Courses

List of 6 items.

• "Geometry First" Curriculum

  In a program unique to St. Cecilia, students learn to think inductively and deductively through the Geometry First curriculum. Freshmen grapple with geometrical reasoning in Euclid’s Elements, a hallmark of the classical liberal arts, while also acquiring statistical reasoning crucial for the data-driven world. After mastering the foundations of geometry and algebra, usually in 2-3 years, students can take Functions and Data Analysis, AP Statistics,  AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, and Multivariable Calculus and Differential Equations. Four math courses are required. The math sequence at St. Cecilia is accelerated, but not merely pragmatic—St. Cecilia girls are encouraged to seek truth and beauty in mathematics and thus acquire confidence that truth is knowable.

• "Physics First" Curriculum

  St. Cecilia Academy requires three science courses in the following order: Physics in the freshman year, followed by Chemistry, and ending with Biology. Additionally, we offer electives in Anatomy & Physiology, Scientific Research, an engineering/programming option in Special Topics in Science, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics. At. St. Cecilia, students begin with a strong foundation in the first principles that are the starting point for Physics so they clearly understand how the math expresses the physical reality. The math required in Physics corresponds with the level in each student's math course, thereby reinforcing concepts and giving abstract algebra and geometry concrete relevance. Inquiry and data analysis are foundational to the Catholic, liberal arts educational tradition and imbue each course in the department.

• Visual and Performing Arts (VAP)

  With St. Cecilia, patron saint of music, as our patroness, the fine arts are an integral component of a St. Cecilia Academy education. All freshmen are introduced to the fine arts during a multidisciplinary survey course that incorporates dance, drama, speech, music, and the visual arts. They continue with at least one additional course in a specialty area of the arts.

• College-Preparatory Course and Beyond

  All academic courses at St. Cecilia Academy are considered true college-preparatory courses. SCA also offers a number of Advanced Placement and honors classes, as well as classes through online programs including One Schoolhouse (formerly the Online School for Girls).

• Interim

  Students begin the second semester with a week of wide and enriching learning experiences. Some students spend Interim in Great Britain, Ireland, France, Italy, and Costa Rica. Others have shadowed local community leaders or professionals and worked on Capitol Hill - Nashville's and Washington's. Still, others take advantage of intriguing on-campus course offerings, such as Mind Control Economics, Dystopian Literature and Film, and Introduction to Law. 

• Advisory

  St. Cecilia's advisory program is an integral part of school life designed to create connections among members of the SCA community. The goal of advisory is for students to connect with a particular adult and group of students who get to know them well and who can help encourage their personal development. Freshmen are in specific advisory groups that address topics including organization and study skills, building healthy friendships, and getting acclimated to high school. Sophomores are assigned to a new advisory of mixed grades that typically they keep for the duration of high school. Advisory groups meet daily to enjoy each other's company and discuss a variety of topics, including academics, personal goals, and faith.