General Philosophy

Founded on the belief that academic success and character development go hand in hand, Carlbrook School inspires and demands educational and personal excellence. Underlying such demands is the recognition that effort, while commendable, is often by itself not enough to fully realize one's potential. Only through the acquisition of essential skill sets can a student hope to alleviate the frustration that stems from the disparity between his or her effort and actual results achieved. This estimate of the importance of results over exertion underscores the school's commitment to realism, with the expectation that through structure, support, and appropriate modeling the school can help families and students, who may have all but given up on the dream of college, rejuvenate themselves and share renewed enthusiasm for academic and personal achievement.

The following principles are inherent in the Carlbrook School philosophy and serve to guide and direct the student experience:

I. Honor is the foundation of self-perception and positive self-image.

II. Students function best with increased responsibility.

III. Leadership and self-determination spring from critical, independent thought.

IV. Those who cannot help others cannot help themselves.

V. Interdependence is the essence of independence.

VI. Sound reasoning is resultant of a sound mind.

VII. Substantive relationships ignite inspiration and the motivation to change.

VIII. Recreation reinvigorates the soul and creates opportunity for friendship.

IX. Respect, for self and others, is key to learning, achievement and personal growth.

X. The importance of family cannot be overstated.