Block Schedule

4 x 85-Minute Classes

Students take four extended classes each day, allowing more time for deeper learning and critical thinking.

Specialized Electives

Students complete 32 credits during their four years at St. Mary’s, including 8 elective credits chosen primarily during junior and senior year.

32 Credits Over 4 Years

Students can expand and specialize their studies through electives, Honors courses, and Advanced Placement offerings.

Semester Courses

Fewer, longer classes give teachers more flexibility to create student-centered learning experiences.

Student-Centered Learning

Longer class periods allow teachers to use a variety of teaching methods and tailor instruction to different learning styles and individual student needs.

A typical day may include:

Extended laboratory time
Structured writing and revision
Guided internet research
Student-led learning
Round-table seminar discussions

Faculty can also tailor instruction for students with special academic requirements and accommodations.

Explore Your Interests

Students complete 8 elective credits, primarily during junior and senior year. The elective system allows students to specialize their studies and pursue Honors and Advanced Placement courses.

Medicine
AP Biology • Zoology • Honors Anatomy & Physiology

Liberal Studies, English & Drama
Honors Interdisciplinary Seminar • Honors Shakespeare • Cinematic Art • AP Literature & Composition

Engineering
Honors Precalculus with Trigonometry • AP Calculus • AP Physics

Languages
Honors French • Honors Latin • AP Spanish • Second-language study

Why The Schedule Works

Graduates report that St. Mary’s academic program helps ease the transition to college learning and supports faster academic achievement.

Faculty also report that working with fewer students each semester helps create stronger academic relationships between teachers and students.

Lifelong Learners

Teachers value the schedule because it gives them greater opportunities to help form students who become lifelong learners.

Annual Report

2024-25 Annual Report