Info Guide2012-13 - St. Scholastica Academy

Founded 1903 

A TRADITION 

OF 

SISTERHOOD 

2012 - 2013 

Information Guide 

Giving Young Women Wings

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Mission / Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Philosophy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Statement of Beliefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

Ten Commonly-Asked Questions. . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Shadow Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 

Admissions Procedures - 8th Grade . . . . . . . . . 14 

Admissions Procedures - 9th Grade . . . . . . . . . 15 

Curriculum Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

Religion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 

English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Mathematics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 

Science. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 

Social Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 

Foreign Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 

Fine Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 

Communications and Performing Arts . . . . . . . . 34 

Health and Physical Education . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 

Standardized Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 

Extracurricular Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 

SSA Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 

Athletic Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 

St. Scholastica Academy Information Guide

…focusing on a balance of prayer, work, study, 

and community in developing adolescent girls into Christian women… 

Excerpt from Mission Statement 

P. O. Box 1210 • Covington, LA 70434-1210 

Main Office (985) 892-2540 

FAX (985) 892-5921 • School Code 190595 

Email: esimmons@ssacad.com 

President 

Marguerite S. Celestin 

Principal 

Mary Kathryn Villere 

Dean of Students/Assistant Principal 

Eileen Depreo 

Dean of Academics 

Jennifer Grimley 

Guidance Director 

Carol Pool 

Advancement Director 

Admissions Director 

Elaine Simmons 

Director of Finance 

Mary Beth Willem 

Athletic Director 

Charles Richard 

Guidance Department 

Carol Pool 

Susanne Hepburn 

Toni Pettavino 

College and Career Advisor 

Caroline Capps 

School Facts: 

SSA is a private, college-preparatory, Catholic five-year 

high school founded by the Benedictine Sisters in 1903. 

Accredited by Louisiana State Department of Education 

and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 

Council on Accreditation and School Improvement 

(SACS CASI) 

Memberships: 

National Catholic Education Association 

National Association of High School Counselors 

National Association Secondary School Counselors 

National Staff Development Council 

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development 

National Association of Secondary School Principals 

Louisiana Staff Development Council 

Awarded the U. S. Department of Education 

Blue Ribbon School of Excellence (1997-1998) 

Student Enrollment (2011-12): 

Total 693 

Seniors 136 

Juniors 147 

Sophomores 143 

Freshmen 147 

Eighth Graders 120 

Community Facts: 

Residential, small city 

9,692 city residents; 264,000 parish residents 

43 miles north of New Orleans 

St. Scholastica Academy -1- Information Guide

St. Scholastica Academy 

Choosing a high school is a huge step in every student’s 

educational career. The transition from high school to college 

can be challenging. That is why the teachers, counselors 

and staff at the Academy are dedicated to providing each 

student with the best opportunity to succeed. SSA provides 

a variety of programs to prepare each student for the world 

beyond the classroom. We encourage young women to talk 

with us about this choice and the opportunities of a lifetime 

that only SSA can offer. 

Welcome to our Family!!! 

A Nationally Recognized School of Excellence

Who is St. Scholastica 

The patron saint of our school is St. Scholastica. Who exactly is St. Scholastica When did she live 

What did she do For what is she known 

Most people are more familiar with St. Benedict because the Benedictine order and monasteries bear 

his name. St. Scholastica was St. Benedict’s twin sister. They lived in the 5 th century. At an early age, 

Scholastica entered a convent which was a Benedictine order for women. There are some interesting stories 

concerning the relationship of these brother and sister saints. 

The Benedictine motto ora et labora (pray and work) became a real joy for the young abbess, for she 

had practiced it since childhood. She found it the best way to keep her mind occupied with God even though 

her duties as abbess kept her busy most of the day. Pope Gregory explained that, although Benedict had set 

out a rule of life for these holy women, it was Scholastica’s duty to see that they kept it faithfully and cheerfully 

and regarded it as the best means for their sanctification. 

Each year, Benedict and Scholastica met to discuss their way of life and the various spiritual problems 

in the two religious houses. Since women were not allowed to enter his monastery, Benedict and a few 

companions met her in the guesthouse at Monte Casino. 

One day when St. Scholastica was very ill, her brother came to visit her at the convent. They spent the 

day singing psalms and speaking about the spiritual life, its compensations and problems. When evening came 

they sat down to supper and continued the conversation until quite late. Strict orders of the monastery only 

allowed one day for a monk to visit his family and never allowed him to stay away overnight. After a delightful 

day of visiting, St. Scholastica asked her brother to stay the night since she was afraid that she would not live 

until his next visit. Benedict, an obedient monk, would not hear of such a thing. Legend has it that Scholastica 

folded her hands in prayer. When she looked up a minute later, lightning flashed in the sky, thunder roared 

ominously, and such a downpour of rain began that Benedict and his monks could not possibly leave the house. 

Realizing what had happened, Benedict reproached her: “What have you done, my sister” Scholastica 

answered simply, “I asked a favor of you, and you refused to listen to me. So I asked my God and He, more 

generous than you, granted my request.” Once again Scholastica’s pleas won the favor she was seeking. 

In the days that ensued, Scholastica became weaker and finally succumbed to the illness. While 

praying in his room, as Benedict looked toward the convent, he saw a white dove circling the building, finally 

disappearing into the blue. He interpreted this event to mean that his sister had died and her soul had gone to 

heaven. The white dove is a symbol of her purity. 

Scholastica was outstanding for her simplicity and faith. She spoke to God directly, in reverent familiarity, 

without complex or elaborate ritual. As an abbess, St. Scholastica instilled in her nuns the necessity of 

living in accordance with the great Benedictine aim: “That in all things God may be glorified.” The Benedictine 

sisterhoods flourished under Scholastica and through the years to the present day. She demonstrated great 

faith and felt that it was more important to tend the needs of others than to follow a rule rigidly. St. Gregory the 

Great said of Scholastica, “She could do more, because she loved more.” 

The Benedictine values of prayer, work, study, and community, reverence, and respect are hallmarks 

of the life of St. Scholastica. She is indeed a role model to all of us who are part of the SSA family. 


Mission 

St. Scholastica Academy is a Catholic college-preparatory high school 

located in Covington, Louisiana. 

Drawing upon its 108 year history of sisterhood, 

SSA perpetuates the Benedictine tradition 

by focusing on a balance of prayer, work, study, and community 

in developing adolescent girls into Christian women 

who are grounded in the Gospel values of the Catholic faith. 

Vision 

Our vision for St. Scholastica Academy is part of our spirit - that the quality of life in 

our society becomes greatly improved when young women are educated to succeed, 

stand confident, and live Christian lives of service and responsibility. 

St. Scholastica Academy recognizes the unique position that we have always held in 

St. Tammany - a position of strength and pride - where we have successfully educated 

thousands of young women who have served many communities both here and 

throughout the world. 

At St. Scholastica Academy our legacy continues - continually challenged by the 

spirit that suggests that we always take time for each other, look for the best, and 

build for tomorrow. 


Philosophy 

St. Scholastica Academy (SSA) provides a challenging program for young women in a 

Christian environment. Committed to the education of young women, the school 

fosters the development of leadership, self-confidence, motivation, service to others, 

and academic achievement. As a college-preparatory school, SSA consciously 

endeavors to provide an atmosphere for intellectual growth in which students are given 

opportunities to become independent, critical thinkers, capable of functioning in 

society today and in the future. 

As a Catholic school SSA teaches the basic truths of the Catholic faith and fosters the 

student’s moral development based on gospel values. The faculty, staff, and student 

body together create a Christ-centered community of mutual respect and care. 

SSA sees itself as having a responsibility to the community at large. Educated to an 

awareness of the needs of others, students are actively encouraged to respond 

generously as responsible members of the community. 

Grounded in tradition, the school maintains an openness to embracing new 

responses to the challenges of an ever-changing, pluralistic society in which 

women have a unique and major role. 

********* 

St. Scholastica Academy admits academically qualified students of any race, 

color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, and activities 

generally accorded or made available to students of the school. It does 

not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in 

the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan 

programs, and other school-administered programs. 


STATEMENT OF BELIEFS 

We follow the components of Benedictine spirituality: 

In Prayer - to pray as if everything depends on God. 

• That God, Gospel values and the teachings of the Catholic Church permeate 

all that we do. 

• That we develop a personal morality based on the Catholic interpretation of 

Gospel teachings. 

• That we pursue a way of life that demonstrates an active relationship with 

God. 

In Work - to work by growing and discovering who we are especially as children of 

God. 

• That we encourage the diligence, discipline and dedication that it takes to be 

successful in all of our activities. 

In Study - to study in order to attain wisdom. 

• That we adhere to a standard of academic excellence. 

• That we model a dedication to lifelong learning and foster that dedication in 

our students. 

• That we meet the needs of young women in a challenging, safe and nurturing 

environment. 

• That we acknowledge that each student is unique, with individual differences, 

needs and learning styles and that we reflect this belief with respect to 

curriculum, discipline, activities and procedures. 

In Community - to serve by being with and for others in community. 

• That we prepare our students to lead Christian lives of service and 

responsibility. 

• That we instill the value of family life. 

• That we foster sisterhood and friendships among our students through 

respect and concern for all of God’s creation. 

• That we promote a sense of social morality by demonstrating responsible 

citizenship based on Catholic social teaching. 


A NATIONALL 

TIONALLY RECOGNIZED 

BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL 

OF EXCELLENCE 

St. Scholastica Academy received the U.S. Department of Education’s 

“Excellence in Education Award,” the nation’s highest honor presented to schools. 

From 1983-1998, 3500 schools nationwide, including 79 Louisiana schools, have 

received this award. SSA was one of 166 schools honored in 1997-98 and is one of two 

high schools in St. Tammany Parish to be designated a Blue Ribbon School. 

A Blue Ribbon School must demonstrate that its instructional programs meet 

the highest academic standards, have supportive and learning-centered environments, 

and achieve strong results. It must have evidence of excellence in leadership, 

innovative teaching, challenging curriculum, and active parental involvement. 

In announcing this honor, the Blue Ribbon Panel stated: “At St. Scholastica 

Academy you have provided outstanding student focus and support, challenging 

standards and curriculum, and exemplary teaching. Your great attention to students’ 

needs and expectations has promoted quality learning, well-being and satisfaction 

for your students. The challenging standards and curriculum your school has set 

forth, along with effective teaching practices, has fostered your students’ personal and 

intellectual growth. And finally, your leadership within the school and community 

has reflected your school’s mission and provided an educational atmosphere to be 

emulated.” 


The School Community 

The Girls 

St. Scholastica Academy welcomes students of differing backgrounds and interests. Desiring a community 

which is socially, religiously, and economically diverse, the school draws its student body from the Louisiana 

parishes of St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington. The school understands that a diverse student population 

creates a rich educational environment. Getting to know one’s classmates is as powerful a learning tool as 

the textbook or the teacher. 

The Faculty 

United by a vision of educational excellence, the SSA faculty is a community of scholars, dedicated to the 

vocation of teaching young women. Within and outside of the classroom, the men and women who comprise the 

SSA faculty skillfully draw out the learning potential inherent in each student. The spectrum of experience and 

the range of backgrounds and ages contribute invaluably to the quality and diversity of the educators, who 

instruct the girls by the lives they live, the things they love, and the ideals in which they believe. 

The Education of Women 

The program at SSA attends to the academic, athletic, aesthetic, and spiritual dimension of each girl. The 

Academy has long recognized the importance of a distinctive educational setting for young women. SSA is the 

only all-girls school in St. Tammany Parish. The demands placed on women today, in the workforce and at 

home, highlight the critical need to develop in young women a sense of their power over the conditions of life. 

Current research in the field of education and psychology ratifies the truth of this conviction, and points to the 

stunning effectiveness of a single-sex education for young women. Graduates of girls’ schools account for a 

significant percentage of women in leadership positions in industry, education, and the professions. At SSA, the 

program is designed to help the girls discover and develop the best in themselves, and to prepare them to 

confront a society where their gifts and talents are essential. An SSA education shapes leaders who bring 

wisdom, integrity, and perspective to the world. 

“Girls at single sex schools surpass their coed peers in reading, writing, and science. 

They also demonstrate higher educational aspirations, spend more time on homework, 

and are more likely to achieve later in their careers.” 

— University of Michigan study 


Faith Life 

* Liturgies, religion classes, retreats, and service opportunities help our students deepen their faith in 

God and belief in themselves. 

* Outreach Day is dedicated to the exploration of SSA's service learning program. Senior and junior 

classes are suspended while students learn about performing community service locally and hear from 

community members about community needs. 

* Masses for the entire student body are held once a month in the SSA gym. 

* Masses for the grade level or individualized religion classes are held in Our Mother of Perpetual Help 

Chapel as scheduled. 

* The Rosary is recited during lunch once a week and at special times for the whole student population 

during the school year. 

* A Communion service is held once a week. 

* Adoration is held on the first Friday of each month while school is in session. 

* Students can join a number of faith clubs or organizations as part of the extra-curricular program. 

