Our academic program is divided into a junior school and upper school. Junior school students – eighth grade and below – are instructed in a highly structured, core curriculum program. The upper school – ninth grade through post-graduate – is organized on a departmentalized basis, with students changing classes each period during the day.

The upper school program is designed to produce qualified high school graduates, and over 95% of our students go on to college or university. Two types of diplomas are awarded: the academic diploma, for college-bound students, and the practical arts diploma for those who wish to take more of a career-technical track. The upper school's core curriculum of math, English, reading, science and social studies is supplemented by numerous elective choices.

Vanguard’s Thirteenth Year program is available to students who have completed high school and need additional academic or social experience. A personal plan is designed with each young adult in this program according to selected goals. Thirteenth Year students may participate in the full range of activities offered for other students with the exception of the interscholastic athletic program.