USC SCHOOL DEMOGRAPHICS

• Type of School: Comprehensive/magnet
• Type of Location: Suburban
• Students Served: Enrollment 1,325 (94% Caucasian; 5% Asian)
• Compelling Outcomes: 1999-2000 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School.
• Mean SAT composite of 1130, with 96% of seniors taking the test and pursuing higher education (school year 1999).
• At least 80% of graduates exceed state requirements in mathematics, science, foreign language, and the arts.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma Program option beginning September 2000.

Twice recognized as a U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School, Upper St. Clair High School in suburban Pittsburgh, is the "main street" of a community where excellence in education is an expectation rather than a goal. A long tradition of success in college preparation, the arts (especially theatre) and athletics is nurtured by a climate of strong parental support.

All the core activities of Upper St. Clair are designed for the benefit of the students. While preserving many of the elements that have traditionally brought success, the school has also carefully analyzed and implemented a number of reforms, always with student input. For example, students are engaged in the process of hiring teachers, and student surveys have led to several improvements, including the addition of a formal advising and tutoring system. Upper St. Clair students receive assistance with their school work, career exploration and preparation for college. This assistance includes a rich array of mentors, including homeroom advisors, counselors, academic teachers and resource teachers; students are encouraged to choose the mentor with whom they believe they are most likely to develop a strong relationship.

A respect for student decision-making is reflected in flexible scheduling to accommodate independent study and individual instructional experiences. Upper St. Clair students are challenged to exercise responsibility within a structured "open campus" arrangement. Students not assigned to regular classes during a given period have the option of receiving personal assistance from teachers or on-line mentors, going to a fully staffed, centralized "academic resource" center, the library, cafeteria, computer labs or the student "commons." Also during this time students may job-shadow at area businesses or pursue volunteer activities off-campus.

While the environment of Upper St. Clair is one of high academic challenge, it is also one of high support. A large cadre of counselors works with course selection, placement, career planning, and referrals for auxiliary services. In addition, a group of students is involved in the "natural helpers" program, a process which trains them to help their peers become more resilient in dealing with everyday problems and to be better decision-makers.

USC Community Demographics 2002

Mainstreetusc.com is owned and operated by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair for the benefit of the whole community, as part of our mission to build a sense of community by supporting activities and programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents. For more information see our Copyright/Legal Statement.