).
Prerequisite: The concurrent enrollment or prior completion of Introduction to Algebra 2 or permission of the instructor. It is
recommended that students are comfortable with numerical calculations.
Science and Social Issues (grade 12)
Students in Science and Social Issues will explore a wide range of topics such as the use of
resources, pollution, global warming, genetic engineering, and growth of the human population. A typical unit will begin with a basic
introduction of the current science behind the issue, followed by the reading of articles and class discussions. Students are expected
to participate daily during class. Each student will perform several experiments and have the opportunity to design and run his or her
own experiment.
Prerequisite: Completion of two years of lab science. Recommended for seniors.
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PART I: ACADEMIC PROGRAM—WORLD LANGUAGES
WORLD LANGUAGES
We believe that knowledge of another language and culture is essential in today’s global and multicultural society in order to become
conscientious citizens of the world. We teach language through full immersion—teaching entirely in the target language from the
first day of the introductory level through the highest-level literature courses. Technology in the classroom enhances the curriculum.
We value and reinforce respect for the “other”—whether another culture, community, or individual—and see it as essential for
effective communication and personal growth. Interwoven with language acquisition exercises are cultural lessons to help students
understand that language and culture are inseparable concepts.
Our teachers encourage active participation because we believe that all other language skills flow from the ability to speak. Students
must take risks and accept challenges that strengthen their capacity to communicate their thoughts, ideas, hopes, and needs. The
skills students develop will enable them to relate more effectively with one another and with the society they will enter after graduating from Walnut Hill.
World Language Requirement
All incoming 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students are required to complete 2 consecutive levels of language study in French or Spanish through the Walnut Hill language department.
Student who are citizens of a country in which English is not the native language and who are native speakers of that language, are
not required to meet Walnut Hill’s language requirement.
Incoming students transferring 2 or more credits of language instruction at the high school level have completed their language
requirement and may, but do not need to, take further language study at Walnut Hill.
Incoming 12th grade students who have not completed two credits of high school language study may apply for special consideration with the World Language Department, the Director of Studies, and the College Counseling Office.
Requirements in English Language Learning
All students who speak English as second language take an ELL placement test at the beginning of the school year. English placement will be determined by this test. Courses taken in ELL count toward Walnut Hill’s four-year English graduation requirement.
International students who place into ELL Intermediate may have a grade placement determined by their level of English proficiency.
Students placed in this class must by necessity spend a majority of their academic time studying English in order to prepare for
other coursework in the program and thus cannot have a grade placement higher than the 9th or 10th grade. Students may be able
to skip a level of ELL by a strong performance on the departmental placement test and recommendation of the department, the
Director of Studies, and the student’s advisor.
Students who demonstrate appropriate skills in English and place out of the ELL program will take either american Literature and
Culture or a regular grade-level English course as offered by the Humanities Department.
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COURSES IN FRENCH
Introduction to French
This introductory course is designed for students who have had little or no previous language experience. The students are
introduced to the French language through vocabulary drills, grammar, discussions, and writing. Texts include Bien Dit!, Fama en
Californie, Pauvre Anne, and short stories.
French I
This course continues the study of basic sentence structures, stressing the four communication skills of speaking, listening,
reading, and writing. The material is presented through simplified readings that highlight French culture. Texts may include Le vol de
la Joconde, Les yeux de Carmen, Un été pas comme les autres, poetry, and short stories.
French II
This course completes the study of the basics of the language with particular attention to grammar, vocabulary growth, conversation
and reading comprehension. Texts include Le petit prince, Le comte de Monte Cristo and Les histoires du petit Nicolas.
French III
In this elective course, the students will increase their proficiency through the study of selected literary texts and movies. In addition
to work that reinforces all of the basic grammatical elements of the language, the course engages students in work on ever more
advanced linguistic constructions. Texts include Au revoir les enfants, Astérix et Cléopâtre, and Tintin: Les bijoux de la Castafiore.
French IV
This elective course provides a review of French grammar. Grammatical structures and vocabulary acquisition are developed through
discussions, writing, and reading about literary works. Authors studied include Sartre, Anouilh, Saga, Ionesco, and others.
French V/VI
In “Le survol de littérature” the focus is on literature from the 17th century to the present, including the study of art through French
cinema. In the alternate course, “Les arts à travers le cinéma français”, the focus is on the various art majors studied at Walnut
Hill through French cinema. At this level, students come to understand and appreciate a variety of writing styles. They also develop
broader, deeper, and more analytical work. Throughout the course, students learn to employ their critical thinking skills through reading and writing about Francophone cultures.
COURSES IN SPANISH
Introduction to Spanish
This introductory course is designed for students who have had little or no previous language experience. The students are introduced to spoken and written Spanish through discussion and writing, vocabulary drills, and grammar. Texts include Avancemos
(textbook) and Realidad y Fantasía and Pobre Ana.
Spanish I
This course continues the study of basic sentence structures stressing the four communication skills of speaking, listening, reading,
and writing. The material is presented through simplified readings highlighting Spanish culture. Texts include Realidad y Fantasía, La
gran aventura de Alejandro, and Avancemos.
Spanish II
This course focuses on the more advanced study of verb tense with particular attention to grammar, vocabulary growth, conversation
and reading comprehension. Texts include Viviana y su gran aventura Mexicana, La Catrina, and assorted short stories
Spanish III
This elective course completes the study of the basics of the language and pushes to increase their proficiency through the study
of selected literary texts and movies. In addition to work that reinforces all of the basic grammatical elements of the language, the
course engages students in work on ever more advanced linguistic constructions. Texts include Lee Conmigo and Abriendo puertas.
Spanish IV
This elective course provides a review of Spanish grammar. Grammatical structures and vocabulary acquisition are developed
through discussions, writing, and reading about literary works. Texts include La casa de Bernarda Alba, Bodas de Sangre, and
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Maribel y la extraña familia.
Spanish V/VI
In this elective course, the focus is on Latin American literature from the 20th century. Authors studied include Cortázar, García
Márquez, and Borges. In the alternate course, “El arts politico”, students study conflict and culture through the lens of critical art.
Authors studied include Jiménez, Storni, Dario, Bécquer and Puig. At this level, students come to understand and appreciate a variety
of writing styles. They also develop broader, deeper, and more analytical work. Throughout the course, students learn to employ their
critical thinking skills through reading and writing about Spanish culture.
COURSES IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING
ELL Intermediate
This yearlong, intermediate-level course focuses on developing students’ communication skills in English. The course provides an
integrated language acquisition process by using English in both a purposeful and an exploratory manner. Students will develop
skills to understand the thoughts and experiences of others as well as skills for self-expression through discussions, and oral and
written presentations. Classroom tasks are designed to promote active language use through group work that requires collaboration
and participation. Course materials include writings, films, and topics that explore the social and cultural dynamic of the contemporary world. ELL Intermediate is taken in conjunction with ELL Introduction to Academic Skills. Students earn two English credits for
completing the course. Placement is determined by the ELL placement test.
English Skills (for Students in ELL Intermediate)
Taken in conjunction with ELL Intermediate, this semester-long course prepares students to participate more effectively in the
academic programs at Walnut Hill. The course is designed to introduce students to the language and vocabulary used in various
academic courses other than ELL and help them develop academic skills and study strategies used in these classes. The coursework
includes observation of different classes the students will take in the future; workshops with teachers from different disciplines; and
simulation of classroom experiences.
ELL Advanced
This yearlong, advanced-level course is designed to expand upon the skills and language proficiency acquired in previous studies
and to further develop skills for academic expression in oral and written presentations. The course challenges students to use the
language effectively in developing sensitivity and appreciation for the perspectives of others through exploration of their own experiences and analysis of writings and offerings of other people. Classroom tasks are designed to promote active use of the language
in small and large groups where students are expected to defend and challenge ideas meaningfully. A particular emphasis is on
academic writing and analysis, including the mechanics of sentence structure and paragraph formation. Students earn two English
credits for completing the course. Placement is determined by the ELL placement test.
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—DANCE
ARTS PROGRAM
DANCE
The dance curriculum is a preprofessional training program designed to develop strength and flexibility through a pure classical
technique. This technique ultimately gives a dancer the greatest freedom and facility to pursue his or her own personal expression,
and to adapt to the eclectic repertoires found in dance companies today. At each level, a schedule of classes has been created to develop the physical and technical strength that propel a student toward artistic growth. Appropriate performance opportunities further
provide the challenge necessary for a young dancer to develop confidence and stage presence.
Requirements in Dance
Students dance six days a week, and are placed in the appropriate program of classes according to their level of strength and
technical ability. All ballet students receive two to three daily ballet classes, which include a ballet technique class of up to two hours’
duration.
COURSES IN DANCE
Advanced II Ballet Technique
Advanced III Ballet Technique
Advanced IV Ballet Technique
Advanced I Pointe and Variations
Advanced II Pointe and Variations
Basic Partnering
Jazz
Men’s Virtuosity Technique
Modern Advanced I
Modern Advanced II
Pas de Deux
Pointe
Variations
Special Topics
Special Topics are courses that allow exploration of important areas of concern and interest to dancers.
Auditioning
Choreography
Cross-Training
Dance History
Health and Nutrition
Pedagogy
Pilates
Résumés
Therapeutic Exercise
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—DANCE
Open Division Dance
Ballet and modern dance courses are offered in the Open Division of our Community Dance Academy to anyone who is not a ballet
student. Classes are held in the late afternoon and early evening hours.
This class is a full-year commitment.
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—WRITING, FILM & MEDIA ARTS
WRITING, FILM & MEDIA ARTS
The Writing, Film & Media Arts Program at Walnut Hill offers student artists a nurturing environment in which to develop a n original
voiceand vision. Whether their primary creative interests lie in crafting poetry, developing screenplays, creating short films, or
engaging in other forms of filmmaking or writing, this program will unite themin their passion to produce compelling stories using
text and image.
Students will be exposed to an array of mediums designed to strengthen their craft and technique, choosing from classes such as
fiction, screenwriting, poetry, cinematography, and filmmaking. Opportunities in the program range from intensive studio courses to
one-on-one tutorials with faculty, rich collaboration with other students and departments, fieldwork, and master classes with notable
visiting artists. Through course selection, students can shape their experience to align with their specific artistic area of interest.
Graduates of the program will master both the creative habits and the technical skills necessary to succeed in their future pursuits
as artists and as individuals.
Our community is a special one, close and supportive, and collaborative particularly in the efforts necessary to operate and edit The
Blue Pencil Online, a literary magazine of exceptional high school writing worldwide, a signature achievement at Walnut Hill.
Requirements in Writing, Film & Media Arts
In the Studio week, a writing student takes a combination of genre studios—Poetry Studio, Fiction Studio, and Playwriting (or
Screenplay) Studio—as well as the Publishing Practicum, where students are engaged in evaluating, discussing, selecting, and
editing submissions to The Blue Pencil Online. Built into the schedule isample time to confer with the Studio instructors and to write,
both individually and in a group setting. Open Studio, an especially active “writing lab,” concludes the week and offers a short lesson
in grammar or technique followed by an extended session of prompted writing, a kind of fitness training for writers. In these courses
our writers earn the wisdom of the Latin proverb, “If there is no wind, row.” A writer’s discoveries are made in the course of writing,
and inspiration, per se, is frequently found midcourse.
Students work hard in the company of friends and with many resources in the Studio classrooms and in Greater Boston, and they
benefit from the confluence of the different genres, voices, processes, and practices. Each Studio writer is expected, over time,
to pursue a distinct artistic vision, the capstone exploration of which is the Senior Tutorial, an independent study with one of our
instructors. Topics of recent tutorials include: The “Confessionals” and Autobiography in Poetry; Plague Literature; Nabokov; Dramatic
Structure and Lyric Form; and Character and Credibility in the Aftermath: Apocalypse in Fiction.
COURSES IN WRITING, FILM & MEDIA ARTS
The list of sample courses below gives a sense of the breadth of options offered within the writing, film & media arts department.
Please note that not all courses are offered every semester and that new courses will be added or dropped based on collective student interest as our curriculum evolves and develops.
Animation
Cinematography
Darkroom Photography
Digital Photography
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—WRITING, FILM & MEDIA ARTS
Documentary Filmmaking
Editing & Sound
Fiction Studio
Independent Projects/Fieldwork
Narrative Filmmaking
Nonfiction
Non-Narrative Filmmaking
Playwriting
Poetry Studio
Publishing
Screenwriting
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—MUSIC
MUSIC
Walnut Hill’s affiliation with the New England Conservatory is an internationally acclaimed program drawing students from around
the world. This unique program brings students directly into the life of Boston’s professional music community, allowing them to
study in a conservatory environment, while receiving a standard of artistic and academic training unique at the secondary school
level.
Students concentrate in an orchestral instrument, piano, voice, guitar, or composition. Instrumental instruction is provided by the
faculty of the New England Conservatory and its Preparatory School, and by members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Instruction in voice and composition is generally given on campus by teachers drawn from the Greater Boston musical community and
renowned for their training of musicians of high school age. In addition to instruction in their major area, music students benefit from
their required participation in theory, solfège, choir, master classes, chamber music, and large ensemble. This program prepares its
graduates to continue their musical studies in both major conservatories and university departments.
Requirements for Instrumental Concentration
Private Lessons
Music Theory: Fundamentals of Music, Theory I, Theory II, Theory III
(Music Theory I, II, and III include Ear Training and Solfège)
Music History (for 12th grade students only)
Chamber Music
Orchestra or Large Ensemble
Choir
Performance Master Class (for 11th and 12th grade students)
Requirements for Piano Concentration
Private Lessons
Chamber Music
Piano Seminar
Choir
Requirements for Composition Concentration
Composition Lessons
Piano Lessons
Choir
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Composition Seminar
Requirements for Voice Concentration
Voice Lessons
Music History (for students in the 12th grade)
Choir
Youth Chorale (NEC)
Vocal Coaching
Piano Lessons
Voice Master Class
Diction Class
Acting and Movement Class
COURSES IN MUSIC
Major Lessons
Private instruction in the student’s major concentration (instrumental, voice, or composition) is the core of the music curriculum.
Each student receives a weekly lesson with his or her private teacher. Individual lessons are highly specialized; content and form
are based on the needs of the student. All students are expected to demonstrate appropriate technical and musical growth over the
course of the year. Required for all music students.
Piano Lessons for Singers and Composers
This course is for voice majors and composers and is designed to give students keyboard skills, which are an indispensable part of
the training of all young composers and vocalists. In weekly private 50-minute lessons, students concentrate on the development of
technique and musicianship through the study of scales, arpeggios, chords, simple harmonic progressions, and, most importantly,
repertoire appropriate to the level of each student. Required for all composers and singers.
Secondary Lessons
This course is for all Walnut Hill students who wish to take private music instruction in voice, composition, or other instruments in
addition to their major concentration. Lessons are held once a week and are individually tailored to the technical and musical needs
of each student. Instruction is available primarily in voice, piano, strings, and guitar; however, other instruments can be studied with
permission of the Director of Music. An extra fee is charged for this course. Open to all Walnut Hill students.
Performance Master Class
This two-hour course is a weekly forum for peer performance and evaluation. Under the guidance of a master music educator, students play for one another and explore different aspects of musical interpretation as well as larger issues of life, thereby learning to
become more expressive and articulate performers. Though participating students are of varying abilities and ages, a mature level of
musicianship is assumed. Required for 11th and 12th grade instrumentalists, singers, and composers; open to others by invitation.
Chamber Music
This is the small ensemble component of the applied music program and is required each semester for all instrumentalists. Performances of standard and contemporary chamber and piano duo repertoire are given each semester. Required for all instrumentalists.
Orchestra/Large Ensemble
Yearly participation in an orchestra is the large ensemble component of the applied music program. Large ensembles meet once
a week on Saturdays for three hours at New England Conservatory and give performances at Jordan Hall as well as other venues
around Boston. Every two years after graduation in June, the Youth Philharmonic, Youth Symphony and the Massachusetts Youth
Wind Ensemble tour in venues such as Asia, South America, Europe, and Israel. Participation in the large ensemble tours is required
for all Walnut Hill students who participate in orchestra/large ensemble. There is an additional fee for tour expenses. Required for all
orchestral instrumentalists.
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Voice Master Class
Voice Master Class meets once a week for one and a half hours each session. This class is an opportunity for voice students to sing
for one another, to study elements of vocal technique and performance (including diction and preparation of text), and to develop focus and expressive capabilities in audition and performance. Students will also hear and compare professional singers in recordings
and in live performances, and study a range of vocal repertoire outside their own vocal facility. Required for all voice students.
Acting and Movement for Singers
This course meets once a week for one and a half hours each session and introduces stage techniques, movement, acting, and
opera scenes study. Singers study and perform opera scenes appropriate to their vocal level in which they can learn about creating
and projecting a character. Learning about the opera, the composer, and the librettist and discussing the historical and social context
of the opera are part of the preparation for the yearly opera scenes performance. Required for all voice students.
Diction
Through the study of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), students in this course learn correct pronunciation in the four major
languages commonly used by singers—Italian, German, French, and English. More importantly, students gain a greater awareness
of the expressive uses of diction. The language studied rotates through the four languages based on the needs and abilities of the
students. Required for all voice students.
Vocal Coachings
Vocal coachings consist of a weekly half-hour, private session with a pianist who coaches the singer in diction, language, text, and
stylistic and musical interpretation. Also includes work in audition and recital preparation. Required for all voice students.
Concert Choir
Concert Choir performs music of all periods, from Renaissance to contemporary, with an emphasis on learning to express and
respond to different musical styles, and on developing sensitivity to the relationships between inner lines of music. Required for all
music majors; open to all students and faculty by audition.
Composition Seminar
This course meets weekly for one period. Through the listening and analysis of scores within a historical and compositional context,
students are exposed to some of the major influences in contemporary music. Class exercises, performances of student works,
and frequent visits by professional composers are designed to sharpen compositional appetite and skills. Required for composition
students; strongly encouraged for all other music majors with an interest in composition or contemporary music.
Fundamentals of Music
This course focuses on musical notation using reading exercises in sight-singing and at the keyboard, writing exercises in dictation,
and simple composition. It covers rudimentary theory (keys, scales, intervals, triads) and provides an introduction to the history of
Western music since AD 1600. Open to all. Other arts majors must obtain permission of their Arts Director and the Academic Dean.
Music Theory I
This course covers rudimentary theory (key signatures, scales, intervals, triads), first species counterpoint in two voices, and an
introduction to four-part harmony and analysis of secondary dominants and all diatonic chords. Taken with Ear Training and Solfège.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department
Music Theory II
The work of Music Theory II covers the study of first, second, third, and fourth species counterpoint in two voices; four-part diatonic
harmony; melodic and rhythmic figuration; harmonic analysis of all chromatic chords; and form in tonal music. Taken with Ear Training and Solfège. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in Theory I, or through the placement process.
Form and Analysis (one semester)
This semester-long course will be taken after successful completion of Theory 2. In this class, students will develop the skills
necessary to dissect and analyze works from the tonal repertoire. While previous music theory courses have focused on musical
language from the inside out, this course will focus on complete works from the outside in: we will study how pieces are constructed
in terms of their formal design, phrasing, and harmonic language. Class discussions will revolve around representative pieces from
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the Classical and Romantic periods, and weekly assignments will reinforce students’ analytical skills. As a culmination of their work,
students will end the term with a final analysis project on a piece of their own choosing, for their own instrument.
Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in Theory II. One semester.
Composition for Non-Majors
This course is designed to introduce instrumental and vocal majors to the art of musical expression through composing. Students
of varying levels of experience try their hand at composing for their peers. We study works that range widely in terms of style, but
have in common their basic instrumentation, such as solo violin, or piano trio, or voice and piano. Students then have the opportunity
to compose for these instruments or ensembles, and to have their works read in class. Many class meetings are run as workshops
for student works, where we address notation issues, melodic development, structure, proportions, and general effectiveness in
expressing the composers’ musical goals. We end the semester with a concert of student works.
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Music Theory I or higher.
Ear Training
This course meets once weekly and is taught in small student-led groups under the close supervision of the Head of Theory and
Composition. Class work consists of study and practice in melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic dictation; rhythmic drills; singing and
identifying intervals and chords; keyboard harmony; and score reading in clefs. Advanced levels focus on chromatic and atonal
music and the identification of chord clusters. Taken in conjunction with all levels of Theory except Fundamentals of Music.
Solfège
Classes in sight-singing meet once a week and are required for all students enrolled in Music Theory courses. Placement into one of
five levels is determined by a placement test given at the beginning of each year.
Music History
Music History is a survey of stylistic developments in Western music from AD 500 to the present. The course also includes the study
of non-Western styles. This course is designed as an overview to provide a foundation for conservatory and college-level history
courses. Required for all seniors. Students may be excused from this course with the permission of the Director of the Music Department.
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—THEATER
THEATER
The objective of the theater program is to develop skilled and disciplined theater students who possess a high standard of excellence and an appreciation of artistic integrity. The Theater Department strives to challenge students both artistically and intellectually
so that they may become critical and creative thinkers while developing professional skills and attitudes. The Theater Department’s
program includes Acting and Musical Theater, combining rigorous training of the mind, body, and voice, forming a solid technique
and approach to the craft. In addition to actor training, students also develop an understanding and appreciation of design and production, facilitating their growth as complete theater artists.
Requirements for Theater
All theater students take Acting Class and Movement for the Actor every year as well as three years of Musical Theater. In addition, they must take two years of Design and Production. Each theater major is also required to successfully complete assignments
on production crews each semester. Crew assignments are made after casting and include production work in lighting, costume,
scenery, rigging, props, running crew, and front-of-house operations. Failure to successfully complete production requirements will
jeopardize a student’s standing as a theater major.
In addition, theater students may take classes in Music Theory, Fundamentals of Music, Choir (all by permission of the Director of
Music and if these courses do not conflict with scheduling of theater curriculum), Piano, and Directing.
Body Alteration or Modification
Intentional body alteration or modification that visibly changes the student’s natural physical appearance and impedes the student
from working from actor’s neutral in class, rehearsal, or performance is not allowed. Examples include, but are not limited to, visible
tattoos and any body piercing (other than traditional ear piercing for women).
COURSES IN THEATER
Theater I: Acting Fundamentals
This course introduces students to various acting techniques and the elements of theater. Basic concepts are presented through the
use of exercises and improvisation. Students develop the skills and freedom necessary to react spontaneously and honestly moment
to moment.
Theater II: Acting Craft
This course combines the study of basic acting technique and analytical skills using improvisations and mask work. Scripted material is introduced for study and interpretation. (May be repeated for credit.)
Theater III: Scene Study
This course focuses on developing the fundamental skills used in rehearsing and performing modern realistic plays. Through an exploration of various acting techniques, students acquire the tools and skills necessary for honest characterization. (May be repeated
for credit.)
Theater IV: Advanced Acting Studies
Intended for advanced acting students, this course combines scene work and improvisation with creative movement and voice. RigPage 29
orous work in textual analysis and character development are the primary focus. Practical techniques in the selection, preparation,
and performance of audition pieces are also covered.
Prerequisites: Theater III and permission of the instructor
Musical Theater I
This course introduces students to the american musical theater repertoire concentrating on ensemble and solo singing, with an
emphasis on vocal technique, diction, and musicality. Movement and musical theater dance styles are also introduced. Students are
required to arrange for outside vocal coaching. Limited class size.
Prerequisite: Entry is by audition only.
Musical Theater II
This course is designed to train students in the skills of the actor/singer. A combination of acting, voice, and movement exercises is
used to help students explore and develop their total instrument. Students work on individual musical theater pieces, with instruction focusing on imaging, phrasing, articulation, and audition technique. Students are required to arrange for outside vocal coaching.
Limited class size.
Musical Theater III
This course continues the training begun in Musical Theater I and II. Students explore and analyze a variety of different musical
theater styles and focus primarily on scenes, duets, choreography, and song work. Students are required to arrange for outside vocal
coaching. Limited class size.
Prerequisite: Entry is by audition only. Note: Costs of private vocal coaching and accompaniment for college audition preparation
beyond that provided in class are additional.
Movement I
This course focuses on developing awareness and control over the actor’s body. Laban efforts, strengthening, and flexibility are
established in order to begin the student’s sense of mind/body connection. Jazz technique is introduced, as well as dance combinations in the realm of musical theater.
Movement II
This course builds off of skills acquired in Movement I and extends into more focus with Jazz technique. Turning, extension work,
and jumps are heavily integrated into class, and combinations are introduced more often. Project work begins with actors being
responsible for small portions of choreography, as well as retention and execution of combinations. Prerequisite: Entry is by audition
only
Movement III
This course is intended for actors who are serious about developing their dance skills, vocabulary, and assimilation of material into
their bodies. New techniques and partnering are introduced, and a higher level of execution is expected. Combinations are done
extremely often, and students are expected to synthesize the movement as their own. Project work of re-creation and adaptation of
neutral movement is required.
Movement IV
This course focuses on a high level of Jazz technique and audition work. Mock auditions and callbacks are held, along with ascertaining the skills needed to successfully audition in the future. More advanced partner work is done, the pace of class is significantly
higher than that of previous Movement classes, and it is expected that students have a strong foundation of technique, a thorough
skill set, and a strong mind/body connection.
Directing
This course examines the role of the director in today’s theater through the analysis of various directing styles and techniques. Students concentrate on play selection, concept determination and development, auditions, scene staging, and the collaborative process
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of working with actors and designers. Outside production work is required.
Prerequisites: Theater III and permission of the instructor
Design and Production I
This course is an introduction to the elements and technology of theatrical production. Topics include scenery construction, lighting,
rigging, sound, scene shop safety, stage management, and the collaborative process. Students also perform duties on Keiter Center
productions. Lab fee.
Design and Production II
This course introduces students to the basic elements of concept and design. Concentration is on communication of ideas through
rendering, drafting, and model making. This course also introduces students to the basic skills of lighting design and costume design. Areas explored include color theory, lighting, fabrics, and application to theater and dance. The class also explores the collaborative process between the designer, the director, and the entire artistic team. Lab fee.
Prerequisite: Design and Production I
Advanced Design
This course continues the work introduced in Design and Production with additional focus on design theory and practicality. Students
work on and present projects consisting of complete designs and working drawings of scenery, costumes, and lighting from selected
works of theater. The emphasis is on the implementation of concepts and ideas in physical production. Lab fee.
Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor
Independent Study in Design
An independent study may be arranged for the advanced designer who would like to concentrate on a specific skill and area of
expertise. Lab fee.
Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor
Design and Production Lab
Students will get hands-on training working in the Theater Shop on Keiter Center productions. They will assist in scenic construction,
painting, lighting, sound, rigging, and props. Students work in the costume shop and learn basic sewing skills necessary for work on
costumes for the theater. Students must put in two hours a week, or 25 hours a semester. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—VISUAL ART
VISUAL ART
Working under the guidance of professional artists/teachers, visual art students gain experience and skills in a range of mediums
and artistic processes. Visual art majors are working to build a well-balanced portfolio that will be acceptable for admission to the
nation’s top art colleges and universities. Within each studio course, students are introduced to a variety of techniques that they learn
to build upon. Over time, students learn to develop their own personal artistic language. As they continually acquire and improve
upon fundamental skills central to all visual art mediums—composition, form, light, color, line, shape, texture, etc.—students learn
to think and problem-solve creatively, as individual young artists.
Requirements for Visual Art
Visual art students take three or four studio art courses per semester. At the start of each semester, scheduling for each visual art
student is arranged on an individual basis between the student and the Art Department faculty. Students are required to take studio
classes in a broad range of mediums each year, as they work to build a well-balanced portfolio. Over their time at Walnut Hill, students may repeat studio classes as they develop their technique and individual artistic interests.
COURSES IN VISUAL ART
Drawing
With a strong emphasis on observational work, students explore basic problems of line, composition, and tonal/value relationships,
as well as issues of content and personal expression in their artwork.
Ceramics
The fundamentals of hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and kiln-firing techniques are covered in class. Students work on a
variety of projects ranging from simple vessels to more elaborate functional objects and sculptural projects.
Painting
Students in this class learn the basics of the oil painting medium. They explore the unique challenges of value and color relationship
as used to create the illusion of space. Over time, students move on to more advanced exploration of painting concepts in terms of
both technique and personal expression.
Painting: Murals and Public Art
Beginning with a historical overview of public art, students work together in small groups of three to five students to design and
create actual large-scale paintings in an existing public space. Good communication and sharing of responsibilities is crucial to the
successful completion of each group’s project. Students will be guided through the unique challenges and rewards of working on a
very large scale in a very public process.
Sculpture
This class is designed to familiarize students with three-dimensional problem-solving in terms of both content and materials. Students work with a variety of materials ranging from plaster and wood to found objects.
Photography
Students learn use of the camera, film development, darkroom techniques, and photo composition. Students work on a variety of
projects ranging from photograms and pinhole photography to portraiture, documentary, and alternative printing processes.
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PART I: ARTS PROGRAM—VISUAL ART
Books as Art
In this course, the students make art in book form, designing and constructing their own books. Ideas of sequence, narrative, and
development of text and image inform class discussions. Students work on unifying the design of the page and the book as a whole
to create a sculptural object.
Printmaking
This course introduces students to various methods such as linocut, woodcut, copperplate etching, monotype, and collograph. Each
process creates distinctive marks, which transform drawings in exciting and unexpected ways. Students use the printing press to
create thematic variations and limited edition prints.
New Media I and II
Students in this course are introduced to the foundations of digital image making and print media; they learn to use the computer
as another tool in the art-making process. Working with a variety of software programs, students start by exploring the possibilities
of drawing, scanning, digital photography, and printing in the development of still-imagery. As they advance to working with digital
video cameras, students also learn to use the computer in the editing and production of short films, both stop-motion animation and
live action.
Illustration and Narrative
Working with a variety of two-dimensional media, students develop and describe personal themes and stories through drawing and
painting.
Senior Studio
Working within the framework of assignments based on specific concepts and/or limited to specific materials, students in this class
are learning to work in an independent manner as mature artists. Every few weeks, seniors are given a new technique to work
with or a theme to which they must respond. The assignments can be interpreted in many different ways. The students must plan,
problem-solve, and generate individual solutions to each new assignment. Through individual and group critique sessions, they are
then asked to explain their work and to participate in discussion about their choices and their process.
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PART II: PROGRAM POLICIES
PROGRAM POLICIES
Grades
At Walnut Hill, grades are issued on a semester basis (January and June) for all courses. The year-end grade for yearlong courses is
obtained by averaging term grades.
The grading system is as follows:
A 94–100
A- 90–93
B+ 87–89
B 84–86
B- 80–83
C+ 77–79
C 74–76
C- 70–73
D+ 67–69
D 64–66
D- 60–63
F Below 60
Changes to Course Schedules
After the school year begins, any course or section changes must go through the office of the Director of Academic Studies. The
student must first consult with his or her teacher and advisor.
Students may add courses only during the first two weeks of each semester. They may withdraw from courses up through four
weeks into each semester. Courses that are dropped within the first four weeks of the year are not included on the Walnut Hill transcript; those dropped after that time appear on the transcript with a notation of “WD.” Once two-thirds of the semester has passed,
courses can no longer be dropped.
Incomplete Grades
A student who, for extenuating circumstances, has not been able to complete course requirements at the end of a semester may
be granted an incomplete. Incompletes are granted at the discretion of the teacher, the appropriate department, and the Director of
Academic Studies. Generally, fall semester incompletes must be resolved by the first Friday after the term ends; spring semester
incompletes must be resolved within a month of the end of the year. Specific deadlines are established by the Director of Academic
Studies; a student requesting an incomplete should speak with the Director of Academic Studies.
When a student receives an incomplete in a course, the report card will show a temporary notation of “I” alongside the course until
all outstanding work is completed and graded. At that point, the “I” will be replaced by the grade earned in the course. Students who
do not complete work for incompletes by the deadline specified will receive an “F” for all missing assignments, which are then averaged into the final grade.
Students may also receive permanent incompletes in their arts courses (indicated by the notation “INC”). A permanent incomplete
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PART II: PROGRAM POLICIES
indicates that the student was enrolled in the course but was unable to complete the work during the term. Permanent incompletes
are granted at the discretion of the Director of Academic Studies in consultation with the appropriate Arts Department Director.
Attendance and Grading
Consistent attendance is critical for successful delivery of the program. Student who accrue significant absences (excused or
unexcused) will be asked to complete an attendance contract with the Attendance Office to ensure clear communication about the
school’s expectations and possible consequences of future absences. Teachers will do their best to help students make up for any
work missed due to excused absences. However, any absences can have a deliterious effect on student learning and therefor on
student grades. In addition, persistent unexcused absences and/or failure to abide by an attendance contract may result in grade
penalties. (See under PART IV: Enrollment Policies below for a detailed explanation of the Attendance system)
Academic Dishonesty
In order to be eligible for credit, all work submitted by students at Walnut Hill must be independent and original, with appropriate and
consistent citation when applicable. All instances of academic dishonesty are reported to the Director of Academic Studies and may
be presented to the Administrative Council of the School for further action, up to and including dismissal from the School.
Academic Warning
Faculty is in regular communication with the Director of Academic Studies and Director of Academic Support regarding concerns
of poor academic performance. Consequences for poor academic performance can include mandated weekly study hall during the
academic day and loss of Evening School List (“E-list”) privileges and may culminate in program probation.
Program Probation
A student whose performance, attendance, or attitude is persistently poor may, upon recommendation of the faculty, be refused an
invitation to return for the following year. The recommendations of the faculty are brought to the Administrative Council of the School
for consideration. A student who fails a course for the year is generally required to make up that course during the summer following
the school year. The student should discuss the matter with the Director of Academic Studies.
Administrative Withdrawal from a Course
If a student has failed to comply with basic course requirements such as consistent class attendance, she is at risk for being administratively withdrawn from the course. If administratively withdrawn, the student will not receive a grade and will not receive credit.
Independent Study
An upper-level student who has completed all advanced electives in a particular department and who wishes to pursue further study
may, with approval from the department and the sponsorship of a faculty member, be permitted to elect Independent Study. Proposals for Independent Study must be submitted by the student to the Director of Studies Office in the semester prior to the year in
which the student will undertake the project. Proposals must be developed in consultation with an advisor and must include written
support from a continuing member of the faculty. Independent Study confers one academic credit. Partial credit is not permitted. This
addition to a student’s program may require supplemental funding.
Transfer and Summer Course Credits for Enrolled Students
Once students are enrolled at Walnut Hill, our expectation is that they will fulfill their graduation requirements here. In general we
do not accept credit from programs outside of our supervision. Unusual circumstances may arise for particular students that require
taking courses outside of Walnut Hill and transferring their credits. If credit from an outside program is to be accepted by the school,
specific permission must be granted in advance by the Registrar and the Director of Studies. For summer study, all pre-approvals
must be complete by May 31st. Any online or summer work must be complete before the start of classes in the fall and transcripts
must be received by the registrar by September 30th.
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PART II: PROGRAM HONORS
PROGRAM HONORS
The Bigelow and Conant Societies
Named in honor of Walnut Hill’s founders, Florence Bigelow and Charlotte Conant, the Bigelow and Conant Societies recognize students at the end of each year for consistent artistic and academic excellence. Students with at least one B or B+ but no final grades
lower than B become members of the Bigelow Society. Students whose final grades for all courses are A’s or A-’s become members
of the Conant Society.
Graduating with Honors
Seniors who are qualified members of the Bigelow Society for the last two years of school graduate with Honors. Seniors who are
qualified members of the Conant Society for the last two years of school graduate with High Honors.
Cum Laude Society
The Cum Laude Society, a national honor society formed in 1907 and modeled on Phi Beta Kappa, encourages and recognizes
learning and sound scholarship in secondary schools. Chapters of the Cum Laude Society are established only in the most selective schools. Walnut Hill School may choose to elect as members those students in the junior and senior classes who demonstrate
outstanding academic achievement and who have maintained an honors record throughout their high school career. Election to the
Cum Laude Society is one of the highest honors Walnut Hill bestows on its students.
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PART II: PERFORMING ARTS PLACEMENT & CASTING
PERFORMING ARTS PLACEMENT AND CASTING
Placement
All arts placements occur during Student Orientation in the fall. Placement choices are made to ensure the appropriate level of challenge for all students.
Theater classes are generally organized by grade, with some exceptions. All students are reauditioned every fall to ensure proper class placement.
Ballet classes are organized by level of challenge and thus are mixed grades.
Music Theory classes are organized by level of challenge; a placement test is administered in the fall. Students also audition for orchestra placement; students are placed by ability. The Director of Music works with every incoming student to assign him/her to a studio teacher early in the fall.
Casting
It is the day-to-day studio work that is most important in making Walnut Hill’s program effective. Casting in productions and performances is based on student performance and audition and is not guaranteed. For more information, contact the relevant Arts Department Director or the Assistant Head of School.
We expand the opportunities for casting by mounting many productions and performances.
All ballet students are involved with performances of The Nutcracker and the Spring Repertory.
All theater students are involved in productions throughout the year, either on stage or on a crew.
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PART II: PROGRAM RESOURCES
PROGRAM RESOURCES
Information Technology
Walnut Hill currently maintains computers on campus that are available for student use. The School Library and the Computer Lab
in the Academic and Technology Center provide both PCs and Macintosh computers. The Creative Writing, Visual Art, and Theater
Departments also maintain computers for uses specific to their programs.
Many departments expect assignments to be word-processed, and so students may also prefer to maintain personal computers in
order to work at their own convenience. It is recommended that students with their own computers also have their own printers.
The Morse Institute Library
Founded in 1862, The Morse Institute Library in downtown Natick is now among the largest and most vibrant libraries in the
Metrowest area. All Walnut Hill students receive a library card from the Morse and have full access to its spaces, collections, and
services.
Practice Rooms and Studios
Practice rooms and studios are available for student use. Students are expected to respect these areas and keep them clean.
Soundproof practice rooms are available for use from 7:45am to 10:00pm. The annex rooms, Amelia Hall and Boswell Recital Hall,
may not be used before 10:00am or after 8:45pm.
Advising Program
(See Student Support Services section.)
College and Conservatory Counseling
Students at Walnut Hill School for the Arts routinely gain admission to the most prestigious and selective colleges and conservatories
in the world. At Walnut Hill, we view the college counseling process as one that is rich in opportunities for students to learn about
themselves, to develop critical life skills, and to discover environments in which they will thrive academically, artistically, and personally. The college process is a ‘match to be made, not a prize to be won’, and we encourage students to shift their focus from finding
the ‘best’ college’ to uncovering the ‘best college for me’.
