Seminar Courses

Year-Long / Required in 9th grade

The 9th grade seminar program concentrates on the development of the whole self with a focus on academic tools to set up students for success such as study and research skills and time management, as well as topics on relationship building, identity development, cultural competency, spiritual formation, communication, wellness skills, and digital citizenship and literacy. These classes provide students with the assistance and skills needed with the transition to Upper School.

One or multiple semesters
This course is open to students who want to improve their writing skills. Students may enroll for one or multiple semesters. They will learn about different academic writing forms, writing techniques, and academic vocabulary. Through examination of writing samples and daily discussions, students will expand their understanding of the writing process. This class will also give students an opportunity to work on current writing assignments, either individually or within a small peer group. By the end of their enrollment in the course, students will be confident expressing academic ideas in writing, integrating quotations, and engaging in the editing process. This course is graded on a pass/fail scale and is not calculated into a student’s GPA.

Prerequisite: None (students will be recommended by English teacher)
Grade level: Open to all students
Credit earned: 0.5 or 1.0 Elective

In this course, students will complete a variety of research projects in different disciplines, further developing their research, writing, and presentation skills for AIS (and beyond). The final project will be the completion of their AIS proposal and elevator pitch. This course is graded on a pass/fail scale and is not calculated into a student’s GPA.

Prerequisite: none
Grade level: 11
Credit earned: 0.5 Elective

Required for all students beginning with the Class of 2026.

Advanced Integrated Seminar (AIS) is a unique opportunity for students in their senior year to explore a topic of interest beyond the classroom. Rooted in the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria, AIS challenges students to gain a deeper understanding of a social, political or ethical issue; to investigate a topic in science or technology; or to explore the experience of artistic expression. This experience is designed to encourage students to think critically and creatively, solve problems, and develop skills of public speaking, research, media literacy, planning, self-sufficiency, and goal setting: skills that will help prepare students for college careers and adult life. This self-directed experience requires an extended process of inquiry that is interdisciplinary and may include community service, a mentorship or an internship component. Guidance is provided by a faculty advisor and an optional mentor with knowledge or expertise in the chosen topic area. This course is graded on a pass/fail scale and is not calculated into a student’s GPA.

Prerequisite: Proposal submission (spring of Junior year)
Grade level: 12
Credit earned: 1.0 Elective