as photography , psychology , and astronomy . High schoolers also have access to the wide range of classes available through the nearby University of Alabama Early College program , as well as the technical and trade classes , like welding , nursing , and cosmetology , offered at Shelton State .
Students at Capitol participate in the most varied sports and physical activity program of any school in Alabama . Coach Jenni Jensen ’ s goals are for students to learn to use their bodies in a variety of ways , to understand the importance of an active lifestyle , and to find what they love . Habits formed in childhood and adolescence provide a basis for life-long participation and enjoyment . The PE program provides opportunities for students to participate in a range of activities so that they can develop healthy lifestyles now and in the future .
In addition to the regular PE program , middle & high school students participate in a variety of Clubs and competitive sports through the Alabama Association of Independent Schools . Club sports meet in the afternoons from 3:00 - 5:00 p . m . and include Wrestling , Climbing , Brazilian Jiu Jitsu , and Pickle Ball . High school students also take Health and a Life Skills course developed by Coach Jensen , in which they learn essential skills like performing CPR , preparing a nutritious weekly menu , and changing a tire .
Sports are seasonal , with Cross-Country and Girls Volleyball practicing and competing from August until October and Tennis , Track & Field , and Golf from February to April .
New to our school this year is a state-of-the-art physical training facility with Rogue and Fray equipment to support the strengthening , conditioning , and healthy lifestyles of our students and faculty .
The Capitol School recognizes that a student ’ s life outside of the classroom is important . Many students are busy with extracurricular activities , like dance , roller derby , and bowling . Some students travel frequently with their families . Teachers , particularly in English and Math , assign regular homework , but it is reasonable . Students have access to regular study halls during which teachers are available to answer questions or help with assignments . Rigorous course work is certainly an important part of the Upper School , but it ’ s a priority to nurture students as whole people , developing not only their minds , but their spirits and hearts , as well .
Both during lunch and after school , Upper School students gather for other organized activities . A Student Newspaper meets at lunch weekly , and they publish a bi-weekly paper about school and student life . The Spirit Club periodically meets during lunch . They make posters to cheer on sports teams and plan events and fundraisers . A favorite after-school activity is the weekly Dungeons and Dragons Club .
Students at Capitol have a wide range of interests that they share with each other , and the connections and friendships they make often extend outside of school hours . The academic schedule includes a fifteen-minute mid-morning break and thirty minutes for lunch . During these times , students gather with friends of all ages . Although they have separate classes , high schoolers and middle schoolers get to know each other , and the high school students are role models for middle schoolers . Everyone knows everyone , and being together in an inclusive environment fosters a strong sense of belonging .
Annual traditions in the Upper School bring students together for fun and celebration . During the year , there are biannual evening functions for both high schoolers and middle schoolers . In the fall , there is a high school Homecoming party and a separate middle school party . In the spring , there ’ s a Prom for all high schoolers and another party for the middle school . Students have a large role in planning and preparing for these parties . Also in the spring is the schoolwide International Festival , an evening picnic in which families gather in Capitol Park to celebrate international cultural heritages . Every spring , students in language classes participate in the University of Alabama ’ s German and Spanish Days . A final important official annual tradition is Honors Day on the last day of school . At this ceremony , every student is recognized for their growth over the year and for their unique , individual contributions to the school community .
Students also go on a lot of field trips that enhance their understanding of the world and their place within it . They attend multiple local theatre productions each year , participate in college and job fairs , explore nature – this year , at Hurricane Creek , Camp McDowell , and the Grand Canyon , and provide service within the local community when needs arise .
The Upper School at Capitol is a unique environment to learn and grow , with classes that are demanding but supportive , reasonable homework expectations , a vibrant social life , and special traditions . Its goal is to support teenagers as whole people through their formative adolescent years , nurturing them to become interesting , capable adults . Choosing a school that best fits students ’ needs can help support their satisfaction and success as they grow and develop during this intense developmental stage .
The Capitol School is an opportunity , a first big step in a successful career and life for its students . At Capitol , students thrive , finding their own capacity for excellence in a caring , individual-focused learning environment . Parents have found our curriculum innovative and our faculty responsive to the needs of their children . We want what you want -- to see your child grow into a confident and purposeful , engaged and insightful , ambitious and generous adult .
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