UPPER
SCHOOL

An outstanding high school experience, for students in grades 9 through 12, in Brooklyn Heights.
Ready to take on
the world.
During the day, you can find MMFS high school students immersed in all kinds of learning: dissecting specimens in biology, discussing James Baldwin in English, designing posters for the school play, solving linear equations in calculus, or practicing layups in the gym. You’ll hear them practicing Spanish and see them signing with ASL.

Our students become independent learners, critical thinkers, and problem solvers—in the classroom and in the community. We encourage them to be their own best advocates so they are empowered to succeed in school and in the future.

At MMFS, we don’t just prepare students for the future; we help them shape it.
UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMICS
MMFS graduates: Ready for the future
Our upper school curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong academic foundation, while also allowing for opportunities to pursue advanced coursework. Some 11th and 12 grade students take the Calculus AB and BC exams, as well as the AP US Government and Politics exam.
Core Requirements
  • English: 4 years required
  • History: 4 years required
  • Math: 3 years required, 4th optional
  • Science: 3 years required, 4th optional
  • Modern Languages: 2 years, 3-4 optional
  • Health & Wellness: 4 years
  • Physical Education: 4 years
  • Art: 2 years, 3-4 optional
Explore the curriculum in the menu below.
English
Students study a range of writers, styles, and genres, from classic texts to modern literature. English classes focus on reading comprehension, literary analysis, expository writing, vocabulary development, and study skills.
  • 9th grade students focus on coming-of-age literature (e.g. The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead).
  • 10th graders read about courage and perseverance (e.g. Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower).
  • 11th grade English focuses on moral dilemmas (e.g. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald).
  • The 12th grade theme is outsiders (e.g. The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie).
Math
With a variety of courses offerings from algebra to calculus, students take math classes that both meet their skills and challenge them.
  • Foundations in Math
  • Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Algebra II
  • Geometry
  • Pre-Calculus and Calculus
  • Personal Finance
  • Statistics
History
Our upper school history program educates students to be active and informed members of the global community. History classes focus on note taking and research skills as well as using primary and secondary sources.
  • The 9th grade curriculum focuses on 20th-century world history and global conflict.
  • The 10th grade curriculum explores geographical, cultural, and historical themes from ancient history to the present.
  • 11th graders study American government and recent history, with a focus on marginalized voices.
  • 12th grade students choose seminar-style electives on topics including philosophy, economics, and civics.
  • All students study Quaker History and Practice in 9th grade.
Science
Inquiry, observation, and experimentation are the core of the science program. Students design and test hypotheses, collect and analyze data, and critique claims and evidence through labs and hands-on investigations.
  • 9th grade: Earth and Space Sciences
  • 10th grade: Biology
  • 11th grade: Chemistry
  • 12th grade science electives include: Introduction to Neuroscience, Physics, STEAM Fundamentals, and Computer Science
Modern Languages
At MMFS, we know that students with learning disabilities are capable of learning a second language, so all MMFS students study either Spanish or and American Sign Language (ASL).
  • We offer four years of Spanish.
  • We offer four years of ASL.
  • Spanish for Heritage Speakers is for students for whom Spanish is spoken at home.
  • Our annual Language Festival showcases the fluency students have developed and celebrates the cultures they’ve studied.
Clubs & Co-Curriculars
Clubs let students develop skills and explore interests outside their regular courses. Co-curriculars promote learning for the sake of learning. Each student takes up to three a year.
  • Clubs have included: Chess Club, Crochet Club, Journaling and Poetry, and E-Sports.
  • Recent co-curriculars have included: The History of Hip Hop, Portfolio Development, Dissection & Microscopy, Investing 101, and Model United Nations.
Health & Wellness
The challenges that all teenagers face—physical and social challenges, growing independence, and peer pressure—are heightened for students with learning disabilities. Health and Wellness empowers teens to make personal choices that are right for them.

Topics include:
  • Healthy Habits
  • Interpersonal Relationships
  • Stress Management
  • Disease Prevention
UPPER SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS
Well-rounded and multi-talented.
Our upper school students are not only confident learners, they’re also passionate artists, athletes, actors, and musicians. They’re school and community leaders. And they’re part of a community that takes time to have fun together—during Spirit Week, the Winter Spectacular, trips, activities, and adventures.
Inspiring Artists, Athletes, Leaders
Students pursue an array of artistic, athletic, musical, and theatrical pursuits outside their academic classes. From JV to varsity teams; theatrical productions; art shows; concerts; leadership opportunities; and more than 25 clubs, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities, there’s something for everyone.
International Travel. Global Perspective.
Germany. Austria. South Africa. Italy. Japan. Cambodia. Vietnam. These are some of the destinations to which MMFS students have ventured. Our students have the opportunity to travel abroad with classmates and teachers, building independence and becoming “contributing members of a global society,” according to the MMFS mission.
A Strong Support Network Reveals Brilliance
Every student has an advisor, and a support network of language therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and psychologists. These dedicated professionals ensure that students have the tools to be successful in school and to be confident and powerful self-advocates.
Preparation for College & Beyond
Our college counselors guide students through every step of the application process, including interview prep and decision-making support. Whether pursuing college or another path, MMFS students graduate with the tools and confidence to take their next step. Last year's graduating class of 44 students received over 250 college acceptances.
Junior Year Academic Honors Projects
MMFS juniors in excellent academic standing may submit a proposal to conduct an independent study project, culminating in a research paper and presentation. These long-term projects require critical thinking, organization, and study skills. Topics reflect the student’s personal passion and interest and demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence.
Technology at MMFS
  • Every student is assigned a Chromebook.
  • Every classroom has an interactive digital screen and teacher voice amplification system.
  • Every student has access to a Learning Management Platform that includes assistive and supportive software platforms.
  • Focus is on assisting students in the learning process.
  • Students develop core competency with productivity tools as well as the safe and ethical use of the internet as a learning resource.
UPPER SCHOOL LOCATION
Reaching new heights
in Brooklyn Heights.
Located on one of the neighborhood's most beautiful blocks, the upper school is home base for education and exploration.
  • Gymnasium
  • Courtyard
  • Science Labs
  • Art Studios
  • Workout Room
  • Tech & Media Lab
  • Student Commons
  • Black Box Theater

music

music

SEE MORE OF MARY MCDOWELL FRIENDS SCHOOL
Revealing Brilliance at MMFS.

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We look forward to meeting you and your child.
Revealing brilliance
in every student.