Students are assigned a College Counselor in January of their junior year. Individual meetings are scheduled about four times in
junior fall and every three weeks in senior fall. Parents and students will receive an email recap from their College Counselor after
each individual meeting. The College Counseling Office is committed to maintaining open lines of communications, and we encourage students and parents to be in touch with any questions.
The College Counseling Office, in conjunction with the Skills Center, advises students about preparation for SAT, ACT, and TOEFL exams. All Walnut Hill students are required to take the SAT or ACT, and students whose first language is not English are also required
to take the TOEFL. In the fall of junior year, students whose first language is not English will take a practice TOEFL test, and will be
placed into mandatory tutoring sessions based upon those results. We also administer the PSAT in October of junior year and the
PLAN in April of sophomore year.
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PART II: PROGRAM RESOURCES
Regarding curricular choices, the College Counseling Office suggests that students undertake the most demanding curriculum that
they can handle, beginning in grade 9. Colleges are becoming more and more stringent with their curricular requirements, so it is
wise for students to talk with their advisors about their class selections.
In the spring of grade 11, the college process gears up, and students are expected to do a significant amount of work gradually over
time, which will lessen the stress level going into senior year. Students should research colleges and conservatories, visit campuses,
attend college fairs, and discuss their educational goals with their Counselor and parents. Students also participate in essay writing
workshops in April of junior year, and are expected to work on filling out applications, finalizing essays, developing their college lists,
and studying for standardized tests throughout the summer.
It is important to note that colleges ask applicants and counselors to disclose major disciplinary issues as a part of the application process. Students are expected to respond truthfully if they have appeared in front of the Disciplinary Committee (DC), and the
school is required to disclose DC infractions. The school also reserves the right to inform colleges about disciplinary matters that
occur in senior year, after applications have been submitted. Students should remember that disciplinary matters can significantly
impact admissions decisions, both initially and retroactively.
Walnut Hill is a member in good standing of the National Association of College Admissions Counseling and the Boston Independent
School College Counseling Association.
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PART II: RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
Walnut Hill students typically carry four or five academic courses (two or three each semester) along with their arts classes, and may
expect to have evening and weekend commitments for studio work, rehearsal, or required performances. In order to help students
plan ahead and get all of their work completed on time and to the best of their ability, the School has several supports and structures
in place.
Extra Help
All teachers are routinely available outside of class to assist students who would like to review key concepts or material in greater
depth. Teachers and students all have common free time for one 35-minute period (“X block”) during each academic day expressly
for the purpose of extra help. Appointments with teachers should be made directly by the student. Meeting with their teachers during
“X block” times is usually the first and best way for students to get support.
The Skills Center
Whether or not students come to Walnut Hill with educational testing, all students are able to enhance their academic skills through
the use of strategy-based supports either in a one-on-one setting or in small groups at the Skills Center. Students receive assistance
with time management, executive functioning issues, memory retention, essay writing, work completion, and other academic issues
that may create barriers to learning.
Study Hour
Study Hour is supervised in the dormitories from 8:00pm to 9:30pm, Sunday through Thursday. During this time, students’ doors
must be open, headphones must be used to listen to music, and television viewing is not allowed. Students who are granted “E-list”
status (SEE EVENING SCHEDULE AND “E-LIST”) are not required to be in the dorm until 10:00pm on school nights because of other
obligations; on nights when they do not have other obligations, it is suggested (but not required) that they return to the dormitory for
Study Hour.
Fee-for-Service Tutoring
The Director of Academic Support coordinates professional, fee-for-service tutoring for students who require additional support in
meeting course requirements. Professional tutors are available to support academic coursework as well as to strengthen general
reading, writing, and study skills. Fee-for-service tutoring supports the existing school curriculum. It cannot be used to substitute for
existing school courses, nor is it possible to receive academic credit for tutoring.
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PART III: REGISTRATION & ORIENTATION
REGISTRATION & ORIENTATION
Registration Packets
Once enrolled, students and their parents must complete the online Registration Form. Parents will be emailed the link. All
registration information, including medical paperwork, must be completed by the stated deadlines. Families completing forms after
the deadline will be charged a $100 Late Registration Fee.
Items to Bring
All students are required to have a cell phone with voicemail and texting capabilities and report their phone number to the Student Life Office
during Student Orientation. If students do not arrive with a cell phone, they are expected to purchase one before the end of Orientation.
Massachusetts has four distinctive seasons: Summer (mid-June to mid-September); Fall (mid-September to mid-December); Winter (midDecember through most of March and sometimes into April); and Spring (April to mid-June). The weather during the warmer months can be
cold, windy, and wet, so please include rain jackets, long-sleeved tops, snow and rain boots, and long pants in your wardrobe.
Students should bring:
Towels, extra-long twin sheets, blankets, pillows, hangers, an alarm clock (with battery backup), laundry supplies including
he detergent and a hamper or laundry bag, a book bag, a desk lamp, a small waste can, shoes, coats, clothing for a range of
temperatures, personal care items, a power strip with surge protector, and personal plate, mug, bowl, and silverware. Walnut Hill
currently maintains computers on campus that are available for student use but we strongly recommend that students bring a
personal laptop. Many departments expect assignments to be word-processed, and so students may also prefer to maintain personal
computers in order to work at their own convenience. Students may also bring their own printers, but this is not required, as printers
and copiers are available for student use. High-speed wireless internet access is campus wide and free of charge.
The following items are NOT allowed in student rooms:
Medication of any kind (including over-the-counter), halogen lamps of any size, electric blankets, power strips without surge protection and circuit breaker, televisions, microwaves, any type of cooking or heating appliance (such as heating coils, hot pots, space
heaters, coffeepots, and popcorn poppers), irons, incense, candles, lighters, pets, empty alcohol beverage containers, lava lamps,
holiday or other stringed lights. Heated rollers, hair straighteners, heating pads, and curling irons must be given to the Dorm Parents
upon moving into the dormitory. These will be kept in a locked box and will be available for student use when requested directly from
the Dorm Parents. Electric hair dryers may be used but must be unplugged when not in use. If a student requires a small refrigerator
for medical reasons, she or he must have permission from the School Nurse before arriving on campus.
Local Shopping
There is no shortage of places to shop around Natick. During Student Orientation there will be a shopping trip to a local department
store where students can purchase extra things they need for their dorm. During the school year, on the weekends, there are scheduled shuttles to the mall.
Bedding
While the dorm rooms are heated appropriately, warm comforters/blankets are necessary during the winter months. You will need
pillow/s, bed sheets (XL twin size), and blankets (comforters, duvet). You can also purchase a bedding set through the School (approximately $100). Simply fill out the form in the enrollment package and return it to us.
Page 41
PART III: MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS TO START SCHOOL
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS TO START SCHOOL
Immunizations
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires that students complete all immunizations before beginning attendance at
Walnut Hill. Any student who does not have complete immunization records will not be allowed to register or move into a dormitory.
The list of required immunizations includes:
DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus) Grades 9–11, 4 doese
4 Polio doses
Grades 9-11: 2 MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) doses; Grade 12: 2 doese Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella
3 Hepatitis B doses (or newer series of 2 shots)
Grades 9-11: 2 Varicella (Chicken Pox) dose; Grade 12: 1 dose
1 Meningitis vaccine for ALL NEW DAY and BOARDING STUDENTS
Immunizations must be recorded on the Physical Examination Form, in English, and must be verified by a health care provider’s
signature, address, and telephone number on the back of that form. Any student who arrives on campus without having completed
physical and immunization forms, unless arrangements have been made in advance to complete these requirements, will be
charged $50 in addition to regular costs, to cover the administrative costs of arranging this.
International Students Also Need:
Tuberculin Test
Walnut Hill follows the guidelines published by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Health, which require TB
tests for all individuals not born in the United States. These students need to arrive on campus with the results of a Mantoux Skin
Test for Tuberculosis. This test is not a routine test. Please ask for this test from your primary care provider. If this test is necessary, it
is the parents’ responsibility to have this test completed within six months of the student’s enrollment.
TB tests are only required of students from endemic countries. If you have questions about whether or not you need this test, please
contact the Health Center.
Medical Insurance
Students are required to have current medical insurance when enrolling at Walnut Hill. Coverage must meet standards set by
Massachusetts state law and may not be limited to catastrophic care. International families must purchase medical insurance
through the School. Domestic students may elect this coverage/ The school insurance is for 10 months, not 12. Parents of students
with HMP Coverage should obtain clearance for students to see Dr. Heather Diskin, our School Doctor. The Health Center must be
notified of any changes in health insurance coverage, including carrier, policy, claims process, or other related information. Questions
about this should be directed to the Director of Health Services.
Medication Policy
Walnut Hill requires that all student medications be kept at Health Services. Students are prohibited from possessing or taking
any prescription medication or over-the-counter medication without the direct supervision of the School Nurse. During Registration, please bring all prescription and over-the-counter medications to Health Services. Do not pack medications in suitcases. They
must be available at the time of registration. The School will provide most over-the-counter medicine, such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Please don’t bring these medicines to school. If a student takes prescription medication, their health care provider will need to
complete the Medication Consent Form in the enrollment packet. The School uses Andrews Pharmacy for prescription refills. Walnut
Hill School for the Arts will provide insurance information at the start of the year; any changes in insurance must be communicated
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PART III: MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS TO START SCHOOL
directly by parents by calling the pharmacy at 781.235.1001. The School Nurse is responsible for overseeing the refilling of prescriptions and will make arrangements for students who need their prescriptions refilled. Parents should send medications to the School
Nurse. In keeping with Massachusetts state regulations, some medications must be dispensed daily at the Health Center. Failure to
abide by this policy will result in disciplinary action. When ill, students must go to Health Services or see their on-duty Dorm Parent
rather than use over-the-counter medication in their rooms.
Page 43
PART III: ORIENTATION
ORIENTATION
Student ID/Cards
Identification cards are issued to both students and adults. Students are expected to carry IDs with them at all times on campus, as
they are needed to charge home, use fitness facilities, and gain access to several campus buildings.
ID cards are reissued to students each year at Walnut Hill. Loss of ID should be reported immediately to the Student Services Office
so a new one can be issued and the old one deactivated. Students will be billed for replacements. Replacement of ID cards and chips
will be done at a charge of $15 each.
Email Accounts
Students are issued a Walnut Hill email account that they are expected to use for School-related work and communication. We
recommend that students bring a laptop. Students are expected to check their email account at least once per day. Not checking
email is not a valid excuse for missing class assignments or other important requirements.
Course Books
Booklists for all courses will be posted to the school website in the week prior to the start of each semester. Students and families
may order books online directly from these lists or use any other bookseller they choose. Teachers, advisors, and staff will be available to assist with book purchases if necessary. Students will be expected to have their books no earlier than the second week of
classes.
New Student Buddies
The current Walnut Hill School students are eager to assist the new students both before they get here and when they arrive. Once
they are enrolled, new students will be connected with Buddies via email and social networking media. To get acclimated to campus
life, new students will continue to work with their Buddies after the school year begins.
Driving to Campus Policy
Boarding students may not have any motorized vehicles either on campus or in the vicinity of the School. A student who brings an
automobile or other motorized vehicle on campus, without prior authorization, risks having it towed as well as further disciplinary
action. Students may not use cars during the day, for any reason, without administrative approval. Any day student driving a car
to school must register that car with the School and receive a parking tag during Student Orientation. The parking tag must be
displayed in the car window. All cars must be parked in either the main school lot or the lot off Bacon Street whenever they are on
campus. Students may not park in Stowe Circle, dormitory areas, theater or faculty parking lots, Highland fire-lane, or handicapped
spots.
When senior privileges are granted in the late fall, seniors may be allowed to use their cars during the day. Cars that are parked
illegally on campus will be ticketed and/or towed. Repeat offenders will lose the privilege of driving their car to school. For the safety
of all students, day students are not allowed to drive boarding students in their cars while on or off campus without appropriate
driving permission from parents and a Walnut Hill adult.
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PART III: ORIENTATION
Accommodations for Parents and Family Members
Parents and visitors tend to stay in hotels near the School and in Boston. Here are a few local hotels that are frequently used by current parents and family members:
Hampton Inn (shuttle service to the School)
www.hamptoninn.com/hi/boston-natick
Crowne Plaza Hotel (shuttle service to the School)
http://bos-natick.crowneplaza.com
Marriott Hotel
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosnf-courtyard-boston-natick
Sheraton Hotel
http://www.starwoodhotels.com (search for Sheraton, Framingham)
Page 45
PART III: INTERNATIONAL TRANSITIONS
INTERNATIONAL TRANSITIONS
Walnut Hill School for the Arts is committed to providing a supportive environment for international students. There are a variety of
programs and support systems designed to promote a healthy adjustment to school life.
The Dean of Students and International Program Coordinator oversee the effort at Walnut Hill School for the Arts to provide a
welcoming and supportive learning environment for international students. They work with international and domestic students,
faculty, and various departments to cultivate a school climate that promotes positive learning experiences for our international
students.
For students who are learning English as a Second Language, the World Language Department provides ESL courses which are
taken in lieu of English courses offered by the Humanities Department. The credits earned through ESL courses will count as English
credit and toward the graduation requirement.
Electronic Devices and U.S. Voltage
The U.S. uses 110 voltage. Computers and phones are generally dual voltage, so you will just need to bring the adaptors. We do not
allow transformers, so students may not bring devices that are not designed for 110 voltage use. The use of non-110 voltage devices
can be a fire hazard and can also damage the devices.
Bank Account
Students are advised to have a U.S.-based bank account. The School recommends that students arrive a few days early and open an
account at Citizens Bank in downtown Natick (walking distance from the School). Students who are under 17 must be accompanied
by a parent/guardian who needs to provide copies of two different forms of government-issued photo ID as well as a copy of the
student’s passport and I-20 form.
Mobile Phone
Students are required to have a local (U.S. number) mobile phone. Most of our students usually arrange to open a mobile phone
account through family friends, relatives, or guardians who live in the U.S. You should purchase a phone the first few days you are in
the area: recommended providers are Verizon and AT&T.
Other options: Some students bring their own phone and purchase SIM cards on a prepaid plan. Some students sign up for contracts,
but for international students the phone companies may require $300 to $500 as a security deposit, which is returned at the end of
the contract.
I-20’s/Visas/Passports
I-20’s must be signed twice a year by the International Program Coordinator: once before Winter Break, and once before Summer
Break (regardless of whether a student is traveling during the break or plans to stay in the U.S.). If a student loses an I-20 or
passport, she or he should see the International Program Coordinator. We strongly recommend that students leave their passports
and I-20 with the International Program Coordinator for safe-keeping in a locked, fire-proof box. Students are responsible for picking
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PART III: INTERNATIONAL TRANSITIONS
up and returning their documents proir to and following travel. If the student does not leave their documents with the International
Program Coordinator, her or she is responsible for the safekeeping of their passport and other documents. Each student will have a
drawer in his or her dorm room that can be locked with a padlock. Students are expected to maintain a valid Visa and if it is within 6
months of expiration, they must alert the International Program Coordinator.
School Vacations
The school buildings, including dormitories, are closed for Thanksgiving Break (one week in November), Winter Break (two weeks in
December), and Spring Break (two weeks in March). During the breaks, boarding students arrange to either go back home or visit
relatives and friends. While the school does not arrange boarding during school breaks, we can provide information and suggestions
for other options. This does not mean we recommend a particular service or accommodation and is for information only.
Travel Days
The students are expected to travel to and from the School on the designated travel days to ensure they do not miss classes and to
readjust to the time differences for students traveling across several time zones. The travel days are noted on the school calendar.
Page 47
PART III: TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION
Local Transportation Services
The following listings are provided as a convenience to the Walnut Hill School community and are not recommendations or
endorsements of products and/or services. If you require additional information we ask that you please contact the vendor(s) directly.
If you have any suggestions, questions or comments about this page, please contact the Student Services office.
JFK Transportation | 508-653-4500
Go Boston Shuttle | 888-437-4379
Knights Airport Limousine Service | 800-822-5456
Carey Car Service | 800-525-3767
Framingham Logan Express Bus Service | Continuous $12 shuttle service to and from the Logan Airport to the Natick Mall area
where you can obtain taxi service directly to the school for only $10 - $15 dollars. (This is the most convenient and cost effective
method for airport travel on non-major vacation travel.)
MBTA | Information on the commuter rail and subway system of the Boston and Metro-west Boston area can be found at mbta.com.
We are on the Framingham/Worcester commuter rail line.
Uber Service | uber.com
Public Transportation
Students may obtain a student “Charlie” card from the Student Services Office to use for trips on the “T” and Commuter Rail.
Students are encouraged to learn about public transportation services in the area. Walnut Hill School’s campus is just three blocks
from the Natick MBTA Station, a stop on the Framingham/Worcester Line of the Commuter Rail. Visit www.mbta.com for schedules.
Group trips are arranged during orientation week to assist in learning how to ride the commuter rail.
Taxi Service
Students may order taxi services for personal travel if they have parent/guardian permissions to seek and use these services. To
use taxi service during school days, students must also seek permission from the student services office before making their
arrangements. The office does not make bookings for personal travel. Students and/or parents must make their own arrangements
and pay for their services directly with the vendors.
Student Activities, Mall and Target Shuttle Service
The Walnut Hill School provides free scheduled weekend shuttle services to several locations in the Natick and Framingham areas.
There are weekend activities posted on the Campus Center Activities Board that are offered to all members of the community.
Students are able to sign up for movie theaters, Natick Mall, Target, Whole Foods, concerts, local sporting events and trips to ice
skating, museums and apple orchards to name a few. The student must sign up and follow the time frames posted to maintain the
free transportation services.
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Airport Transportation
Booking travel for Major School Breaks:
Please carefully review the school calendar and plan well in advance for vacation travel plans. Due to importance of academic
and artistic commitments, students are not excused from classes, exams or rehearsals to accommodate travel arrangements. An
approximate travel time of two and a half to three hours to the local airport (for domestic and international flights) should be included
in your planning. Please do not book flights that require the student to leave the school before 6:00 am or return later than 9:00 pm.
On the second travel day of major breaks, students are required to return to campus by 7:45 pm.
Unaccompanied Minor Policy:
Please check your airlines unaccompanied minor policy before booking flights to or from Walnut Hill School for the Arts. If your
airline requires unaccompanied minors to be escorted to and/or from the boarding gates, you must contact the Student Services
Office to arrange for this service before booking your ticket. These arrangements must be made three weeks in advance of flights.
Cost for this service is $100 per-way and will be billed to the student’s account upon receipt of final flight arrangements.
Departing for Major Breaks:
Walnut Hill School provides Airport Transportation Shuttles to the Boston Logan International Airport for the major school breaks only.
Cost for this service is $20 per student and will be billed to the student account. Please schedule flights accordingly if you would
like to use this service.
Thanksgiving, Winter, Spring and Summer Break Departure service will be provided at the following times:
Thanksgiving Break
Winter Break
Spring Break
Summer Break
Friday Nov 20
Saturday Nov 21
Sunday Nov 22
Friday Dec 18
Saturday Dec 19
Sunday Dec 20
Friday Mar 4
Saturday Mar 5
Sunday Mar 6
Saturday June 4
Sunday June 5
5:00pm 6:00am
6:00am
5:00pm 6:00am
6:00am
5:00pm 6:00am
6:00am
1:00pm
6:00am
—
10:00am
10:00am
—
2:00pm
—
—
10:00am
10:00am
—
2:00pm
—
—
10:00am
10:00am
—
2:00pm
—
4:00pm 10:00am
—
—
To obtain transportation to or from the airport during non-designated times students and families may make their own private
arrangements or refer to the list of vendors listed under “Local Transportation Services” above.
