Upper School Program
Columbia Independent School's college-preparatory curriculum offers honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses in each discipline with an emphasis on the basics. English, history, mathematics, science, and physical education are taken in sequence each year. World languages are also taken in sequence, with Latin typically beginning in sixth grade, and Spanish beginning in eighth grade. Students have the choice of continuing in one or both of the languages, in depth, through the Advanced Placement level. Students also enroll in fine arts, performing arts and visual arts, with the option to continue study of these areas as elective courses.
In addition to the strength of the curriculum, one of the intangible benefits of attending CIS is that it is a community of learners who come together with the common goal of supporting each other and the surrounding community. Students, families and teachers work together to support the education of every student. Each student is a member of an advisory group, called a Pride, through which classroom teachers offer support and encourage both academic and social growth.
The Upper School also provides extensive opportunities for involvement in the form of athletic teams, clubs and organizations, and service. Growth in individual skills and team cooperation is encouraged through sports offerings such as basketball, cross country, golf, and tennis. Students develop and expand their leadership skills through various intraschool activities such as Student Council and National Honor Society. Students extend their learning beyond the classroom as they compete in academic competitions such as Science Olympiad, Mathcounts and the Geography Bee. Throughout the year the students participate in a variety of service projects that contribute to the mid-Missouri community. These experiences often foster a desire to serve beyond the school day and school year.
One of the unique graduation requirements for CIS students is the Senior Internship. Senior Internships allow graduating seniors to supplement formal coursework with an off-campus internship during their final semester. These student-designed internships are centered on the students' career interests. Students graduating from CIS are self-confident, responsible young men and women who are well prepared to continue their education at the collegiate level.
Typical Daily Schedule
| Assembly | 8:00-8:10 |
| Period 1 | 8:15-9:00 |
| Period 2 | 9:05-9:50 |
| Break | 9:50-10:00 |
| Period 3 | 10:00-10:45 |
| Period 4 | 10:50-11:35 |
| Lunch* | 11:35-12:10 |
| Period 5 | 12:10-12:45 |
| Period 6 | 12:50-1:35 |
| Period 7 | 1:40-2:25 |
| Period 8 | 2:30-3:15 |
*Lunch is served in Stamper Commons (on the Stephens College Campus). The cost for lunch is included in the Upper School tuition.