* Participation is encouraged in such events as Respect for Life, March for Life, and archdiocesansponsored 

events as well as events held in the student’s parish. 

* Prayer Garden with labyrinth and Stations of the Cross was built for our students. 

* May Crowning is held in May. 

“I discovered God in my life at SSA” SSA Alumna 

Class of 2011 Accomplishments 

* Students accepted to summer programs at prestigious universities 

* 24 seniors commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist 

* Athletes and cheerleaders raise $4300 for cancer center 

* 15 students earned AP Scholar Award; 3 students AP Scholar with Honor Award; 6 AP Scholar with 

Distinction Award (Updated for 2011-12) 

* Student named top Hispanic student by the Collegeboard (one of top 5,000 Hispanic students in US 

* Student named as one of the top four students in Louisiana in the U.S. Senate Youth Program 

* Student named Regional Student of the Year for Non-Public Schools in Louisiana 

* Two 2011 National Merit Finalists and two National Merit Commended Students 

* 150 SSA and community actors involved in 2011 spring musical of Annie 

* Art students win honors in art contests 

* Student received President’s Volunteer Service Award 

* Student chosen as US Presidential Scholar 

* SSA earned LSU Golden Achievement Award for fourth year 

* 2011 graduates earned $11.9 million in scholarship offers 

* 65% of Class of 2011 earned scholarships or awards; in addition 91% earned TOPS 

* 97% of 2011 graduates received scholarships, awards or TOPS 

* Three students selected to college dance teams; three students signed to play college sports 

* SSA implemented iPad program for students and faculty 

Highlights for 2011-12 School Year 

* The new Creative Center for the Digital Arts will provide our students with industry-grade knowledge 

of productive digital media software technology to advance the knowledge of our girls in the areas of 

computer art, graphic design, desktop publishing, web design, video production, visual art and digital 

media. This knowledge and learned skills willl provide our students with an edge for acceptance into 

university programs and possible internships and jobs in the industry. 


Ten Most Commonly-Asked Questions 

1. How many girls attend St. Scholastica Academy and what is the size of each class 

Total enrollment is 693 young women from the Louisiana parishes of St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and 

Washington. The number of students per class varies, but averages 22 students per class. 

2. What are the advantages to an all-girls school 

Research has demonstrated that girls achieve a higher level of academic success in an all-girl environment 

when compared to a coed school. According to the Wall Street Journal, all-girls schools “help 

females to get away from the traditional social conditioning and give them the freedom to show what 

they can do.” The October 27, 1993 issue of Education Week states, “Compared with their counterparts 

at other schools, girls in all-girls’ schools take math and science courses at double the national 

average.” At SSA, 100% of our students take five years of math and four years of science. 

3. What types of classes does SSA offer 

SSA offers college-prep, honors and AP classes, as well as a number of electives. The academic 

environment at SSA promotes growth and achievement. We have students of all abilities and our 

college-preparatory curriculum gives the young women who attend SSA a well-rounded educational 

experience that prepares them for college. Ninety-nine percent of our graduates go on to college. 

4. My daughter sometimes struggles. Does SSA accept students with learning disabilities 

Each case is decided individually. Students with learning needs must be able to master SSA’s academic 

programs with an accommodation plan provided to teachers by the Guidance Department. The Dean of 

Academics determines a possible accommodation plan in cases of severe learning issues. 

5. Do you offer tuition assistance 

Tuition assistance is offered through an established needs-based program. 

6. Can my daughter get college credit for classes 

SSA also offers AP classes in English, biology, calculus, government, American history, European history, 

art history, and psychology which allow students to earn possible college credit. Students can also earn 

college credit through St. Joseph Seminary College for Fine Arts Survey. 

7. What types of extracurricular activities does SSA provide 

SSA is committed to the development of the total student.The Academy offers over 45 extra-curriculars, 

including: academic and service clubs, publications, liturgical groups, drama, dance, chorus, speech and 

sports. 

8. What type of technology is available for my daughter 

Today’s students are “digitized”—they have been immersed in a global society supercharged with media 

and communication devices. They literally experience the world via these technological devices — 

iPhones, iPads, smart-phones, handheld gaming devices, PDAs, computers, HD/3D TV, and the list 

goes on. More than a quarter of their day is devoted to some type of media. Many students are 

multitasking — listening to music while surfing the web while watching TV while texting on their 

phones, while instant messaging, etc. In order to meet the needs of this new generation of students, SSA 

has created a 1:1 computing program that exposes its students to several 21 st century competencies in 

an attempt to better prepare them for college and their future role as informed global citizens. 

Our classrooms have been transformed from traditional learning environments characterized by teachercentered 

instruction, single-sense stimulation, single-path progression, single-media, isolated work, factual 

knowledge and information delivery to student-centered learning environments characterized by multisensory 

stimulation, multi-path progression, multimedia, collaborative work, information exchange and 


inquiry-based learning. At SSA each student is issued an iPad device that will be used in class each 

day as well as their work at home. The iPad is the perfect device to make these things possible - it is 

light, portable, quick, and bug-free. In our totally wireless environment, students have access to information 

throughout the school day. SSA teachers diligently work to create opportunities to expand learning 

beyond the four walls of the classroom. Students are taught how to appropriately and ethically access 

information from the “data highway” to analyze its usefulness and accuracy and to create a product 

that demonstrates their learning. Various iPad applications are available to students making the iPad 

an expanding platform for student learning. 

SSA’s 1:1 Computing Goal 

To provide the tools and skills necessary for students to succeed in today’s information-based economy 

by using technology to ethically and responsibly access, create, and transform information. 

9. What will my daughter’s schedule be like 

In the 1996-97 school year, the Academy implemented an innovative block schedule that effectively 

enhances classroom instruction and learning. Students take four classes in the fall and four different 

classes in the spring. Block scheduling provides students with opportunities for more in-depth study, 

better preparation for college and career, and greater academic success. This scheduling also allows 

time for more student-centered teaching methods, interactive lectures and simulation labs. 

The 4x4 block allows the student to receive as many as 37 high school credits. The state requires 24. 

This type of schedule more closely mimics the college environment than taking seven or eight classes all 

year long, again addressing the idea of college transition. (Please refer to page 13 for information on the 

4x4 block schedule.) 

10. I understand that SSA is a Catholic school. Do students of other religions also attend 

Yes, there are students of other religious faiths who attend SSA. All students, however, are required to 

take a religion course and attend an off-campus retreat each year. Learning about the Catholic faith 

helps give non-Catholics a perspective and a background of understanding for SSA’s Catholic school 

program. All are enriched by the school’s mission to educate young women for personal, spiritual and 

academic growth, service and leadership. 

TUITION ASSISTANCE 

Tuition and fees for the 2011-12 school year is $8,325. 

SSA provides tuition assistance to as many students as possible demonstrating financial need. For the 2011-12 

school year, approximately $140,000 was given for tuition assistance. 

Our tuition aid comes from the generous donations of our constituents. The annual giving and some special 

events support the assistance program. 

To apply for tuition assistance: 

1. Contact Mary Beth Willem, Director of Finance, 985-892-2540, ext. 144 after January 1 to 

register and for directions to complete the online aid application. 

2. A tuition assistance form as well as submission of taxpayer 1040 form is required to apply for 

assistance. 

3. Student must be accepted to SSA before applying for aid and registration completed. 

Families are notified by May of the tuition assistance awards. Typically 95% of those who apply receive some 

assistance. Applications must be submitted annually. 


St. Scholastica Academy Shadow Program 

Q: What is the Shadow Program 

A: “Shadowing” is a program designed to give your daughter a feel for SSA life. Students participating in this 

program attend classes and eat lunch with a SSA student host. SSA encourages students to choose a day 

when their grade schools/junior high schools are not in session. The number of visitors may be limited on any 

given day to ensure the best possible experience for the visitor. 

Q: Must students know a SSA student to participate 

A: It is not necessary that your daughter know anyone at SSA in order to shadow. She will be paired with a 

SSA student with similar interests (i.e. grade level or grade she is entering at SSA). 

Q: Must students be accepted to SSA before they participate in this program 

A: Acceptance is not required; however, the program is reserved for prospective 8th grade students or high 

school students interested in transferring from another school to SSA. 

Q: How do I sign up for a shadow day 

A: Please contact Elaine Simmons, Director of Admissions, at 985-892-2540, ext. 132 or email 

esimmons@ssacad.com, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, to schedule a shadow. A 

parent or guardian must speak with the Director of Admissions to set up the shadow day. 

Q: How long is a typical school day and are visiting students required to stay the 

entire day 

A: Generally, classes begin at 7:55 a.m. and conclude at 3:15 p.m. We suggest that the student shadow for the 

entire day, but arrangements can be made if she is only able to come for part of the day. Please arrive in the 

Front Office by 7:45 a.m. to sign in. The student will receive a Visitor’s name tag and meet the student host. 

Student should bring a book to read and/or a notebook to write in during classes. At the end of the day, the 

student will return to the front office at 3:00 p.m. and turn in an evaluation form. At that time, she must be 

checked out at the Front Office by a parent/guardian. 

Q: Do visiting students need to pack a lunch 

A: The student may pack a lunch or try our food service program, which is free of charge. If the student 

wishes to get a snack during Break, bring $1-$2. Please note: No gum chewing is permitted. No food or 

candy is allowed in the classrooms. Clear bottles of water are acceptable. 

Q: What should visiting students wear when they shadow 

A: The dress code for shadow students is very similar to that of the SSA students: 

Girls – Acceptable Dress 

· School uniform 

· Skirt (not too short or tight) 

· Blouse or collared polo shirt 

· Dress 

· Dress pants 

· Shoes with covered toes and heels 

· Tennis shoes 


Girls – Unacceptable Dress 

· Low or revealing necklines 

· Bare midriffs 

· T-shirts 

· Sandals, flip-flops 

PLEASE NOTE: Visiting students will be sent home if they are not wearing acceptable attire in 

keeping with SSA’s dress code. 

Shadows MUST be arranged at least five school days in advance. 

NO CELL PHONES MAY BE ON DURING THE SCHOOL DAY. 

For the 2011-12 school year, we cannot accept shadow visits on the following dates: 

November 18, 21-25; and December 12-16, 2011; January 5, 16; February 9-10, 14, 22-24; March 

12-16; April 5-13, and May 4, 11, 21-25, 2012. 

IMPORTANT: The Shadow Program is not to be used to visit friends/relatives for the day. The program is 

designed for students interested in making SSA their possible high school home. Visitors are expected to be 

courteous, attentive, and abide by all school rules. 

Thank you for your cooperation in making this worthwhile program a success for everyone involved. 

St. Scholastica Academy -13- Information Guide

EIGHTH GRADE ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES 

APPLICANTS IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS 

PUBLIC/PRIVATE SCHOOLS 

• Application form will be available for 

downloading from the Archdiocese of N.O. 

website (www.arch-no.org) on November 14. 

• Completed application turned in to their respective 

schools no later than NOVEMBER 16, 2011. 

• Current Catholic school will provide: 

1. Completed Application form 

2. School records-as available from previous schools 

+ 5th & 6th grade transcripts 

+ Standardized test results - two 

previous testing dates 

+ 7th grade report card - 1st quarter 

• Applicant submits the following to SSA by 

November 18: 

3. Immunization Record 

4. Copy of Birth Certificate 

5. Copy of Social Security Card 

6. Individual essays from applicant and 

parents indicating why SSA is being 

chosen and how applicant qualifies for 

and will benefit from SSA. 

7. $200 commitment fee deposit 

(Non-refundable; part of the registration fee) 

8. Completed SSA Application for Admission 

(4-page form found in back of booklet) 

9. Interview will take place after November 29. 




• Applicant obtains and submits the following 

to SSA as soon as possible but no later than 

November 18: 



+ 5th and 6th grade transcripts 



+ 7th grade report card -1st quarter 












9. Interview will take place as soon as the above 

items are received. 

ALL of the information must be submitted in compliance with the admissions timeline as stated above 

in order for the student to be considered for admissions. 

(Checks for commitment fee should be made payable to St. Scholastica Academy.) 

The following components must also be met for a student to be considered for admission: 

1. Interview with SSA representative, applicant, and at least one parent (To be scheduled) 

2. Attend APPLICATION DAY on January 7, 2012 - 8:00 a.m. at SSA Cafeteria 

• Take Iowa Test (for placement purposes only) (8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m - Fee: $20.00) 

• Parents attend Information Session with Administration (8:15 - 9:00 a.m.) 

3. It is the responsibility of the student to submit a copy of the mid-term (January) report card to 

SSA by January 31, 2012 and final report card by June 14, 2012. 

4. Parent conference with SSA president (To be scheduled). 

FEBRUARY 14, 2012 

Letters of decision will be mailed. 

MARCH 1, 2012 - REGISTRATION DAY - 3:30-5:30 p.m. - SSA Cafeteria 

Financial aid forms are available upon request. 


