Arts & Humanities
Great leaders have a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience and the tools to use that knowledge for the greater good.
At Castilleja, girls have the opportunity to study how people process and document their experiences through our innovative humanities departments: English, History-Social Science, and World Languages. Knowledge of these subject areas grants emerging leaders a sense of connection and understanding with others; critical analysis skills practiced in every class engage students in the process of developing agility and critical thinking skills.
Academic Departments
English
Our English program introduces students to great works of world literature, exposes them to important literary traditions, helps them learn to develop and defend their own ideas, and fosters a lifelong love of reading.
With an emphasis on the principles of good writing rather than rigid rules, Castilleja's writing curriculum encourages students to develop their own voices. Castilleja's English courses deepen students' ability to think critically, reason abstractly, and reflect upon questions and issues that have no easy answers.
Students celebrate Shakespeare's birthday by trading some classic Shakespearean insults.
Ms. Hansen discusses The Odyssey in Upper School English.
Meet the Faculty
History-Social Science
A deep understanding of the past provides a sophisticated lens to understand the present and to view the future. Students hone their skills in critical thinking, thoughtful reading from a variety of sources, deep research, analytical writing, and both formal and extemporaneous speaking. Course offerings range from world and United States history to area studies, economics, and psychology.
Our students develop a global perspective and a deep appreciation of the role of the humanities to reveal the intricacies of human existence, highlight our common stories, and provide a framework for productive debate and exploration of solutions.
In Dr. Story's 9th Grade History class, students gain a hands-on understanding of World War I as they re-enact battles between the various countries with accurately distributed resources.
In this signature Castilleja project, 8th grade history students use Bourn Lab equipment such as the laser cutter and the 3D printer to construct prototypes of monuments to notable women in American history.
Meet the Faculty
Heather Pang
Titles:
Middle School Faculty Member, History-Social Science Department, 8th Grade Dean, Historian
Christy Story
Titles:
Upper School Faculty Member, History-Social Science Department, Freshman Class Dean
Visual Performing Arts
The Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) are an integral part of the Castilleja experience, weaving together knowledge, skill development, and self-expression while enriching the cultural life of our community.
Through an exploration of each arts discipline—dance, music, theatre arts, and visual art—students learn to be creators, collaborators, leaders, and risk takers. Students have numerous opportunities to develop abilities, pursue passions, and put their best work on stage or on display. Click here to view our upcoming VPA Events.
Meet the Faculty
Helen Shanks
Titles:
Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts, Senior Class Dean, Faculty Member, Bourn Idea Lab
World Languages
At Castilleja, learning a second language (French, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish) is a positive and rewarding experience. Beyond the goal of mastery of the material, our students develop critical thinking skills and effective learning strategies that facilitate second language acquisition and use of the language outside of the school setting. Students develop skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing as they gain an understanding of, appreciation for, and sensitivity to the cultures of the target language. Students gain an appreciation for the benefits and joys of the study of a second language.
Ms. Schryver transforms her classroom into a French market to create a realistic arena for practicing language skills as students play both shopkeep and consumer.
Mandarin students share an authentic cultural experience in celebration of Chinese Spring Festival with the rest of the student body while practicing their own skills in Chinese character writing.