Academics
The Oldfields Difference: A Balanced Approach to High Standards in a Supportive Environment
Our mission at Oldfields is to provide an environment that allows each girl to make the most of her academic and personal potential. Oldfields has dedicated itself to the intellectual development of the student in line with her particular learning profile. The academic program is designed to be rigorous and challenging, as well as personal and supportive, allowing her to expand and apply her strengths while also developing strategies to manage her weaknesses. Oldfields offers a complete college preparatory curriculum. These academic goals are accomplished by providing:
Unique Academic Schedule
The structure of a day at Oldfields is unique, and makes all the difference in the world to our students! Created to emphasize true learning, three 80 minute daily classes allow the girls to immerse themselves in and master each subject. Courses are full year and earn one full credit. There is an hour between classes allowing for extra learning support and other enrichment. This time gives them the opportunity to advocate for themselves and develop meaningful relationships with teachers. The similarity to a collegiate schedule helps them successfully transition into higher learning.
5:1 Student to Teacher Ratio
It is a luxury to be able to give this much attention to our students, and the results are undeniable! By design, our faculty has the time to tailor the learning experience to each girl, providing enrichment for those who need challenge, as well as extra help to those who need support.
Flexible Course Curriculum, Including Honors Courses
From the important basic courses of math, science and English to the less common forensics, War and Society, and Data Analytics, each girl's schedule is tailored to her particular interests and needs with adjustments easily made. A wide variety of Honors courses are offered, including Biology, US History, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Physics, Chemistry, English 11, English 12, French Language, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, and Portfolio (Studio Art). Honors students are prepared and encouraged to take the appropriate Advanced Placement examination or SAT Subject Test. Each year we adjust the offerings and schedule to accommodate our current students' needs.
Abundant Opportunity for Academic Support
Each day is structured with the goal of keeping all students on track. Individual "extra help," multiple study halls throughout the day, evening and weekend, as well as Math and Writing Labs, ensure that all students have the opportunity to fully master the material. Weekly faculty meetings centered on students guarantee that everyone has the information and resources they need to support each girl. Each and every student is named and the faculty is given the opportunity to bring up accomplishments and challenges to discuss with the group.
Exceptional Understanding of Learning Styles
We foster intellectual curiosity. An Oldfields girl is likely to be a budding scientist as well as a nationally-ranked rider. For each future Nobel Laureate, there is a likely Senator. The goal is to meet each girl where she is and give her a safe environment to learn, explore, and take risks. The outcome is a confident young woman who is prepared to rise to her absolute highest potential.
Oldfields is accredited by AIMS Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. In addition, Oldfields is a member of the Association of Independent Maryland Schools, The Association of Boarding Schools, the National Association of Principals of Schools for Girls, the National Coalition of Girls' Schools, the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, the Secondary School Admission Test, the Independent Educational Consultants Association, the Educational Records Bureau, the Potomac and Chesapeake Association of College Admissions Counseling, and the National Association of College Admission Counseling. Oldfields recognizes the NAIS and NACAC Principles of Good Practice.