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Academic Overview
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Academic Overview

The academic course of study at Gann Academy seeks to develop critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning. Along with teaching content, teachers also expect students to synthesize and analyze information by asking insightful questions, conducting research, and utilizing the imagination. The faculty encourages students to take risks by supporting their efforts and recognizing their achievements. Teachers recognize that students differ in cognitive development and set their expectations appropriately.

Gann Academy has a rigorous dual curriculum that includes Judaic subjects and general studies. The students also study art, athletics, and Jewish Thought, and they participate in electives as part of the school day. The four-year curriculum was developed with input from Jewish educators, university professors, and high school teachers. Writing is emphasized across the curriculum. Some courses are offered on different levels, with advanced and Advanced Placement sections open to interested students.

The Arts, History, and English curricula expose students to the historical movements, philosophical concepts, and literary works that have shaped the modern world. Students take courses in literature, writing, history, philosophy, and a Romance language (optional). Jewish history is incorporated into the study of western civilization. Students also study fine arts as part of the core curriculum. Offerings include drawing, art history, ceramics, sculpture, creative writing, theater, music composition and theory, music history, and film.

Students complete a college preparatory mathematics program. We offer several mathematics sequences to accommodate the varied backgrounds and abilities of our students. Courses include algebra I and II, geometry, trigonometry, calculus (including AB and BC Advanced Placement courses) , statistics, and advanced topics beyond the AP level. Laboratory sciences—physics, chemistry, and biology—are required during the first three years. Students acquire problem-solving skills and gain hands-on experience in addition to mastering the specific subject matter. Highly motivated students are encouraged to design independent research projects. Electives in the senior year include astronomy, advanced topics in biology and physics, engineering, and design science. Computer science has been integrated into the mathematics and science curricula, and seniors may choose a course in advanced programming.

The Judaic studies curriculum revolves around the rich intellectual, cultural, and historical legacies of our Jewish heritage. Students develop a solid grounding in Hebrew language, basic concepts of Jewish law, philosophy, and ethics. They acquire the skills to study classical Jewish texts including Bible, Talmud, Midrash, codes, and commentaries. Students are encouraged to explore ways in which the Jewish tradition can be applied to the ethical, political, and social issues facing our age. Because our students come from a wide variety of academic backgrounds, Judaic Studies courses are offered on several levels, including a program designed for students who require an introduction to Hebrew and text study.


Faculty member Reena Freedman