Western Reserve Academy

Hudson

Ohio

United States

Overview

At Western Reserve Academy, we’re more than a high school — we’re a launchpad for curious minds, open hearts and bold ideas. As an independent, coeducational boarding and day school in historic Hudson, Ohio, WRA brings together students from across the country and around the world. On our vibrant, close-knit campus, students live, learn, play and grow as part of a dynamic community where individuality is celebrated and connection is key. Our students discover independence, develop confidence and shape their futures with intention. They dive into rigorous academics, embrace creative challenges, and cultivate the skills they’ll carry with them for life. WRA is proud to be among the top private schools in Ohio, and we’re boldly leading the way forward. With a forward-thinking curriculum that moves beyond APs and champions real-world learning, WRA is preparing students to blaze trails in learning and in life. What makes the WRA experience extraordinary? Our faculty — who are not only brilliant educators, but also mentors, coaches, cheerleaders and guides. And our values — intellectual curiosity and tenacity; transformational growth and well-being; belonging; respect and empathy; and citizenship through regional and global engagement — shape every aspect of our culture. As we approach our Bicentennial in 2026, we remain deeply rooted in our Heartland home and our mission to deliver an unrivaled educational experience illuminated by tradition, sparked by innovation and energized by joy. The future is bright at WRA — and it’s never been a more exciting time to be a Pioneer.

Academics

Summary: Our academic program is guided by our Learning Principles, which affirm that students learn best when their experiences are Intentional, Relevant, Relational and Active. This philosophy underpins a curriculum that is both rigorous and deeply human — designed not only to challenge but to inspire. We believe there is joy in the process of learning: in breakthrough moments, in thoughtful risk-taking, in grappling with complex ideas and in the growth that follows. Our independent curriculum gives students access to an extraordinary range of courses. In science, standout offerings such as Cancer Immunology and Synthetic Biology allow students to engage in advanced research-level thinking, thanks in part to our proximity to Cleveland’s world-renowned healthcare institutions and strong partnerships with faculty and alumni experts. Our humanities courses are equally expansive and engaging, from Storytelling & Sports to Anthropology of Food to Digital Music Production. Students can simultaneously pursue high-level STEM courses like Differential Equations, Automotive Engineering Design and Ecological Sustainability. The Wang Innovation Center — a 6,000-square-foot facility that transcends the typical makerspace — is the beating heart of student-led creation on campus. With state-of-the-art tools and room for ideation, prototyping and final production, it’s where curiosity turns into capability, and big ideas come to life. Our Beyond Reserve programs connect students with real-world experiences — from internships at a local polymers lab to research fellowships with the University of Akron’s Department of Economics. Students can earn college credit through Kenyon College or explore social issues on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. They might exchange ideas in China, sharpen their Spanish in Guatemala or explore career paths through Pioneer Prep and Pioneer Pathways — signature Parents@WRA programs that link students with alumni and parents for hands-on mentorship and professional skill-building. At WRA, academic excellence is not an end point — it’s the launch pad. Our students graduate not only ready for college, but ready to lead lives of purpose, fueled by intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

Department Director Brenda Petersen

Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1

Average Class Size: 12

Summer Programs: Offered

Full Time Teachers: 68

Number of AP Courses Offered: 0

Teachers Holding Advanced Degrees: 82.0%

Number of IB Courses Offered: 0

Noteworthy Information:
WRA received an EE Ford Foundation grant to launch the Center for Food Innovation, Sustainability and Service — an expansion of our makerspace and curriculum. The Center will explore food as a lens for culture, community, equity, science and storytelling.

