Individualized Resources

During their Junior and Senior years, each Scattergood student writes a college-level research paper on a topic of their choice. Along with the class’s teacher, each student has a staff mentor who meets with them weekly to guide them in this process. Mentors help students conduct incisive research, narrow and refine their thesis statement, and outline, draft, and revise their paper. This experience leads many Scattergood alumni to feel much more prepared for writing in college than their peers.

At Scattergood, we wholeheartedly encourage students to take ownership of their learning. Nowhere is this better exemplified than in our Independent Study program. This program provides students an almost infinite array of areas of study. Students may apply for Independent Study if they are in good academic standing. This includes designing a course of study with a mentor teacher (who will continue to support the course), and having this application approved by a committee of staff and students. 

Examples of recent Independent Studies: German, Japanese, French, The American Novel, Screenwriting, Metalworking, Piano, Computer Programming, Violin Performance, and Housing Segregation in Iowa City.

Each teacher holds regular office hours for students. These are times to read through paper drafts, discuss long-term projects, or dig deeper into a difficult math problem. We also provide additional academic support for all new students and any students who are struggling to keep up with their studies through our Structured Study Hall program. Students are eligible to receive reasonable accommodations based on their academic needs. Because most teachers live and eat alongside students on campus, they are accessible for questions and check-ins throughout the day.

At Scattergood, the college search and application process is a powerful exercise in discernment and self-knowledge. It can be stressful, but can also be exciting and fulfilling. We understand that many students are living away from their parents, so we provide levels of individualized support that are well above and beyond what exists at most high schools. In Junior Seminar, students explore and articulate their aspirations for the future, prepare for standardized tests, and research colleges and gap-year opportunities. In the fall of their Senior year, students complete the college application process: writing essays, preparing portfolios, soliciting recommendations, and hitting “submit”!