Signature Programs
Spring Immersives
Spring Immersives are a one-week term during which students take one integrated, academic class, which covers topics not traditionally explored in the middle school and high school curriculum. Interim courses include experiential learning opportunities such as week-long immersion trips, field trips, service-learning experiences and labs.
Sample courses include: Global Health in Guatemala, How to Adult, Chicago Urban Plunge and Multicultural Seattle.
Endorsement Pathways Program
The Forest Ridge Endorsement Pathways Program provides our high school students with the opportunity to deepen their learning in a specialized area of interest, differentiating themselves from their peers. Each Endorsement Pathway consists of a series of content-related courses and learning experiences that provide students with in-depth knowledge and exploration in one of three areas: Global Citizenship, The Arts and STEM.
Sacred Heart Global Academy
Sacred Heart Global Academy is a partnership between Forest Ridge School and Woodlands Academy, which allows our students to take unique courses beyond the typical school day. This program offers both summer and semester-long online courses taught by Forest Ridge and Woodlands faculty members and include students from several Sacred Heart schools. Summer courses meet synchronously daily for three weeks, and semester-long courses meet synchronously once a week in the evenings. Students are expected to complete significant asynchronous work independently between class meetings.
Students entering ninth grade may take one SHGA course with permission from their Grade Level Dean and the Academic Dean. Students entering grades 10-12 may take one SHGA course in place of a study and/or one course in addition to a full course load, subject to approval by the Academic Dean.
Advanced Integrated Studies (AIS)
Advanced Integrated Studies (AIS) is an unique opportunity for students in their senior year to explore a topic of interest. This senior capstone project provides students with the opportunity to explore a topic of interest beyond the classroom. AIS is an interdisciplinary, self-directed experience that requires an extended process of inquiry and is designed to encourage students to think critically and creatively.
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, optional 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 a mentor with knowledge or expertise in the chosen topic area. At the heart of this Experience are: the proposal, the research paper; the product such as a performance or a demonstration; reflection, and the culminating presentation.
Recent AIS projects include: Sustainability: Climate Change and Water Scarcity; Financial Implications of Malware Attacks; and the Psychology of Color.
AIS not only furthered my academic interests, but also helped me to learn more about my potential and space for growth.Annie L., Class of 2019