1 English credit
The English curriculum at the Mountain Campus asks students to examine the connection between people and nature. Students read works of American literature, environmental activism, and philosophy. Students also write in different styles throughout the semester, practicing descriptive writing, expository writing, creative writing and poetry. Each week, students reflect on their learning, make observations of place, and define their growing connection to the natural world. Students are assessed on their weekly writing, four longer assignments, their ability to communicate through writing, their development of questions, and sharing their points of view. This writing and reading curriculum prepares students for a life of introspection, for passionate investigation of issues connected to inhabiting a finite ecosystem, and for finding meaning in our relationship with the non-human world.

Juniors and Seniors at the Burr and Burton Mountain Campus
3 Bennington College credits
1 Burr and Burton social studies credit
The social studies curriculum at the Mountain Campus engages students with their community as they explore the history of Vermont’s distinct culture. Students study and meet with a range of living Vermonters, as well as hear the voices of Vermonters through the Vermont Almanac and a collection of texts from across the history of the state and region. The curriculum focuses on rural life, and on Vermont towns and wilderness areas, with case studies that examine the history of the state’s land use, economy, and civil rights. While students gain knowledge about history, they also engage with present-day issues and work on projects to shape Vermont’s future. Through additional field work and projects, students at all grade levels may earn honors credit in this course. Juniors and seniors who meet the requirements for dual enrollment may also earn Bennington College credit by pursuing advanced work.

1 science credit
The science curriculum at the Mountain Campus examines the ecological dynamics of southern Vermont’s natural communities and the related systems that influence the local environment. Students study ecology, phenology, geology and the natural history of southern Vermont and the Green Mountain ridge in particular. Later in the semester, students also investigate complex systems and critical issues related to environmental health and sustainability. Students develop an understanding of the impact of topography, substrate, and successional history on forest community development and composition, and also develop skills needed to “read the landscape.” Observation, interpretation and naturalist journaling skills are integrated throughout the curriculum. Synthesis of skills and knowledge enables students to think critically about biodiversity, sustainability and human-induced global issues from a systems perspective. Through the addition of guided field studies and participation in an ongoing science project, students at all grade levels may earn honors credit in this course.

1 physical education credit
The physical education curriculum at the Mountain Campus engages students physically, emotionally and intellectually through exercise, community development, and planning for and undertaking two wilderness expeditions. Lessons in leadership and communication are balanced with study of nutrition and food systems, wilderness travel and ethics. Students hike daily and build the fitness, skills and confidence necessary to safely and enjoyably navigate and camp in the Vermont woods, in all seasons. Students also have the opportunity to earn Wilderness First Aid certification.