Returning from Major School Breaks:
Walnut Hill School provides a free shuttle from the Framingham Logan Express Bus station on both return travel days of the
Thanksgiving, Winter and Spring Breaks.
When you land follow the signs directly to Baggage Claim / Ground Transportation. Get your luggage then proceed out the Ground
Transportation exit doors.
Locate the BRIGHT ORANGE signs that say LOGAN EXPRESS.
Wait for the bus that is RED and says Framingham Logan Express. ($12 payable at station) (ask for student discount and the price
may be free!)
The Walnut Hill Shuttle will run from the Logan Express stop to the school campus continuously from 9am–7pm on both return travel
days.
Page 49
Check in to the dormitories is at 7:45pm on the second travel day and all boarding students are expected to be back on campus
and check in to their dorms by that time. Travel arrangements must be made to enable return by this time. Parents are strongly
encouraged to arrange flights during peak vacation periods months in advance.
Students may use taxi and private transportation directly from the airport. Costs for those services should be paid at the time of
service and are not arranged by the school.
Medical Transportation
Booking travel for medical appointments:
If a student requires emergent or urgent care, they will be transported to the appropriate medical facility accompanied by an adult
staff member. For routine appointments, such as well visits, dental and non-urgent appointments, the Health Center staff can
arrange transportation services for the student through the Student Services Office. Charges for transportation to/from medical
appointments are added to the student account.
General Transportation Guidelines
Daily travel policies:
• There is no charge for music students to travel to and from Joint Ensemble commitments at NEC and to travel to ONE lesson per
week at their teacher’s studio.
• Transportation to any additional lessons, repairs, non-required concert attendance or personal and medical travel is not paid by the
school and will incur a charge on the student account.
• Travel request forms are located on the Transportation Bulletin Board in the Campus Center.
• Requests for travel are due by noon the day before travel. (requests for Saturday, Sunday and Monday are due on the Friday before
that travel.)
• All travel departs from Stowe Circle.
• Students should always be on time for ordered transportation.
• No food or drink is allowed to be consumed in school ordered transportation.
• Seat belts are to be worn at all times by Walnut Hill Students riding in school ordered transportation.
Helpful transportation “quick guide”:
Transportation Provided by Walnut Hill School:
Lessons: music majors only (1 per week)
Medical appointments: billed to student account
Concerts required by Major
School Sponsored Field Trips
Major Break Airport Departures
Personal Travel NOT provided or booked by Walnut Hill School:
Additional lessons beyond one per week.
Airport trips not during major breaks. (personal trips)
Non-Programmatic Concerts
Non-Programmatic trips
Dining out/off campus.
($20 pp billed to student account) (Nov/Dec/Mar/June)
Major Break Logan Express Returns
Travel to/from Train Stations. (personal trips)
(Nov/Dec/Mar) (free from 9am–7pm)
Mall and Target Weekend Shuttles
Student Activity Sponsored Event Trips
Senior College Audition travel to/from Logan Express Social engagements.
Personal Travel to mall, target, etc not during shuttle times.
Summer program audition trips.
Programmatic Rehearsals at NEC (music majors)
SAT/ACT/TOEFL transportation: billed to student account
Travel to/from Bus Stations. (personal trips)
Off campus tutoring.
($10 pp billed to student account) Please note: 5:30am is the earliest time a shuttle to the logan express is available from the school. For earlier flights, you must make your own arrangements with
private taxi service.)
(note: you make seek assistance from the student services office to do a sign up to
gather larger groups of students to share costs.)
Page 50
PART III: CAMPUS LIFE
CAMPUS LIFE
Campus Center
The Campus Center is a facility for all students. Day students may wait here when they are dropped off or before being picked up,
and lockers for their use are located in the building. There are often special events happening in the building as well. The Campus
Center opens at 6:00am and is open until 10:00pm unless there is need for extended evening hours. Students who will be dropped
off before 6:00am should speak to a member of Student Services.
School Store and “Charge Home”
The School Store is located in the Campus Center and sells a variety of items, including school supplies, stationery, Walnut Hill
clothing, toiletries, and snacks. Students may pay for their items with cash/credit or by charging purchases to their student account
(“charge home”). Parents who wish to limit the amount a student can charge at the Bookstore should complete the necessary forms
and notify the Business Office.
Reception
Walnut Hill provides telephone access to its main switchboard through a receptionist at 508.653.4312, Monday–Friday, 8:00am–
4:00pm.
Emergency calls placed when the receptionist is not available should be directed to the Administrator-on-Call (AOC) at 774.286.9513.
Fax Machine
Students may send and receive faxes at the School’s fax machine in the Reception Area. The school fax number is 508-653-9593.
The machine is on at all times to receive messages.
Mail
Mail is delivered to students’ individual locked mailboxes in the Campus Center Monday through Friday. Students are required to
check their mailboxes daily for school notices as well as delivered mail. Student packages may be picked up at the mailroom. All
student mail should be addressed:
[Student’s Name]
Walnut Hill School for the Arts
12 Highland Street
Natick, MA 01760
The mailroom is open from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday. Please note: mail and packages are not accessible when the
mailroom is closed. Please plan accordingly, especially when sending things by overnight or priority mail. Students are able to send outgoing mail from the School, Monday through Friday. Stamps are sold in the Bookstore. Students may obtain assistance at the mailroom if they
need to send a letter or package via courier (Federal Express, United Parcel Service, DHL) or United States Express Mail.
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PART III: CAMPUS LIFE
Day Student Lockers
Individual lockers and combination locks are provided in the Campus Center for day students. Day students are responsible for the
condition of both locker and lock and will be billed as necessary for repairs and replacement.
Dining Hall
Students are required to eat meals in the Dining Hall and may discuss special concerns or dietary restrictions with the Kitchen
Manager. Suggestions may be shared with the Student Life Office. Day students are welcome to eat all meals in the Dining Hall while
they are on campus for classes, rehearsals, or school functions.
The Dining Hall is a shared community space and each member of the community shares responsibility for keeping it clean.
Everyone must clear his or her table, and carry all dishes to the dish room. Meals are served cafeteria style. In addition to the main
dish, vegetarian and gluten free options are available at every meal.
Permission is required in order to take food out of the Dining Hall. If scheduling conflicts do not allow for a meal, a bag lunch or
dinner is available when approved by Student Services. The School cannot provide dishes or cutlery for students to use outside the
Dining Hall. Students are required to bring their own bowls, mugs, cups, forks, and spoons for use in their dormitories. The common
room in each dormitory has a refrigerator and microwave. Students are expected to be appropriately dressed in the Dining Hall.
Health and safety regulations require that a shirt and shoes be worn. Meal times are announced and posted at the start of the year
as well as whenever changes are made. Meal hours and menus are posted in the Dining Hall and on the website.
Information Technology
Walnut Hill currently maintains computers on campus that are available for student use but we recommend that students bring a
personal laptop. Many departments expect assignments to be word-processed, and so students may also prefer to maintain personal
computers in order to work at their own convenience. It is strongly recommended that students with their own computers also have
their own printers. High-speed wireless Internet access is campus wide and free of charge.
Lost and Found
The campus Lost and Found is located at the school switchboard. A student who has lost an item should look there first. Members of
the School community who find unclaimed items should take them to the school switchboard.
Fitness Center
The Fitness Center is located in the Academic and Technology Center (ATC) and is currently open to all students, faculty, and staff.
The students can work directly with the Fitness Coordinator to develop and initiate programs specific to their fitness/health goals.
Hours are posted each semester and updates are posted as needed. There are a variety of classes, including muscle-specific
training, core training, circuit and strength training, and yoga. Outdoor seasonal classes are available, including: soccer, ultimate
frisbee, basketball, and running/conditioning. The Fitness Center currently has six pieces of cardio equipment, free weights, stability
equipment, and a complete Nautilus trainer. Students must fulfill a fitness requirement by exercising a minimum of 30 minutes three
times a week.
On/Off-Campus Jobs
All off-campus jobs must be approved by the Dean of Students prior to the start of work and may not conflict with school obligations.
Day students seeking a work permit can only obtain the permit from the public school they would have attended in their home
district. A small number of on-campus jobs are available in the Library, Bookstore, and Fitness Center. Information and applications
for these jobs are available on campus each spring or fall.
Religious Observance
Boarding students may attend regular religious services on the weekends. The School will help to arrange transportation as needed.
Several houses of worship are within walking distance of campus. Students requesting to be excused from classes for religious
holidays need to see Student Services in advance. The absences must be approved, also in advance, by a parent. Students who have
dietary restrictions or other needs for religious reasons should speak to Dining Hall Staff or Student Services.
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PART III: STUDENT ACTIVITIES
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
The Student Services Office works closely with the Director of Living and Learning Communities to organize interesting activities
both on and off campus. Sponsored events include dances, film screenings, trips to museums and galleries, concerts, performances,
and other cultural offerings taking place in the Greater Boston area. All students and faculty are invited to make suggestions for
weekend entertainment and outings. Students remaining on campus during the weekend are encouraged to participate. The
weekend activities are intended for the enjoyment of all Walnut Hill students, and day students are encouraged to fully participate.
Occasionally, activities may require advance purchase of tickets. In such cases, students must remember to sign up before the
deadline. Once a student signs up and therefore reserves a ticket, he or she is responsible for paying for the ticket that has been
requested. If the student is unable to attend, it is that student’s responsibility to find someone to replace him or her and to notify
the Student Services Office. If a replacement is not found, the student will be billed for the ticket(s) ordered. Most student activities
are sponsored by a Walnut Hill faculty or staff member. There are times, however, when smaller groups may attend an activity—a
ballet, theater production, movie, etc.—without an adult chaperone. Please speak to a member of the Student Life Office if you have
questions about this.
Student Clubs and Organizations
The Student Services Office works closely with club heads to organize and provide thoughtful programming for the School. Each club
has a faculty advisor and provides a way for students to explore outside interests.
A Sample of Clubs:
AIDS Action
AIDS Action at Walnut Hill is a club to raise awareness about and fight the disease of HIV/AIDS. As members we work closely with
the AIDS Action Committee of Boston and commit to the AIDS Walk each year. In the past two years, we have raised over $75,000
to give to HIV/AIDS research. Members are encouraged to buff up on their facts about how the disease is contracted, how it can be
prevented, and what we can all do as a community to help. With numerous fundraisers, World Aids Day, and keeping our school and
greater community informed, we have a lot to do!
Community Service Association
The Community Service Association is a student-run initiative to promote giving back to the Greater Boston community with a
particular focus on the arts and our majors. Previous activities have included the Walk for Hunger, the Kinderharvest magazine drive
to promote literacy at shelters, the Walk for Breast Cancer, and collaboration withamnesty International at Walnut Hill School. If you
want to help the world, come and lend a hand!
Environmental Club
The main goal of the Environmental Club for this year is to build an appreciation and respect for nature and the world around us.
This will include a series of nature walks around Natick and the Greater Boston area. Recycling is a large focus, and we will also be
engaging in interdorm competitions to conserve energy. Overall if you love being outside and saving the planet, you might just click
with the Environmental Club.
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GSA (Gender Sexuality Alliance)
GSA is an organization founded around gay rights. It is involved in the politics of the country via writing letters in support of gay
rights initiatives. Additionally, GSA provides support for gay students and a place for discussionamong the members of the Walnut Hill
community.
SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions)
SADD is a club focused on educating students about the dangers of habits such as drinking, smoking, eating disorders, and selfharm. Our goal is to provide resources and information to the students on how to resist these temptations and also give help and
support if they are struggling with one. We work with the health and fitness centers at Walnut Hill to help promote our cause, and will
work on inviting acting troupes who will discuss dangers of destructive decisions with the students of our school. We hope to make
SADD a fun and comforting experience for students at Walnut Hill and support them as they go through their high school experience.
Additional clubs include: AV club, Yearbook, Ceramics, 3D Printing, Academic Olympiad, International Aid & Relief, Factory Collective,
JSU, Newspaper, Radio, S.W.E.A.T., Fashion, Harry Potter, Hiking, Robotics, Photography, Anime, and Animal Rights.
Student Leadership
Walnut Hill offers a variety of activities and organizations in which students may become involved. Student participation in the life
of the School is vital. We encourage students to take advantage of these leadership opportunities, explore ways to take part in and
contribute to the community, and ultimately discover possibilities for their own personal growth. All leadership students are expected
to act as role models in our community. As such, violations of school rules may result in the loss of leadership positions.
Elected Leadership Positions
These positions include but are not limited to:
Community Council President
Community Council Vice President
Arts Majors Representatives
Disciplinary Committee Representative
Senior Class President
Junior Class President
Underclass Representatives
Gold Key President
Gold Key Members
Appointed Leadership Positions
These positions are appointed by the Director of Living and Learning Communities and Student Services Office:
Dorm Presidents
International Student Representatives
Day Student Representatives
Club Heads
Activities Board
Diversity Committee
Community Council (CC)
The Community Council is the student governing body of the School. A representative body, the CC makes recommendations for
further action to the School Administration. The group works to create a more purposeful, open, and effective School community. The
heads of all student committees and associations are accountable to the council.
Members include:
Community Council President (chairperson)
Vice President/Secretary
Day Student Representatives
Senior Class President
Junior Class President
Arts Majors Representatives
Page 54
International Student Representatives
Gold Key President
Disciplinary Committee Representative
Underclassmen Representatives
Multicultural Student Representatives
Dorm Presidents and Vice Presidents
Dorm Presidents play an important leadership role in the structure and function of the dormitories at Walnut Hill. Appointed each
May for the following year, they are respected by the School community for their exemplary qualities of honesty, responsibility,
dependability, fairness, leadership, and conduct. They assist with daily dormitory operations.
Dorm Presidents are responsible for:
Ensuring that school policies are respected
Acting as student liaisons
Meeting Weekly with the Director of Residential Life to address any concerns and collaborate as a group
Planning and leading dorm activities
Assisting Dorm Parents as needed
In addition, Dorm Presidents build spirit in the dorms, keep the Dorm Parents informed about issues of concernamong students,
and help with student issues (problems between roommates, for example) and other matters requiring peer mediation. All Dorm
Presidents are evaluated during the year by the Dorm Parents and residents to provide feedback for positive growth. Students
not fulfilling their duties may be replaced during the year.
Each dormitory may elect a Dorm Vice President in the fall to assist the Dorm President and Parents with their responsibilities.
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PART III: SCHOOL TRADITIONS
SCHOOL TRADITIONS
Walnut Hill School was founded in 1893. With over 100 years of school history and several generations of graduates, many unique
traditions have developed and been passed from one graduating class to the next. The following traditions are listed in the order they
occur at the School.
Leadership Retreat/Orientation
Leadership students have traditionally welcomed new students to the campus, and they arrive at school one week before the beginning of classes to participate in a retreat and preparation for the coming school year. Registration and Orientation are run by these
students, under the direction of the Dean of Students.
Mountain Day
This tradition takes place in October and serves as a community-building event for the senior class. The entire class ascends one of
the most hiked mountains in the world, Mount Monadnock. This required event gives the students a sense of accomplishment and
class spirit.
Class Night
In early October, a special dinner honors seniors as they assume responsibility for leading and serving the School. After a reception,
the entire School, seated by class, dines together. Seniors are served first. The Senior Class President and the Community Council
President give speeches stating their goals and expectations for the year and the junior class gives a gift to the senior class. Then, to
symbolize their willingness to serve the community, seniors serve dessert to the entire School. (See dress code.)
Boar’s Head Procession/Holiday Dinner
During December, Walnut Hill observes several holiday festivities. These culminate in a formal dinner and Holiday Party the night
before Winter Break begins. The dinner begins with a medieval ceremony, the Boar’s Head Procession, performed by leadership
students. A senior leads the procession and sings the Boar’s Head song. Students are seated by dormitory/day students. (See dress
code.)
Tree Day
On a spring day, seniors invite faculty and students to participate in the Tree Day ceremony. The class tree is planted along with a
penny with the year of the graduating class. The tree itself symbolizes the growth of the seniors within the School and their continued growth, contributions, and achievements after they leave the School.
Ring Day
One spring afternoon, the senior and junior classes meet for the Ring Day ceremony. At that time, the seniors pass the keeping of the
School to the junior class. The seniors form a circle around the juniors, and one by one the juniors are called to take the place of the
seniors, each receiving their School ring or pin. (See dress code.)
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PART III: SCHOOL TRADITIONS
Senior Trip Day
All seniors in good standing are excused from classes one day in the spring so they can participate in a local group activity. The
senior trip allows them to begin the process of separating from Walnut Hill while enjoying their final class trip of the year.
Candlelight Service
Two days before Graduation, at dusk, the entire School assembles in the orchard by class—dressed in white—for a candlelight
ceremony. Seniors are the last to extinguish their candles, as one by one they say farewell to the School and to one another. New
Gold Key members are announced. The Community Council President and the Senior Class President speak. The Senior Class sings a
senior song. (See dress code.)
Awards Ceremony
The day before Graduation, the entire School, parents, and guests are invited to attend a recognition of the academic, arts, and character awards. Foremost among these are the Hester Davies Citizenship Cup, the Friendship Award, and the Arnold C. Taylor Award for
Academic and Artistic Achievement. (See dress code.)
Graduation Dance
On the last night of school, the Parents’ Association sponsors an all-School dance to allow an opportunity for community celebration.
Dress Code for Special Events
Class Night:
Holiday Dinner:
Off-campus performances:
Ring Day (Jr. & Sr.):
Candlelight: Awards Night: Graduation: Semi-formal attire
Semi-formal attire
Khaki-type or dress pants, button-down shirt for boys; dress skirt or dress slacks, nice top/blouse for girls
WHITE (or as close as possible) pants, button-down shirt for boys; WHITE (or as close as possible) dress, skirt or dress slacks, nice top/blouse for girls; shoes must be worn by all even for this outdoor event
Underclassmen wear the same outfit that was worn for Candlelight; seniors wear khaki-type or dress pants, button-down shirt for boys; dress, skirt or dress slacks, nice top/blouse for girls; NO flip-flops may be worn
Page 57
PART III: LEAVING CAMPUS
LEAVING CAMPUS
Permission to Leave Campus: Overview
There are specific times and circumstances when students may leave campus. Before the start of the school year, parents are asked
to complete and return a signed permissions form granting a variety of permissions for their child on the weekends. Parents may
give less permission to a student than the School would normally extend, but they may not give more permission than the School.
Questions relating to permissions should be directed to the Student Life Office or a student’s Dorm Parents.
A student cannot obtain permission to leave campus until the parental permissions form is signed and on file with the Dorm Head.
Parents may modify the permissions form at any time by calling the Dorm Head or the Director of Living and Learning Communities.
Students do not have school permission for overnight stays in a hotel without an adult present. Parents cannot grant this permission.
Permissions are considered a privilege and can be rescinded for academic, arts, dormitory, disciplinary, or attendance obligations.
Permissions are extremely limited during the week.
If a student is required to leave campus for an appointment during the week, permission must be obtained in advance from the
Student Life Office, School Nurse, or School Counselor.
Students may obtain special permission from the Student Life Office or Dorm Parents to go off campus for dinner with parents or
close relatives during the week, provided the student is back by curfew.