NINTH GRADE ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES 

APPLICANTS IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS 

PUBLIC/PRIVATE SCHOOLS 




• Completed application turned in to their respective 

schools no later than NOVEMBER 16, 2011. 

• Current Catholic school will provide: 



+ 6th & 7th grade transcripts 



+ 8th grade report card - 1st quarter 

• Applicant submits the following to SSA by 

November 18: 












9. Interview will take place after November 29. 




• Applicant obtains and submits the following 

to SSA as soon as possible but no later than 

November 18: 



+ 6th and 7th grade transcripts 



+ 8th grade report card -1st quarter 












9. Interview will take place as soon as the above 

items are received. 

ALL of the information must be submitted in compliance with the admissions timeline as stated above 

in order for the student to be considered for admissions. 

(Checks for commitment fee should be made payable to St. Scholastica Academy.) 

The following components must also be met for a student to be considered for admission: 

1. Interview with SSA representative, applicant, and at least one parent (To be scheduled) 

2. Attend APPLICATION DAY on January 7, 2012 - 8:00 a.m. at SSA Cafeteria 

• Take Iowa Test (for placement purposes only) (8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m - Fee: $20.00) 

• Parents attend Information Session with Administration (8:15 - 9:00 a.m.) 

3. It is the responsibility of the student to submit a copy of the mid-term (January) report card to 

SSA by January 31, 2012 and final report card by June 14, 2012. 

4. Parent conference with SSA president (To be scheduled). 

FEBRUARY 14, 2011 

Letters of decision will be mailed. 

MARCH 1, 2012- REGISTRATION DAY - 3:30-5:30 p.m. - SSA Cafeteria 

Financial aid forms are available upon request. 


Giving Young Women Wings 

Academics

CURRICULUM DESIGN 

In the 1996-97 school year, St. Scholastica Academy joined the growing 

number of secondary schools implementing a 4 x 4 block schedule. In the 4 x 4 

block schedule structure, students take eight courses instead of the traditional 

seven, completing four “year-long” courses each term. This form of scheduling 

provides instructional time for hands-on learning and significant opportunities 

for student research. The 4 x 4 block schedule provides teachers with a structure 

to address students’ many different learning styles with varied instructional 

strategies. 

The 4 x 4 schedule enables students to benefit from an expanded 

curriculum. Students are able to take more electives and can select these elective 

courses from a varied and dynamic program of offerings, resulting in a stronger 

educational background over the high school years. The consistent anecdotal 

information given by alumnae is that the 4 x 4 schedule prepares them well for 

the college semester structure. Faculty, in turn, teach time management skills 

so necessary to successfully navigate the college environment. 

The following pages outline the required and elective courses, departmental 

philosophies, and course descriptions. 

Is it possible for my daughter to take Math in the Fall and not have Math 

until the Spring of the following year What kind of impact will that have on 

my daughter’s ability to learn Math 

Yes, it is possible although rare. The research that we have done on this schedule states that 

review required for any course whether the hiatus has been three months of summer or 13 

months of summer plus part of the next school year amounts to 85% to 80% retention of 

concepts, respectively. Our students have consistently scored higher on ACT tests under 

the 4 x 4 schedule than when the school was on a traditional seven period school day with 

Math all year long. Our alumnae believe that the 4x4 schedule prepares them well for the 

university structure. Math retention is not a problem for them as a result of the schedule. 


2012 - 2013 Curriculum 

EIGHTH GRADE - COLLEGE PREP 

CREDITS 

EIGHTH GRADE - HONORS 

CREDITS 

Religion 8 1 

English 8 / English I 1 

Algebra I Part I and II / Algebra I 1 

Physical Science 1 

World Geography 1 

Intermediate Composition 1 

Studio Art 1/2 

Health & P.E. 1/2 

Religion 8 1 

English I (H) 1 

Algebra I (H) 1 

Physical Science (H) 1 

World Geography 1 

Intermediate Composition 1 

Studio Art 1/2 

Health & P.E. 1/2 

FRESHMAN - COLLEGE PREP 

CREDITS 

FRESHMAN - HONORS 

CREDITS 

Religion 1 1 

English I / English II 1 

Algebra I / Geometry 1 

Biology 1 

World History 1 

Health & P.E. I 1 

Speech I 1 

Art / Choir Elective 1 

Religion I 1 

English II (H) 1 

Algebra I (H) / Geometry (H) 1 

Biology (H) 1 

World History H 1 

Health & P.E. I 1 

Latin I 1 

Latin II 1 

SOPHOMORE - COLLEGE PREP 

CREDITS 

SOPHOMORE - HONORS 

CREDITS 

Religion II 1 

English II / English III 1 

Geometry / Algebra II 1 

American History 1 

Health & P.E. II 1 

Spanish I / French I 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

Religion II 1 

English III (H) 1 

Geometry (H) / Algebra II (H) 1 

American History (H) / (AP) 1 

Health & P.E. II 1 

Spanish I / French I 1 

Chemistry (H) 1 

Speech I 1 


JUNIOR - COLLEGE PREP 

CREDITS 

JUNIOR - HONORS 

CREDITS 

Religion III 1 

English III / English IV 1 

Algebra II / Advanced Math 1 

Chemistry 1 

Fine Arts Survey 1 

Spanish II / French II 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

Religion III 1 

English III (H) / English IV (AP) 1 

Algebra II (H) / Advanced Math (H) 1 

Physics (H) 1 

Art History (AP) 1 

Spanish II / French II (H) 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

SENIOR - COLLEGE PREP 

CREDITS 

SENIOR - HONORS 

CREDITS 

Religion 1V 1 

English IV / English V 1 

Advanced Math / Pre-Calculus 1 

Physics 1 

Civics 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

Religion IV 1 

Humanities 1 

Calculus (H) / Calculus AP (AB) 1 

Civics (H) / Am. Gov. (AP) 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

Elective 1 

2012 - 2013 Electives 

Elective 1 

FRESHMAN ELECTIVE CHOICES 

Art 1 

Choir - Beg / Intro or Advanced Choir 

European History (AP) 

Film Study 

Journalism 

Law Studies 

SOPHOMORE ELECTIVE CHOICES 

Probability & Statistics 

Art I / Art II 

Speech II / Speech III 

Choir - Beg / Intro or Advanced Choir 

Visual Art 

Creative Writing 

Utopian Fiction 

Digital Media I 

Yearbook 

Earth Science 

Women In History 

Environmental Science 

St. Scholastica Academy -17 A- Information Guide

JUNIOR ELECTIVE CHOICES 

20th Century History 

Art I / Art II / Art III / IV 

Biology (AP) 

Biology II (H) 

Choir - Beg / Int or Advanced Choir 


Digital Media I / Digital Media II 

Earth Science 




Holocaust 



Psychology / Psychology (AP) 

Sociology 

Spanish / French III or III (H) 

Speech II / Speech III / Speech IV 

Journalism 

Visual Art 


Yearbook / Yearbook II 

Women in History 

SENIOR ELECTIVE CHOICES 

20th Century History 

Art I / Art II / Art III / Art IV / V 

Biology (AP) 

Biology II (H) 

Calculus AP (BC) 

Choir - Beg / Int or Advanced Choir 


Digital Media / Digital Media II 

Earth Science 

English Language & Composition (AP) 




Free Enterprise / Health & P.E. III 

Holocaust 

Journalism 



Psychology / Psychology (AP) 

Sociology 

Spanish / French III, IV or (AP) 

Speech II / Speech III / Speec IV 


An individualized course of study is created for each incoming 

student. Placement into this course of study is based on the 

following criteria: (1) performance on the IOWA test of basic 

skills administered by the Academy, (2) standardized test scores 

from previous schools attended, and (3) academic grades from 

previous schools attended. Continuation in or movement between 

a course of study is subject to change in accordance with student 

performance and/or teacher recommendation. A student does not 

have to pursue ALL honors courses offered by the Academy if 

recommended for one or more; however, a student who pursues 

honors science must also pursue honors math. A student scheduled 

for honors courses in all four core subject areas is required to 

Visual Art 

Yearbook / Yearbook II 

Women in History 

take Latin I and II during her freshman year. A student in any 

honors course is required to take three consecutive courses in 

either French or Spanish during sophomore and junior years. 

Should a student decide to opt out of an honors course once at 

the Academy, she cannot re-enter a different honors course in the 

same discipline at a later date. 

St. Scholastica Academy -17 B- Information Guide

RELIGION 

SSA’s charism is the legacy of the Benedictine Sisters who founded the school in 1903. The Sisters 

gifted the school with the legacy of their spirituality - prayer, work, study and community. This spiritual 

dimension permeates everything at the school. 

The spiritual development program is rooted in and participates in the mission of the Catholic Church, 

whose task and privilege is to help realize the reign of God. The communication of the Gospel forms the center 

of the spiritual development program. Formation of a community of faith and service flows from this knowledge 

of and commitment to the Gospel. 

The religious education curriculum, based on the Archdiocesan guidelines, focuses on the students’ 

knowledge and appreciation of the doctrine, Scripture, tradition, and life of the Church. All St. Scholastica 

students, regardless of their religious affiliation, take a religion course each year. Each student’s religious 

beliefs, however, are treated with respect. 

The religious education teachers and campus ministry staff provide opportunities for the students’ 

participation in the public prayer of the Church - the eucharistic liturgy and the celebration of the sacraments - 

as well as develop in the students a sense of ritual and of private prayer through appropriate school celebrations, 

and private spiritual direction. All students are required to participate in a class retreat day as part of their 

religion credit. These experiences of public and private prayer foster a lively faith community within the school. 

The mission of service is realized through the school’s required service program and Outreach Day 

monitored by the campus ministry staff. The word and example of faculty and staff members create an 

atmosphere of charity that is manifested in mutual respect, care, and service to one another. 

The Church’s mission of proclaiming the message of the Gospel, creating a community of faith, and 

being of service to one another is consciously fostered at St. Scholastica Academy through the guidance of 

those primarily charged with the students’ spiritual development and through the lived Christian values of the 

faculty and staff. 

RELIGION 8 - Eighth Graders - Catholic Christianity - 1 term 

This course focuses on the adolescents’ experiences in developing their faith. They are taught to see 

how their own longings for personal happiness and fulfillment are part of the great longings of every human 

being for God. From that insight the course attempts to explore the beliefs and practices of Catholic Christianity 

presented in a way that shows the Catholic Church as their faith community. This course offers students the 

opportunity to know the Catholic heritage at the beginning of their high school career. Topics included are 

Identity and Development, God’s Revelation, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, the Church as Faith Community, 

Spirituality and Prayer, Church History, Liturgical Year, Human Vocation, Morality and Social Justice. 

RELIGION I - Freshmen - Christ: The Revelation of Jesus Christ in Scripture / Who is Jesus - 1 term 

The first part of the freshman religion course examines the origin, structure, and message of scripture 

with a focus on Christ as the source of all revelation. This part of the course helps students to address 

questions about how the Bible came to be, how faith and reason compliment one another, how God inspired 

human authors, and how we come to meet Jesus through the Gospels. Students will also be given practical 

skills in order to read scripture as a guide to their personal growth in faith. The second part of the course is a 

direct examination of the person of Jesus Christ, as fully God and fully man.. This course helps students to 

grow in mature understanding and relationship with the person of Jesus. 


RELIGION II - Sophomores - The Paschal Mystery / The Church - 1 term 

The first part of the sophomore religion course examines the cross and resurrection of Christ as the 

central mystery of our Faith. Students confront the paradox of Jesus’ cross and its place at the center of human 

history. In the second part of the course, students come to a fuller understanding of the reality of the Church. 

This course examines the deep mystery of the church as Mother, Bride of Christ, People of God, and Mystical 

Body of Christ. 

RELIGION III - Juniors - Morality / Social Justice - 1 term 

The Christian Morality course offers to guide the moral life of the students in the direction of Catholic 

values and vision. Catholic Christian morality examines virtues, conscience, and sin from the standpoint of 

Scripture, the Commandments and Catholic Catechism, as well as poses a prime question throughout the 

course, “What kind of person do I want to become” The course offers a Catholic Christian answer to the 

question, centering on Jesus as the model of full humanness and looking at the virtues of Jesus as they can be 

seen in the lives of people past and present and in the students’ lives. This course provides the basis for the 

process of moral decision making and instructs the students in the principles and practice of the social justice 

teachings of the Catholic Church. 

RELIGION IV - Seniors- Christian Vocations / Christian Foundations- 1 Term 

The first component of this course invites the students to examine realistically the various dimensions of 

Catholic teaching on vocational choices in life - single, married, consecrated life, and ordained ministry - and 

how individuals can best live them within the context of the Christian faith. Students will be challenged to 

understand and describe Catholic teachings on the dignity of the human person, the unselfish nature of genuine 

love, and the sacredness of human sexuality and Christian marriage. The second component of the course 

consists of an exploration of the fundamentals of the Catholic faith. This component of the course challenges 

students to engage in a mature, integrated and reasoned examination of the Catholic faith for the sake of 

developing a deeper relationship with Christ and Church. 


