Exceptional Proficiency Program | Admissions Brochure

Exceptional Proficiency Program A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

What is Exceptional Proficiency?

In 1991 Foxcroft School established a special program that allows girls to pursue high levels of training, performance, and competition in a chosen area of interest, while simultaneously maintaining high academic standards. At the time, Alison Firestone Robitaille ‘95 was a rising equestrian star on the show jumping circuit who required rigorous training and participation in top-level shows in Florida during the winter months.

With our Exceptional Proficiency Program, Alison was able to balance her academic responsibilities with her training and competitions as a student.

Not only did she compete in her first Grand Prix at age 16, but she was also able to jump on the international circuit before graduating from Foxcroft. She went on to become one of the country’s top show jumping competitors, earning the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Female Equestrian Athlete of the Year Award, a silver medal at the 2002 Pan American Games, and a spot as the first alternate on the 2004 Olympic Team.

Over the years, Exceptional Proficiency Program students have displayed high-level talent and achievement in such areas as equestrian jumping, rock climbing, dance, figure skating, music and vocal performance, swimming, and downhill skiing.

Foxcroft’s EP program was instrumental in allowing me to achieve my goals sooner than I would have ever thought possible.

—Alison Firestone Robitaille ‘95

How Does It Work?

Developing exceptional talent requires a combination of passion, commitment, and skill. For girls who demonstrate a special ability and compelling dedication in a given area, the EP program at Foxcroft School allows them to: • Pursue their dreams and goals • Spend time away from campus to train • Compete at a high level

Having the option to do my sport while attending a school where it’s not offered is amazing!

— Teddy S. ‘19

While working with a master teacher or professional trainer, girls may miss some school obligations in order to pursue their chosen discipline.

Acceptance into the program is contingent upon a student being (and remaining) in good academic standing. Time missed in the classroom may range from a one-time-only special training session to several months in Florida to ride during the winter months. During those times away from the classroom, students continue their studies at Foxcroft and maintain contact with their teachers.

Having struggled during the winter at my previous high school, Foxcroft’s program allows me to have full school support to pursue my sport.

—Charlee S. ‘17

THE APPLICATION PROCESS Girls interested in participating in Foxcroft’s Exceptional Proficiency Program should contact Beth O’Quinn, Experiential Learning Coordinator at 540.687.4376 or by email at beth.oquinn@foxcroft.org. In this role, she works with students and families to ensure that proper academic support is in place as part of the process of determining a student’s acceptance into the program. Specific application criteria include: • Review of the student’s academic record • Parent letter of request • Letter of acknowledgment from the trainer/master teacher that the student’s academics come first • Signed contract from the student to be responsible for her academic work

A BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS IN GRADES 9–12 & POST GRAD 22407 Foxhound Lane, P.O. Box 5555, Middleburg, VA 20118 540.687.4340 | admission@foxcroft.org

www.foxcroft.org