Academics at St. John Paul II

The academic program at John Paul II:

(a) is rigorous college preparation;
(b) is founded on a great books, classical approach; and
(c) has an integrated approach to education (especially in the humanities).

From this, we believe that our students will have the finest college preparatory education available. By reading these 'first sources' instead of textbook anthologies, our students will be immersed in the great writing and thought of our western, classical tradition. Our students will move into college level work seamlessly, and with a strong, broad foundation of knowledge on which to build future learning.

At the same time, our students will be presented -- through the classical approach, the integrated coursework, and the study of our faith -- with an intellectual basis for their faith.

We describe this as rigorous and traditional, but what does it mean for our students?

First, we look for students who want to work hard. From there, with help from teachers, peers, and parents, all of our students can reach our high expectations. Further, in the school environment, self-respect and service will be driving ideals. We will care what our students learn and who they are becoming. Our school culture will support, not detract, from learning.

Second, students will be asked to complete daily homework in every subject, and will be asked to read (and re-read) great books. In the classroom, our teachers will present and teach new concepts and ask for student input and discussion. In this way, students will see their responsibility to their peers and teachers. Further, these are the ideas that have shaped our world and our lives. Once seen in this light, the classics will come to life.

Third, we will have hands-on laboratory science courses, real, almost daily technology integration, and teachers who make learning relevant. A laptop program will drive the technology component of the school, where teachers will use technology to present material and require students to use technology to complete homework. Though the curriculum is traditional, we understand both the power of technology in augmenting learning and the realities of the modern college and workplace environments. We want to prepare our students to change the world, and so they must master these skills.