STUDENT LIFE

Student life at our small, private school is defined by close connections, personal growth, and a strong sense of belonging. With small class sizes and a supportive community, students are known, valued, and encouraged to explore their interests both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers, staff, and peers work together to create an environment where curiosity thrives, leadership is nurtured, and every student has the opportunity to grow academically, socially, and personally.

A great way to get a sense of student life at ASOP during recent years is to scroll through the two photo galleries below; look at our postings on Instagram or Facebook; and view our “big celebrations” photo galleries (end-of-semester and end-of-year celebrations, awards ceremony, and graduation). Families who wish to further explore the option of their student attending ASOP can get a sense of the school’s vibe in person by scheduling a visit.

Morning Break & Lunchtime

ASOP has a scheduled morning break and lunch period. During these times, high schoolers hang out in one of the two pods on the north end of the school building, while middle schoolers meet in the pod on the south end. For those nice weather days, there are three picnic tables located behind the school. Staff who serve as monitors during these two periods are often found sitting down with students. This kind of relaxed, social interaction between staff and students fosters relationship-building.

ASOP does not serve lunch; instead, students bring their own and are responsible for cleaning up after themselves. The school provides refrigerators, microwaves and paper/plastic products. Ramen noodles, hot pockets, mac and cheese, chips, cookies, drinks and other items can be purchased at the ASOP Snack Shop during lunchtime. Once a month, the entrepreneurship class organizes an affordable Funky Food Friday lunch from a local restaurant.

Click on a photo to see the full caption (mouse over the enlarged photo), and to scroll through the individual photos.

Enrichment

ASOP administration and faculty work to augment both the educational and social experiences students have at school. Field trips and speakers that complement school curriculum, fun outings that allow time for students to socialize, 7th-period Friday activity clubs, special classroom activities, seasonal and end-of-year celebrations, a raised garden and bee yard, and community service are some examples.

Click on a photo to see the full caption (mouse over the enlarged photo), and to scroll through the individual photos.