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Hands-On Learning

Raft photo Barrie’s experiential learning program sets us apart from other schools. The program enhances Barrie’s rigorous academic curriculum and provides students with the opportunity to see practical applications of lessons learned in the classroom. Experiential learning at Barrie is exemplified in a number of programs.

Community Service Program
Ninth and tenth grade students complete 48 hours of community service with local and national organizations. Students work with organizations such as animal shelters, the American Red Cross, and the Bethesda Naval Medical Center. The program concludes with individual presentations shared with fellow students to relate their experiences. Barrie students continue to practice the gift of volunteerism long after their required community service hours are met through activism and involvement in community and non-profit activities.

Internship Program

Eleventh and twelfth grade students participate in career internships that introduce them to the professional world. This mandatory program runs in May. Students work with organizations such as the US Congress, the biotechnology industry, architectural companies, and environmental agencies.

Extended Study Week
Extended Study Week is an intensive one-week exploration of a specific topic that allows students to pursue local, national, and international opportunities for study. Students can choose from a variety of trips and activities designed and led by Barrie faculty. Practicing French cooking, landscape design, coastal ecology, and studying the language and culture of Spain are just a few examples of Extended Study.
"The Barrie program has a marvelous way of integrating hands-on experience with traditional book learning. As students age and their ability to handle abstract topics increases, the experiential component moves beyond the classroom to community service, extended study weeks, internships, self-directed laboratory experiments, drama productions and athletic competition."

- Barrie Parent


Advisory Groups
Each student is part of an Advisory Group composed of eight to nine students and a faculty advisor. Advisors are advocates who take special interest in all aspects of student life at Barrie. These groups meet twice a week to discuss school events, academics or any other topics of interest or importance to the students.

Extension Days

During Extension Days, Barrie students take part in both on-campus and off-campus study. Programs are designed to explore a variety of topics, utilizing the many educational and historic resources available in the Washington-Baltimore region. Students visit museums, government offices, think tanks, and university laboratories, which provide a basis for program themes.


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