ENGLISH 

The courses offered through the English department focus on reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar 

and usage. The curriculum integrates all aspects of language arts through the study of various literary pieces. 

As such, the students read literary selections appropriate to each course, including supplemental novels. Students 

learn to evaluate literature critically by comparing and contrasting elements of good writing and by making and 

defending their judgments about literature. They also form value judgments as they analyze the merit of literary 

works as well as corresponding literary elements. 

Vocabulary acquisition occurs in context through the study of literature as well as by directly studying 

vocabulary units. Students incorporate new vocabulary into their writing. The vocabulary workbooks also 

provide ACT and SAT preparation with exercises focusing on reading critically, improving paragraphs, identifying 

sentence errors, and writing in response to prompts. 

Writing is an integral part of every level of instruction. Students learn to write in all of the rhetorical 

modes. Creative writing is also encouraged through daily journals, quick writes, and performance assessments. 

The curriculum, however, emphasizes formal writing, particularly literary analysis. The students learn and apply 

their knowledge of proper grammar and usage through their writing. 

Beginning at the English I level, the English courses are offered as College Prep, Honors or AP (Junior/ 

Senior level only). 

ENGLISH 8 - Eighth Graders - 1 term 

English 8 focuses on the acquisition of essential language arts skills with an emphasis on those needed 

to effectively read, write, and study for future achievement and success. Built into the overall lesson design is 

the study of separate vocabulary units as well as vocabulary in the context of the literature. This course also 

provides instruction in study skills, time management, and organizational techniques. 

ENGLISH I - Freshmen / Accelerated Eighth Graders - 1 term 

English I introduces the students to the study of literature through a genre approach. The literary 

selections are chosen as representative of the major literary genres, and through them the students come to 

understand the essential elements of each genre. Formal grammar is covered as needed in writing instruction, 

as well as through ACT preparatory exercises in the vocabulary and grammar workbooks. Students acquire 

new vocabulary from the literature and from vocabulary units built into the course. 

ENGLISH II - Sophomores / Accelerated Freshmen - 1 term 

English II provides a survey of American literature from its origins to modern times. The course emphasizes 

a cultural and historical perspective that stresses the interaction of literature and history. For this reason, the 

literary selections are presented in chronological order, with corresponding novels chosen as representatives of 

the major themes and/or movements of each literary period. Composition in English II stresses literary analysis, 

including incorporating scholarly research as secondary support for the thesis. Formal grammar is covered as 

needed in writing instruction, as well as through ACT preparatory exercises in the vocabulary and grammar 

workbooks. Students acquire new vocabulary from the literature and from vocabulary units built into the 

course. 


ENGLISH III - Juniors / Accelerated Sophomores - 1 term 

English III covers British literature from its origins to the nineteenth century and includes British history 

and history of the English language. Students will critically read and write about the literature of Britain from the 

Anglo-Saxon Period through the Victorian Age. In doing so, students will gain an understanding and appreciation 

of the major literary movements and popular literary themes, especially in relation to current social, political 

and personal events/concerns. Finally, the course requires a significant amount of writing, in which students 

learn to write formal essays of literary analysis. A documented essay allows students to incorporate scholarly 

writings and literary criticism into their essays, thus creating a formal research paper of literary analysis. 

ENGLISH IV - Seniors / Accelerated Juniors - 1 term 

English IV covers World literature and provides an intensive review of the skills and content acquired 

in previous English courses, while advancing the reading and writing skills of the students to levels which will 

give them an advantage in their college English courses. The course gradually introduces the students to the 

special demands of in-class writing which they will meet in college. The literary content of English IV is a 

combination of modern world literature and modern / contemporary American and British literature. English 

IV actively incorporates modern female authors and modern multi-cultural works into its literary curriculum. 

This course returns to genre as its literary guiding structure and extends genre studies to the levels of college 

expectations. English IV students write a literary term paper as part of the course. 

ENGLISH IV AP - Juniors - 1 term 

The English IV AP class is designed to allow students to demonstrate that they can read complex 

fiction and non-fiction texts with insight. Readings, writing assignments, and activities provide intellectual 

challenges and a workload consistent with a typical undergraduate university literature/Humanities course. 

Students learn to discover meaning in literature by being attentive to language, imagery, characterization, subtle 

shifts in tone or attitude, and the various techniques authors use to evoke emotional responses from their 

readers. Students must justify their interpretations with supportive references to details and patterns found in 

the text. Students also study rhetoric and composition with attention to particular forms: analytical, expository, 

and argumentative. The best student writers tend to be the best critical readers, thus students are involved in 

the writing process as it relates to literary analysis: planning, prewriting, composing, revision, and more revision. 

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to read complex texts with understanding and to write 

prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers. 

ENGLISH V - Seniors - 1 term 

In the English V course, seniors study literature through a genre approach. They begin with the 

development of drama, reading first a Greek tragedy, then a Shakespearean comedy, and finally a modern 

prose drama. Then, the poetry unit consists of American and British selections not previously covered in 

English II, III, and IV with a particular emphasis on Victorian literature. Students also read some short stories, 

reviewing the elements of this genre. Finally, the study of two Southern novels by women writers completes the 

literature portion of this course. The students write a literary term paper as a major assessment piece for this 

course. 


HUMANITIES - Seniors - 1 term 

Humanities serves as the senior honors course. The objective of this class is the broadening of students’ 

cultural horizons. The course is cross-disciplinary: each unit incorporates history, fine arts, and philosophy with 

the literature. The students begin with the classics in Western thought and letters, emphasizing cultural continuity 

from our own Western past. Proceeding to the East, the course familiarizes the students with classic non- 

Western thought. Students compare and contrast Eastern and Western cultures and traditions, seeking what is 

classic in both. Students write in response to the literature throughout the course. 

INTERMEDIATE COMPOSITION - English I Students - 1 term 

The purpose of Intermediate Writing is to develop writing skills for use throughout the SSA academic 

program. The 6+1 Traits of Writing and the writing process are the vehicles for teaching and learning the 

necessary writing skills. Students learn all modes of writing and keep a portfolio of all their work in order to 

track improvement. Grammar is taught through the writing process, with extra practice and drill in identified 

areas of weakness. Pieces of writing include journal entries, paragraphs, essays, and a research paper. 

CREATIVE WRITING - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

In this elective course students will write creatively in various genres (poetry, short story, drama, 

nonfiction), focusing on exploring original ideas and developing personal writing style as well as participating in 

a workshop environment where they will critique their own and fellow students’ work constructively. Students 

will also analyze pieces of classic and contemporary literature from different genres and compare them with 

their own writing. In addition, students will help create and publish the campus literary publication, Osirian. 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION AP - Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

As prescribed by THE COLLEGE BOARD, an AP course in English Language and Composition will 

train the students to become skilled readers of prose written in a variety of historical periods, academic 

disciplines, and rhetorical contexts. The course will also give the students the practice and helpful criticism 

necessary to become flexible writers who can compose in a variety of modes for a variety of purposes. 

Through reading and writing, the student will become aware of the interactions among the author, the audience, 

the subject itself, generic conventions, and the resources of language, including syntax, word choice, and tone. 

The AP English Language and Composition course assumes that the students have already developed 

a command of standard English grammar. Therefore, all the writing assignments in the course should contribute 

to making the students more mature writers, able to write competently in all their college courses. The course 

emphasizes expository, analytical, and argumentative essays, some of which should be at least 1,000 words in 

length and be taken through more than one draft. Admission to this course is contingent upon GPA requirements 

and faculty recommendations. 

FILM STUDY - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

This course focuses on the study of more than 25 of the most popular and acclaimed films from the 

perspective of the director. The course begins with how film as we know it today evolved, beginning with the 

silent film and progressing through genres such as the western, a war film, the epic, film noir, romantic comedy, 

etc. Representative films from each decade will also be studied. Students will be expected to write film 

critiques determining the success of the director in achieving his/her goals. 


JOURNALISM - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors – Elective - 1 term 

This course will enable students to write with greater competency and efficiency as well as critically 

evaluate the media. Course highlights include a survey of the rise of the American media, a study of the 

freedoms afforded by the First Amendment, and profiles of the vast career opportunities within the communications 

industry. Students are required to remain abreast of and critically analyze current news coverage to 

develop an appreciation for the power of the media in shaping society and even history. 

UTOPIAN FICTION - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

This course focuses on various pieces of literature Like Orwell’s 1984 and Huxley’s Brave New 

World, in order to explore contemporary, controversial issues of morality, governmental control, technology, 

the sanctity of human life, freedom, and scientific discovery. Authors of utopian texts highlight specific cultural 

problems experienced in the time of their writing, critiquing and proposing solutions to the cultural dilemmas. 

Unlike history, which sifts through the remnants of the past in order to explain the present, utopian and dystopian 

texts try to explain our present circumstances through visions of a future or other world. Students will engage 

in writing analytically and critically with research to support their positions about this literature. This course will 

allow students to consider both the despair and the hope that writers feel about humanity, while also offering a 

chance to discuss and write about important and sometimes controversial issues. As a class, students will 

discuss, research, write, debate and actively delve into the implications and ramifications of the cultural issues 

addressed in each literary work. 

WOMEN IN HISTORY - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Women in History is a survey of women’s historical experiences and contributions to history in the 

fields of literature, art, economics, politics, science, philosophy, etc. We will examine the contributions of 

women from hunter/gatherer societies to the present and focus on the history of women through a comparative 

lens, meaning we will not only investigate Western women, but will also study women of other cultures (Asia, 

Africa, Middle East, Austriala). The goal of this course is to make the young women of SSA more aware of 

their history, achievements, and challenges. 

READING AT ST. SCHOLASTICA ACADEMY 

In addition to the major works and excerpts read in the courses, students are required to read other 

major works during the summer. Most students at the Academy will have read all or most of the following 

major works either in courses or as summer reading. 

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn 

Almost Innocent 

Antigone 

The Apology of Socrates 

The Autobiography of 

Miss Jane Pittman 

The Awakening 

Brave New World 

Catcher in the Rye 

The Chosen 

Cold Sassy Tree 

Death of a Salesman 

Frankenstein 

The Glass Menagerie 

The Great Gatsby 

Grendel 

Hamlet 

The Heart is a Lonely Hunter 

Heart of Darkness 

The Hiding Place 

Holes 

Idylls of the King 

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings 

The Iliad 

Jane Eyre 

The Joy Luck Club 

Little Women 

Lord of the Flies 

Macbeth 

Madame Bovary 

Maggie: Girl of the Streets 

A Midsummer Night’s Dream 

Models for Writers 

Mythology 

Naked Ape 

The Odyssey 

Oedipus 

Of Mice and Men 

Oliver Twist 

Ordinary People 

Poetics 

Portrait of the Artist 

Pride and Prejudice 

Rebecca 

Romeo and Juliet 

Salinger: Nine Stories 

The Scarlet Letter 

The Secret Life of Bees 

A Separate Peace 

Siddhartha 

Things Fall Apart 

To Kill a Mockingbird 

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn 

Uncle Tom’s Cabin 

Wuthering Heights 

... and others. 


MATHEMATICS 

The philosophy of the Mathematics department reflects that of the St. Scholastica community and the 

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM); the department is committed to meeting the needs of 

each individual student and challenging her to reach her highest potential in mathematics. There is also a 

commitment to create an environment where students learn to value mathematics, communicate mathematically, 

engage in effective problem-solving and critical thinking, work in cooperative groups and become effective 

users of technology. The department strives to include activities which will appeal to a variety of learning styles. 

Confidence in mathematics is a frequent result and math anxiety is lessened. 

The students at SSA take math every year and every senior (with rare exception) takes a math course 

at the advanced math level or above. Graphing calculators (TI-84) and computers are also employed in the 

math classroom to assist in problem-solving and conceptual understanding. In each course students prepare 

for the math section of national standardized tests, particularly ACT and SAT. 

ALGEBRA I PART I AND PART II - Eighth Graders - 2 terms 

This course is intended for students who have previously struggled in their math classes. They are 

given the opportunity to strengthen the foundational skills they will need in future math courses such as, operations 

on fractions and decimals, ratios and proportions, and percents. Then they will study those concepts typically 

taught in Algebra I including algebraic expressions, linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, rational 

numbers, graphs of linear equations, polynomials and factoring. Students will also have the opportunity to 

develop logical thinking skills and the ability to solve real world problems. 

ALGEBRA I - Freshmen / Accelerated Eighth Graders - 1 term 

Algebra I prepares students with the fundamental algebraic concepts needed for future math courses. 

It provides the students the opportunity to develop logical thinking skills and the ability to solve problems 

based on real world situations. This course includes the study of algebraic expressions, linear equations, 

inequalities, systems of equations, rational numbers, graphing linear equations, polynomials and factoring. 

GEOMETRY - Sophomores / Accelerated Freshmen - 1 term 

Geometry affords students the opportunity to understand and master the fundamental concepts of 

Euclidean Geometry. Students will see Geometry not as a course in proof but as a representation of the real 

world. The beginning of the course will review coordinate geometry, including points, planes, lines and angles. 