Learning Support

Evening Study Assistance
Learning Center
Learning Differences Support
Peer Tutoring
Technology Center
Writing Center

English

Classics
Creative Writing
Honors
Literature
Playwriting
Poetry
Composition
Journalism

History

Classical History
European History
Honors
United States History
World History
Art History

Foreign Languages

Chinese-Mandarin
French
Greek
Latin
Spanish

Religion / Philosophy

Ethics
Philosophy

Humanities / Social Sciences

Anthropology
Economics
Psychology
World Issues
International Relations

Sciences

Astronomy
Biology
Biotechnology
Chemistry
Ecology
Environmental Science
Health
Marine Biology
Microbiology
Oceanography
Physics
Physiology
Sports Medicine
Engineering
Computer Science

Math

Algebra
Calculus
Geometry
Honors Math
Statistics
Trigonometry
Pre-Calculus

Computer Studies

Computer Applications
Multimedia
Computer Programming
Computer Science
Web Design
Robotics
Digital Media
Graphic Design

Music

Band
Choral Music
Composition
Individual Instructions
Music History
Music Theory
Orchestra
Songwriting
Voice
Music Production

Performing / Visual Arts

Acting
Art History
Ballet
Ceramics
Dance
Debate
Design
Drama
Drawing
Fiber Arts
Film and Video
Graphic Design
Lighting Design
Painting
Photography
Pottery
Printmaking
Publications
Public Speaking
Screen-Printing
Sculpture
Silkscreen
Stagecraft
Studio Art
Textiles
Theater Arts
Theater Design
Woodworking
3-D Art
Modern Dance
Jazz Band
Orchestra
Theater History
Digital Imaging
Multimedia
Stage Band
Illustration

Special Programs

Study Abroad
Community Service
Exchange Programs
Independent Study
Internships
Leadership
Rifle Team
Maker Space
Digital Design
Science Research
Student Council
Entrepreneurship
Robotics

Distinctive or New Programs

Summer Internships
Cancer Immunology courses
our CL Compass is a program for upper-grade students to develop creativity, tenacity and initiative by tackling real-world problems through yearlong, passion-driven projects that connect classroom learning to professional experiences

Campus Life

Dorm Life

Number of Dorms: 12

Average Students Per Dorm: 28

Number of Girls Dorms: 6

Number of Boys Dorms: 6

Dorm Amenities

Game Room
Laundry Facilities
Lounge
Wireless Internet
Refrigerator

Other Dorm Amenities

Student Life

At Western Reserve Academy, student life is full, vibrant and grounded in community. Whether boarding or day, our students are active and engaged from morning to night — diving into dynamic classes, heading to athletic practices or arts rehearsals, enjoying weekday programming, then meeting with teachers or friends during evening study hours. Every part of the day is shaped by connection, curiosity and care. Our campus is more than a place to learn — it’s a place to live and grow together. In this close-knit environment, students and faculty share not just space but a deep respect for one another and a commitment to our shared values. At WRA, we show up for each other. We support each other. We care for each other. And when students step just beyond campus, they find even more to explore. Our historic hometown of Hudson, Ohio is right next door — perfect for boba runs, ice cream breaks or cozy study sessions in our many local cafes. A little farther down the road, Cleveland offers big-city excitement, from Cavaliers games to performances at Playhouse Square, the largest theater district outside of New York City. Our weekend activities calendar makes these adventures accessible, giving students the best of both worlds: a charming small town and a major cultural hub.

Facilities

All-Weather Track
Baseball Field
Basketball Court
Fitness Center
Indoor Basketball Court
Indoor Pool
Pool
Technology Center
Volleyball Court
Softball Diamond
Soccer Field
Tennis Courts
Lacrosse Field
Turf Fields
Outdoor Track
Athletic Fields
Dance Studio
Weight Room
Cross Country Trails

Other Facilities

Clubs & Organizations

Asian Club
Astronomy Club
Community Service
Computer Club
Debate Club
Diversity Club
Dorm Proctors
Drama Club
Environmental Club
Foreign Language Clubs
Future Business Leaders of America
Gardening Club
Habitat for Humanity
International Club
Investment Club
Literary Magazine
Math Club
Mock Trial
Newspaper
Peer Tutoring
Pep Club
Photography Club
Quiz Bowl
Sexualities Club
Student Activities
Student Government
Student Publications
Weightlifting Club
Yearbook
Yoga Club
Young Democrats
Young Republicans
Radio Station

