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Middle and High School Departments:

AT-A-GLANCE

Math

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Apply mathematical concepts, procedures and computational skills at a level that corresponds to ability.

  • Acquire and apply problem-solving skills and strategies.

  • Collect, organize and use data using appropriate statistical methods.

  • Understand the concept of measurement and accurately use appropriate measuring devices and techniques.

  • Estimate when appropriate.

  • Develop logical and critical thinking skills at all levels.

  • Comprehend and process written information into mathematical terminology.

  • Appropriately use technological resources to solve math problems.

  • Appreciate the role math has in the real world.

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ALL teachers use real world and hands-on methods to engage students.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL:

  • 6th Grade - Math 6

  • 7th Grade - Math 7 or Pre-Algebra

  • 8th Grade - Pre-Algebra or Algebra 1

 

HIGH SCHOOL:

  • 3 Credits required for Graduation (Algebra 1 and Geometry mandatory for all students)

  • Most students take 4 years of Math

  • 10 different course offerings for all abilities

  • Honors and AP courses

  • Strong pathways for students seeking STEM majors

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ONLY AT SJCA:

  • Math Support available daily through our faculty-run Math Lab

  • Individualize attention at all levels.

Science

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Think Critically

  • Understand Scientific Laws

  • Evaluate Information

  • Analyze Data

  • Develop Lab Skills

  • Make Sound Decisions Based on Scientific Concepts

  • Thoughtfully Solve Problems

  • Recognize How Science Influences Life

  • Appreciate, Understand, and be Stewards of God’s Gift of the Natural World

 

ALL teachers use active, hands-on learning strategies and incorporate STEM activities.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

• 6th Grade - Earth Science

• 7th Grade - Life Science

• 8th Grade - Physical Science

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HIGH SCHOOL

  • 3 credits required for graduation

  • SJCA recommends taking at least 4 science courses

  • Strong pathways for students following a science path

  • 12 different course offerings including Honors and AP:

    • Biology

    • Biology Honors

    • AP Biology

    • Chemistry

    • Pre-AP Chemistry

    • AP Chemistry

    • Environmental Science

    • Physics

    • AP Physics 1

    • Astronomy

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ONLY AT SJCA

  • Dissections starting in 7th Grade.

  • Standardized Test Scores WELL Above the State and National Averages.

  • Aquaponics system with fish used for growing plants from the International Space Station in designed experiments.

  • Physics students design, build, and test rockets.

  • Multiple classes use Lincoln Park for field studies.

English

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Fully comprehend the written and spoken word.

  • Understand and utilize the parts of speech and correct grammar.

  • Analyze and think critically about literature and other writings.

  • Clearly and coherently express ideas in writing and speaking.

  • Correctly use a wide and varied vocabulary for reading, writing and speaking.

  • Research, utilize and carefully cite sources.

  • Communicate clearly through both the written and spoken word.

  • Analyze complex concepts in literature, poetry and other forms of language.

  • Recognize and use varied techniques in writing styles.

  • Critique and interpret diverse works of literature with insight.

  • Appreciate varied, influential and superior literary works.

 

ALL teachers use age-appropriate, original texts and stories for instruction.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

  • 6th Grade—Language Arts 6

  • 7th Grade—Language Arts 7

  • 8th Grade—Language Arts 8

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HIGH SCHOOL:

  • 4 Credits Required for Graduation.

  • Great Course Selection.

  • Honors and AP Courses.

  • Sequential Curriculum Building from Middle School.

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ONLY AT SJCA:

  • All English classes allow students the opportunity to choose their own novel for study at least once a year.

  • 6th Grade Intensive Writing Requirement.

  • 8th Grade Instructional Research Paper.

  • Standardized test scores WELL above the State and National Averages.

Social
Studies

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of social studies facts and concepts.

  • Appreciate diverse peoples and cultures.

  • Formulate and evaluate values and value systems as they apply to one’s self and others.

  • Interact effectively with others through interpersonal and social participation skills.

  • Use technology to enhance critical thinking and curricular knowledge.

  • Apply reasoning skills to interpret facts and formulate opinions.

  • Gain a global perspective on events and issued that have shaped the world.

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ALL teachers utilize novels, real world lessons and interactive examples to enhance student learning.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

  • 6th Grade—World Geography

  • 7th Grade—Civics/Economics

  • 8th Grade—Early US History or Early US History Honors

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HIGH SCHOOL

  • 3 Credits required for Graduation (US History,

  • World History/AP Euro & Government required)

  • Students generally take many more as electives

  • Strong pathways for students exploring Business Majors

  • Many unique course offerings with Honors and AP Courses:

    • U.S. History (Reg. And Honors)

    • World History

    • AP European History

    • American Government

    • American Issues

    • Economics

    • AP Microeconomics

    • AP Macroeconomics

    • AP American Government

    • Psychology

    • AP Psychology

    • Sociology

    • World Issues

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ONLY AT SJCA

  • 96% Pass rate for AP Psychology.

  • AP Government behind the scenes trip to the State Capitol.

  • Exemplary Economics classes starting in 7th Grade.

  • Strong pathways for students interested in studying Business .

STEM

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Develop strong problem-solving skills.

  • Define problems and design solutions.

  • Create and use models to test ideas.

  • Communicate design ideas effectively.

  • Work efficiently and productively in groups.

  • Utilize digital technology to enhance the design process.

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All teachers use engaging hands-on learning experiences and projects to facilitate learning.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL:

  • 7th/8th Grade Computer Science

  • 7th/8th Grade Engineering

  • Technology Club

 

HIGH SCHOOL

  • Engineering

  • Computer Science

Theology

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO

  • Understand Catholic doctrine and social teaching.

  • Apply and integrate Catholic Church history.