The properties, postulates, theorems and corollaries associated with circles, triangles, quadrilaterals and other 

polygons will be covered. The concepts of parallel and perpendicular lines, similarity and congruence will be 

investigated in detail. Various types of reasoning and some proofs will be explored. 

ALGEBRA II - Juniors / Accelerated Sophomores - 1 term 

Algebra II strengthens the students’ understanding and mastery of the fundamental skills begun in 

Algebra I. It emphasizes the shift from the ability to manipulate numbers to a higher form of conceptual 

understanding and problem-solving. It offers further practice in topics such as solving and graphing linear 

equations and finding equations of lines. New topics include complex numbers, quadratic equations, factoring, 

polynomials, radical expressions and systems of equations. 


ADVANCED MATH - Seniors / Accelerated Juniors - 1 term 

The Advanced Math course covers many of the same concepts taught in a college Algebra/Trigonometry 

class. It continues the study of advanced algebraic concepts that was begun in the Algebra II course including 

exponential and logarithmic functions, graphs of multiple families of functions, matrices, solving higher order 

polynomial equations, rational equations and radical equations. It also includes the topics in a trigonometry 

course such as, solving trig equations, proving trig functions, graphing trig equations, law of sines and law of 

cosines. Students will make extended use of the T184 graphing calculator. 

PRE-CALCULUS - Seniors - 1 term 

This course is designed for students who have completed Advanced Math as a precursor to college 

Trigonometry or Calculus. This course contains topics that will be studied in college Algebra/Trig classes. 

Concepts will include exponential and logarithmic functions, an in-depth study of the graphs of various higher 

order functions, conics, sequences and series, polynomials, rational and radical functions. Students will make 

extended use the TI-84 Plus graphing calculator. 

CALCULUS HONORS AND CALCULUS AP (AB/BC) - Seniors - 1 or 2 terms 

Calculus courses are geared to the advanced students who have completed Advanced Math Honors 

in their Junior year and are ready for a more rigorous course of study. Students are placed in these courses 

because of their math performance, teacher recommendation and standardized test scores. 

The courses contain an intensive review of topics from Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. They 

include the study of functions, limits, continuity, derivatives, differentiability, integrals, and applications of 

differentiation and integration. These topics will be approached from the graphing, analytical, numerical and 

verbal perspectives. 

Additionally, the two Advanced Placement (AP) courses in Calculus are comparable to Calculus 

courses in college. 

PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS - Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

This elective course is designed to offer students an elementary understanding of basic probability and 

statistics. The general topics to be covered are organizing and gathering data, averages and variation, probability 

theory, binomial and normal distributions, sampling distributions, inference, estimation hypothesis testing, 

regression and correlation. This course will make extended use of hands-on activities. 


SCIENCE 

The acquisition of scientific knowledge proceeds by the assimilation of domain-specific (e.g. biology, 

chemistry) knowledge into categories, concepts, rules, or principles that are then used to interpret situations. 

Students are trained to advance hypothetical solutions (propositions) and to test and examine conditions, 

define problems, collect and organize data, and propose solutions. Students evaluate the results of their 

scientific method by measuring them against hypothetical solutions. These procedures are applied in 

experimentation and research projects that allow the students to discover rules and principles specific to their 

branch of science and to create analyses based on data. 

Students are required to demonstrate their ability to synthesize and apply the scientific skills of generating, 

clarifying and assessing the reasonableness of hypothetical solutions to current societal issues such as pollution, 

energy use, and the balance of world population with the availability of world resources. Students are evaluated 

on the quality of their experimentation and analysis and on their application of scientific data to a variety of 

issues. 

PHYSICAL SCIENCE/PHYSICAL SCIENCE HONORS - Sophomores / Eighth Graders - 1 term 

Physical Science is the study of matter and energy and their interrelationship. The course is an inquiryapproach, 

laboratory-based curriculum. The emphasis is on the students as scientists: recognizing and defining 

problems and assumptions, formulating testable hypotheses and experimental procedures, critically evaluating 

observations and data in graph form, and drawing solid, supportable conclusions. 

BIOLOGY/BIOLOGY HONORS - Freshmen - 1 term 

This course presents a comprehensive study of life from the individual cell to the complex human 

anatomy. In each division of life the following processes are discussed: environments, function, ecological 

relationships and reproduction. Special attention is given to genetics, particularly on the molecular level, 

regarding hereditary functions as applied to specific areas of life science. 

CHEMISTRY/CHEMISTRY HONORS - Juniors / Sophomores - 1 term 

Chemistry is the study of properties and changes of materials. Studying and learning chemistry should 

enhance the students’ ability to acquire habits of critical thinking, instilling an appreciation for their natural 

environment, learning scientific terms, concepts and principles, and enhancing their natural curiosity. 

PHYSICS/PHYSICS HONORS - Seniors / Juniors - 1 term 

The primary objective of this course is to provide the student with a genuine understanding of the 

physical laws fundamental to all sciences. Emphasis is placed on problem solving and critical thinking as the 

primary means of understanding physics. 


BIOLOGY AP – Juniors / Seniors - 1 term 

The AP Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory Biology course. The 

course differs significantly from introductory high school Biology with respect to the textbook, the range and 

depth of topics, laboratory work, and the time and effort required of students. AP Biology aims to provide 

students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to develop an 

understanding of modern biology and to help students gain an appreciation for science as a process. Four 

general areas are presented in the course; Science as a Process, Molecules and Cells, Heredity and Evolution, 

and Diversity among Organisms. 

BIOLOGY II H - Juniors / Seniors - 1 term 

This course is designed to meet the needs and interests of students intending to pursue careers in life 

science. The primary focus is Human Anatomy and Physiology as studied from a systems approach. General 

Biology concepts are reviewed to give students appropriate background for future college classes in life science. 

The course serves to integrate knowledge gained in this and previous courses into practical and pertinent 

concepts with a strong emphasis placed on discussion and lab work. 

EARTH SCIENCE – Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors – Elective - 1 term 

This course focuses on all aspects of our planet, including the solid earth (soil and rock), water (fresh 

water, marine, surface, and underground), atmosphere, and their interactions with living systems. Earth Science 

consists of four major fields of study: geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Students will learn 

about these topics through reading, research, lectures, group work, discussions, laboratory experiments, and 

projects. 

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

This is a field intensive course with instruction provided through outdoor activities and data collection. 

The central theme of study is the interactions of organisms with each other and with their surroundings. Parallels 

are drawn between the balance of life in nature and the balance or lack of balance in the “human” system of life. 


SOCIAL STUDIES 

The Social Studies curriculum provides insight into the relevance of the past to the modern world. 

Students develop an appreciation of our multi-cultural interdependence, our democratic society, and the world 

as a whole. Students are encouraged to take an active role in the community and the world at large by being 

well-informed, and capable of making objective decisions based on the use of critical thinking skills. 

WORLD GEOGRAPHY - Eighth Graders - 1 term 

World Geography is a survey of the geography of the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, North 

Africa, and Russia. This course will emphasize the physical processes that shape the Earth’s surface, the 

physical and human characteristics of places, the characteristics, distribution and migration of human population 

on Earth’s surface and the processes, patterns, and functions of human settlement. 

WORLD HISTORY - Freshmen - 1 term 

This is a survey of the history of the world from the appearance of man on the earth through the age of 

exploration, including the political, economic, and social aspects of each period. Particular emphasis is given 

to the history of art, science, religion, literature, and philosophy. 

WORLD HISTORY H - Freshmen - 1 term 

This course follows the Big History Project Model pioneered by David Christian and sponsored by 

Bill Gates separately from his work with the Gates Foundation. Big History surfaces common themes 

across the entire time scale of history - from the Big Bang to modernity -- with a heavy emphasis on the use 

and interpretation of evidence, self-guided exploration, and text-based inquiry. The course uses a multidisciplinary 

approach combining the disciplines of biology, astronomy, geology, climatology, prehistory, 

archeology, anthropology, cosmology, natural history, and population and environmental studies to ignite 

student passion for learning history. All resources for this course are delivered online. 

AMERICAN HISTORY / AMERICAN HISTORY H - Sophomores - 1 term 

This course examines the history of the United States from colonization to the present time. There is 

emphasis on the key people and events of U.S. history and their influence on our society, and how these 

people and events have affected change in our country and globally. 

AMERICAN HISTORY AP - Sophomores - 1 term 

AP American History is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college 

course. It is a survey of American history from the age of exploration to the present. The distinguishing 

characteristic of this course is the emphasis on analytical and interpretive writing. This course is divided into 

periods of time and emphasizes themes throughout American history. These themes include the American 

identity, economic evolution, and American foreign policy. 

CIVICS / CIVICS H- Seniors - 1 term 

The Civics course explores political theory, governmental study, and economics. The students are 

provided with a survey of varying forms of government, the U.S. Constitution, our civil rights, the three 

branches of government at the national and state levels, and the economic aspects of government and society. 

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AP- Seniors - 1 term 

AP Government gives students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United 

States. Topics include: the constitutional underpinnings of U.S. government, political beliefs and behaviors, 

political parties, interest groups, mass media, institutions of national government, public policy, civil rights and 

civil liberties. Admission to this course is predicated on student academic performance, standardized test 

scores, and teacher recommendations. 


PSYCHOLOGY AP - Seniors / Juniors - Elective - 1 term 

The course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and 

mental processes of human beings and address the question, “How do psychologists think”. 

Students learn about some of the explorations and discoveries made by psychologists over the past 

century and assess some of the differing approaches adopted by psychologists, including the biological, 

behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, psychodynamic, and socio-cultural perspectives. Admission to this course 

is based upon past student performance, standardized test scores and teacher recommendation. 

THE HOLOCAUST - Seniors / Juniors - Elective - 1 term 

The purpose of this elective course is to provide the students with a better understanding of WHY the 

Holocaust occurred and explores the lasting effects of genocide, racism, and hate groups in the world, our 

country and the local community. Students who have taken or are scheduled to take this class may participate 

in a five-day field trip to Washington, D.C. which includes a visit to the Holocaust museum. 

FREE ENTERPRISE - Seniors - Elective - 1/2 term 

The Free Enterprise course offers students both a macro and micro view of Economics. Global economic 

systems, markets, the U.S. stock market, and personal finances are all part of the Free Enterprise curriculum. 

Finally, students will be given an opportunity to study their own financial picture and how to organize and better 

prepare for the world after college. 

SOCIOLOGY - Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Sociology explores the relationship between the individual and society while evaluating why societies 

are held together. The course considers political philosophies, governments, economic changes, as well as the 

wide diversity of human customs and traditions, while analyzing how people think about themselves and their 

world. 

20TH CENTURY HISTORY - Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

This course examines the key people and events of the 20th Century through the prism of the Cold 

War. The course takes a global approach meaning that within each time period studied students examine the 

United States, world events, and the culture and literature of each decade of the 20th Century. 

LAW STUDIES - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Law Studies is a survey course of the American Legal System. Topics include an overview of both 

Civil and Criminal laws and their foundations as well as interactive study of legal procedure. 

EUROPEAN HISTORY AP - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the analytical skills 

and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the content and important patterns of European historical 

development. This will be done by focusing on persistent themes and changes in European social, political, 

economic, and intellectual history. The course begins with an introduction to the Renaissance and ends with 

current issues in the European Union, the effects of the breakup of the U.S.S.R. and current developments in 

Eastern Europe. The students will learn analytical writing, use of primary resources, critical reading and thinking 

skills to prepare them for the different essays they will encounter in the exam. 


FOREIGN LANGUAGE 

Students at St. Scholastica Academy begin classes in Spanish or French in the sophomore year. In the 

course of the sophomore through senior years, students can take four or five years of a language, depending 

upon the flexibility of the student’s schedule. Most ninth grade honor students are required to take Latin I and 

Latin II. All honors students are required to take a third year of French or Spanish. 

The main purpose of the Foreign Language Program is to develop competency in the chosen language. 

Speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills are stressed. Students must learn to perform a variety of language 

functions: to listen, to ask questions, to describe, to give and to follow directions, to narrate, to express and 

defend opinions, and to hypothesize. Foreign language courses are designed to give students an exposure to 

a language and culture different from their own. 

• First year course of the chosen language introduces the students to the language through 

listening and speaking followed by writing. 

• Second year course introduces more complicated concepts and structures as well as vocabulary. 

Speaking in the language is stressed. The cultures of the native countries are studied. 

• Third year course includes extensive reading and writing in the language, and as much 

conversation as possible. 

• Fourth year students continue to practice all skills at a more advanced level. The focus is on 

writing, speaking, listening abilities and literature. 

• Fifth year students are exposed to more difficult levels of writing, oral communication and 

literature. 

