Upper School
Clariden's Upper School is an exciting time for students as they take on more complex projects and challenges. Students tackle real-world engineering challenges in STEAM class, utilizing technology such as CAD and 3D printing. Hands-on labs and projects occur in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. As an IB World School, grades 11 and 12 have the opportunity to take coursework in the Diploma Programme and graduate with an internationally recognized diploma. Students also have leadership opportunities as NHS Officers, Student Council Officers, and project team leaders. Global citizenship is better developed through Service Learning, International Travel, and Character Education. Many electives can be pursued, such as Robotics, Rocketry, Digital Art, and Dance. Juniors and Seniors take College Readiness where they prepare for the ACT and SAT tests, receive guidance on college applications, essay writing, and applying to summer programs and for scholarships. A wealth of extracurricular activities can also be pursued, such as Theater, Cross Country, Basketball, Odyssey of the Mind, and Robotics.
We are excited and proud that you are considering Clariden as your path in education. Here, our students unlock their genius and discover their best self.
Upper School Team
Rissa Westerfield
Asst. Director of Teacher and Learning/IB Programme Coordinator/Educator
Rissa Westerfield has been a Clariden educator for 8 years. She brings a love of science to students, especially dinosaurs and crocodiles! She received her Master of Science degree from Texas Tech University and is also a member of the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. Her educational background and experience have given her the opportunity to partner with Crocodile Encounter to bring either a crocodile or alligator into the classroom each year. In addition to being an educator, Rissa has contributed to research in paleontology in museums such as the Perot Museum (formerly the Dallas Museum of Natural History), Dallas Historical Society, Shuler Museum of Paleontology (SMU), and the Smithsonian Institute. In her free time she loves spending time with her family, playing games, sewing, and traveling.