FAQ's

Who is SWS for?

Any student who wants to feel part of a close-knit community and will contribute to that community. It is for students who want to participate in leadership and community service opportunities. It is for students who want to learn for more than a grade. SWS attracts a wide range of students from inside and outside the East High zone. This is an honors-level program for motivated students!

What is the total population of SWS?

We have 240 total students; 60 per grade

What are the class sizes in SWS, and what classes do you teach? 

Class sizes are typical of regular East High class sizes. SWS staff teach a mixture of classes; some classes have only SWS students, some have both SWS and East High students. SWS combines the benefits of a small school with the options of a large school. Please see our staff page for specific courses.

What teaching methods do SWS teachers use?

SWS teachers use project-based learning and Socratic seminar teaching methods, as well as other activities to create engaging classes than involve student input.

What makes an SWS class different?

The comfort level of students is very high. The attendance rates are high. Students tend to come up with their own extensions to material. We emphasize experiential/project based learning and try to teach to a variety of learning styles. We have Socratic seminars as part of our program. Teachers have more collaborative support from one another.

Can students join SWS in later grades?

Yes, but often the first lottery is the best chance to get in.

Is there East High zone preference?

Yes, East High zone residents, and siblings, have preference.

How many typically apply to SWS?

The number varies year to year.

What type of rigor should students expect in SWS?

SWS is designed for independent learners, academic rigor, and fostering community. 9th and 10th grade classes are taught at an honors level. Students should expect to be organized and be able to communicate with staff members about their needs, missing work, etc. 

How does SWS serve special needs students?

As we would in any of our classes; we have students with IEP's and 504 plans and we accommodate for the needs of those students. SWS is not specifically designed for those with special needs, but we work with a large variety of student abilities. Core Language Arts and Social Studies classes are taught at an Honors (9th grade) and AP (10th grade) level.

When was SWS established?

SWS was established in 1977 as East High's alternative school. It was designed to offer a unique educational experience of a small, supportive and stimulating community within a large, comprehensive high school. 

Do students take classes only in SWS?

No. SWS 9th and 10th graders take their core classes with SWS teachers, but they are also part of the larger East High Community and can take elective and non-core classes with other East High teachers. Many of the SWS teachers offer upper level electives, and many of our students choose to take those classes in their last two years. 

Do you offer private tours of SWS?

Please attend the SWS Open House on February 8th at 7:00 pm to learn more about the program!