Villa Duchesne offers high school students a solid preparation for college and a solid foundation for life. Educators at Villa firmly believe that each young woman at the school has the potential to be a successful student and a full participant in life in the 21st century. Confident, informed, faith-filled, and free, young women leave Villa Duchesne determined to contribute in a world community.
The Curriculum
- A strong college preparatory curriculum with a minimum of 22 credits is required for graduation.
- Students are expected to take seven courses each year, except when they take two Honors and/or AP courses, in which instance, six courses are required.
- Honors courses are offered in French IV, math analysis, physics, and Spanish IV, MEFE, and world literature.
- AP courses are offered in art, biology, Spanish V, calculus, British and American literature, European history, French V, and U.S. history.
- A course carrying college credit from St. Louis University is offered through the 1-8-1-8 program in American literature, U.S. history, and Spanish.
The curricular schedule offers four 75 minute class periods and a flexibly scheduled extra period each day, allowing students time to absorb and reflect as well as time to work in labs, with groups of students, or individually with their teachers. It develops personal responsibility and also allows for:
• liturgies and other forms of spiritual development
• assemblies and guest speakers
• field trips
• service learning in the community
• huddle meetings
• celebration, whether it is an organized, all-school event or free time shared with friends
Special Curriculum Features
Conference/Composition Program in Writing: Each student at Villa Duchesne works individually with her English teacher to develop strong writing skills. She conferences with her instructor to discuss each theme and in subsequent conferences discusses her revision. This technique is the essential element of the Villa students' strong training in written English.
Integrated Technology: Students learn application programs and Internet skills as an integral part of their academic courses. Students in grades 7-12 use 1:1 computing in all their classes. Tablet PCs are wireless and offer students seamless access to research information and a variety of tools to supplement their academic experience.
Studio and Performing Arts: Students with artistic interests are able to pursue a full four years of art while maintaining a solid college preparatory course load. They may also participate in theatrical and musical productions outside of the academic day. Our studio art students are admitted to demanding art programs around the country. Performing art groups consistently win competitive awards.
Service Learning: Students in grades 7-11 integrate classroom study and reflection with community service two afternoons each month. Seniors complete an independent service project of forty hours. This program fosters Goal III of Sacred Heart Education: "a social awareness which impels to action."
Senior Seminar: Seniors come together to meet 10 times during the school year for senior seminar. First semester focuses on the college application process. Second semester focuses on the transition to college life. Outside speakers are included in several sessions.
Network Exchange Program: A junior or senior has the chance to spend a quarter or a semester at another Sacred Heart School in the United States or overseas. It offers families a chance to host a Sacred Heart student who wishes to study at Villa Duchesne.
Computerized Chemistry Program: Chemistry students use a multimedia program that integrates computer, laser videodisk, traditional print, and hands-on activities. Students explore the subject from an inquiry basis and employ a variety of learning styles. Overall, they develop deeper and more effective thinking and analytic skills.