Students must seek permission of the Dorm Parent on duty the night before if they intend to be off campus in the morning hours
between 6:00 and 8:00. Students who have a regular everyday morning commitment (i.e., religious education classes) do not need
to seek nightly permission once this habit has been established. Between 6am and 8am, students must sign out through REACH.
Upon returning to the dorm, they should contact the Dorm Parent on duty from the night before.
Sign-Out Procedures
We ask students to account for their whereabouts at all times. The day is broken into two time categories: when Dorm Parents are
on duty (6:45pm–7:00am weekdays, and all day on weekends) and when Dorm Parents are off duty (7:00am–6:45pm).
REACH Boarding
All boarding students are provided with a REACH account to record departure from and return to campus. Anytime a student leaves
campus when a Dorm Parent is on duty, she or he must complete the information online, indicating his or her destination and length
of time away from campus. They should include addresses and telephone numbers whenever a student is visiting an offcampus friend or relative. If a student is leaving the campus for an overnight stay, permissions must be completed and a Dorm Parent or administrator must approve the leave request before the student leaves campus. All students coming back to campus must
see the Dorm Parent on duty immediately to check in.
When Dorm Parents Are On Duty:
(6:45pm–7:00am weekdays and all day on weekends)
Students must sign out through REACH when leaving campus. Specific information must be supplied.
When Dorm Parents Are Off Duty:
(7:00am–6:45pm weekdays)
Students must must sign out through REACH.
Until 2:00pm, going off campus requires special permission.
After 2:00pm, students may go downtown or to Tilly’s on foot only.
Students who wish to go to other locations on foot or use a car must receive special permission from the Student Life Office
students must always sign out through REACH whenever leaving campus.
Failure to sign out appropriately will result in disciplinary action. (See Discipline section for information about Blue Card violation
consequences.)
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Leaving Campus by Foot
If a student wishes to go off campus to downtown Natick between 8:00am and 2:00pm during the week, he or she must have
special permission from an administrator; this permission is extended only once weekly. Students may walk off campus to
downtown Natick or the Bacon Street Market every weekday from 2:00pm to 6:45pm without special permission. Once students
complete dinner check-in, they may not leave campus again. On weekends, students are free to walk downtown and return to
campus by curfew. During the week, all students must swipe out in the Campus Center until 6:45pm. After 6:45pm, students must
sign out through REACH.
Leaving Campus by Motorized Transportation
Students may only use school-authorized transportation during the week (i.e., for lessons, off-campus appointments, or other business). Students may not use cabs or other motorized transportation during the week unless they receive special permission from
the Student Life Office. Day students may only use their cars to travel to and from home unless special permission is granted by the
Student Life Office. On the weekends, students may leave campus by motorized transportation within the parameters of parental
permission. The following guideline applies:
Students must sign out through REACH before leaving campus.
On weekends, if Boston permissions have been granted, the following return times apply:
9th graders must return on or before the 6:15pm/6:30pm train
10th and 11th graders must return on or before the 8:20pm/8:30pm train
Seniors only must return on or before the 11:00pm/11:25pm train
Students must sign in upon their return. If a student is late for check-in on a weekend when returning from Boston for any reason,
Boston permissions will be revoked for the following two weeks. Students who have lost Boston Permissions but who are in the NEC
program must return to campus on school transportation as soon as their responsibilities are completed. Failure to do so will result
in additional consequences.
These same parameters apply to students who travel to and from Wellesley by train. There may be occasions where special permission is granted through the Student Life Office for students to return on later trains or after their standard curfew.
Leaving Campus for Overnights
Overnight permissions are only granted for weekends. Walnut Hill takes seriously the responsibility of knowing the whereabouts of
its students. Students with special needs or problems relating to travel or housing arrangements for vacations should speak to a
member of the Student Life staff well in advance.
Weekend Overnight Permissions
Permissions are only granted for specific destinations.
Permissions may be called, faxed, or emailed in (if email information has been provided on permission forms).
REACH must be filled out clearly and completely, with destination information, before a student leaves campus.
Overnight permissions require a Dorm Parent or administrator’s approval before departure. The
student must be signed by a Dorm Parent immediately upon a student’s return to campus.
Permissions and invitations must be made by parents or guardians to the Dorm Head by 10:00pm on Thursday night.
Information required for permissions: dates and time of travel, mode of transportation, contact name, and
phone number.
Students may not change an already granted permission without the approval of the Dorm Parent on duty.
A student wishing to change destination plans during the weekend must notify the Dorm Parent on duty.
Students may leave campus on Friday after their last class.
Students must return to campus by 6:45pm on Sunday (or Monday on a three-day weekend) to complete dinner check-in.
Permissions not received by 10:00pm on Thursday must go through the Student Life Office and are approved only/
for emergencies.
Permissions will not be approved if a student has on-campus responsibilities to complete, such as serving
Sunday detention
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Leaving Campus for Vacations
Parents must communicate with their student’s Dorm Head to confirm vacation travel plans and destinations. All travel plans must
be made with the School’s calendar in mind. Students will not be excused from classes to facilitate travel; the School designates
travel days for students in order to avoid their missing classes, and to facilitate the transporting of students to the airport, bus, and
train stations. Students with special needs or problems relating to travel or housing arrangements for vacations should speak to a
member of the Student Life staff well in advance.
Dormitories close at 12:00pm the final travel day of Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring Breaks, and the day after Graduation. Students
are not permitted to stay in the dormitories during these breaks. Students must return to the dormitories by 6:45pm on the return
travel days.
Please note: music students likely have NEC on the Saturday travel day, so they must make plans to travel on Sunday.
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PART III: DORM LIFE
DORM LIFE
Dorm Parents
Dorm Parents are adult members of the School community who live in apartments within the dormitories to provide supervision and
support for students in those buildings. As qualified professionals who are college graduates, Dorm Parents have experience with
young people and work to provide Walnut Hill students with a “home away from home.” Many Dorm Parents are Walnut Hill faculty
members; some are married and have children of their own. Boarding students interact on a daily basis with their Dorm Parents.
When on duty, Dorm Parents are present and available from 6:45pm to 7:00am on weekdays and day on weekends. Parents are
encouraged to meet their children’s Dorm Parents in September and are welcome to contact them throughout the year. A list of the
names and telephone numbers of Dorm Parents is sent to parents at the start of the school year.
Dorm Presidents
Dorm Presidents play an important leadership role in the structure and function of the dormitories at Walnut Hill. They are respected
by the School community for their exemplary qualities of honesty, responsibility, dependability, fairness, leadership, and conduct.
Dorm Presidents build dormitory spirit, keep the Dorm Parents informed about issues of concernamong students, and help with
student issues and matters requiring peer mediation. All Dorm Presidents are evaluated during the year by the Dorm Parents and
residents to provide feedback for positive growth. Students not fulfilling their duties may be replaced during the year.
Student Room Changes
Students interested in making a room change must first see their Dorm Head, then the Director of Residential Life. Room changes
are extremely rare and never take place during the first six weeks of school so that the student will make an effort to work things out
with his or her initial roommate. After the six-week period, students must still show that they have made every effort to work things
out before a switch will be considered.
Dormitory Meetings
Dormitory meetings are held regularly, and all residents are expected to attend them. The meetings present students with an opportunity to come together, make announcements, discuss community living, voice concerns, and find solutions for any difficulties that
they may be having. Dormitory meetings also provide times for special recognition and celebrations. The Dorm President is instrumental in setting the agenda for and running the dormitory meetings.
Day Student Dorm Affiliation
While day students are welcome to visit their boarding friends in any dormitory (as long as they are following the specified rules),
day students may request the opportunity to affiliate with a specific dormitory in order to be more connected to the boarding experience on the Hill and to have a quieter place to relax during their downtime.
Since no students know their housing assignments until they arrive, it is nearly impossible for day students to select a dormitory
affiliate where their friends live until at least a few weeks into the year. Therefore, on October 1, interested day students will be given
an opportunity to request their top three choices for dorms to affiliate with. Students who choose to participate will be given “chip”
access to the dormitory at certain hours and will be considered a member of the dormitory for activities, dorm meetings, etc. All participating students will be required to sign a contract of expectations to help both boarding and day students have a positive experience. Being affiliated with a dormitory is a privilege that can be revoked at any time if students fail to follow the dormitory rules and
meet expectations. Below are the expectations that the day students will have to agree to in the contract:
1. I must take and pass the boarding student Handbook Quiz so that I have a full understanding of all dormitory policies.
2. I will only be in the dormitory during the approved hours (10am – 8:45pm Monday-Thursday; 10am–11pm Friday;
12 noon–11pm Saturday; 12 noon–8:45pm Sunday).
3. I will only be in the common areas of the dormitory unless specifically invited by a resident who is with me at all times.
4. I will not leave any of my personal belongings in the dormitory common spaces unless I have received permission in advance from the Dorm Parents for special occasions.
5. I understand that my access to my affiliated dorm is for me only. I may not invite other boarding or day students to
accompany me to the dormitory for any reason.
6. I understand that if I break any of the above expectations or cause disruption within the dormitory, I will lose the privilege
of dorm affiliation.
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PART III: DORM LIFE
Housekeeping and Maintenance
The housekeeping and maintenance staff provides continuous care for and attention to the dormitories. Students are expected to be
sensitive to the needs of the housekeeping staff at all times and to cooperate with their requests. Students may not leave personal
belongings in bathrooms, hallways, or common rooms and must keep dishes in the common kitchen area clean, so as to provide the
housekeeping staff with proper access. If a student wishes to place a maintenance or housekeeping request, she or he should speak
to the Dorm Parent on duty.
Laundry
Each student is responsible for his or her laundry and supplies. Washers and dryers are available at no charge in each dormitory.
Students are encouraged to use a laundry bag, and all clothes should be well marked. Students are expected to keep their clothes
neat and clean.
Television
Each dormitory common room has a television, with basic cable, Netflix, and a DVD player. Students are discouraged from watching
television and playing video games from 7:45am to 2:00pm. Students are not allowed to watch television during Study Hour (8:00pm
to 9:30pm) or after in-room curfew. Televisions are not allowed in student rooms. Students may rent DVDs from local rental stores to
watch in the dormitory common room. A Dorm Parent may confiscate a DVD if he or she feels it is inappropriate for student viewing.
Evening Schedule and “E-list”
Students with programmatic responsibilities (rehearsals, classes, college meetings, library needs) either will be placed on the
Evening School List by the adult they are working with or may request to be placed on the list by a teacher, the Academic Dean, the
Student Life Office, a College Counselor, etc. Students not on the E-list must return to the dormitories at 8:45pm to be prepared for
in-room study at 9:00pm. Students on the E-list must return to the dormitories by 10:00pm or as soon as their responsibilities are
completed; students not using E-list time for programmatic responsibilities must check in by 8:45pm. Abuse of the E-list will result
in a student’s removal from the list. There is no E-list on Sunday evenings. The evening schedule for weeknights (Sunday through
Thursday) is as follows:
5:15pm – 6:45pm
6:30pm – 7:45pm
7:45pm
8:00pm – 9:30pm
10:00pm
10:00pm – 11:00pm
Dinner time (students must check in with the faculty member at dinner)
Student’s choice: On-campus time
academic work
artistic work
student meetings
fitness pursuits
social time
personal time (showers, laundry)
rehearsals
Dorm check-in, Snack served by Dorm Parents
Monitored Study Hall, in-room, door open
Dorm check-in/snack for those on E-list
Showers/bathroom, in-dorm time, dorm meetings, social time in-dorm,
get ready for bed
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PART III: DORM LIFE
11:00pm
In-room curfew
Please note: There is NO E-list on Sundays and students must return to campus by 6:45pm.
Friday and Saturday
In-dormitory curfew: 11:00pm check-in
Quiet in the dormitory: 12:00am
3 Day Weekend Sundays and Snow Days
In-dormitory curfew: 10:00pm
Quiet in the dormitory: 11:00pm
On Monday nights of 3-day weekends, students must return to campus by 6:45pm.
Dormitory Property
At the beginning and end of each year, a checklist is used to evaluate the condition of student rooms. The room condition checklist
is also used whenever a student moves to a different room during the school year. The checklist is completed by Dorm Parents and
signed by the student. Students are required to check in and out with a Dorm Parent when they are moving into or out of their room.
Failure to do so will result in a fine. Rooms must be in the same condition on moving out as they were when students arrived or
parents will be billed for cleaning and repair.
Students must use blue sticky tack to secure things to their dormitory walls. How students treat school property is very important.
Dormitory rooms and fixtures, furniture, and common areas should be treated with care. Students share dormitory items such as
laundry facilities, refrigerators, microwaves, soda and juice machines, televisions, and the like. The maintenance of school property
is the responsibility of every student.
Dorm Room Damage Price List
ITEM
REPAIR
REPLACE
Bed
$100$220
Mattress$175
Bookcase
$100$450
Bureau $125 $425
Ceiling $100
$350
Closets
$50 Desk $75 $450
Chair $50 $125
Door/Lock
$125 $250
Electric Light Shade
$50
Smoke Detectors
$50
Walls/patch/paint
$150$500
Window
$100
$300
Screens
$25$75
Shades $35
Cleaning $100 Please note: These are estimated amounts, provided so that you may have conversations with your student about appropriate care
of their dormitory room and furnishings. Room condition will be assessed at the start of the year and your student will sign off on the
condition of the room upom moving in. Rooms will be reassessed at the end of the year and your student will again sign off on the
condition and potential charges that you will be billed for damages. Please contact the Dean of Students with any questions
Bed Checks
In order to maintain the safety and security of dormitories, random bed checks may be completed by Dorm Parents.
Room Inspections
Students are expected to maintain their own rooms and keep them clean and tidy. To ensure that rooms are kept in a healthy and
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PART III: DORM LIFE
sanitary manner, a regular room inspection will be conducted by the Dorm Parent on duty. Students are present, if possible, during
the inspections and are notified if their rooms do not pass inspection. Repeated failure to pass room inspection will result in disciplinary consequences. Dorm Parents, the housekeeping staff, and the Director of Residential Life may inspect rooms during vacation
periods. These room inspections allow the School to ensure that windows are secured, doors are locked, and lights and other electrical equipment are turned off.
Room Searches
Walnut Hill School reserves the right to conduct a search upon reasonable belief that a student is in possession of any materials
that are in violation of school rules. It is preferred by all involved that the student is informed and present at the time of the search,
and every effort will be made to do so. However, there may be occasions when the School must act quickly and the pressure of time
does not allow for the student to be present. Refusal to fully cooperate with a room search will result in an automatic administrative
withdrawal with the student leaving campus immediately. Student belongings will be packed and shipped home.
Room Keys
For safety and security, all student rooms are fitted with individual locks. Rooms must be unlocked whenever the student is present
in the room. Rooms should be kept locked whenever the student is out of the room to prevent theft or improper use by others. The
student is responsible for whatever occurs in the room, even in his or her absence. If a student loses a key, a new one should be
requested through the Student Life Office. A $55 fee is required for replacement of lost keys.
Summer Storage
Because the campus is fully utilized during the summer, space is not available on campus for returning students to store their belongings. A local packing company, available on campus during the last week of school for Walnut Hill students, will provide cartons,
packing services, storage, pickup, and delivery for a fee. Students are encouraged to coordinate arrangements in advance with their
parents.
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PART III: SCHOOL POLICIES
SCHOOL POLICIES
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
Possession, use, distribution, sale, or transfer of alcohol, illegal drugs, and/or paraphernalia is strictly prohibited. Being in possession of—or in the presence of—any illegal drug, alcohol, or related paraphernalia is in itself a major infraction of school rules. Using
illegal drugs or alcohol and being in the presence of these substances constitute infractions, which are reviewed by the Disciplinary
Committee. A student who commits a drug or alcohol infraction a second time during his or her Walnut Hill career will be expelled.
Any student who is discovered, upon returning to campus, to have been using drugs or alcohol off campus will be considered in
violation of the school rules. Walnut Hill School promotes a drug-free and alcohol-free environment for all students. As a condition of
admission to the School, every student automatically agrees to alcohol and drug testing whenever there is reasonable cause to suspect that a student is under the influence. Urine, blood, or hair tests will be required only when a Dorm Parent or faculty member and
administrator concur. A student’s refusal to cooperate with the testing will be deemed an admission that a violation has occurred.
Students who appear before the Disciplinary Committee for substance abuse may be subject to random drug testing in the future.
Legal Drinking Age
Please note that the legal age to consume or purchase alcohol in the U.S. is 21. It is considered breaking a major school rule for
Walnut Hill students of any age to consume, possess, or distribute alcohol, or be in the presence of others who are doing so, and can
result in severe disciplinary consequences—including dismissal. Students may not bring alcohol on campus even as a gift to adults.
Dress and Appearance
Walnut Hill does not have uniforms, and variety in dress is permitted. Extremes, however, are not considered appropriate for campus
wear. Students may dress informally but should be aware that they may not wear short shorts, halters, bathing suits, dirty or torn
clothing, or sleepwear during the academic day. Students may not wear underwear as outerwear. Clothing may not contain offensive
language or alcohol/tobacco advertisements. Shoes must be worn at all times when inside buildings. The faculty and administrators
reserve the right to determine that certain choices in physical appearance, attire, or personal decoration are not appropriate at Walnut Hill School. The faculty and administrators are the final arbiters of choice in this area. Students are requested to wear appropriate attire to special dinners, end-of-year activities, and performances as indicated. In arts classes, particularly dance and theater,
specific dress may be required. Students who choose to have their bodies pierced or tattooed during the school year should be
aware that the School reserves the right to contact parents about their choices and to require medical attention if the School deems
this necessary.
Blue Card Violation Policy
All boarding students are provided with “Blue Cards” to record departure from and return to campus. Anytime a student leaves
campus when a Dorm Parent is on duty, he or she must complete the information on the Blue Card, indicating his or her destination
and length of time away from campus. It is required that the student only visit the destinations listed on the Blue Card; discovery of
students visiting a place other than the listed destination(s) will result in disciplinary action. The Blue Card should include addresses
and telephone numbers whenever a student is visiting an off-campus friend or relative. If a student is leaving the campus for an
overnight stay, permissions must be completed and a Dorm Parent or administrator must sign the Blue Card before the student
leaves campus. All students coming back to campus must see the Dorm Parent on duty immediately to check in and have their Blue
Cards signed.
Conduct Off Campus
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Students off campus are expected to conduct themselves in a manner in keeping with the policies and standards established by the
School. Having chosen to belong to the Walnut Hill community, and as representatives of the School, all students are expected to
act responsibly whether on or off campus. The School reserves the right to address unacceptable behavior that occurs off campus
before, during, and after school hours and during school vacation breaks.
Harassment Policy
Community life at Walnut Hill depends on a successful understanding and administration of the common trust. The School can only
achieve its collective goals if all of its members respect one another; while each individual strives to reach personal goals, he or
she must keep in mind the goals of the community. Walnut Hill is enriched by the diversity of its members. The School recognizes
and respects individual differences in background in regard to culture, race, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, and religion. In
order to maintain common trust and to provide an environment of mutual respect, tolerance, and sensitivity, it is important that every
member of the community recognize certain guidelines of appropriate behavior. Honest communication, courteous and respectful
interactions with all members of the community, and responsible actions are behaviors valued at Walnut Hill. Inappropriate behavior,
either verbal or physical, that disregards the self-esteem of others is unacceptable. This includes unwelcome physical advances,
unwarranted verbal remarks, and derogatory statements or discriminatory comments by a single person, between any two individuals, oramong groups of individuals.
