The High School for Teaching and The Professions is a community of shared leadership and of life-long learners who are enthusiastic, persistent, innovative, creative, supportive, respectful of each others' values and beliefs and will take action to ensure the success of each other. The mission of the school is to encourage all members of its community to become "independent thinkers, not simply gleaners of information", so they can choose wisely the course of their lives. The focus is on high academic achievement for all students. The school believes in the "Guiding Principles for Small Schools and the "Principles of Learning." A rigorous academic program in a small personalized setting is offered to all students. Students explore a variety of careers and seek internships, as students are encouraged to "Dress for Success.