High School
Stepping Out
High School at CBA is empowering. Students work closely with their teachers in small classes to dive deep into subjects. Teachers challenge them to think critically, problem-solve, collaborate, and create. Students follow a unique curriculum to learn about themselves, explore career opportunities, and develop professional skills.
Ninth graders start in Base Camp, where they acclimate to expectations at CBA. They learn to create high-quality papers, portfolios, proposals, presentations, and products (the 5 Ps). In tenth grade, students take Navigation. They examine themselves and set ambitious and realistic goals. Eleventh-graders move on to Expedition. Students complete an internship, develop their resumes, and practice interview skills. Finally, seniors take Summit—the culmination of their learning at CBA. Each graduate completes a Capstone Project that includes the five Ps. This curriculum is a bridge between high school and their future aspirations.
Graduates of CBA know who they are and what they have to offer the world. They are entrepreneurs, ivy-league graduates, chefs, performers, and producers. More than that, they’re creative, passionate, and gregarious.
Hands-on Experience
Integrated Math & Mastery-Based Grading
Dr. Jen Bruce left a tenured position at Maryville College to found the high school at CBA. Do you know why so many high school students don’t like math? Hear her story and learn the philosophy behind our high school mathematics program.
Reimagined High School Humanities
Scott Hussey explains why we integrate Social Studies and English to help students make deeper connections, and how to work with students at different academic levels to become effective communicators.
Expedition and Finding Direction
Abbey Dovey always knew she wanted to be a Marine Biologist. Expedition* gave her the chance to get into a lab at the University of Tennessee and see firsthand if she would love being a scientist.
*formerly called LEEP
Senior Capstone
A.J. Camacho wants to write public policy and tackle some of the toughest questions facing our nation today. Senior Capstone gave him a chance to work with a state senator and pass his own legislation in Tennessee.
Among Our High School Course Offerings
- Integrated Math I, II, and III
- Introductory Statistics
- Precalculus
- AP Calculus
- AP Statistics
- Advanced Mechanics
- Appalachian Ecology
- Astronomy
- Biology
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Forensic Investigation I and II
- Microbiology
- Nuclear Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Thermodynamics
- Zoology
- AP Biology
- AP Environmental Science
- English I, II, III, and IV
- Introduction to Humanities
- Leadership in Civics
- US History
- Economics and World Studies
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP US History
- New Media
- Introduction to Philosophy
- Speculative History
- Creative Writing
- Contemplative Literature
- Analyzing Film
- Pop Music in the US
- Basecamp: Freshman Orientation
- Navigation: Career Exploration
- Expedition: Career Experience
- Summit: Senior Capstone
- Personal Finance
- Spanish I, II, and III
- Chinese I, II, III, and IV
- Singers
- Strings
- Intro to Studio Art
- Advanced Studio Art
- Theater Arts
- New Media
- Designing with the Pros (Architecture, Construction, and Engineering)
- Forensic Investigation I and II
- Project-Based Engineering
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- PE
- Lifetime Wellness
Administration
Sarah Farmer
Upper School Principal
Lauren White
Upper School Counselor
Arielle Kennedy
Curriculum Specialist
Michelle Gibson
Administrative Assistant
Our seniors also take a World Studies course designed to enhance global citizenship, promote service learning, and connect with a diverse culture. The course has included immersive experiences like visiting the Navajo Nation and Costa Rica.
World Studies
Though it’s located within the United States, visiting the Navajo Nation is similar to seeing another country. Students learn Navajo language and music, they hike in beautiful canyons, and give of themselves through a service project.