Inappropriate behavior may include:
Uninvited pressure for sexual activity, whether explicit or implicit
Obscene or suggestive remarks, jokes, verbal or online abuse, insults
Uninvited pressure to participate in illicit activity such as the use of alcohol or other drugs
Display of explicit, offensive, or demeaning materials
Hazing or threats
Verbal or online comments that are demeaning with respect to race, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic origin, or gender
If you feel harassed, you should follow these steps:
1. Let the offending person or persons know you want the behavior to stop. Say no firmly! Look directly at them with a
serious expression to give a clear message about how you feel. Do not apologize.
2. Keep a record of when, where, and how you have been mistreated. Include witnesses, direct quotations, actions,
evidence, and any written/online communication.
3. If you do not feel comfortable confronting the person or persons alone, take a friend along or write a letter.
4. Promptly contact an adult at school about the situation—an advisor, faculty member, administrator, security guard,
Dorm Parent, or Health Services staff member.
Each person at Walnut Hill School has the right to participate fully in the life of the School without harassment. Any school response
to the situation may be made in consultation with the person making the complaint.
Bullying Policy/Plan of Action
At Walnut Hill School for the Arts, we expect that all members of our School community will treat one another with civility and
respect. It is the policy of the School to provide and maintain a learning environment that is free of bullying and any other verbal or
physical misconduct that disrupts the learning environment or makes it unsafe. This Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan is
published in response to the Massachusetts law against bullying and is part of our efforts to promote learning and to prevent behavior that can impede learning in the academic, artistic, or residential realms. It is consistent with the School’s broader protections,
systems, and policies with respect to discrimination, harassment, hazing, and other infractions that appear in The Guide to Walnut
Hill, the Faculty/Dorm Parent Handbook, and other statements of School policy.
It is imperative that this plan be well understood by all members of the Walnut Hill community. The Head of School, working with the
Dean of Students and others, is ultimately responsible for the implementation and administration of the plan. Questions and concerns related to this plan may be referred to the Head of School, the Assistant Head of School, or the Dean of Students.
Policy Against Bullying, Cyberbullying and Retaliation
Walnut Hill will not tolerate any form of bullying or cyberbullying, nor will we tolerate retaliation against any person who reports
bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying. Bullying
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and cyberbullying are prohibited on school grounds and at school-sponsored events, performances, trips, activities, functions, and
programs. Bullying and cyberbullying also are prohibited on any school-owned or school-leased transportation and through the use
of technology or electronic devices owned, leased, or used by the School. Bullying and cyberbullying also are prohibited in any other
context—regardless of whether it occurs on school property, or in connection with a school event, or whether it involves any technology or electronic device of the School, and so on—if the bullying creates a hostile environment at school for a targeted student;
infringes on the rights of a targeted student at school; or materially and substantially disrupts the educational process or the orderly
operation of the School.
The following definitions are drawn from the Massachusetts law against bullying:
Bullying: Bullying is the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a target, that: causes physical or emotional harm to the target student or damage to the
targeted student’s property; places the student in a reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself or of damage to his or her property;
creates a hostile environment at school for the targeted student; infringes on the rights of the targeted student at school; or materially and substantially disrupts the educational process or the orderly operation of the School.
Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying is bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication or device such as telephones, cell phones, computers, fax machines and the internet. It includes but is not limited to email, instant messages, text messages, and internet postings whether on a webpage, in a blog or otherwise.
Hostile Environment: A hostile environment is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with
intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of a student’s education.
Retaliation: Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a student who reports bullying, provides
information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying.
It is important to bear in mind that the School may apply stricter standards of behavior than the Massachusetts law requires in order
that we may prevent inappropriate verbal and physical conduct before a student has been subjected to bullying as it is defined
under the law. For example, although the law defines bullying as the “repeated use” of certain expressions, acts, and/or gestures,
the School reserves the right to apply disciplinary measures and other corrective action in the case of a single expression, act, or
gesture that is of a bullying, harassing, or otherwise inappropriate nature in the eyes of the School.
Prevention of Bullying and Cyberbullying
Prevention of bullying and cyberbullying is inherent in the School’s efforts to communicate and reinforce its expectations for student
behavior. Upon arrival at Walnut Hill, students learn that as members of our community they have a right to be treated with civility
and respect. Our educational philosophy emphasizes respect for differences, and adults are clear in their expectations for student
behavior. When necessary, parents are notified and asked to reinforce standards for membership in our community. All students and
parents receive a copy of The Guide to Walnut Hill, either as a hard copy or via www.walnuthillarts.org. This publication explains our
behavioral expectations, disciplinary procedures and protocols, as well as the supports that are available to students and parents.
All students must sign an acknowledgement of understanding of the School’s expectations. Additionally, all students must “pass” a
handbook quiz that indicates understanding of major school rules and policies.
Students meet regularly with an assigned advisor who regularly reviews community expectations. The advisor is a main conduit for
communication between the School, students, and parents. As a community we meet twice weekly at Assembly. These meetings are
utilized by adults and students to make sure that all members are well informed about what is expected of them, to reflect on poor
behavior and choices, and to reinforce positive conduct. Health and Wellness Seminars often cover topics of emotional and mental
health issues. Walnut Hill’s expectations for student conduct extend throughout all areas of a student’s life while enrolled at the
School.
Reports of Bullying, Cyberbullying, or Retaliation
Any student who is the target of bullying or cyberbullying or has witnessed or otherwise has relevant information about bullying or
cyberbullying is strongly encouraged to promptly report the matter orally or in writing to the Dean of Students or to any other faculty
or staff member with whom the student is comfortable speaking. Also, any student who is subject to retaliation in violation of this
policy or who knows of another student who has been subject to retaliation is urged to report it as soon as possible.
A parent of a student who is the target of bullying or cyberbullying or has witnessed or otherwise has relevant information about
bullying or cyberbullying prohibited by this policy is strongly urged to promptly notify the Dean of Students. Furthermore, any parent
who has witnessed bullying or cyberbullying or otherwise has relevant information concerning such an incident is strongly urged to
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PART IV: SCHOOL POLICIES
come forward to the Dean of Students or another Walnut Hill staff member. A parent also should report any incident of retaliation in
violation of this policy to the Dean of Students.
Any member of the faculty or staff of the School who witnesses or otherwise becomes aware of an incident of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation in violation of this policy is required to report it immediately to the Dean of Students, Assistant Head of School, or
Head of School. There are no exceptions. Consistent with this mandatory reporting requirement, a member of the faculty or staff may
not make promises of confidentiality to a student or parent who informs him/her of an allegation of bullying, cyberbullying or retaliation.
Faculty and staff may not make reports under this policy anonymously. The School also urges students and parents not to make reports anonymously. Although there are circumstances in which an anonymous report is better than none at all, it is far more difficult
to determine the facts of what occurred if complaints are made anonymously. In addition, state law prohibits the School from taking
any disciplinary action solely on the basis of an anonymous report. Students and parents also are encouraged to bear in mind that
Walnut Hill School takes its policy against retaliation seriously. Also, while we cannot promise complete confidentiality, because some
information ordinarily must be shared to conduct an effective investigation, and in fairness to the accused, we will share information
concerning complaints of bullying, cyberbullying, and retaliation only on a need-to-know basis, as is our standard protocol.
Responding to a Report of Bullying, Cyberbullying, or Retaliation
Preliminary Considerations: When a complaint of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation is made, the Dean of Students or her or his
designee will assess whether any initial steps need to be taken to prevent further acts of wrongdoing, to protect the well-being of
students, or to prevent disruption of the learning environment while the investigation is being conducted. As appropriate, strategies
such as increased supervision may be implemented to prevent further bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation during an investigation.
Obligation to Notify Parents: It is the policy of the School to notify the parents of any student who is an alleged target of bullying,
cyberbullying, or retaliation and the parents of any student who may have been accused of engaging in such behavior promptly after
a complaint has been made.
Investigation: An impartial investigation of the complaint is conducted by the Dean of Students or his or her designee. This investigation may include, but may not necessarily be limited to, interviews of the person who made the complaint; the student who was the
target of the alleged bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation; the person or persons against whom the complaint was made; and any
students, faculty, staff or other persons who witnessed or otherwise may have relevant information about the alleged incident. The
Dean of Students or his or her designee also may consult with other faculty/staff, the advisors of the involved students, and members of the health team, and will take such other steps, if any, as he or she deems appropriate under the circumstances.
Resolution, Notification, and Follow-up: Following the investigation, the Dean of Students, in consultation with the Head of School,
will determine whether and to what extent the allegation of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation has been substantiated. If it is
determined that the policy has been violated, the Dean of Students will begin the Disciplinary Committee process. (See Discipline).
In accordance with Massachusetts law, any disciplinary actions shall balance the need for accountability with the need to teach
appropriate behavior, and no disciplinary action may be taken against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report. The
Dean, in consultation with the Head of School, in consultation with the School Counselor, will refer perpetrators, targeted students,
and family members of such students for counseling or other services as appropriate. The Dean, in consultation with the Head, also
will determine what additional steps, if any, should be taken in connection with maintaining or restoring an appropriate educational
environment for the targeted student or others, reporting the matter to law enforcement or others, or otherwise.
Upon completion of the investigation, the Dean of Students will meet individually with the student or students who were the target
of the alleged incident and the student or students against whom the complaint was made to report the results of the investigation,
including any disciplinary outcomes. The Dean of Students will communicate with the students’ parents as well. Follow-up contacts
will be made with any student involved in the investigation to ensure that no retaliation has occurred, no further incidents have taken
place, and that all students involved are supported and moving forward positively.
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AIDS Policy
Walnut Hill School strives to promote understanding and education about the prevention and nature of HIV/AIDS. All policies regarding the handling of HIV/AIDS in the School community are based on current medical knowledge. A copy of the complete school
HIV/AIDS policy is available from any School Administrator, the School Nurse, or the School Counselor.
Respect for School Property
Stealing is a violation of personal rights and of the community’s sense of well-being. It is a serious infraction of the rules and will
be dealt with by the School Disciplinary Committee. Vandalism is an affront to all school members and will result in an appearance
before the Disciplinary Committee. Willful damage and unreported accidents will be considered vandalism. The unauthorized possession and/or use of keys by a student is a serious offense. Offenders will be dealt with administratively or by the Disciplinary Committee. Accidents do happen. All accidental destruction or damage should be reported immediately. Arrangements will be made for
repair, and students may be responsible for all or part of the repair costs.
Sexual Activity
Student sexual activity—including consensual activity—is not allowed anywhere on campus and is an infraction of school rules.
Students found engaging in sexual activity will face disciplinary consequences.
Smoking/Tobacco Use
For reasons of health and safety, smoking is not permitted by Walnut Hill students at any time either on or off campus. Smoking cessation supports are available through Health Services to support any student who wishes to stop smoking. School-sponsored trips
and activities are governed by school rules; therefore, smoking is not permitted. Consequences for smoking, including being in the
presence of others who are smoking, are detailed in the Discipline section of this handbook.
Weapons
The General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts prohibit the possession of the following on campus: any firearm, stiletto,
dagger, dirk knife, any knife having a doubled-edge blade, a switch knife or any knife having an automatic spring release, any knife
having a blade of over one and one-half inches, a slingshot, a blackjack, metallic knuckles or knuckles of any substance with a similar effect as metallic knuckles. Any weapon and all firearms, knives, explosives, or life-threatening objects are forbidden on campus.
Possession of fireworks is also forbidden. Failure to abide by this policy will result in strict disciplinary action.
Acceptable Use of Technology Policy
The School’s computer and network resources exist to support educational goals and related activities. All use of computer and
network resources must be consistent with these goals and must conform to standards that the School sets for student behavior.
Students are expected to check their Walnut Hill email account at least once every day.
Use of network resources and computers, whether school-owned or student-owned, is monitored by the School’s faculty and staff.
Student email accounts, hard drives, network storage, Internet activity, and system logs may be searched if there is suspicion of
violation of this agreement or other school policies. Students can have a reasonable expectation of privacy, but the School reserves
the right to open or delete items as necessary. The only software items to be used on school computers or the school network are
those products that the School may legally use. Modifying any copyrighted software or borrowing software is not permitted. Only
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designated technology support staff are allowed to install software and hardware.
Masquerading as another person, concealing true identity, or sending anonymous messages violates the School’s expectation of
honest and open communication. Students may not take steps to hide or misrepresent their identity when using school accounts,
computers, networks, or servers.
Passwords for computer and network resources are private to each individual; they uniquely identify a person as well as identify
a person to others. Students are responsible for all use made of their Walnut Hill accounts, network storage, or Internet access.
Students may not allow anyone to use their passwords to access any computer or network resource and must diligently guard
passwords. Using another person’s password, or attempting to discover it, may be regarded as theft. Should a student discover
someone’s password accidentally, he or she must notify the person immediately so that it can be changed.
The School reserves the right to look at, listen to, or use anything on its systems and to bypass any pass code. To ensure that the use
of the technology resources is consistent with the School’s mission, authorized representatives of the School may monitor the use of
its systems in its sole discretion, at any time, with or without notice, and notwithstanding any pass code. All information stored on or
transmitted through Walnut Hill School technology resources is considered to be the property of the School. The School may remove
any material from any individual or network account for any of the following reasons:
•The presence of the information in the account involves illegality.
•The information in some way endangers the computing resources (e.g., a computer worm, virus, or other destructive program).
•The information is inappropriate, because it is unrelated to or is inconsistent with the mission of the School; involves the use of
obscene, bigoted, or abusive material on school resources, or is otherwise not in compliance with legal and ethical usage responsibilities.
Students may not use computer or network resources to send harassing, offensive, obscene, or spam messages/postings, or chain
letters. Students are responsible for the effect that messages may have on another person. Students must maintain the same standards of respect for others in online interactions as they would in person. Information communicated via Walnut Hill’s web servers,
network, or other electronic medium should not be distributed outside of the School community.
Students may not access inappropriate materials on the Internet—for example, pornography, Internet gambling—or any illegal activity. If a student mistakenly enters an inappropriate site, he or she should exit out immediately and tell a member of the staff/faculty/
administration. Doing so will protect the student against unintentionally violating school policy. To assess whether they are using
computers appropriately, students should be able to ask themselves these two questions and respond affirmatively:
Is what I am working on related to a school assignment?
Would I be comfortable showing what I am working on to:
My parents? My advisor? My Dorm Parents? The School Administration?
The technology resources on campus, including Internet access, are available to support learning, enhance research and instruction,
and support school system business practices. Walnut Hill’s technology resources are operated for the mutual benefit of all users.
This includes, but is not limited to, all school-owned computers, peripherals, and related equipment and software; voice communications infrastructure, peripherals, and related equipment and software; data communications infrastructure, peripherals, and related
equipment and software; and all other associated tools, instruments, and facilities. Included in this definition are classroom technologies; computing and electronic communication devices and services, including modems; electronic mail; phones; voice mail; fax
machines; and multimedia and hypermedia equipment and related supporting devices or technologies, including digital cameras,
LCD projectors, scanners, and printers. The components may be individually controlled (e.g., assigned to an employee) or shared
single-user or multiuser, and they may be stand-alone or networked.
The School or Technology Office may restrict or terminate any user’s access, without prior notice, if such action is deemed necessary to maintain computing availability and security for other users of the systems. The guidelines incorporated herein apply to both
school-owned and private computers when used anywhere on school property, including dormitories. Students unsure of any rules
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or policies regarding appropriate use of technology should ask a member of the school faculty or administration.
Technology Vandalism
The Library and Computer Lab are “multiple-use” facilities and as such may be reserved from time to time for instructional or other
purposes. During such times, students may be asked to temporarily suspend their use of technology resources by the faculty who
reserved the facility or by authorized IT staff personnel. Failure to promptly comply to any such request with both respect and courtesy is a violation of school rules. Students should always log off workstations after finishing work and completely shut down each
workstation when leaving the classroom, Computer Lab, Library, or office at the end of the day. Do not deliberately attempt to disrupt
system performance or interfere with the work of other users.
No food or drink may be consumed in the Library or Computer Lab, and no liquid containers of any kind may be placed on working
surfaces containing computer workstations or peripherals. The network infrastructure and all cabling and connections are property
of the School. No student, employee, or other constituent may connect any equipment to the Walnut Hill Network without the prior
approval of technology support staff personnel.
Students are not allowed to modify or rearrange keyboards, individual key caps, monitors, printers, or any other peripheral equipment. All equipment problems should be reported immediately to the appropriate contact person(s) in the Department of Information
Technology. All equipment should remain in their designated workstations.
Cell Phone Requirement and Use Policy
All students are required to have a cell phone and provide the Student Life Office with the number and update the office if the number changes. Students must have texting ability and confirm that they have enough available minutes on their phone at all times.
The goal of the cell phone use policy is to provide an understanding of appropriate etiquette for the use of electronic communication
equipment. No cell phone use of any kind is permitted during classes, assemblies, rehearsals, study hour, and other school obligations and responsibilities. This includes no texting or checking email. No talking on cell phones is allowed in Dining Hall, Library,
Computer Lab, Theater, or in other community gatherings. Students should excuse themselves to take these calls in a more appropriate space or at a more appropriate time. There is no talking after 11:00pm in dormitories.
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PART IV: ENROLLMENT POLICIES
ENROLLMENT POLICIES
Matriculating at the End of the Junior Year
If a student wishes to leave at the end of her or his junior year to pursue study at another institution other than transferring to a
different high school, the student must discuss these plans with the Director of Admission, Director of Artistic Studies, and the
Director of Academic Studies by the beginning of the spring semester of the junior year. Students will forfeit their ability to earn a
Walnut Hill diploma if they matriculate before their senior year.
Voluntary Withdrawal from the School
If a student withdraws from Walnut Hill School, his or her parents must inform the School by writing to the Dean of Students. When
a student either voluntarily or involuntarily leaves the School, he or she may reapply for admission in the future. No withdrawn or
dismissed student will automatically be reenrolled.
A formal letter of withdrawal from the parent must be received to finalize withdrawal. Upon receipt of this letter, the Dean of Students
will alert the advisor, Dorm Parents, current teachers, department head, Administrative Council, Health Services, Business Office, and
Registrar.
Once the withdrawal is formalized, the Business Office will begin the tuition refund process. Transcripts and other paperwork (I-20’s,
etc.) will be processed only after the Business Office has notified the Registrar and the Dean of Students that all financial obligations
have been met.
Administrative Withdrawal from the School
If a student demonstrates a pattern of persistent irresponsible behavior (unexcused absences, repeated disciplinary infractions, poor
performance or a lack of responsibility in academic or arts coursework), he or she is in danger of being administratively withdrawn
by the School during the academic year.
In the case of an expulsion or withdrawal, any responsibilities or obligations on the part of teachers toward the expelled student
terminate at the time of separation from the School. In exceptional cases, the School may consider carrying a second-semester
senior through the end of the year. Such exceptions are granted by the Head of School, the Assistant Head of School, and the Dean of
Students, in consultation with the department heads.
Leaves of Absence
During the year, a student may need to depart temporarily from school for medical, psychological, personal, or familial reasons. In
such circumstances, the School may grant a leave of absence for a maximum of two weeks. Requests for leaves exceeding the
two-week limit are approved at the discretion of the Administrative Council of the School. Families may submit documentation in
support of their request for an extension. If a request is declined by the School, or a student is unable to safely return to the School,
the student must withdraw.
