At Hunter College High School, we believe that the disciplines of English language and literature, communication, and drama enable students to develop a lasting appreciation of literature and the verbal arts; to learn to express themselves both verbally and in writing with confidence and conviction; to better understand human nature and therefore, their own natures; to examine issues of diversity within a supportive environment—and in so doing, to explore the deepest aspects of what it means to be human.

The English/Communication and Theater Department offers required courses and upper-term electives in both English and CT. In addition, the department supports many avenues for student learning and achievement beyond the classroom: several annual theater productions, independent study and teaching internship experiences for qualified seniors, eighth grade and elective attendance at professional theater performances, participation by students in poetry and writing workshops, a visiting writer series, strong encouragement of student submission of writing for publication and competition, and advisement of three literary publications, and an oral interpretation competition. In all, we hope to create an environment where students recognize literature, writing, and oral expression as central to their personal and intellectual development.