Frequently Asked Questions

At the beginning of the year, new students and their families are introduced to many aspects of school life through New Student Orientation. Then, all new students are assigned to a "supervised prep," or a designated work period for students, in which a teacher and a senior student serve as resources to help new students adjust to the academic expectations of the school.

Throughout the year, all High School students work closely with an advisor to make the transition to High School. Advisors may be seen as mentors, motivators, confidants, and holders of resources. They are also a primary point of contact for parents regarding their child's progress and success in the High School.

At the end of each quarter and each midterm, grades are posted on our secure intranet, and they are mailed home with teacher comments about strengths and opportunities for improvement. Each student has an advisor who provides students with guidance and direction within and beyond the academic arena. Advisors also welcome collaboration with parents. Regular communication about questions, concerns, progress and other topics is always welcome, and conferences are scheduled as needed.

Students are required to take six class periods per day (30 class periods per week). Some students choose to double-up in a discipline by taking two math or foreign language courses, for example. Other students might take an elective course in an area of interest like computer technology or psychology. You can view a list of available courses in the 2018-19 High School Profile.

The time students spend on homework varies, depending on the rate at which they works and the courses they are taking. However, students are expected to read, write, practice, and study on a regular basis. Most classes require approximately 30 minutes of homework per day, with Advanced Placement courses asking for more preparation and study time.

In addition to final quiz, test, paper, project, and lab grades, teachers regularly provide formative feedback in the form of comments, written and verbal, that offer students suggestions for improvement. Teachers also use their assessments of student learning to clarify or “re-teach” key concepts.

We like to keep class sizes as small as possible to promote student participation and allow our faculty and staff members to get to know each student. Class sizes vary, but the average class size is about 16-18 students.

The vast majority of Canterbury classes are honors or advanced level classes, so the norm is to work at an accelerated level. Canterbury offers Advanced Placement in all disciplines, as well as other challenging courses such as Multivariable Calculus and Organic Chemistry. Additionally, Independent Study Projects permit students to explore a topic of interest in depth.

Yes! In addition to the Advanced Placement courses though which students may earn college credits, Canterbury offers several "dual enrollment" classes in conjunction with Purdue University Fort Wayne. Successful completion of these classes allows a student to earn college credit.