The Episcopal School of Acadiana Upper School is a coeducational college preparatory program enrolling 216 students. The Upper School is dedicated to fostering the spiritual, intellectual, and physical development of its students. ESA challenges its students to achieve excellence and to embrace responsibility, and it expects them to act always with honor and to respect and care for others.
Spiritually rooted in the teachings of the Episcopal Church, ESA's Upper School strives to develop in its students a sense of moral responsibility. The Upper School believes that the spiritual growth of its students gives meaning to their intellectual and physical endeavors. Toward this end, the Upper School Chapel Program seeks to provide an understanding of the Christian faith, as expressed through the Episcopal tradition. As an Episcopal School with a pastoral commitment to all, ESA welcomes students of all faiths and respects the religious beliefs of all members of the School community.
The objective of the Upper School's rigorous academic program is to teach each student strong skills of analysis and expression; to instill core knowledge in the arts, sciences, and humanities; to foster the ability to think critically, creatively, and independently; and to inspire intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning. Through its varied academic and extracurricular offerings, the Upper School encourages its students to develop their unique talents and to pursue knowledge that will serve both the individual and society. In addition, for those families requesting such assistance, the ESA Upper School has a learning specialist who collaborates with the faculty to ensure the best academic program for those students requiring additional support. This program outlines for the student, his/her parents, advisor, and teachers, the accommodations necessary for the student’s success at ESA.
Another significant aspect of the Upper School program is the importance placed on the arts and athletics. In our arts curriculum, students are encouraged to explore their creative talents and to develop a lifelong passion and appreciation for painting, sculpture, music, and acting. Through participation in sports, each student develops strengths of body and character. Emphasizing discipline, teamwork, competitive spirit, and sportsmanship, the athletic program teaches important lessons for life's challenges. In addition, an integral part of the ESA Upper School is our Honor Code. The Honor Code is based on the premise that every student has a fundamental right to be trusted and to have his or her word accepted at all times and by all people. In order for each student to have this right, all must accept the covenant not to lie, cheat, steal, or to tolerate this behavior in anyone else at the school. The atmosphere of mutual trust between students and faculty that exists within the ESA Upper School is fundamental to the community, and enriches the lives of all who work and study here. The Upper School is a diverse family that welcomes and values individuals from all backgrounds. Such diversity is essential to a vital community of learning and growth. In nurturing the hearts, minds, and bodies of its students, the ESA Upper School prepares students for fulfilling lives of responsibility, leadership, and service to others.