LATIN I - Freshmen Honors Only - 1 term - 

Latin I students learn the basic structure and vocabulary of the Latin language. The course is designed 

not only with basic Latin as its objective, but also with the goal of bolstering students’ ability to learn other 

foreign languages, to acquire English vocabulary with greater ease and retention, and to understand syntax and 

verbal logic more readily. Latin I also presents students with cultural units, glimpses into the daily life of the 

ancient Romans, which invite comparison with and greater understanding of many of the customs and processes 

that are our modern heritage from ancient Rome. 

LATIN II - Freshmen - 1 term 

Building on the basics of Latin I, students in Latin II advance to the more complex structures of the 

Latin language and continue to accumulate Latin vocabulary. As in Latin I, a primary objective of this course is 

to enable students to use Latin as a foundation for acquiring modern foreign languages, English vocabulary, and 

the linguistic concepts. Latin II also includes a series of cultural units which give the students greater familiarity 

with the Romans and their contribution to Western life. 

FRENCH I / SPANISH I - Sophomores - 1 term 

The first year course introduces students to the target language through listening, speaking, reading and 

writing. Students learn basic grammatical structures and vocabulary of the language in a highly interactive 

setting. 


FRENCH II/ SPANISH II - Juniors - 1 term 

The second year course reviews material learned in the first course and introduces more advanced 

concepts and structures. Students continue to acquire new vocabulary and to appreciate the differences 

inherent in the language and culture. Speaking and writing skills are emphasized. 

FRENCH III/ SPANISH III - Required for all Honors Students - Juniors / Seniors 1 term 

These courses emphasize communication in the target language. Students read extensively and write in 

controlled situations. They speak the language as much as possible. They also study advanced grammar and 

sample some of the culture and history of the language. Supplemental audiovisual materials are designed to 

stimulate and develop listening and speaking skills. 

FRENCH III H/ SPANISH III H - Juniors / Seniors Elective - 1 term 

Third year Honors classes are conducted for the most part in the target language. Speaking and 

understanding oral communication are emphasized using relevant situational conversations, dialogues, and 

vocabulary building activities. The reading focus involves contemporary pieces in the target language. Students 

must be recommended for this course. 

FRENCH IV H/ SPANISH IV H - Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Fourth year Honors classes are conducted for the most part in the target language. Speaking and 

understanding oral communication are emphasized using relevant situational conversations, dialogues, and 

vocabulary building activities. The reading focus involves contemporary pieces in the target language. Students 

must be recommended for this course. 

FRENCH V AP - Seniors - 1 term 

The Advanced Placement French Language course is a rigorous, college-level course in which students 

develop a strong command of the French language with proficiency in reaching, writing, speaking and listening 

comprehension. Throughout the course, students will be required to use the French language in reading and 

aural comprehension and in oral and written expression. Students are expected to acquire a strong command 

of French linguistic skills, being able to both articulate and comprehend French intended for native speakers in 

a variety of settings, types of discourses, topics, styles and registers. In addition, students broaden awareness 

of some cultural perspectives of French-speaking peoples through the study of history, literature, art, music, 

and current events. 

SPANISH V AP - Seniors - 1 term 

The Advanced Placement Spanish Language course is a rigorous, college-level course in which students 

develop a strong command of the Spanish language with proficiency in reaching, writing, speaking and listening 

comprehension. Throughout the course, students will be required to use the Spanish language in reading and 

aural comprehension and in oral and written expression. Students are expected to acquire a strong command 

of Spanish linguistic skills, being able to both articulate and comprehend Spanish intended for native speakers 

in a variety of settings, types of discourses, topics, styles and registers. In addition, students broaden awareness 

of some cultural perspectives of Spanish-speaking peoples through the study of history, literature, art, music, 

and current events. 


FINE ARTS 

St. Scholastica Academy recognizes that the arts are fundamental and vital to education, personal 

development, and the quality of life. A strong art component is part of a holistic educational approach that 

connects us with humanity and integrates the senses, emotions, and critical thinking. 

Art is a universal form of communication that touches us at a basic level, unlike any other form of 

communication. Before there was writing and schools, there was art, and it was an integral part of life. The 

arts are the physical and intellectual remains of past civilizations. 

Art is not only an end in itself but stimulates, develops, and promotes: 

• critical, creative, conceptual, abstract and imaginative thinking and problem solving 

• deductive reasoning 

• flexibility while broadening one’s horizons 

• analysis, interpretation, criticism, evaluation, and questioning 

• a striving for excellence, self-esteem, self-motivation, and self-discipline 

St. Scholastica Academy continues to be committed to a strong discipline-based art program. The 

Art department maintains an all-school membership to the New Orleans Museum of Art, enabling all students 

unlimited, free admission to the museum. All Studio classes exhibit their work during the Covington Coordinated 

Art Openings in the fall and spring. 

FINE ARTS SURVEY - Juniors - Required - 1 term 

The art history survey course deals predominantly with Western art and architecture from prehistory to 

the present. The course shows how art and architecture are influenced by the period in which they are made. 

A vocabulary of art terms, design elements, material and techniques are also stressed. This course also fulfills 

the requirements for three hours, with no additional coursework, of college credit through St. Joseph Seminary 

College. (This course is taught by Ms. Francie Rich, who also teaches at SJSC. Additional tuition is required 

if earning college credit.) 

ART HISTORY AP - Juniors - Fulfills Fine Arts requirement; students must be selected or recommended for 

the course - 1 term 

This course is a chronological survey of art from the Western tradition including painting, sculpture and 

architecture from Prehistory to Postmodernism. Selected works from a variety of cultures beyond the European 

tradition (including India, China, Japan, and Africa) will also be studied according to characteristics and media 

specific to the culture and concepts that unite these diverse works with the Western tradition. There will be an 

emphasis placed on the study of artworks within the context of the culture and time period in which they were 

created. Students will develop visual analysis, thinking, and writing skills necessary for recognizing and analyzing 

artworks. Formal analysis strategies utilizing the elements of art and principles of design will be learned and 

applied to works of art. Students will be introduced to the iconographic and interpretive study of subject 

matter, signs and symbols and how they create meaning in works of art. This course is designed according to 

the recommendations given by the College Board in preparation for the A.P. Art History Exam. Analysis of the 

A.P. test and test preparation will be included. Weekend and/or after school study sessions will precede the 

May AP Exam date. 

STUDIO ART - 8th grade - Required - 1/2 term 

Studio Art is a nine week hands-on sampling of art-making experiences designed to introduce eighth 

grade students to different art media techniques and vocabulary. Emphasis is placed on the development of 

perception, drawing skills and creative thinking. This course introduces the students to the critique process. 

Students exhibit their art during SSA performing art events. 


ART I - Freshmen / Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Art I is a beginning drawing and painting course with some emphasis on three-dimensional art. Major 

areas of study include: use of media, technical skills, design elements, one point perspective, beginning color 

theory, and an introduction to the portrait. This course builds upon and further develops basic skills learned in 

eighth grade Studio Art. Students exhibit their art in the Covington fall and spring community art nights. 

ART II - Prerequisite: Art I - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Art II is an intermediate drawing, painting, design and color theory course with some emphasis on 

three-dimensional art. This course builds on skills and concepts learned in Art I and emphasizes observation, 

design elements and the critique process. Students work with a variety of materials including pencil, charcoal, 

India ink, pastels, and acrylics. Three-dimensional materials may include papier-mache, wire, plaster, clay and 

wood. The students work with two point perspective and participate in oral and written critiques. Students 

exhibit their art in the Covington fall and spring community art nights. 

ART III - Prerequisite: Art II - Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

Note: Students must have art department approval to enroll in this course. 

Art III is an advanced drawing, painting, design and color theory course with some emphasis on threedimensional 

art. This course builds on skills and concepts learned in Art II and encourages the student to 

create a portfolio of work for college entrance and /or scholarships. The course emphasizes observation, 

design elements, careers in art and the critique process. The class works from life, studies the figure, and how 

to build and stretch a canvas. Students work with a variety of materials and have choices in approaches to 

problems to encourage critical thinking and to create a body of work that has personal meaning and illustrates 

individual style. Students participate in oral and written critiques and exhibit their art in the Covington fall and 

spring community art nights. 

ART IV- Prerequisite: Art III - Juniors / Seniors - Elective- 1 term 


This course is designed to allow advanced art students to explore and develop their own knowledge of 

art and art making through class projects and critiques, individual portfolio development, and participation in 

local art exhibits and the arts community. Students will be given some independence in their choices of projects, 

media, and approaches. Students exhibit their art in the Covington fall and spring community art nights. 

ART V- Prerequisite: Art IV - Seniors - Elective- 1 term 


This course allows advanced art students to develop their knowledge of art and art making through 

independent projects, critiques and portfolio development. Students are expected to be exceptionally hardworking, 

independent and active class participants. Students exhibit their art in the Covington fall and spring 

community art nights. 

VISUAL ART - Prerequisites: Art I and Art II- Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term each 

This course is an introductory class in digital photography, digital art, and graphic design. Emphasis 

will be placed on the student exploring various compositional problems associated with digital and graphic 

design. Concepts ranging from “using the camera’s view finder” to manipulating pictures/artworks with Adobe 

Creative Suite will be covered. The visual art course will build upon and further develop the skills learned in 

Art I and Art II. This course involves more freedom of choice in using a variety of art media, themes, and 

techniques to further develop creative expression. Students exhibit their art in the Covington fall and spring 

community art nights. 


COMMUNICATIONS AND PERFORMING ARTS 

The Communications and Performing Arts Department at St. Scholastica Academy offers courses that focus 

on how people communicate their perceptions, responses, and understanding of the world to themselves and 

to others. The Performing Arts curriculum embraces an exciting multidisciplinary approach to the arts that 

emphasizes public speaking and various artistic media including music, theater, video and/or web design. Each 

of the courses contains a distinct body of knowledge and skills to build upon the perceptual, intellectual, 

cultural, and spiritual dimensions of human experience. 

CHOIR (BEGINNING, INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED) 

Choir includes singers from grades 9 through 12 whose vocal abilities range from Beginning to Advanced. 

No experience is required for this course. The choral program offers students of varying levels of interest and 

talent the opportunity to participate in the choral program through large and small ensembles. Various styles of 

choral music are studied and performed. The student’s vocal technique, musicianship, and enjoyment of music 

are the centerpiece of the class. Everyone will learn how to sing well. Wherever they begin, they will improve. 

Sight-singing, reading music notation, learning good skills for listening to choral music, healthy vocal technique, 

self-criticism and concert performance of music written or arranged specifically for women’s voices make up 

the content and grade for the course. 

DIGITAL MEDIA I - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term each 

This course is a project-based course that allows students to creatively express themselves through 

digital still and motion video and other newly emerging forms of digital media. The students will learn the preproduction, 

production, and post production techniques of creating a high quality digital video. Students will 

study video technologies, basic equipment operation, video composition, basic lighting and audio, production 

planning and visual storytelling. Through effective cooperative learning practices, the student will produce 

video projects of high production value. 

DIGITAL MEDIA II - Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term each 

This course is a continuation of Digital Media I, expanding upon students’ abilities relating to digital 

video production. Students will enhance skills learned in Digital Media I and produce a single semester long 

project. Students may work alone or in small collaborative teams. The goal for the student will be to enter 

their production in a local movie festival. 

SPEECH I - 1 term - Freshmen / Sophomores 

Speech I is a study in the basic principles and various forms of public speaking that is required of all 

SSA freshmen and honors sophomores. Students taking this class receive practical experience in the 

development, presentation, and critical analysis of speech, debate, drama, and parliamentary procedure. When 

available, students may also attend and compete in tournament competitions as a member of the St. Scholastica 

Speech Team. 


SPEECH II, III, IV (THEATRE /ADVANCED THEATRE) - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - 1 term 

This course will cover acting, introduction to theatre, theatre history and terms, technical theatre and 

directing, voice and movement. Practical experience in acting, costuming, make-up, lighting, lighting design, 

properties, set design and construction, and full stage direction will be offered to each student. The Speech III 

and IV students will assist in the teaching of certain concepts and will be responsible for directing various 

aspects of the productions of the Benedictine Players, as well as classroom presentations of short scenes 

during the course of the term. Students will be expected to be very adept in all of the above-mentioned aspects 

of Speech II. The course will culminate with a fall or spring production of the SSA Drama Department. Some 

after school rehearsals will be required, possibly for as much as two to three months, depending on the level of 

participation chosen by the students of Speech II. Full participation in all rehearsals by students in Speech III 

and IV is required. However, participation of some form will be expected of all advanced speech students. 

Some advanced forensics will also be added during the course of the term. 

YEARBOOK I/II - Sophomores / Juniors / Seniors - Elective - 1 term 

The Yearbook course is designed for the student who wants an in-depth experience in the production 

of a yearbook. It is designed to provide students the opportunity to work with advanced technology, strengthen 

their problem-solving skills, improve their communication skills, and manage responsibility. 

Students receive guided instruction in the fundamentals of photo composition skills, graphic design and 

page layout, editing, photography and organizational skills necessary to produce the yearbook, as well as 

guided practice in the areas of responsibility necessary for the production of the book. They will learn the 

process of editing and publishing with Adobe Indesign, Photoshop and Illustrator CS5. Students also develop 

their abilities to work as a team as they produce the yearbook. 

