Program of Studies 21-22

College Partnerships Notre Dame High School has partnered with a number of colleges and universities which enables our students to earn college credit while completing their high school requirements. This paradigm gives our students an academic and financial edge when applying to colleges and universities.

Concentrations Notre Dame Concentrations are used to customize, focus, and enhance the student’s academic experience. Similar to a college minor, Notre Dame Concentrations allow students to specialize their schedules to reflect their interest in either the field of Communications or Applied Sciences. Eligible students will choose from a series of classes, uniquely focused on their selected concentration. As students work towards their graduation requirements, they can embrace the opportunity to have their high school coursework reflect their desired career path. Students may apply for acceptance into either the Applied Science Concentration or the Communications Concentration. Course selection worksheets are available at the end of this Program of Studies and in the College and School Counseling Office.

The Experior Program Experior v. (Latin) - do, try, experience The Experior Program offers two options that encourage students to continue learning outside of the traditional classroom.

3910 Independent Research Project (11, 12) 2.5 Credits The Independent Research Project (IRP) is an experience-based, customizable learning opportunity offered to Juniors and Seniors. It is worth 2.5 credits and has flexible placement during a single school semester, across an entire school year, or in the summer. The IRP is a 1:1 learner-led program in which a teacher/mentor and a student explore an area of interest selected by the student. Under the direction of the mentor, the student studies the selected research area, visits sites related to the subject, completes original research through projects or experimentation, and speaks with professionals in the field. It is a unique opportunity for students to guide their own learning simply by following their passion. This initiative results in student personal growth as well as provides experience worthy of reflection in college essays and interviews.

To be considered for an Independent Research Project, a student must complete a Research Project Proposal and have met with the Experior Program Coordinator. A complete Independent Research Project will include: collecting quality sources, interviewing professionals in the field, completing fieldrelated experiences, visiting a related event or site, and creating an original presentation of the research. This course receives a numeric grade based on rubrics designed collaboratively by the student and the mentor. To serve as examples, past Independent Research Projects have included the following titles: 100 Days of Poetry, A Study of Veteran History, An Original Fashion Collection, Reinventing the Wheel: An Investigation into the Physics of the Bicycle Wheel, The Effects of Yoga on Mental Health, and Climate Change: Teaching Without Bias. (Communications Concentration, Applied Science Concentration) 5