Upper School

We know Upper School girls. And they INSPIRE us.

Supported holistically, students in our Upper School gain the knowledge, tools and experiences they need to engage and excel in any endeavor they choose. They are challenged to be learners and leaders, and through curated academics and signature programming, explore not only themselves, but also the world around them, becoming well-rounded young women excited for all that’s to come – and more than ready for it.

The Upper School at Agnes Irwin is a place of discovery. Our robust curriculum gives students a strong foundation in the humanities, STEAM, wellness, arts, and athletics, while offering countless opportunities to pursue their academic interests through extensive advanced courses.

By the time they graduate, our girls are ready to lead, succeed, and embrace their potential.

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Center for the Advancement of Girls

The Center for the Advancement of Girls offers a range of programs for Agnes Irwin Upper School students. All student-athletes take part in the AthLEADS seminar series, which connects the leadership skills gained through team sports to future college and career opportunities. AIS Allied pairs students with alumnae mentors, helping them build networks and gain life insights. The Council for the Advancement of Girls promotes gender equity through impactful initiatives and community engagement under The Center’s guidance.

Upper School Life

Upper School at AIS is about more than just academics — our traditions and milestones create memories that last a lifetime. Discover more here.

Day-in-the-Life

Typical Day for a 9th Grader

Agnes Irwin follows a seven-day rotation schedule. Starting and ending with office hours, extracurriculars meet before, during, and after school.

7:50 a.m.

Office Hours

8:24 a.m.

Physics I Honors

9:28 a.m.

Assembly, Advisory

9:50 a.m.

Global History I

10:54 a.m.

Media Arts I

11:48 a.m.

Model UN Club

12:27 p.m.

Lunch

1:06 p.m.

English I

2:00 p.m.

Algebra II Honors

2:54 p.m.

Office Hours

3:30 p.m.

Dance Motion

4:00 p.m.

Lacrosse Practice

Signature

Programs

Advisory

Our Upper School advisory program is at the heart of building strong, supportive relationships that give girls the confidence to reach their full potential. Advisors meet regularly with students to ensure meaningful connections. Since 2021, our advisor-led conference model has further empowered students to take ownership of their learning and growth, with conferences each fall and spring that also keep families closely connected.

Honors Capstone

The Honors Capstone program offers juniors and seniors an opportunity to pursue advanced, independent research guided by faculty mentors. Students explore topics beyond the standard curriculum, collaborate with peers, and produce a formal research paper. They showcase their work each spring at the Honors Capstone Showcase, celebrating their scholarship with the community.

Special Studies Program

Now in its 55th year, the Special Studies Program (SSP) is a treasured Agnes Irwin tradition that immerses students in experiential, project-based learning. The program includes both local opportunities and international travel, with past destinations such as Iceland, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Poland, Ecuador, and Australia.

Learn More

Senior Assembly

Senior Assemblies are one of our most cherished traditions. Each senior delivers a talk to the entire Upper School on a topic of personal significance. With support from faculty mentors, students conduct independent research, refine their writing, and develop public speaking skills, culminating in a meaningful rite of passage.

College Counseling

Supported & Prepared

From 9th-12th grade, Agnes Irwin students and families follow a dynamic college counseling program. They start with academic planning and athletic recruiting, build testing strategies and counselor relationships, then dive into college search, applications, and essay work. By 12th grade, they meet with 100+ college representatives, receive dedicated support, and prepare for college life through the “College 101” series.

Visit College Counseling

Meet Our Upper School Director

Joy Prince

Director of Upper School

Joy Prince began her career as a French teacher at Charlotte Country Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, before transitioning into college admissions at Agnes Scott College near Atlanta, Georgia. During her tenure there, she traveled extensively, connecting with students and learning about their academic interests and college aspirations. She later served as a college counselor at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, where she also held roles as the 11th Grade Dean and Director of College Counseling. Joy continued to broaden her impact at The Weber School and Atlanta Girls’ School. With a background spanning teaching, student life, college admissions, and college counseling, Joy offers a well-rounded perspective in guiding students through high school and into college. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in French from Davidson College and a Master of Arts from Middlebury College.