Signature Programs & Experiences
Experiential learning is central to the academic program at The Whitfield School. Across disciplines and grade levels, faculty serve as coaches and designers of learning experiences that ask students to apply knowledge, solve problems, create original work, and communicate what they have learned.
From exhibitions and cultural exchange to leadership, college preparation, and Senior Capstone, Whitfield's signature programs and experiences give students meaningful opportunities to explore their interests, develop greater independence, and take ownership of their education.
Global Learning & Cultural Exchange
Whitfield students expand their understanding of the world through international travel, language study, and cultural exchange. Recent trips to Panama, Taiwan, and France let students experience other cultures. Through a partnership with Hakuba International School in Japan, students build friendships across borders and welcome exchange students to campus.
The College Choice Experience
Whitfield’s College Choice Experience is a personalized, multi-year approach to college preparation that begins well before senior year. Through an intentional curriculum and individualized counseling, students explore their interests, identify colleges that fit their goals, and take increasing ownership of the college search and application process.
The Scholar Athlete
At Whitfield, students do not have to choose between academic ambition and athletic achievement. An academic schedule designed to support student-athletes, dedicated opportunities for academic support, strength and conditioning resources, athletic training, and competitive programs help students pursue excellence in the classroom and in competition.
Integrated Studies
Whitfield’s Integrated Studies program provides a developmental sequence of required courses that helps students apply their skills, interests, and values in authentic contexts. Middle School 101, Foundations, College Knowledge, and Senior Capstone support students as they develop greater independence and prepare for the academic, personal, and post-secondary experiences ahead.
Student Voice & Leadership
Whitfield students have meaningful opportunities to develop and practice leadership throughout their school experience. Programs including Real Talk, Student Advisory Board, STUCO, and Student Philanthropy Board give students opportunities to contribute their perspectives, take responsibility, and help shape their school and community.
Senior Capstone
The Senior Capstone is a year-long culminating experience that gives every Whitfield senior the opportunity to pursue an individual area of interest through inquiry and exploration. The experience extends beyond campus and concludes with a public exhibition of learning, giving students the opportunity to share what they have discovered and created.
Glassman Leaders
Established by Whitfield alumnus Robert Glassman '02, the Glassman Leaders Program equips emerging upper school leaders with presentation and public speaking skills. Selected students complete a Dale Carnegie leadership course, then receive ongoing coaching from Whitfield faculty and staff.
To learn more about Robert Glassman's '02 vision for the Glassman Leaders Program at Whitfield, click the link below.
Service & Community Engagement
Whitfield students put their commitment to community into action through service throughout the year. They clean up Greenwood Cemetery during W-Days, support Craft Alliance and 100 Neediest Cases, collect food for Operation Food Search, and host an annual American Red Cross blood drive.Through these experiences, students contribute to organizations and communities across St. Louis while developing an understanding of service and civic responsibility.
Advisory & Habits of Mind & Heart
Every Whitfield student participates in Advisory, creating a consistent structure for relationships, reflection, skill development, and goal-setting throughout grades 6–12. Grounded in Whitfield’s Habits of Mind & Heart, the Advisory curriculum helps ensure that every student is known, supported, and challenged to grow as a learner and community member.
