Upper School Curriculum

Our middle and upper school curriculum builds on the foundations laid in the lower school:

• By the time they graduate, students should have mastered the classical liberal arts of word and number, which corresponds to a challenging program of study in Latin, Writing and Rhetoric, and Math.
• STMA upper school students learn the modern sciences of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, and can choose to take AP Tests in these subjects on their own. 
• After deliberate time spent developing study skills in the first two trimesters of 6th grade, students may also begin the study of ancient Greek.
• Middle school students continue to study history and literature in an integrated way, deepening their encounter with the peoples and periods that they encountered in grades K-5, and continuing to view history as a story of both divine and human agency.
• With seriousness, depth, and a spirit of curiosity, upper school students study the civilizations and cultures of Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Medieval Christendom, and the Modern World, reading some of the central literary and philosophical texts of western civilization along the way, and learning how to participate well in seminar discussions. 
• By 8th grade, students have learned the fundamental teachings of the Catholic Church, and are prepared for the sacrament of Confirmation. In upper school, catechetical instruction gives way to the study of Theology, or “faith seeking understanding,” and this is integrated as much as possible with the Civilization & Culture courses.
• Music, Art, Drama, and Public Speaking continue to be a focus of STMA’s curriculum. Study of the Fine Arts is ordered to creation and performance.
• In their senior year, students begin a more systematic study of philosophy.  They also write a senior thesis that aims to be the capstone of their learning at STMA. Finally, seniors are given mentorship and direction as they prepare for college or work, and begin to think seriously about their life’s vocation.

The rationale for our middle and upper school curriculum is taken from the tradition of Catholic classical education, particularly the Jesuit “Ratio Studiorum.”  Although the primary goal is not to be “college preparatory,” the academic challenge of STMA’s middle and upper school curriculum will prepare students to excel in college and beyond. Academic challenge is not pursued for its own sake, but rather for the sake of our core ideals: the beauty of truth, freedom for excellence, and friendship in Christ.

The scope and sequence of courses offered in Grades 6-12 is available here: MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

STMA is planning a pilgrimage to Italy for Upper School students in the fall. For a sneak peek at this special capstone experience, see the Italy Pilgrimage flyer here.

Please note that this web page is still in development. If you have any questions or admissions inquiries, please email [email protected] or call 574-222-9195 Ext. 101.