Academic Excellence

At the core of the strategic plan is engaged learning. Our students thrive when they are actively engaged in meaningful and challenging learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking and a love of learning.

At the elementary level, Upper Arlington Schools continues to set the standard for literacy instruction by building a strong foundation for success for early readers, from kindergarten on. In the spring of 2026, all five Upper Arlington elementary schools were recognized as Science of Reading Champions by Governor Mike DeWine for their success in giving students the instruction and confidence they need to become strong readers. Our all-day kindergarten program also opens up new opportunities for these early learners by providing nearly 18 additional hours a week to focus on the development of core academic skills such as literacy and math. It was one of the first all-day kindergarten programs in the state to be offered to families at no additional cost.

At the middle level, students are able to dive deeper into the full scope of their academic journey and earn high school-level credit in math, science and global language. There, they also can begin their journey in Upper Arlington’s renowned performing arts program by pursuing orchestra, band or vocal music. 

Both middle school and high school students here consistently bring home honors in national, regional, statewide and local competitions in the visual and performing arts, math, science, computer science, robotics, writing, speech and debate, global languages, and much more.

At Upper Arlington High School and through the UA Hub, Upper Arlington Schools continues to create new opportunities for students to explore possible career pathways and academic interests. Students can choose from a vast number of courses in the comprehensive curriculum, including lifelong career-related coursework and multiple opportunities for college-level coursework through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and College Credit Plus. In fact, so many of our high school students choose advanced coursework that Upper Arlington Schools is first in the state in the combined percentage of students taking AP and IB courses.

Throughout the K-12 academic program, Upper Arlington Schools has implemented a personalized student support system known as the multi-tiered system of support, or MTSS. This system gives teachers the structures, tools and student-specific data to respond to the unique learning needs of every student so that they can maximize their growth.

By personalizing education and fostering innovation in the classroom, Upper Arlington Schools aims to prepare every student for personal success in an ever-changing world.