Evolving Curriculum

Advancing Mathematics

When math teacher Dr. Victoria Khiznichenko, whom students affectionately call Dr. K, recognized the potential of some of her middle school students to exceed the traditional curriculum, she set out to create a program that would allow them to contemplate advanced problem-solving and mathematical thinking.

Drawing on her experience as a gifted math student in Uzbekistan, and with support from King leadership, she introduced the Algebra, Number Theory, and Probability (ANTAP) course in 2012.

“This is a unique and very advanced course typically not offered in middle schools,” Khiznichenko said. “We identified the demand and capability, and crafted it for students who love math and are eager to challenge themselves.”

Students must complete Algebra I with an A- or better to enroll. Once accepted, they dive into advanced topics such as algebra, number theory, probability, and 3D geometry.

Students tackle challenging problems from Olympiad competitions and global curricula, including those from Russia, China, and Poland, using specialized textbooks focused on problem-solving techniques. After completing the course, some students opt to take Algebra II and Trigonometry. Most of them join the Upper School Math Team and take the Upper School continuation of ANTAP: Advanced Problem Solving. Students who have completed these classes have reached a high level of mathematics for their age.

As she reflects on the effect of ANTAP, Khiznichenko credits the Uzbeki math teacher Igor Abramovich Dorfman, who introduced her to a world of complex mathematical concepts when she was a young student.

“We all do what our teachers taught us in the past,” she said. “I was fortunate to have a teacher who knew four languages, played violin at a professional level, and was an excellent mathematician and mathematics teacher.”

Now in her 26th year at King, Khiznichenko draws from that teacher's example to inspire the next generation of mathematicians, fostering a love for numbers and propelling students forward in their academic journeys.

Harmonious Collaboration

When Eleanor Bach began teaching Middle School Choir at King in 2021, she saw the choral setting as a powerful space for connection. She understood that music could be a healing force in the wake of the pandemic — an elixir that would help students rediscover their voices and a renewed sense of community and possibility.

Starting with foundational skills like sight-reading, musical theory, and teamwork, Bach created an environment where students could develop their vocal abilities together. The choir quickly grew as students of all skill levels came together, learning from and inspiring one another.

With the support of Head of Middle School Josh Deitch, Bach reorganized the choir by skill level instead of grade level. This allowed Bach to create groups according to vocal range, including soprano, alto, tenor, and bass, each tailored to the singers’ skill, vocal control, and ability to harmonize.

As the choir flourished, Bach sought opportunities for students to engage with a larger musical community. She invited all interested students to audition for the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Eastern Region Honor Choir, a competitive ensemble that selects 200 students from the Northeast. The audition process required them to demonstrate vocal skill, musicality, sight-reading ability, and performance technique, pushing students to elevate their craft.

For months, the students refined their skills, recording audition tapes that showcased their musical abilities. They practiced intonation, phrasing, and timing while deepening their understanding of musical theory. Fifteen King choir members qualified for in-person screenings, including note checks and solo performances, to demonstrate their readiness.

Those students dedicated four months to preparing for the next stage of tryouts in Rhode Island. Their discipline paid off, and every King student who made the trip was selected for the Honor Choir. The ensemble then spent two days rehearsing for a concert under the guidance of a master conductor and collaborating with a composer who had written an original piece for the performance. The experience enhanced the students’ technical skills and deepened their connection to the larger musical community. While her students prepared to perform, Bach furthered her professional growth by attending advanced music educator training to ensure that the choir program would continue to thrive. Looking ahead, she envisions expanding the middle school vocal offerings, with plans for students to audition for the 2026 ACDA Eastern Region Honor Choir and explore the ACDA National Honor Choir audition process in 2027. Her ultimate goal is for all choir students to leave the program with improved musical skills and a deeper appreciation of music's transformative power, whether through performance, collaboration, or a broader understanding of its possibilities in any path they choose.

A String Of Success

Colin Benn’s love for strings is foundational to King’s string music program. As he heightens student awareness of the prevalence of string music in everyday life, he makes classical music accessible. His passion and approach have breathed new life into the Middle School String Ensemble.

The ensemble is designed to develop fundamental skills, musical literacy, and group playing abilities. By learning to play and read music, students become active participants in the musical world.

One of the unique aspects of King's program is the Introduction to Strings class for Grade 6 students. Benn has adapted the curriculum to accommodate students with no prior string experience. This accelerated course quickly introduces techniques and note reading, culminating in the formation of a string orchestra. The ensemble has grown to 38 students from a handful, and two of his inaugural graduates have leveraged their newfound skills to gain admission to schools with rich music programs.

While Benn has curriculum goals for each class, he also ensures that the music is tailored to the students' interests and abilities. His dedication to making string music accessible and enjoyable has had a profound influence on the Performing Arts program.