There are three types of leave:
Familial Leave: This leave is used when there is a family emergency or crisis (as determined by the family and the School) and the
student must be away from school. Students will be expected to make up their work on a schedule determined upon their return.
Administrative Leave: This leave can be put in place by the School when there are situations involving students not thriving, at risk,
and/or committing major disciplinary infractions. Return from an administrative leave may result in a change in student status,
disciplinary action, or required medical or mental health initiatives. Students will be expected to make up their work on a schedule
determined upon their return.
Medical Leave: Used for both mental and physical health issues, medical leaves may be required by the School or requested by
the family, with the School’s approval. Medical leaves will entail some kind of treatment that is not available to the student while at
school. Criteria for a student’s return will be determined by the School Nurse and Doctor or the School Counselor, in consultation with
the health team, at the time of or during the leave. Students will be expected to make up their work on a schedule determined upon
their return.
When a student takes a leave, the School reserves the right to reevaluate the conditions of the student’s return, including, but not
limited to, residential status.
Students on medical leave, or who are expelled or administratively withdrawn, may not visit campus for the remainder of the school
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PART IV: ENROLLMENT POLICIES
year without prior administrative approval.
School Reenrollment Contract: Review and Issuance
Contracts for all students who began in September will be reviewed in the second semester of the school year. This review will
include arts, academics, and social considerations given to the appropriate Dean. Discussion and decision on contracts being issued
will be made by the Administrative Council. Students beginning in the second semester are not eligible for invitation to return at this
time. A letter will be sent to the parents of any student whose contract is held. This letter will outline the expectations for a successful completion of the year and future contract review.
A few weeks prior to student elections for the following year, a second review will occur of all held contracts and those of students
who enrolled in the second semester. Again, the decision to invite students to return will be made by the Administrative Council
with input from arts, academic, and social areas. A letter will be sent to the parents of any student whose contract is held. This
letter will follow up the letter sent in February noting any continued concerns, and for second-semester students, it will outline the
expectations for a successful completion of the year and future contract review.
The final review of contracts will be done at the final faculty meeting, the day after Graduation. Final decisions regarding invitations
to return rest with the Administrative Council. Families will be notified by phone or email the day that final decisions are made.
Please note that no contracts will be released before or between the review dates, unless they are held for a financial obligation
(must be cleared through the Business Office).
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PART IV: ATTENDANCE POLICIES
ATTENDANCE POLICIES
Attendance Policies and Cycle
Walnut Hill faculty do their best to help students who are unable to attend class for excused reasons, but many class experiences
cannot be replicated. Careful consideration needs to be given before a student misses a class for any reason, as this choice will have
unavoidable repercussions.
Consistent attendance is essential for success in all aspects of the program at Walnut Hill. It is our expectation that students will attend all classes, assemblies, rehearsals, and required performances, and that families will help us to reinforce this priority with their
students.
Absence Threshold
Any absence from the program, excused or unexcused, detracts from the overall learning experience at Walnut Hill. Some absences
may be unavoidable, and teachers and advisors are happy to help students manage their work if they get sick or need to attend an
audition. However, too many absences in any one class can make it very difficult or even impossible to deliver the program successfully. Therefore, we have created some guidelines.
Attendance Alerts
An email will be sent to parents and students when a student reaches 6 total absences.
Threshold for grades 9, 10, 11
If a student in grade 9, 10, or 11 accrues 10 or more absences for any reason in any one academic class or 10% of any one arts
class, he or she will be required to make an attendance contract and risks losing credit in that class.
Threshold for grade 12
Whenever possible, seniors and their families should schedule visits and auditions for weekends or vacations to avoid missing program. If a senior accrues 15 or more absences for any reason in any one academic class or 15% of any one arts class, he or she will
be required to make an attendance contract and risks losing credit in that class.
Excused Absences
Students who miss class because of an illness, an appointment with a health professional, an audition or college visit, or a major
family obligation may have their absences excused, with approval of the appropriate School official.
All students who become ill must go directly to the School Nurse. The nurse may excuse students for the day or for portions of the
day. Day students must see the School Nurse, prior to calling their parents, who will decide whether they may be excused. Parents
of boarding students may not call in to excuse their child for illness. Boarding students excused during the school day because of
illness must be resting in their rooms—no common room, no downtown permissions, and no Campus Center. Students may go to
the Dining Hall for meals, unless otherwise instructed. Students may not attend classes or rehearsals unless approved by the Health
Center if they have been excused from earlier obligations. This requirement applies to both boarding and day students. Day students
coming to campus after missing a class for illness must be cleared through the Health Center in order to attend afternoon or evening classes or rehearsals. The Health Center will circulate a sick list; students on the sick list may not attend classes or rehearsals
without a note from the School Nurse.
Day students unable to come to school on a given day must have their parents call the Attendance Line at 508.652.7821 on that day.
After a fifth consecutive day of absences due to illness, consultation with the Student Services Office regarding necessary medical
documentation is required.
Students giving evening recitals at the School may request to be excused from their afternoon arts classes, after their academic
commitments are completed, on the day of the recital. All such requests must be directed to the Dean of Students.
Medical Clearance
Any student not allowed to participate in a school activity as a result of an injury or any other medical reasons may not resume
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participation in that activity without medical clearance by a physician. No Walnut Hill faculty member or parent may give permission
to resume participation until clearance has been given by a physician. Questions regarding this policy should be addressed to the
Dean of Students.
College/University Travel
As part of the college and conservatory process, Walnut Hill is very understanding of the fact that the majority of our students will
travel off campus for auditions, interviews, portfolio reviews, and college visits throughout their senior year. We expect that students
will arrange their trips to minimize the number of classes or days of school missed, and encourage families and students to make
use of school holidays, vacations, and weekends whenever possible. To ensure academic and artistic success, the School asks
that families keep absences due to this process to the necessary minimum. Beginning in the fall, seniors will complete the College/
Audition Form and inform their arts and academic teachers if they will be missing classes. Students should plan ahead and turn in any
work prior to leaving campus. Specific instructions on completing the College/Audition Form, and the necessary communication and
permissions, will be given to seniors and families in the fall. If you have any questions about the college process, please feel free to
contact the Director or Assistant Director of College Counseling.
Unexcused Absences
For each unexcused absence, a student will serve detention at 7:00 pm on Friday night. If a student accrues multiple absences in a
week, she or he will serve a three-hour detention rather than a two-hour detention. *Skipping Friday Detention will result in immediate loss of overnight permissions for the following weekend, campussing for the
entire week, and additional consequences as assigned.
*After a sixth unexcused absence in a class is accrued, students will have a meeting and an attendance contract will be drawn up.
* Any academic work due on the day a student has an unexcused absence automatically receives a 10% grade penalty. This includes
homework assignments, tests, projects, lab reports, presentations, or any other graded assignment.
* Students may not participate in any non-Walnut Hill arts opportunity without prior approval from their department head and the
Dean of Students.
Health Services/School Nurse
508-650-5030,
[email protected] *Day Student Parents must leave a message on the “sick line” the morning their student is ill and unable to attend classes.
Student Services Office (family obligations, travel delays) Attendance line 508.652.7821
[email protected] * Students are not excused for family obligations outside of the travel day calendar
College Counselors (Senior college visits and auditions)
Sarah Lovely (Director)
508.650.5022
[email protected]
Rebekka Goldberg
508.650.5021
[email protected]
*Students must follow the college visit/audition protocol and complete all necessary paperwork prior to any absences.
Advisors will meet with their students and contact parents regarding every unexcused absence. In addition, attendance
consequences will be given (please see consequence chart).
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Tardiness
A student who arrives to class less than 10 minutes after the beginning of a class period without a note from an administrator,
teacher, or staff member is considered tardy. Excessive tardiness may result in additional consequences.
Day parents may not excuse a student for being tardy to their first class of the day except in unusual circumstances and at the
discretion of the Student Services Office.
Late Absence
Arriving more than 10 minutes late without a note constitutes a late absence that counts as an unexcused absence.
Absence Contract
Students who have accrued 6 or more total unexcused absences or who have hit the threshold of absences in any one class (excused and unexcused) will be placed on attendance probation and required to complete an attendance contract. An Attendance
Contract may include, but is not limited to the following areas: - increased monitoring of excused absences (for example, requiring
a doctor’s note) - limits on support for make-up work - student re-enrollment contract hold - additional grade penalty for unexcused
absences - loss of leadership position - loss of e-list or other privileges - removal from honor roll / loss of graduation with honors
Failure to comply with an attendance contract may result in, but is not limited to the following: - loss of course credit - administrative
withdrawal from school
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PART IV: RESIDENTIAL POLICIES
RESIDENTIAL POLICIES
Noise
Students living in close quarters in a dormitory need to show common courtesy and cooperation in keeping the level of noise low:
other students may be sleeping or studying in the dormitory at any time. Stereos must be played so they do not disrupt or disturb
others inside or outside the dormitory. Persistent disruptions may result in confiscation of stereo equipment. Students are also asked
to be conscious and considerate of the noise level when they are practicing in rooms, speaking on the telephone, or talking in the
hallways.
Practicing in Student Rooms
Students are allowed to practice non-amplified, muted musical instruments in their rooms during the day from 1:00pm to 7:00pm,
Monday through Friday. Percussion is not permitted. As with the use of stereos, practicing in student rooms affects the dormitory
community, and the needs of roommates and neighbors must be considered.
One Person Per Bed Policy
To provide a healthy atmosphere for students to get an appropriateamount of sleep, only one student may sleep in a bed. All overnight guests must sleep on the floor or on an air mattress that they provide.
Parietals
Parietal rules govern the visiting privileges of members of the opposite sex and same-sex couples in dorms and on all areas of
campus. Parietal visitations are not permitted at the start of the school year. The starting date for parietals varies each year and is
announced by the School. There are two types of parietals: common room parietals and room parietals. Parietals are only extended
to Walnut Hill students; school staff must clear all other visitors. It is the expectation of the School that the intent of parietal rules will
be respected in all areas and buildings on campus. Consequences for parietal violations may be issued for anywhere on campus.
Common Room Parietals
Common room parietals are permitted in all dormitories at the discretion of the Dorm Parents. Once granted, they may occur at the
following times:
Monday–Thursday
7:00pm–7:45pm (as noted by Dorm Parent on duty)
Friday 7:00pm–curfew
Saturday 2:00pm–5:00pm, 7:00pm–curfew
Sunday 2:00pm–5:00pm
Monday Holidays 2:00pm–5:00pm
Students must leave the dormitory they are visiting in time to make their own curfew.
Room Parietals
Individual room parietals are granted after the Thanksgiving Break, at the earliest. Only one room parietal per room is allowed at a
time. Room parietals require the room door to be wide open, with the light on. Once granted, room parietals may occur at the following times:
Friday 7:00pm–curfew
Saturday 2:00pm–5:00pm, 7:00pm–curfew
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Sunday Monday Holidays 2:00pm–5:00pm
2:00pm–5:00pm
Students must leave the dormitory they are visiting in time to make their own curfew.
For all parietals, a Walnut Hill student visiting in another dormitory must sign in and out with the Dorm Parent on duty and be accompanied by the student host at all times. If the Dorm Parent on duty is not in the dormitory for any reason, parietals are not permitted
during that time. When a student visits another dormitory, he or she must sign in to a specific dormitory room or the common room
with a host; wandering through the dormitory is not allowed. Parietals may be restricted or revoked for an individual or an entire
dormitory if they are abused. A student may not go up to thehost’s room before signing in with the Dorm Parent on duty.
Same-Sex Parietals
Students in a same-sex relationship must abide by all parietal rules even if they live in the same dormitory. Same-sex couples are allowed parietal visits only during the posted days and times and must check in and out with the Dorm Parent on duty. Room parietals
require the room door to be wide open, with the light on.
Day Student On-Campus Overnights
Occasionally, a day student may need to stay overnight with a boarding student on campus for reasons such as a late rehearsal,
performance, late return from a school trip, or snow. The Student Life Office must receive a parental request in advance and must
approve the stay. Students requesting to spend the night must inform the Student Life Office who they want to stay with. The boarding students must give their permission, as well as their roommates, prior to approval of the stay. Special arrangements must be
made for any extended stay. No day students may stay on campus the last week of school for any reason.
Interdorm Sleepovers
Students who want to have a sleepover in another dorm must be invited by the Dorm Parent on duty of the dorm they wish to sleep
in (host dorm) by 10:00pm on the night of the visit. Sleepovers may occur on Friday and Saturday nights, and permission may be
granted for Sundays of 3-day weekends at the Dorm Parent’s discretion. This privilege is at the discretion of the Dorm Parents in
each building, and the numbers may be limited as they choose. Students who take medications and want to sleep over in another
dorm must return to their own dormitory to take their medications at the appropriate time. Students who do not take their medications as prescribed because they are in another dorm will not be allowed to have sleepovers for the next weekend.
Non-Walnut Hill Student Overnight Guests
Non-Walnut Hill students (who are not siblings) spending the night is a special exception to our policies and not all requests may be
approved, even if all of the steps below are followed. If the steps below are not followed within the time frame noted, requests will
not be approved. Students should plan carefully, as they may not make this special request numerous times during the year.
Required Steps for Overnight Guests:
1. The student host must notify the Director of Residential Life at least two weeks in advance to ask permission and get the
Overnight Visitor Form.
2. The student host should speak directly with the dorm heads and the Dorm Parents who will be on duty that weekend, asking their permission to host a non-Walnut guest and getting their signature on the form.
3. The host’s roommate(s) must show that this is okay with them by signing the form.
4. The Director of Residential Life will communicate with the Dorm Heads and Dorm Parents regarding each request.
5. The guest’s parents must complete and sign all necessary areas on the form.
6. All guests must be under 21 years of age. Return the form, within the noted time frame, to the Director of Residential Life. Once the form is received, a decision will be made by the Director of Residential Life. Completion of the form itself is not
considered permission.
Visitors to Campus
For security reasons, all visitors are required to report to the Stowe Reception Area. Visitors to the campus on weekends should
meet and check in with the Dorm Parent on duty. Students who bring visitors to campus must remain with their visitors at all times.
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Students will be held responsible for their guests, and guests are expected to follow the rules of the community. Any visitor violating school rules will be asked to leave. Family visitors are welcome at any time but must leave the dormitory by curfew. Siblings of
the same gender and under the age of 21 are allowed to spend the night in the dormitory with a student with prior permission of
the parent and the Student Life Office. Parents are not allowed to stay in the dormitory rooms overnight. Students may be visited by
guests who are not members of their family during these hours only:
Monday–Thursday
2:00pm–6:00pm
Friday
2:00pm–10:00pm
Saturday
11:00am–10:00pm
Sunday
11:00am–7:45*pm (*10:00pm on 3-day weekends)
Non-family guests may only visit in the Campus Center, Dining Hall, Stowe Lobby, or outside on campus except with the permission of the Student Life Office or a Dorm Parent. Requests for an overnight visit from a non-family guest must be made at least two
weeks in advance to the Student Life Office. (See Non-Walnut Hill Student Overnight Guests)
Pets
Students are not allowed to have pets of any kind, including fish.
Check-ins
Boarding students must check in with the on-duty faculty member at dinner Sunday through Thursday and with their Dorm Parents
at either 7:45pm or 10:00pm (depending on E-list status). Failure to check in on time will result in consequences within the dormitory. Repeated failure to check in will result in disciplinary consequence. Once a student has checked in, he or she must not leave
campus (dinner check-in) or the dormitory (in-dorm check-in).
Study Hall
Study Hour is held from 8:00 to 9:30 on Sunday through Thursday nights. Boarding students not on the E-list must be in their rooms
with the door open, working quietly. Study Hour is monitored by Dorm Parents.
These same times are also observed for Proctored Study Hall held Sunday - Thursday in the Dining Hall. All 9th- grade students begin their year in this study hall. Other students my request to be placed in this as well. Students 10th- 12th grades may be assigned
to Proctored Study Hall if their grades or effort in class dictates it.
Curfews
The following in-dormitory curfew times apply to Walnut Hill students.
Sunday–Thursday
Friday–Saturday
7:45pm (10:00pm E-list)
11:00pm (12:00am for seniors using trains)
For in-dormitory curfews, students must be physically in the dormitory and have checked in with the Dorm Parent on duty. The Dorm
Parent on duty checks for each student at this time. Students late for curfew will face consequences. Occasionally, a student is given
permission through the Student Life Office to be late for curfew due to a performance, field trip, rehearsal, or other activity. The Dorm
Parent must be notified in advance.
Appliances
Heating appliances such as heating coils, hot pots, space heaters, coffeepots, and popcorn poppers are not to be used in student
rooms. Electric hair dryers may be used but must be unplugged when not in use. Heated rollers, hair straighteners, and curling irons
must be given to the Dorm Parents upon moving into the dormitory. These will be kept in a locked box and will be available for student use when requested directly from the Dorm Parents. Halogen lamps of any size and electric blankets are not allowed. Tampering with light switches or changing light fixtures is not allowed. No string/rope lighting (i.e. holiday lights) is allowed.
Ceilings
Flammable materials such as paper posters or cloth tapestries may not be used on ceilings. Ropes and other materials should not be
hung from the ceiling, as they may obstruct freedom of movement in the room in the event of an emergency.
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PART IV: DISCIPLINE
DISCIPLINE
Philosophy of Discipline at Walnut Hill School
Walnut Hill students are expected to be self-disciplined, to act in the best interest of themselves and of others, and to show
consideration for all members of the School community. Students selected for enrollment at Walnut Hill School come from a variety
of backgrounds, cultures, and expectations. Such a diverse community must have agreed-upon standards of behavior. School
rules are established for the safety and well-being of all. Students are expected to abide by these rules and policies; to respect the
rights, freedoms, and property of others; and to be truthful and honest. Walnut Hill will deal with unacceptable behavior in a fair
and consistent manner. Whenever disciplinary action is taken, it is intended to help students take responsibility for their actions and
learn from their mistakes. Parents will be informed as expeditiously as possible in every case involving a serious violation of the
School’s rules or policies. If a student is involved in behavior that may jeopardize his or her continued study at Walnut Hill and would
like assistance in changing that behavior, he or she should speak with the Dean of Students, School Counselor, or another adult
on campus prior to the discipline system beginning. Students asking for help will be assisted within the intervention process (See
Student Support Services section.)
Disciplinary Committee (DC)
Violation of any major school rule results in an appearance before the Disciplinary Committee, which meets as needed. The
Disciplinary Committee is comprised of three faculty members and three students. Faculty members are selected by the Dean of
Students and the Head of School; students are elected by the student body. When necessary, substitution of student representatives
is made from other leadership students. Suspension and expulsion are possible outcomes of any DC hearing. Expulsion is a likely
recommendation for a second violation of a major school rule within the same year.
All results of the committee are announced by a Disciplinary Committee Member or Senior Administrator at assembly. While
individuals are never named in these announcements, information about the infraction and the disciplinary outcome is provided.
