Curriculum

 

Cultivating Leaders Through a Rigorous College Preparatory Curriculum

Curriculum

John Paul II High School (JPII) is a premier Catholic college preparatory school dedicated to fostering academic excellence, leadership development, and spiritual growth. Our rigorous curriculum, anchored in strong Catholic values, equips students with the knowledge, skills, and faith to become the future leaders of the world.

Academic Excellence:

At JPII, we believe in challenging and inspiring our students to reach their full potential. Our curriculum features:

  • A Strong Core: Students develop a solid foundation in core subjects like English, mathematics, science, social studies, and theology.
  • Advanced Placement (AP) Opportunities: Highly motivated students can pursue AP courses for college credit, gaining a competitive edge in the admissions process.
  • Experienced Faculty: Our dedicated and qualified teachers provide personalized attention and support, fostering a love of learning in every student.
Beyond the Core:

JPII offers a variety of programs to cultivate well-rounded individuals with diverse interests:

  • World Languages: Mastering a second language prepares students for success in a globalized world. We offer a variety of languages, including Spanish, French, and Latin. (Starting with the Class of 2026, two credits of the same world language are required for graduation.)
  • Fine Arts: Explore creativity and artistic expression through our vibrant fine arts program, encompassing music, theatre, visual arts, and more.
  • Next Gen Innovation Lab: This state-of-the-art facility fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.
Faith-Based Leadership:

JPII integrates Catholic faith into the core of our academic experience. We nurture students who are:

  • Morally Grounded: Our curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making and a strong moral compass.
  • Compassionate Leaders: Service-learning programs cultivate empathy and a commitment to social justice.
  • Strong in Faith: Our vibrant campus ministry provides opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection.
Preparing for College and Beyond:

JPII graduates are not only academically prepared, but also confident and well-rounded individuals:

  • College Success: We boast a proven record of graduates gaining admission to top universities across the country.
  • Life-Long Learners: We instill a love of learning that empowers students to thrive throughout their lives.
  • Active Leaders: JPII alumni are making a positive impact in their communities and the world.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community:
JPII welcomes students from all backgrounds and fosters a supportive and inclusive environment. We believe that diversity enriches the learning experience and prepares students to become responsible global citizens.
Join the JPII Family:

John Paul II High School offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for college, leadership, and a life of purpose. We invite you to explore our curriculum, meet our faculty, and experience the JPII difference for yourself.

Learn More: Contact our admissions office to schedule a tour and explore the academic programs offered at JPII High School.

School Year Specific Content - Course Offering Guide
Description of Levels of Courses

Honors and Advanced Placement Courses
The Advanced Placement (AP) Program offers students the opportunity to pursue college-level studies while still in high school and potentially earn college credit. AP courses challenge students while easing their future transition to college. John Paul II High School offers multiple Honors and AP courses. We encourage all students to consider participation in one or more of these academically challenging courses.

Dual Credit Courses
The Dual Credit Program, in partnership with Saint Louis University, offers students the opportunity to pursue college-level studies while still in high school and potentially earning both high school and college credit. Dual Credit courses challenge students while easing their future transition to college. John Paul II High School encourages students to consider participation in one or more of these academically challenging courses.

On-level Courses
JPII is a college preparatory high school. While some students will opt to participate in some honors, dual credit, and/or AP classes, many students will take the school’s regular college preparatory classes. These classes are designed to master essential knowledge and skills specific to a given subject and prepare students in the format necessary to master college entrance exams and be extremely prepared to learn at the collegiate level. It is possible for a student to be enrolled in different levels in various courses since placement in one subject is often determined independently of ability in another subject area. If a course is not labeled as honors, dual credit, or AP, it is an on-level course.

Credits Required for Graduation
JPII students must graduate with 29* total credits. Independent Studies, Academic Coaching, and Senior Early Release / Late Arrival courses do not contribute credits towards the 29 credits needed for graduation. Students have at least eight courses scheduled per semester (at least eight possible credits per year) to add to the required total. Students may earn additional credits through some 0 or X hour courses, online classes, JPII summer courses, and other approved programs.

*Beginning with the class of 2027 the total number of credits will be 28.

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Graduation Requirements

 

SUBJECT CREDITS SPECIFIC COURSES
English Language Arts 4 English I, English II, English III, English IV; JPII will not accept 8th grade credit for English I as our curricula and literature selections differ from other schools.
Mathematics 4 Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and one additional selection; students who receive an Algebra I credit from middle school or who have documented a math course level proficiency (e.g., JPII Math Placement Exam) are still required to earn four sequential math credits in high school.
Sciences 4 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and one additional science credit
Social Studies and Economics 4 World Cultures & Geography, World History or European History, United States History, and one semester each of U.S. Government and Macro-Economics
World Languages 2 Starting with the Class of 2026, two credits of the same world language taken in grades 9-12 are required to graduate. For the Classes of 2024 and 2025: Two years of the same world language. For students who earned credit in 7th/8th grade and who pass the JPII placement test in their language, an additional year of world language is required. Students are encouraged to visit with their counselors regarding world language requirements for college admission.
Theology 4 Theology I, Theology II, Theology III, Theology IV. Students transferring from a public or non-Catholic private high school will only be expected to complete Theology classes from the time they enter JPII.
Computer Science 1 All students must take Computer Science.
Physical Education (PE) 1 In addition to traditional PE classes, courses such as athletics, cheerleading, dance, aerobics, drill team, and the fall semester of marching band may fulfill the required two semesters of PE credit.
Fine Arts 1 In addition to traditional fine arts classes, courses such as Academic Decathlon, Academic Octathlon, Dance, the spring semester of marching band, cheerleading, or drill team may count towards the required two semesters of PE credit.
Health 0.5 Students will either take Health I or Health II depending on their grade level. Students who already have Health I credit may take Health II as an elective.
Speech 0.5 Students may earn speech credit through taking Professional Communications, Debate, Oral Interpretation, Academic Decathlon, Theatre Production, or Musical Theatre.
Electives 3 (Starting with Class of 2027 - 2) Students will take additional electives from any department or course offering in the guide (unless the course is labeled as “no credit”). Elective selections can be for personal interest and/or in preparation for college.
Community Service Hours vary by year Each year students will have required hours to complete as part of their promotion to the next grade. All hours must be completed in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.
TOTAL CREDITS 29 (28 Starting with Class of 2027) Credits Required to Earn Graduation and a Diploma from John Paul II High School.