In middle and high school, the variety and depth of learning tools and resources increases, as does the level of personal responsibility for students. With this responsiblity comes great opportunity for growth as the Lord leads each one through a rugged path of discovering how to make wise and discerning decisions that yield tangible results. While achievement is exciting, students also discover, perhaps more importantly, the grit and perseverance needed to learn deeply. Along the way, through continued practice and application, students grow in their ability to collaborate, discuss Socratically, and give and receive constructive and meaningful feedback. All these components yield more than academic knowledge: Through this, the Lord guides, corrects, and teaches each individual heart.
Upper School (Grades 6-12) Curriculum
| Subject Area | Curricular Resources |
| English |
Classical Academic Press, IXL, Logic of English, other resources Poetry Foundation Novels/literature |
| Math | Khan Academy, Sadlier Oxford, other resources |
| History/Social Studies | Bright Ideas Press, Hillsdale College, Case Method Institute (Harvard Business School), Dave Ramsey, Gilder Lehrman Institute, Bill of Rights Institute, NHD, UF, BJU, Notgrass, primary source documents, others |
| Science | Apologia, Project WILD, Project WET, Priceless Florida, Christian Kids Explore, others |
| Bible | The Bible, Great Commission Publications, Apologia, CSI, various authors (Blackaby, Giglio, Lewis, etc.) |
| Foreign Language | IXL, Rocket Languages, others (depending on language) |
| Field Trips and Educational Travel | Middle school students typically experience 4-6 field trips per year, and high school experiences 6-10 field trips. These field trips are an integral part of our learning experience and are required (with rare exceptions). In high school, students have opportunities to participate in educational travel (2-5 nights); educational travel is encouraged but not required. |
OCS emphasizes public speaking and communications, and students participate in required programs, skits, and presentations throughout the school year to grow in confidence and skill. Parents and families are strongly encouraged to attend these exciting gatherings. There are a mix of during-school and evening presentations throughout the year.
All students in grades 6-12 take achievement tests (NWEA MAP Growth) 3 times per year. Students in grade 9 are strongly encouraged to take the PSAT, while students in grades 10 and 11 are required to do so. Juniors and seniors are required to take the SAT or ACT at least once during each academic year.
The OCS high school program offers several graduation tracks, including those for students seeking admission to competitive colleges and universities, private colleges/universities, state colleges, and trade schools, Bible colleges, and other post-secondary options such as tech certifications, paramedics, and others. Students who choose college prep and honors college prep graduation tracks can meet or exceed Bright Futures requirements.
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