The aim of the class is for student staffers to be responsible for every aspect of production, including 

planning themes, designing covers and end-sheets, planning the ladder, designing dividers, interviewing, 

researching, writing articles, writing headlines and captions, taking pictures, and designing pages. 


HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION 

The Health and Physical Education program is designed to give the students varied opportunities to 

learn the need for lifelong skills in health and physical exercise. This is accomplished through physical fitness 

training, knowledge of health maintenance, good nutrition, and through the skills and values fostered in competitive 

sports, activities, and games. A variety of programs in the department allows students the opportunity 

to develop a good work ethic, self-discipline, an ability to seek and work toward group and individual goals, 

and an ability to handle success and failure. All classes are taught stretching techniques, cardio-respiratory 

exercises, plyometric and endurance drills, as well as personal wellness. Each year students are taught lifetime 

skills and sports including bowling, jogging, fitness training, jumping rope, fishing, shuffleboard, volleyball, and 

floor hockey. Health projects on each grade level promote an understanding of issues which affect young 

women today. Eighth grade health topics include: lifeskills and components of physical fitness. Freshman 

health components include such topics as fitness and CPR. Sophomore and Senior health topics include: food, 

nutrition, diet, eating disorders, heart related topics and fitness. All the Health topics will explore the use of the 

iPads to research topics and use of Apps to enrich learning. 


STANDARDIZED TESTING PROGRAM 

All students take standardized tests administered for their respective grade levels. Teachers in various 

departments review the practice booklets with the students to familiarize them with the format and sample 

questions of the test, and with test-taking tips. Results are given to and interpreted for the students. 

Eighth Graders : 

Freshmen: 

Sophomores: 

Juniors 

Seniors: 

EXPLORE; administered in October 

Iowa Test of Basic Skills; administered in March. 

Iowa Test of Basic Skills; administered in March. 

PLAN; administered in October 

PSAT; administered in October 

Iowa Test of Basic Skills; administered in March 

PSAT, administered in October 

Encouraged to take ACT during the semester in math and after 

attending prep class. 

Seniors still wanting to take the ACT or SAT college entrance 

tests should take the September, October or at the latest 

December test. 

ACT STANDARDIZED TESTING 

SSA students scored above the 21.1 national and 20.2 state ACT average. SSA’s average ACT composite 

score is 24.0. 

The Class of 2011 graduated 148 young women and received over $11.9 million 

in scholarship offers and was accepted to 93 different universities 

in 23 states, the District of Columbia, Canada and France. Scholarships and TOPS awards for the 

Class of 2011 involved 91% of the students; 100% of the class attended college. 

ALABAMA 

Auburn University 

Birmingham Southern College 

Samford University 

Spring Hill College 

University of Alabama (Birmingham) 

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) 

University of South Alabama 

ALASKA 

University of Alaska Anchorage 

CALIFORNIA 

Pepperdine University 

University of California, Davis 

University of California, Irvine 

University of California, Riverside 

University of California, Santa Barbara 

University of California, Santa Cruz 

University of California, Southern California 

COLORADO 

University of Colorado, Colorado Springs 

University of Northern Colorado 


FLORIDA 

University of West Florida 

GEORGIA 

Emory University 

Georgia Institute of Technology 

Oglethorpe University 

Oxford College of Emory University 

University of Georgia 

HAWAII 

Hawaii Pacific University 

ILLINOIS 

DePaul University 

INDIANA 

Purdue University 

Saint Mary’s College 

University of Notre Dame 

. 

LOUISIANA 

Centenary College of Louisiana 

Louisiana State University 

Louisiana Tech University 

Loyola University of New Orleans 

Nicholls State University 

Northeastern University 

Northwestern State University of Louisiana 

Our Lady of the Lake College 

Southeastern Louisiana University 

South Louisiana Community College 

Southern University and A&M College 

Tulane University 

University of Louisiana, Monroe 

University of Louisiana 

University of New Orleans 

Xavier University of Louisiana 

MARYLAND 

Johns Hopkins University 

MASSACHUSETTS 

Boston College 

Boston University 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

University of Massachusetts, Amherst 

MICHIGAN 

Michigan State University 

MISSISSIPPI 

Belhaven College 

Millsaps College 

Mississippi College 

Mississippi State University 

Mississippi University for Women 

University of Mississippi 

University of Southern Mississippi 

MISSOURI 

Saint Louis University 

University of Missouri Columbia 

Washington University 

NEW YORK 

Fordham University 

Marymount Manhattan College 

New York University 

Rochester Institute of Technology 

NORTH CAROLINA 

Duke University 

Elon University 

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 

Wake Forest University 

OHIO 

Case Western Reserve University 

Ohio Wesleyan University 

PENNSYLVANIA 

Carnegie Mellon University 

Pennsylvania State University, University Park 

Temple University 

University of Pennsylvania 

Villanova University 

SOUTH CAROLINA 

College of Charleston 

Furman University 

TENNESSEE 

Rhodes College 

University of Tennessee, Knoxville 

Vanderbilt University 

TEXAS 

Baylor University 

Rice University 

Southern Methodist University 

Texas A&M University 

Texas Christian University 

Trinity University 

University of Houston 

University of Texas, Austin 

VIRGINIA 

Hollins University 

University of Virginia 

WASHINGTON, D. C. 

American University 

Catholic University of America 

PARIS, FRANCE 

American University 

BRITISH COLUMBIA 

University of British Columbia 


NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM 

*2011 - Two Semifinalists and two Commended Students 

*2010 - Five Finalists with one National Merit Scholarship winner 

*2009 - Two Semifinalists 

*2008 - One Commended Student 

*2007 - One Semifinalist and one Commended Student 

*2006 - One National Merit Scholar; one – Finalist, five Commended Students 

*2005 - One Semifinalist and one Commended Student 

*2004 - One Semifinalist 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM 

2011 - *15 students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with scores 

of 3 or higher; 

*3 students qualified for the AP Scholar Award with Honor by earning an average score of at least 

3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams; 

*6 students for the AP Scholar Award with Distinction by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on 

all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. 

2010 - *13 students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with sores 

of 3 or higher; 

*9 students qualified for the AP Scholar Award with Honor by earning an average score of at least 

3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams; 

*3 students, who qualified for the AP Scholar Award with Distinction by earning an average score of 

at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. 

2009 - *One Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP 

Exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; 

*19 Advanced Placement Scholars completing three or more AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher. 

THE GOLDEN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 

St. Scholastica Academy received this award from LSU for four consecutive years. It is symbolic of excellence 

in education for superior performance at Spring Invitational. This is awarded to the top twenty schools according 

to credit hours earned by the students. There are generally about 300 schools represented at testing. LSU 

began giving this award over twenty years ago to recognize schools and students for outstanding academic 

performance. This award indicates excellence in educational quality of students, school, and faculty. 

LIBRARY 

The SSA library is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The individual student can 

make use of the resources before school, at break, lunch and after school. 

Resources include printing services, wireless access for iPads, over 8,000 books, 44 periodical 

subscriptions and three on-line databases to which SSA subscribes. The databases are Bloom’s Literary 

Criticism, Ebsco, Gale, Masterplots and Worldbook. Passwords are provided for student use of these 

databases at home 24/7. Students are also taught how to use their library card to access the on-line 

databases of the St. Tammany Parish Public Library system. 

St. Scholastica Academy - 39 - Information Guide


Activities

EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAM 

St. Scholastica Academy’s extracurricular program is an important part of school life. Research shows that 

there is a strong connection between school involvement and academic success in schools. Our students are 

strongly encouraged to get involved in at least one extracurricular activity. Students can participate in any 

number of activities sponsored by the various organizations on campus. These activities involve a wide variety 

of skills and interests. 

ACADEMIC GAMES -- The purpose of having an Academic Games club at St. Scholastica is to enhance 

members’ educations. We do this by learning and applying advanced mathematical concepts, studying our 

country’s history from formation through the present, and developing decision making skills. The motivation 

behind our studies is to be able to apply this knowledge not only in our everyday lives and classes, but to 

represent our school and possibly our state in local and/or national competitions. 

ALTAR SERVERS — Teams of students are formed who wish to serve at the various liturgies during the 

school year. The teams are scheduled to serve on a rotating basis at school Masses and Masses on Ring Day, 

Family Picnic, Eighth Grade Induction/Feast Day, and Senior Graduation. 

ANIMAL APPRECIATION CLUB - The Club is open to all students in grades 8-12. This group’s purpose 

is to raise awareness about animal habitats and help care for the animals in our community. Members participate 

in Pet Walks, hold food drives for the local shelter, identify and honor an animal of the month and serve at the 

St. Tammany Humane Society. Our students believe that through this work they will be serving God and their 

community in a fresh and innovative way. 

ART CLUB — The Art Club tries to heighten an awareness of the humanities. This organization visits art 

museums and art galleries. Each year Art Club sponsors a school membership to NOMA, a Halloween grab 

bag activity and a guest artist series. Membership is open to all classes. 

BENEDICTINE PLAYERS DRAMA CLUB — The Benedictine Players of SSA provide quality 

productions each year. Jekyl and Hyde, George M., Anything Goes, Singin’ in the Rain, Sound of Music, My 

Fair Lady, Beauty and the Beast, Aida, Wizard of Oz, and The King and I are some of the titles produced 

since the inception of this program. The cast and crew consists of fifty or more participants, many times 

reaching over one hundred participants. Professional musicians, choreographers and technicians are employed 

for each show. 

BIG SISTER/LITTLE SISTER — Each senior is paired with an eighth grader as a big sister. This program 

is designed to promote friendships, to help younger members of the school adjust to their new environment, 

and to help the eighth grade students to have a unique sense of belonging to the SSA family. 

CHAPTER CHAT -- The members of this organization promote reading and are introduced to new fiction/ 

non-fiction. A new book is chosen monthly and members meet to discuss and promote the selected reading. 

COLOR GUARD -- An elite, para-miliary group of seniors who volunteer to maintain the school’s flags, 

promote patriotism and keep the school and community aware of the meaning of sacrifice through their member’s 

words, actions and deeds. 

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St. Scholastica Academy - 40- Information Guide

EUCHARISTIC MINISTRY — The procedure for the selection of Eucharistic Ministers can be found in 

the Student Handbook. Once selected, these students serve in the capacity of Extraordinary Ministers of the 

Eucharist for all school Masses during their senior year. This fosters the experience of responding to a calling 

to minister to the faith community. 

EXCALIBUR HONOR SOCIETY — Excalibur was organized to honor and encourage students who 

excel in the sciences. Its purpose is to provide a catalyst for excellence in study, the pursuit of knowledge, and 

the advancement of technology and research. Membership is by invitation only to high school students who 

have demonstrated a proficiency in science by maintaining a 3.5 GPA or better in high school science course 

work. 

FRENCH CLUB — SSA’s French Club tries to bridge the gap between American and French cultures. Any 

student who is taking French has a chance to explore the French way of life. Club members take field trips 

to French restaurants and French cultural events. They also host a special theme day with authentic French 

food “la fete des rois”. It’s easy to see why the club’s motto is “Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler.” 

JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY —The Junior Honor Society was established to recognize outstanding junior 

high school and middle level students. The society serves to honor those students who have earned a 3.5 GPA 

or higher and have also demonstrated excellence in the areas of Leadership, Service, Character, and Citizenship. 

These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its inception. Membership 

not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active 

involvement in school activities and community service. 

JUST JUSTICE — Just Justice has a twofold purpose: 1) to serve as an educational arm of the Academy on 

social teaching of the Roman Catholic church and justice issues confronting our world, and 2) to provide 

formation for students wishing to engage in summer service experiences. The organization seeks to prepare 

the student to exercise Christian attitudes in today’s world. In a culture that has grown obsessed with self and 

individualism, young people need opportunities to transcend themselves in achieving their identities, to commit 

themselves to causes and persons greater than their individual egos and to work for the common good. 

Students must be a sophomore, junior or senior for membership. 

KEY CLUB — This international high school organization is affiliated with Kiwanis International, a community 

service organization for business and professional adults. Primarily, this club acts as a service organization 

whose members are dedicated to improving their communities worldwide. Some activities include the 

Thanksgiving Food Drive and the annual Teddy Bear Drive, which provides bears used by the Covington 

Police Department to comfort children. Service work varies from helping children and the elderly to supporting 

environmental efforts. Students in grades 8-12 are invited to join SSA’s Key Club. 

LATIN CLUB — The Latin Club explores the culture of Rome within the ancient world and gives the 

opportunity to further the study and enjoyment of the language past freshman year. Activities include Crafts, 

Roman vs. Greek competitions, Roman lunches and Toga Day. Membership is open to students in grades 9- 

12 who have taken Latin in grades 9-12. 

LIBRARY CLUB — This club is open to all students. The club meets twice a month to assist the Librarian 

in operating the library. The purpose of the club is to promote reading for enjoyment and education while 

working in the spirit of fellowship. 

