Lick-Wilmerding High School: A Comprehensive Overview of Academics and Opportunities
Lick-Wilmerding High School (LWHS), a distinguished private institution in San Francisco, California, offers a rigorous academic program complemented by a wide array of extracurricular activities. This article provides an in-depth look at the school's history, admissions process, academic philosophy, course offerings, and student life.
A Rich History and Enduring Mission
Founded in 1874 as the California School of Mechanical Arts, Lick-Wilmerding High School has a long and storied history. James Lick established the school with a trust, and it initially opened its doors in January 1895 under the direction of George Merrill. In the early 1950s, the California School of Mechanical Arts merged with the Wilmerding School of Industrial Arts to form Lick-Wilmerding High School. The Lux School for Industrial Training for Girls later joined Lick-Wilmerding. Originally a boys-only school, LWHS became co-educational in 1972 and began charging tuition for the first time.
Located across from the City College of San Francisco and easily accessible via BART and MUNI, the school's current campus has been its home since 1955. With a total of 550 students and 145 faculty and staff, Lick-Wilmerding prides itself on its mission to inspire students to become lifelong learners who lead positive change, emphasizing its commitment to being "a private school with a public purpose."
The Competitive Admissions Process
Lick-Wilmerding's prime location in San Francisco and its reputation for academic excellence make admissions highly competitive. Each year, the school receives approximately 1,000 applications for the incoming 9th grade, with only 140 slots available. Acceptance for transfer students depends on attrition.
The application process begins on Ravenna, where prospective students can register for events, complete application requirements, and track their application status. A crucial element of the application is the admissions interview, also known as the "Cub Conversation," which provides an opportunity for students to showcase their character and motivation to attend LWHS. The interviewer assesses the student's fit for the school community.
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Applicants must submit letters of recommendation from their current English and math teachers, as well as from their principal or counselor. These recommendations offer a comprehensive evaluation of the applicant's character, personality, and academic aptitude. Transcripts from the previous school year and the first semester of the current year are also required to demonstrate the applicant's ability to handle a rigorous curriculum.
Academic Philosophy: Rigor and Vigor
Lick-Wilmerding High School approaches academics through rigor and vigor. Beyond core subjects, students are encouraged to explore a variety of electives to develop their love of learning and to foster curiosity. The pedagogy that drives both teachers and students involves Understanding, Personalizing, Designing, Assessing, Teaching, and Valuing. Students at LWHS are challenged and learn how to challenge themselves through authentic engagement, thoughtful inquiry, and in-depth analysis.
Each student must enroll in a minimum of six five‐unit courses per semester, totaling 30 units per semester. All students are required to complete two semesters of technical arts courses (such as wood, metal, jewelry, or electronics), one semester of performing arts, and two semesters of visual arts.
Course Offerings: A Diverse Curriculum
Lick-Wilmerding offers a diverse range of courses across various disciplines:
Technical Arts
Technical courses include Metal, Woodworking, Robotics, Electronics, and Jewelry.
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Performing Arts
LWHS' Performing Arts Department features a choir, jazz band, orchestra, and two a cappella vocal ensembles. The dance program comprises four classes: Dance 1, Dance 2, Dance Ensemble, and Dance Company. The Ehrer Theatre Program (named after Marcel Roy Ehrer) presents plays, musicals, and a festival of original one-act plays written and directed by students.
Visual Arts
Under the Visual Arts Department, students can take classes in architecture, drawing, painting, photography, and video.
Other academic opportunities
Advanced Placement classes and Ohio’s College Credit Plus can help you earn college and high school credits at the same time by taking college-level courses, or courses from community colleges or universities. The purpose of this program is to promote rigorous academic pursuits and to provide a wide variety of options to college-ready students. Taking a college course from a public college or university is free. That means no cost to the family of public and private school students for tuition, books or fees.
Extracurricular Activities: Fostering Well-Rounded Individuals
Lick-Wilmerding provides a wide range of opportunities for students to explore their interests and passions. Over 85% of students participate in sports, and over half participate in performing arts programs.
Athletics
LWHS offers a variety of sports across three seasons. With a mission to develop character alongside athletic prowess, Lick-Wilmerding is dedicated to supporting its student-athletes through an inclusive and equitable environment.
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Student Clubs
To connect with peers, further interests, and develop new ones, students have a variety of programs available. Through student clubs, students are encouraged to develop as leaders outside of the classroom. Some clubs include Amnesty International, Crafty Cats!, Food Justice Club, Global Pen Friends, and LitMag. Those looking to make a difference in the lives of underclassmen may join the Peer Connect program, which pairs 10th-12th grade student mentors with incoming freshmen.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
As of the 2021-2022 school year, the student body is composed of 9% South Asian, 6% Southeast Asian, 11% African-American, 18% Latino, 29% East Asian, and 62% Caucasian students.
Notable Alumni
Francis Tapon is an author and nomad. Other notable alumni include Andres Amador, John L. Bell, John Goldman, Jonathon Keats, Mxmtoon, Albert W. Overhauser, Lionel H. Pries, and Frederick Seitz.
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