  • Live out the Gospel Values.

  • Love God, self and others.

  • Give witness to our Faith in a pluralistic society.

  • Develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ

  • Develop the tools to be leaders of the Church.

  • Serve others selflessly, humbly and joyfully.

 

 

MIDDLE SCHOOL :

  • 6th Grade—Theology 6

  •  7th Grade—Theology 7

  • 8th Grade—Theology 8

  • Service Hour requirement commensurate with age

 

HIGH SCHOOL:

  • 4 Credits required for graduation.

  • Service Hour requirement commensurate with age.

  • Theology 1 (Freshmen): Church History and Scripture.

  • Theology 2 (Sophomores): Morality.

  • Theology 3 (Juniors): The Social Doctrine and Sacraments.

  • Theology 4 (Seniors): Apologetics, Vocations and Missions.

 

ONLY AT SJCA

  • All School Upper Campus Mass every Wednesday

  • Retreats for all grade levels.

  • School Chaplain on site.

  • Eucharistic Adoration.

  • Prayer Services and Reconciliation.

  • Senior overnight retreat.

  • Sacramental Preparation in conjunction with local parishes Service hour requirements commensurate.

  • Optional Senior Service Mission Trip.

  • Optional trip to March for Life.

Business

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Understand and apply general business principles and concepts in a variety of industries

  • Develop strong leadership, ethics and decision-making skills

  • Integrate business and consumer skills into real life situations

  • Expand and apply skills in reading, writing, problem-solving and project management to business scenarios

  • Recognize specific strategies, tactics and methodologies for success in college business majors and future business careers

  • Communicate clearly through all mediums necessary in today’s business arenas

 

ALL teachers integrate real world examples, case studies and hands-on projects to stimulate student learning.

 

HIGH SCHOOL:

  • Business Law

  • Communication & Public Relations

  • Introduction to Business

  • Marketing 

  • Personal Finance

  • Publications: School Newspaper and Yearbook

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ONLY AT SJCA:

  • Hands on retail, marketing, and publications experience.

  • Strong pathways for students interested in business careers.

Foreign
Language

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Develop competency in a language other than English.

  • Know, respect and appreciate a culture different from their own.

  • Master the 21st century skills.

  • Achieve better understanding of their own language and culture.

  • Foster a curiosity about other cultures and the global community.

  • Expand his or her world view through the lens of another culture.

  • Better understand his or her place in the world.

  • All teachers engage students through lively discussion, authentic material, cultural immersion and historical perspective.

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SJCA Participates in Italian and Spanish National Honor Society

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ONLY AT SJCA

  • Annual field trips to museums, restaurants and other culturally relevant excursions.

  • Students participate in several culturally significant celebrations.

  • Trips to Mexico, Spain, Italy offered to the students.

Art

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN:

• Develop an understanding and appreciation of Art, Art History and its influence on world culture.

• Gain skill and ability to utilize a variety of materials to create artwork.

• Learn to communicate ideas through the visual arts.

• Understand and apply artistic concepts to many different artistic styles and genres.

 

ALL teachers are truly skilled and passionate instructors who instill a deep wonder and appreciation for the Arts in every student.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL:

  • 6th Grade—Art 6: emphasizes the elements of Art

  • 7th Grade—Art 7: explores a variety of Art techniques and methods

  • 8th Grade—Art 8 2D and 3D: integrates Art history, culture and artists

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HIGH SCHOOL:

  • .5 Credit required for Graduation

  • Students take many more Fine Arts courses

  • 12 unique Fine Arts courses offered:

    • Art Foundations

    • Ceramics 1 and 2

    • Intro to Painting

    • Graphic Art 1 and 2

    • Advanced

    • Draw/Paint/Printmaking

    • Art Metals/Stained Glass

    • Sculpture 1 and 2

    • Studio Art 1 and 2 Honors

    • AP Studio Art: 2D Design

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ONLY AT SJCA:

  • Studio Art Showcase.

  • Opportunities to highlight talents and skills outside of school.

  • Small class sizes allow for individual attention.

Music

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN:

  • Sing and perform alone and with others.

  • Gain an appreciation for a wide repertoire of music.

  • Improvise melodies, harmonies and accompaniments.

  • Understand the relationship between music, the other arts and other disciplines outside the arts.

  • Analyze, evaluate and describe music.

 

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

  • Exploring Music (for 6th grade only)

  • Music From the Theatre (for 7th and 8th grade)

  • Symphonic Band (6th-8th).

 

HIGH SCHOOL:

  • Symphonic Band (9th-12th, must already know how to play an instrument)

  • Concert Choir (9th-12th)

  • Music History (currently 9th-12th)

Health &
Phy Ed.

EVERY STUDENT WILL LEARN TO:

  • Develop positive attitudes toward lifetime fitness and health.

  • Understand the connection between healthy lifestyles and personal well being

  • Promote sportsmanship and teamwork.

  • Integrate fitness, sports and healthy choices into everyday life.

  • Attain a basic level of knowledge and physical skills to perform a variety of sports and physical activity.

  • Appreciate a wide variety of sports, their origins and their influence of culture and history.

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ALL teachers are positive, encouraging, knowledgeable and committed to each student’s personal growth and well-being.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL:

  • 6th Grade—Physical Education 6 & Health

  • 7th Grade—Physical Education 7

  • 8th Grade—Physical Education 8

 

HIGH SCHOOL:

  • 1.5 Credits in Phys. Ed. required for Graduation

  • .5 Health Credit required

  • 7 different course offerings

  • Online summer health option

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ONLY AT SJCA:

  • Renovated, state-of-the-art weight room and training facility.

  • Teachers dedicated to every student’s personal growth.

  • Emphasis on healthy life styles and values.

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