St. Scholastica Academy - 41 - Information Guide

LITURGICAL MINISTRIES -- All students are invited to serve our SSA community’s liturgical celebrations 

by participating in the Lector, Hospitality, and Music Ministries. 

MARIAN MINISTRY— Students who embrace a devotion to Our Lady are invited to participate in this 

ministry. Some of their responsibilities would be: to help coordinate the Living Rosary in October and the May 

Crowning, and to lead the recitation of the rosary at various times throughout the school year. Promoting Mary 

as the number one role model for young Christian women is a primary focus of this organization. This ministry 

is open to students in all grade levels. 

MU ALPHA THETA — Mu Alpha Theta is an honor math club for students who have earned A’s and B’s in 

Algebra I and II. Membership is by invitation. The objectives of Mu Alpha Theta are as follows: to promote an 

interest in and enjoyment of mathematics, to provide tutoring for students, and to participate in math competitions. 

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY — The National Honor Society chooses students who exhibit character, 

scholarship, leadership, and service as members. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible for membership. 

National Honor Society is involved in an active tutoring program. 

NATIONAL ENGLISH HONOR SOCIETY — The National English Honor Society (NEHS) is the only 

national organization exclusively for high school students who, in the field of English, merit special note for past 

and current accomplishments. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible for membership. 

OSIRIAN — The Osirian, an annual literary publication, showcases student writing in various genres. The 

magazine also contains student artwork. 

QUIZ BOWL - Quiz Bowl is a form of mental athletics for young people, and the competition allows them 

to have a forum to display their knowledge. The team is part of the Northshore Academic League and consists 

of four players and one alternate. Team competition and two tournaments are held during the first term and the 

team participates in two tournaments during the second term. 

PILLARS GROUP — Pillars is a campus ministry organization at SSA. It is comprised of students from 

each grade level coming together to grow in relationship with Christ and the Church through the four pillars of 

prayer, work, study, and community. 

RESPECT LIFE MINISTRY - Members of the Respect Life Ministry encourage others to respect people 

of all phases of life including the elderly, the young, the unborn, the sick, and the disabled. The purpose of this 

organization is to spread this message throughout the school and community, and to actively show respect for 

all people in the community. Some of the events this group is involved in are the Living Rosary, spiritual 

adoption, community service projects, and school awareness projects. 

SCIENCE CLUB - The SSA Science Club was created by students interested in promoting science in the 

school and community. The Science Club is currently involved in ongoing projects of the National Park Service 

at Ship Island and with the Pontchartrain Basin Foundation’s Bogue Falaya River Study. 

SCIENCE FICTION FANTASY CLUB – This club is for the student who enjoys Star Wars, Harry Potter, 

Lord of the Rings, Hunger Games, Twilight, etc. Membership is open to all students. The club’s main objective 

is to provide an environment to discuss, share, and enjoy the science fiction and fantasy genres. Activities will 

include group discussions, making mini movies, movie nights, artwork, creative writing, book and movie reviews, 

and fun games. 


SPANISH CLUB - The goal of the Spanish Club is to promote an understanding of Spanish culture. Students 

participate in field trips to Spanish cultural events and experience the language and foods at local authentic 

Mexican restaurants. They also host a special theme day with authentic Mexican food “El Cinco de Mayo”. 

Membership is open to all students enrolled in Spanish. 

SPEECH CLUB - The speech team welcomes anyone who expresses an interest in improving her speaking 

skills, in performing oral presentations, or in just having fun. The team competes in various statewide competitive 

events, including: Dramatic Interpretation, Prose/Poetry, Extemp, Impromptu, Debate, and Student Congress 

and has been invited to over 15 tournaments in the past. Membership is based on student interest and 

commitment to participation. 

STUDENTS AGAINST DESTRUCTIVE DECISIONS (S.A.D.D.) - The purpose of S.A.D.D. is to 

educate students about the dangers of drinking and driving. This is done through various activities during the 

school year such as Red Ribbon Week and student assemblies. Membership is open to all grade levels. 

STUDENT COUNCIL - Student Council is the student-governing body of the school. This student 

organization encourages everyone to be involved and promotes unity and spirit through school-wide activities. 

Every fall and spring, Student Council hosts Spirit Week, which encourages everyone to be positive and 

enthusiastic about school. Student Council also sponsors the Sweetheart Dance, which honors those girls 

from each class who are selected as outstanding representatives of both their class and the school. Student 

Council members attend the Louisiana State Student Council Workshop and Convention each year and have 

held the office of president. All students are members and are encouraged to get involved. 

STUDENT MINISTRY - The purpose of the Student Ministry Team is to strengthen and encourage Christian 

morals and beliefs within the SSA community and to involve students more directly in the spiritual ministry of 

the Church. Seniors are invited to apply to become Student Ministers. They assist in planning and implementing 

school liturgies, forming the younger students in the Christian community of the school, planning and leading 

retreats and days of reflection for underclassmen, providing peer support for those experiencing difficulties in 

social and spiritual aspects, enhancing spiritual growth through prayer and scripture and initiating means to 

accomplish social justice. 

WORLD CULTURE SOCIETY - This organization studies various cultures in order to promote a deeper 

understanding of the world around us. Each month a specific culture is selected for study culminating in a 

celebration of that culture including food, music, art, language and fun. Membership is open to all SSA 

students. 

YEARBOOK CLUB - The Yearbook Club assists the yearbook class in completing the yearbook as a 

memory book for the entire student body each year. Photography, design layouts, copyrighting, editing and 

publishing are all important parts of creating a memorable book. Students interested in a future in journalism, 

photograpy, or editing would benefit from membership in this club. Membership is open to all students. 

HANDBELL CHOIR - The Handbell ensemble is a non-audition ensemble dedicated to excellence in 

making music. This ensemble performs regularly in Masses, community events, as well as fall and spring 

concerts with the choir. The ensemble plays four octaves, eacher ringer uses one or more bells to play 

designated notes wherever they appear throughout a piece. Only through tremendous coordination can the 

individual performer’s sound be combined into a smooth and pleasing musical experience. This ensemble 

requires work and dedication and yields high rewards. 


SSA EVENTS 

DANCES — These social occasions are held throughout the school year. Back-to-School, Homecoming, 

Christmas, Sweetheart and Junior-Senior Prom are the primary dances held at SSA. 

DOVE CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT — The 15th annual golf tournament will be held in October 

2012 with proceeds benefiting SSA’s athletic program and athletic complex. The alumnae, parents and 

community are welcome to be part of this annual event as volunteers and/or players. 

DOVE FEST will be held on November 9 at 3:30 p.m. starting with sign-in in the SSA cafeteria. The event 

is sponsored by our Student Ministry. It is a fun event for prospective 2012-13 students to get to know our 

SSA students on a personal level. 

DOVE EXPERIENCE - The spring after-school event is for new students, who meet in the gym for icebreaker 

games and to get to know one another. The Parent Dove Experience is held in the cafeteria simultaneously to 

their daughters’ meeting in the gym. Parents of new students are there to meet and greet and to learn more 

about SSA, the SSA Parent Club and involvement in the school. 

FALAYA FLING — The annual Falaya Fling, which is SSA’s major fund-raiser, is an auction, buffet-dinner 

and dance held in the spring at the Castine Center. Now in its 28th year, the proceeds are for a designated 

purpose or project that benefits our students. The success of this event is due to the participation of our 

parents, alumnae, students, and community. A featured bidding section of the Fling is the student art section, 

which showcases the creative talents of our students. Burgundy is the featured band and Safe Harbor is the 

2012 Falaya Fling Charity. Save the Date: March 24, 2012. 

FAMILY PICNIC — A fun-filled picnic is held in the fall for the entire SSA family. The picnic begins with the 

celebration of Mass to foster a faith community among our families. 

FATHER-DAUGHTER BANQUET — This event is held in November for all students and their fathers. It 

is frequently a theme-event at which costumes are often the appropriate attire. The evening involves dinner 

followed by entertainment. 

GRANDPARENTS DAY — All grandparents are invited to join their granddaughters for a day of fun and 

lasting memories. It is held in the spring and features the talents of our girls. Scenes from the spring musical 

performed by the SSA Benedictine Players are previewed at this event along with performances by the SSA 

choir, the SSA Royalettes and SPS Golden Blues dance teams, and the SSA and SPS cheerleading squads. 

MOTHER-DAUGHTER LUNCHEON — The event is usually held at the end of January and is open to all 

students and their mothers. This event includes Mass, lunch and a fashion show. 

MASSES, PRAYER SERVICES, ADORATION, COMMUNION SERVICES are held throughout 

the school year. Parents are invited to attend these events to pray with SSA. 



Athletics

ATHLETIC PROGRAM 

St. Scholastica Academy’s athletic program is varied, allowing students to participate in any number of sports 

throughout the school year. These sports involve a wide variety of skills and interests. 

Sports are supported as an essential part of an active, balanced school life. Over 50 % of SSA students are 

involved in athletics. The program includes eighth grade, junior varsity, and varsity teams in many sports. 

Team sports require much time and commitment but are well worth the enjoyment and sense of accomplishment 

that comes from participation. Students may participate in only one sport per season. 

FALL SEASON WINTER SEASON SPRING SEASON 

(Aug-Sept-Oct) (Nov-Dec-Jan-Feb) (March-April-May) 

Cross Country 

Basketball 

Bowling 

Swimming 

Bowling 

Golf 

Volleyball 

Golf 

Softball 

SSA Cheerleading 

Indoor Track 

Tennis 

SPS Cheerleading 

Soccer 

Track 

SPS Golden Blues 

SSA Cheerleading 

SSA Royalettes 

SPS Cheerleading 

SSA Royalettes 

SPS Golden Blues 

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS: Applied to all sports and cheerleading/dance team squads. 

a. Overall 2.0 grade point average for the preceding marking period, excluding interim grades. 

b. One “F” and a 2.0 grade point average results in automatic probation. The athlete is allowed to 

participate in practice and games but must raise the “F” by the next marking period, or she will be 

dismissed from the team. 

c. Two “F’s” or more is an automatic dismissal from the team. 

NOTE: To be eligible for high school teams (not 8th grade teams), you must reside or attend school in St. 

Scholastica’s attendance zone, which is the same district as Covington High School. SSA is a member of 

the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA). 

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS AND STATE RUNNER-UPS 

1992 Basketball Division 3A Runner-up 2010 Soccer Division I Champion 

2009 Bowling Open Runner-up 

2011 Soccer Division I Runner-up 

1998 Cross Country Division I Runner-up 

2000 Swimming Class II Runner-up 

1999 Cross Country Division II Champion 

2001 Swimming Class II Champion 

2000 Cross Country Division IIA Champion 2002 Swimming Class II Champion 

2001 Cross Country Division IIA Runner-up 2003 Swimming Class II Champion 

2002 Cross Country Division IIA Runner-up 2004 Swimming Class II Runner-up 

2003 Cross Country Division IIA Runner-up 2005 Swimming Class II Runner-up 

2005 Cross Country Division IIA Runner-up 2000 Tennis Division II Champion 

2006 Cross Country Division IIA Champion 2001 Tennis Division II Runner-up 

2008 Cross Country Division IIA Runner-up 2002 Tennis Division II Champion 

2009 Cross Country Division I Champion 

2003 Tennis Division II Champion 

2003 Soccer Division II Runner-up 


2004 Soccer Division I Runner-up 


2007 Soccer Division II Champion 


2009 Soccer Division I Champion 



Connections 

The friendships that develop at the Academy will play a major role in shaping the student’s total 

education. Through clubs, sports, and class activities, students build relationships and strengthen 

bonds with many girls who share similar interests. The diversity of our student body encourages 

students to learn and develop in an environment with young women from a variety of cultural 

backgrounds. The various socioeconomic levels, ethnic groups, and faith traditions that our students 

represent are all contributing factors to SSA’s unique, diverse and welcoming atmosphere. 

Alumnae 

One of SSA’s distinguishing traits is the sisterhood of its alumnae. They are strong, confident 

and compassionate women that are making a difference in their communities. The Alumnae 

Office offers mentorship through Career Day. Whether it is speaking to a career professional, 

or an alumna in college, we want to help our student succeed. Upon request, a student may be 

matched with an alumna by contacting Alumnae Director Maria Piazza Hall ‘81. Lessons in life 

and sisters forever describe the SSA experience. Once an SSA girl, always an SSA girl! Proud 

to be a DOVE! 

tip 1 

tip 2 

tip 3 

tip 4 

tip 5 

tip 6 

tip 7 

tip 8 

tip 9 

tip 1 0 

SSA School Tips . . . 

Make the most of it - it goes by fast . . . 

Family matters 

Get involved in clubs, sports and extra-curricular activities 

Make friends with the teachers (they are cooler than you think!) 

Respect yourself . . . 

Wear your hair up - “your sisters” will do the same 

Make the grade - school matters 

Make Memories 

Have fun!!! 

Just be yourself

Info Guide2012-13 - St. Scholastica Academy

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