Arts & Athletics

Summary: At Western Reserve Academy, students are encouraged to pursue excellence in all its forms — artistic, athletic and personal. Our mission is to energize lives of connectivity, integrity, resilience and wellness, and our vision is to provide a transformational learning experience that fosters the development of durable skills for success in life. In the arts, students cultivate creativity, imagination, and self-expression while exploring the beauty and complexity of the world around them. With more than 30 courses in the study, practice and performance of the arts, students develop both technical skill and personal voice in a supportive and dynamic environment. In athletics, WRA supports over 45 interscholastic teams across more than 20 sports, providing opportunities for all students — from beginners to collegiate-bound athletes. Our coaches and Strength & Conditioning staff deliver personalized, developmentally appropriate support to help each athlete thrive. Seasonal offerings such as yoga and weight training complement traditional team sports, reinforcing our commitment to student wellness, resilience and lifelong fitness.

Arts Department Director: Carol Parker Mittal

Athletics Department Director: Peter Hutchins

Arts

Acting
Art History
Ballet
Ceramics
Dance
Debate
Design
Drama
Drawing
Fiber Arts
Film and Video
Graphic Design
Lighting Design
Painting
Photography
Pottery
Printmaking
Publications
Public Speaking
Screen-Printing
Sculpture
Silkscreen
Stagecraft
Studio Art
Textiles
Theater Arts
Theater Design
Woodworking
3-D Art
Modern Dance
Jazz Band
Orchestra
Theater History
Digital Imaging
Multimedia
Stage Band
Illustration

Interscholastic Sports

Baseball
Basketball
Cross Country Running
Diving
Fencing
Field Hockey
Golf
Lacrosse
Rifle Team
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track and Field
Volleyball
Wrestling
Indoor Track

Recreational Sports

Dance
Power Lifting
Weight Lifting
Yoga

Graduates

Summary: At Western Reserve Academy, the college process isn’t just about getting in — it’s about discovering what matters most and where that journey might lead. Our College Counseling Office believes that applying to college should be a meaningful and empowering experience. It’s a time for students to reflect on who they are, what they love and how they want to grow. With the support of experienced counselors, engaged families, and a caring school community, our students navigate this next step with confidence and clarity. We help students assess their abilities, interests and aspirations, and guide them toward a thoughtfully selected list of colleges and universities that are not only a good fit — but the right fit. We prepare graduates for some of the finest universities in the world, but more importantly, we help them find the college that opens the door to their dreams — wherever that may be. Our goal is simple: to ensure every student is supported, informed and excited about what comes next.

College Information

Percentage of graduates who attend college: 100.0%

Middle Percentile of SAT Scores	Reading	Math	Writing
25th percentile	600.0	580.0	610.0
75th percentile	700.0	750.0	710.0

Quotes From Alumni

“Reserve was the beginning of my great adventure.”

-, Class of 1996, CNN Reporter

“Reserve was the beginning of my great adventure.”

-Patrick Oppmann, Class of 1996, CNN Reporter

Merit

Merit Scholarships: Offered

Students Receiving Merit Scholarships: 12.0%

Average Merit Scholarship: 0

Current Endowment Amount: $153,828,820

Interested in Western Reserve Academy?

Vital Information

Student Body Type: Coed

Total Boarding: 264

Total Day: 162

Total Enrollment: 426

Boys: 242

Girls: 184

Boarding Grades Offered: 9-12

Day Grades Offered: 9-12

School Type: High School, Post-grad

Dress Code: Formal

Applications Accepted: SAO, Gateway to Prep

Application Deadline: Rolling

Tuition & Financial Aid

7-Day Boarding: $76,975

5-Day Boarding: $0

Day Tuition Fee: $49,750

Need-Based Aid: Offered

Payment Plans: Offered

Students Receiving Aid: 41.0%

Average Awarded: $32,258

School Finances