Disciplinary Committee Process
When a student violates a major school rule he or she will meet with the Dean of Students about the DC process. A student’s parents
are notified of the infraction. The student is given questions to answer to complete a written statement. This statement should be
reviewed with the student’s advisor prior to the hearing and brought to the hearing to be shared with the committee members. At
the hearing, the Dean of Students will meet with the six committee members to review her or his understanding of the infraction
based on individual meetings with the student, and eyewitnesses and on any other available information. After this, the student,
accompanied by his or her advisor, meets with the committee members (the Dean of Students is not present). The student reads
the written statement and answers any questions of the committee. The committee may also ask questions of the student’s advisor,
either with or without the student present. Once the student and advisor have left, the committee deliberates on their consequence
recommendation. Once a recommendation has been decided upon, it is given to the Dean of Students, who takes it to the Head of
School for final approval. At least five of the six members must agree on the recommendation. The Head of School either approves
or modifies the recommendation. After the decision is final, the Dean of Students meets with the student to report the results. At that
time, the student’s parents are called or emailed with the results. A follow-up-letter is sent home to the parents.
If a student is expelled, he or she must leave campus the same day. Arrangements must be made for a homestay (paid for by the
family) if the student cannot return home immediately. During the first and last two weeks of the year, Disciplinary Committee cases
are heard by a Dean’s Hearing Board due to scheduling difficulties and orientation needs. Questions regarding DC procedures should
be directed to the Dean of Students.
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PART IV: DISCIPLINE
Behaviors Subject to Discipline
Below you will find some descriptions of infractions that would lead to disciplinary action on the School’s part. This is not an allinclusive list; rather, we intend this as a helpful guide for students and parents. Rule violations are reported to the Dean of Students,
who then obtains detailed information about each situation and decides the extent of the disciplinary process. The student is then
accountable to the Dorm Parents, the Class Dean, The Director of Living and Learning Communities, the Disciplinary Committee, or
the administration, depending on the seriousness of the infraction. The Head of School reserves the right to make the final decision
in any disciplinary matter.
Examples of Behaviors Subject to Automatic Expulsion:
Smoking, as well as possession, use, or being in the presence of fire of any kind, such as candles, incense, or any other
material that may constitute a fire hazard in any building, is strictly prohibited and will result in an appearance
before the Disciplinary Committee and automatic expulsion.
Tampering with malicious intent with any of the fire safety devices or destroying smoke detectors will result in an
appearance before the Disciplinary Committee and automatic expulsion.
Examples of Behaviors Subject to Administrative Withdrawal:
The student cannot meet the academic or artistic expectations of the School.
The student makes it impossible for the School to accept legal responsibility for his or her safety.
The student presents a threat to the welfare of the student body.
The student fails to attend classes regularly and/or is disruptive to the educational process.
Examples of Behaviors Subject to Appearance Before the Disciplinary Committee (DC):
Bullying
Falsification or use by another person of identification cards
Fighting
Hazing/harassment
Major Blue Card/permissions violations
Major parietal violations
Persistent irresponsible behavior
Possession of a weapon
Sexual activity on campus
Smoking or being in the presence of smoking
Tampering with computers or the computer system
Theft
Threats
Trespassing
Unauthorized use or possession of keys
Vandalism
Violation of the drug and alcohol policy
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PART IV: DISCIPLINE
Any other behavior that is detrimental to the welfare, emotional well-being, or safety of one’s self or others,
or to the reputation of the School
Any other behavior that the Dean of Students deems to fall within this category
Examples of Behaviors Subject to discipline by the Director of Living and Learning Communities or the Dean of Students:
Disrespectful actions toward another member or property of the community
Leaving campus without permission during the school day
Minor Blue Card/permissions violations
Minor parietal violations
Repeated dormitory violations
Any other behavior that the Director of Living and Learning Communities or the Dean of Students deems to fall within
this category
Examples of Behaviors Subject to Discipline Within the Dormitory:
Creating a mess in the common use areas of the dormitory
Minor curfew violations
Disruption within the dormitory during quiet hours
Failure to pass weekly room inspection
Failure to sign in
Using the phone or television after hours
Any other behavior that is deemed inappropriate by the Dorm Parents
Suspension
A student who is suspended is separated from the School for up to five consecutive academic days. Students are required to make
up all work missed during a suspension and will not receive any additional academic penalty. Students who are suspended receive
excused absences for the days that they are required to be away from school. In the event that a student is unable to go home or
to a guardian’s home during a suspension, family must arrange a local homestay. In most cases, suspension is the last punishment
before expulsion for continuing unacceptable behaviors.
Expulsion
In the event that a student is expelled, she or he must prepare for immediate departure. The student is expected to leave the campus
as soon as transportation can be arranged and no later than the end of the day (5:00pm) on which the expulsion is decided. As with
all cases in which a student leaves during the school year, no tuition will be refunded by the School. In the case of an expulsion,
any responsibilities or obligations on the part of teachers toward the expelled student terminate at the time of separation from
the School. In exceptional cases, the School may consider carrying a second-semester senior through the end of the year. Such
exceptions are granted by the Head of School, in consultation with the Administrative Council of the School. Expelled students may
not return to campus without prior administrative approval for the remainder of that year.
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PART IV: STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Health Services
The School Nurse is available at the Health Center, which is centrally located on campus, Monday through Friday from 7:30am
to 7:00pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10:00am to 1:00pm. After 7:00pm students can go to their Dorm Parents for health related
issues. All over-the-counter medications dispensed to students are recorded and reported to the Health Center. A medical professional is on-call at all hours when the Health Center is closed. Dorm Parents and the Administrator-on-Call may contact the medical
professional as needed for medical guidance. A School Doctor is available as needed for student appointments. All appointments are
billed through the student’s health insurance. Billing is completed by the provider’s office for insurance costs as well as appropriate co-payments not paid at the time of visits. The School Nurse maintains the schedule of appointments. In the event of a medical
emergency, a hospital with a pediatric emergency room is five miles from campus.
Students must report to the School Nurse before their first class in order to be excused from classes. If a student falls ill during the
night, she or he should see the Dorm Parent on duty to arrange for medical attention. A boarding student who is too ill to get to the
Health Center in the morning should see the Dorm Parent on duty, send another student to alert the School Nurse, or call the Health
Center at 508.650.5030. Students will not be excused after the fact; they must speak to the Nurse before they miss a class. In the
event that a student is too sick to stay in the dormitory overnight, arrangements will be made by health services for the student to
receive more closely monitored care. Parents are informed of any arrangements made if such a need arises. Costs, if any, would be
the responsibility of the parent and billed to the student’s health insurance. If a day student begins to feel sick or is injured during
the day, she or he must go see the School Nurse. The student is not excused to go home until the nurse has been able to contact the
parents of the student.
Physical Therapy and Other Services
Our unique student body of young artists often requires specialized care for injuries, symptoms of overuse, stress, and related
problems. Physical therapy is available on campus and homeopathic treatments, such as massage therapy, chiropractic care, and
acupuncture, can be arranged through the Health Center as needed. These health professionals work with students in maintaining
their levels of performance and educate them about injury prevention. Parents are notified when a student is referred to one of these
providers. Additionally, Walnut Hill students receive priority appointments at the Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine Clinic. Use of
these services incurs additional costs.
Counseling Services
The School Counselor provides individual personal support and also serves as the liaison for outside professional counseling for
students. The counselor’s office is located on the second floor of the Health Center, with hours posted at the beginning of the year.
The School Counselor works closely with students and their parents; standard rules of professional confidentiality apply in the counselor’s conversations with students.
The School Counselor maintains a referral list of mental health providers and will arrange care as needed or requested. Use of these
providers incurs additional cost.
Advising Program
All adults at Walnut Hill serve as important sources of support for students, and although the School believes that students may effectively find guidance from any of them, the role of the advisor is of primary importance for students and families. A student’s advisor is the person who has the best understanding of his or her entire Walnut Hill experience—academically, artistically and socially.
The advisor is expected to meet regularly with the advisee group (both as a full group and individually) and to be communicating
regularly with students and families about how things are going at school.
Advisors will receive copies of all progress reports, provide support during any disciplinary procedures, provide insight for other
faculty and staff members when appropriate, and serve as a resource for any questions or concerns as appropriate. They also help
students plan their academic schedules, discuss upcoming assignments and time-management strategies, and review grades and
comments with students at the end of each semester. Another goal of the advisors is to provide a small group of peers with a common thread as additional peer supports for students.
Advisors work together in grade-level teams to support each other and their advisees, and to help students navigate the specific ins
and outs of the year. Grade level teams are coordinated by the class deans.
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PART IV: STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
New students will be assigned to advisors by the Director of Studies. Students stay with their assigned advisors for their whole
career at Walnut Hill unless there are significant reasons to suggest a change.
Any questions about advising should be directed to the relevant Class Dean or to the Director of Studies.
Intervention
The students’ health and safety is the primary concern for all adults at Walnut Hill. Therefore, if a student comes to an adult with
concerns about personal substance use or a friend’s substance use (including tobacco use), no disciplinary action will occur. The
student of concern will go through the School’s intervention process. This is true even if students come forward while under the
influence of a substance. If, however, a student is caught or questioned about breaking a School policy, she or he cannot ask for an
intervention at that time.
Interventions may also be put in place for concerns regarding other destructive behavior that would not ever be part of the disciplinary response, including eating disorders, self-injurious behavior, or mental health issues.
The intervention process is designed to address the problem of the student who has not been caught in the disciplinary system
but who may be having difficulty—for example, with alcohol or substance abuse. An intervention is meant to be a supportive and
healthful response to a student’s problem and is not connected to the disciplinary system. When a student comes forward, or it
is determined that a student is obviously in need of help, prior to a disciplinary incident, a group of trained faculty meet with the
student and direct an appropriate course of action. The course of action may include required counseling, evaluation, or testing.
The parent of any student will be fully informed of a concern that may lead to an intervention and will be invited to participate
early in the intervention process. Maintaining the confidentiality of the reporting student, when requested, is guaranteed. Because
of the philosophy of Walnut Hill School, we will be more likely to lean toward intervention to assist a student than disciplinary
consequences, whenever possible, as we believe strongly that students learn best in a supportive, clear, and forthright environment.
Suicide Attempts
A student who attempts suicide will be administratively withdrawn for a minimum of one semester. Return to school will be contingent upon appropriate psychiatric care being completed and will be at the discretion of the Dean of Students with the guidance of
the health team.
Eating Disorders Policy
If the School, in consultation with the School Doctor, determines that a student suffers from an eating disorder, the student will be
required to follow the recommendations of the School or will be asked to withdraw. Students may not be allowed to fully participate
in the school program until medical clearance is received. If treatment progress is not made, as determined by the School, the student will be administratively withdrawn for at least the remainder of the semester. Return to school will be contingent on appropriate
medical and psychiatric care being completed and will be at the discretion of the Dean of Students with the guidance of the health
team. Immediate hospitalization and/or withdrawal may be necessary if the School feels it cannot meet the student’s health needs.
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PART IV: FIRE SAFTEY & CAMPUS SECURITY
FIRE SAFETY & CAMPUS SECURITY
Guidelines for Decorating Public Spaces on Campus (The 5 Feet/10% Rule):
Due to the increased vigilance of fire safety rules, we must adhere to the following guidelines throughout the year:
Loose, unprotected paper is not permitted on walls or doorways of any common space in dormitories.
In hallways, common rooms, stairwells, and other common spaces, nothing may hang on the wall within
5 feet of a doorway.
No more than 10% of the space on a door or the space on a wall can be covered (whether fire rated or not).
Unprotected bulletin boards are not permitted.
The following ideas have received approval:
Pictures can be hung on a wall, provided they are framed and covered in glass or fire-rated Plexiglas (but still not within 5 feet of a doorway).
Smaller items (articles, notices, phones, etc.) can be hung if they are laminated on both sides. If they are on a wall, they should be more than 5 feet from a doorway. They should not cover more than 10% of a door or wall space.
Name tags, pictures, articles, and other small items can be adhered to a door using clear contact paper that extends an inch and a half beyond the items and is attached securely to the door surface. The total area of decoration cannot exceed 10% of the surface area of the door.
As a general frame of reference:
5 feet is about 6–12 inches LESS than the arm span of an average person.
10% of an average dormitory room door is about the size of TWO 8-1/2 X 11-inch sheets of paper.
Fire Drills General Guidelines and Policy
a. Purpose
The purpose of fire exit drills is to ensure the efficient and safe use of the exit facilities available in the case of an emergency. Proper
drills ensure orderly exit under supervision and prevent the panic that has been responsible for much of the loss of life in the major
fire disasters of history. Controlled practice is the primary purpose of the drills. Speed in emptying buildings, while desirable, is not in
itself an object, and should be made secondary to the maintenance of proper order and discipline.
b. Responsibility
Responsibility for the planning and conduct of drills shall be assigned by the Director of Facilities to competent persons qualified to
exercise leadership. Dorm Parents on duty are responsible for taking attendance once everyone is in the designated area. They then
report that fact to the safety officer in charge. A written record of all drills conducted as well as a critique of the event will be maintained in a log book in the Facilities Office.
c. Guidelines
Fire exit drills shall be held a minimum of two times per year in the academic and arts buildings and four times a year, per dormitory,
to familiarize all occupants with the drill procedure and to have the conduct of the drill a matter of established routine. Drills will be
carefully planned under the guidance of the Natick Fire Department and the Facilities Director to simulate actual fire conditions. The
Natick Fire Department recommends that not only should they be held at varying times, but different means of exit should be used
based upon an assumption that if some given stairway is unavailable by reason of fire or smoke, all the occupants must be led out
by some other route.
d. Evacuation
Everyone must go to the designated area. All inhabitants—both students and Dorm Parents—must evacuate the building. If the
Dorm Parent in charge states that a student or adult is missing, campus safety and/or the fire department will enter the room/
Dorm Parent apartment to find the missing person/persons. Consequences for failing to evacuate will be determined by the Dean of
Students.
Fire Safety Inspections
Unannounced room inspections may be made by the Director of Facilities to ensure that rooms are in compliance with regulations.
Entrances to rooms must be clear of obstructions, and access must be free to doors and windows. All dormitories are equipped with
automatic sprinkler systems.
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PART IV: FIRE SAFETY & CAMPUS SECURITY
Fire Safety Regulations
Smoking, as well as possession, use, or being in the presence of fire of any kind, such as candles, incense, or any other material that
may constitute a fire hazard in any building, is strictly prohibited and will result in an appearance before the Disciplinary Committee
and automatic expulsion. Tampering with malicious intent with any of the fire safety devices will result in an appearance before the
Disciplinary Committee and automatic expulsion. Students may not install their own locks or lock themselves in their rooms at any
time. Emergency procedures require immediate access to any room occupied by a student or leading to emergency exits.
Flammable Items
Candles, incense, lava lamps, kerosene lamps, Christmas tree lights, electric blankets, halogen lamps, and similar items are not
permitted and will be confiscated if they are found in student rooms.
Furniture
Furniture may not be removed, replaced, or added to the student’s room without permission from the Director of Living and Learning
Communities to ensure that the room meets fire safety standards. All mattresses must be on bed frames with legs and cannot be
placed directly on the floor.
Security on Campus
Security Personnel provide 24-hour security under the direction of the Director of Facilities. All members of the community may
contact security at any time by calling 508.397.5759. The outside doors of all dormitories are locked, and students residing in those
dormitories gain access via their ID cards.
Theft
A student should immediately report a case of theft to a Dorm Parent and/or the Director of Living and Learning Communities. The
student is asked to fill out a detailed theft/loss report and parents are often notified. It is sometimes necessary to involve the local
police. Theft in the dormitories is not tolerated at Walnut Hill. Dorm Parents do what they can to locate stolen property; in some cases
dormitory rooms may be searched.
The School assumes no responsibility for money or property stolen from students. Parents should check to see that they have proper
coverage through individual homeowners insurance policies. Each boarding student is provided with a dresser drawer and each day
student with a locker that can be locked. Students must provide their own locks.
Replacement of Personal Belongings
Walnut Hill School for the Arts is not responsible for the loss of or damage to any personal belongings for any reason. The School
strongly urges that each family purchase a homeowners or renters insurance policy that will cover student belongings, including
electronic, musical, or technological equipment. Families must sign a waiver form as part of registration confirming their understanding of this policy.
Page 86
NOTES
Page 87
REFERENCES
If you have questions or concerns about a student’s educational experience, the first contact you should consider is your student’s
advisor. For other specific issues, please check the list below for the appropriate contact person:
Transcripts/credits, graduation requirements,
course selection/student schedules.......................................Angela Stucchi, Registrar, [email protected], 508.652.7811
Independent studies,
summer/online coursework,
course changes, advising,
academic dishonesty/probation,
incompletes...............................................................Benjamin Gregg, Director of Studies, [email protected], 508.652.7819
Tutoring/extra student support,
organization/time management,
educational testing/learning style................Audrey Bland, Learning Resource Specialist, [email protected], 508.650.5055
Student network use,
student email accounts...................................Rory Coughlan, Director of Technology, [email protected], 508. 652.7812
Oversees all arts
programming....................................................Jim Woodside, Director of Arts Studies, [email protected], 508.650.5014
Arts placement and casting...........................................................Dance: Michael Owen, [email protected], 508.650.5046
Creative Writing: Margaret Funkhouser, [email protected], 508.650.5083
Music: Jennifer Elowitch, [email protected], 508.650.5024
Theater: Joe Cabral, [email protected], 508.650.5035
Visual Art: Jim Woodside, [email protected], 508.650.5056
Health Services, physical therapy,
medical appointments,
referrals, prescription information..........................................................Health Services, [email protected], 508.650.5030
Individual student counseling,
case management, referrals..........................................Eve Berman, School Counselor, [email protected], 508.650.5054
Registration/Orientation,
discipline, leaves/withdrawals,
International Student Services,
Fitness, leadership......................................................Melissa Cassel, Dean of Students, [email protected], 508.650.5029
Transportation and travel,
student activities...................................Connie Stebbins, Director of Student Activities, [email protected], 508.652.7801
Attendance Line,
online registration............ Amanda Leshowitz, Assistant Director of Student Services, [email protected], 508.652.7821
College Counseling.........................................Sarah Lovely, Director of College Counseling, [email protected], 508.650.5022
Rebekka Goldberg, College Counselor, [email protected], 508.650.5021
Page 88
REFERENCES
Dorm phones:
to reach the Dorm Parent on duty and for Weekend Permission phone calls...............................................Bishop: 774.270.5409
Clark: 774.270.5984
Eliot: 774.270.5985
Highland: 774.270.5986
New Cottage: 774.270.5987
North House: 774.270.5988
Stowe: 774.270.5989
Westerly: 774.270.4955
Financial Aid........... Susanne Carpenter, Assistant Head for Enrollment Management, [email protected], 508.650.5085
I-20’s/passports.................................................................................Lauren Johanson, [email protected], 508.650.5023
Student accounts
(including charge home),
dining services,
bookstore/box office,
student allowance..........................................Byron Sheppard, Chief Financial Officer, [email protected], 508.650.5015
Richard Stebbins, Accounting Manager, [email protected], 508.650.5057
Laure Joy, Accounts Payable and Receivable Manager, [email protected], 508.650.5017
Pauline Connors, School Store Manager, [email protected], 508.650.5068
Maintenance, housekeeping, security...................Andy Faulkner, Director of Facilities, [email protected], 508.652.7808
Fundraising, development...................................Marie Longo, Chief Advancement Officer, [email protected], 508.650.5019
Marketing, communications,
public relations,
print & digital materials...............Betsy Blazar, Director of Marketing & Communications, [email protected], 508.650.5061
Head of School.................................................................................................Antonio Viva, [email protected], 508.650.5065
Director of Administrative Affairs...................................................................Jen James, [email protected], 508.650.5065
Page 89

the guide to walnut hill | 2015–2016

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