College-Level Thinking,
Kehillah Style

Kehillah Advanced Topics (KAT) courses are designed for students who are ready to engage deeply with a subject and pursue learning beyond traditional high school expectations. Rather than emphasizing breadth and test preparation, KAT courses prioritize inquiry, analysis, research, and the application of knowledge to complex questions and real-world challenges.

Across disciplines, KAT students are asked to think critically, examine evidence, synthesize ideas, and demonstrate mastery through substantial projects, research, writing, performances, or portfolios. These courses encourage students to move beyond memorization and toward the kind of sophisticated thinking expected in college and beyond.

Recognized by the University of California as honors-level coursework, KAT classes carry a weighted GPA designation and provide opportunities for students to challenge themselves through rigorous, meaningful academic exploration.

In the 2025–26 school year, Kehillah replaced Advanced Placement (AP) courses with the KAT program to better align advanced learning with our educational philosophy: depth over coverage, inquiry over test preparation, and mastery over memorization.

While Kehillah no longer offers AP courses, students may still choose to sit for AP examinations through the College Board.

Learn more about KAT and our course offerings in our Curriculum Guide.