Skip to main content

Academics

 

Course Catalog CoverDeSales High School is a STEM-certified school that develops the unique talents and abilities of its students by providing a variety of learning experiences both in and out of the classroom. 

The personalized programs of study at DeSales have been designed to provide students with courses that challenge and complement their individual abilities and interests.  DeSales takes pride in its national STEM certification & recognition, allowing every student to be hands-on within every classroom. Immersion Week offers students experiences outside the classroom to show that learning is a life-long process that happens in a variety of settings.

Students who need additional academic help can take advantage of the Learning Resources office, which supports specifically those who are challenged with a particular learning difficulty.

STEM Certified College-Preparatory Catholic School

DeSales High School is a STEM-certified college-preparatory Catholic school that is committed to the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical growth of its students.  We provide challenging, engaging studies in a personalized learning environment, giving special attention to the academic and social needs of each individual student. Embracing high standards of character, commitment, and achievement, DeSales encourages students to think critically and creatively and to act ethically. To these ends, DeSales utilizes proven and effective modes of instruction to educate each individual.

Blended Block Schedule

PBL

For the 24-25 school year, DeSales High School will continue the blended block schedule, integrating both 45-minute classes and block-based learning. On regular days, students experience a diverse schedule with alternating class times, promoting adaptability. Twice a month, the school hosts "Block Schedule Project-Based Learning Days" with extended class periods for immersive, hands-on activities and in-depth subject exploration. This innovative schedule combines the strengths of both formats, providing students with a well-rounded, engaging education that prepares them for success in a changing world. 

Levels of Coursework

 

Coursework at DeSales is based on state and national standards for each discipline.  Further, the Programs of Study are designed to meet the minimum Kentucky Core Curriculum while allowing students the opportunity to participate in learning experiences unique to their post-secondary goals.  Students may elect to participate in Advanced Placement/Dual Credit classes and other educational experiences designed to meet their learning goals. We offer a personalized program of study allowing students to take courses across three academic levels - Academic, Scholastic, or Honors. 

Academic courses are designed for students who may need additional academic support to experience success during their high school career.  Students enrolled in academic level courses may be planning to attend a technical college, community college, or another form of post-secondary training upon graduation from high school.  This program ensures that students earn the required credits prescribed in the Kentucky Core Curriculum.

Scholastic courses are designed for students who demonstrate average or above average proficiency in the areas of reading, language and mathematics.  The courses are designed to ensure that students earn the required credits prescribed in the Kentucky Core Curriculum, in addition to a minimum of two years of the same world language study.  The Kentucky Core Curriculum courses and the two year minimum world language study requirement will prepare students to pursue post-secondary education at both two and four year colleges and universities.

Honors courses are designed to provide students the academic background they will need to be successful in a college or university setting and to allow those students the opportunity to gain college credit while still enrolled in high school.  Students who demonstrate strength in the areas of reading, language and mathematics will benefit the most from the Honor courses of Study.
 

*Students taking Honor courses who wish to achieve the award of ‘Distinction’ at Graduation are expected to enroll in a minimum of six Honors level courses and enroll in a minimum of four College Board endorsed Advanced Placement courses or dual credit courses.  In addition to the Kentucky Core Curriculum and the opportunity to participate in AP or dual credit courses, the Distinction Program requires a minimum of three years of the same world language study with the option of a fourth year of study. 

 

Members of the Student Services Team will meet with each student to formulate a comprehensive academic plan for the student while he is enrolled at DeSales.  These plans are fluid, so as student interests and abilities change, the plan may be modified to best meet the needs of the individual student.  Placement decisions for coursework will be based on a review of placement test scores, prior student work, consultation with faculty, and consultation with the family.  It is the intention of DeSales High School to assist every young man to alleviate any learning barriers and to reach his full potential for success.

 

Interested in hearing more?  Please contact Assistant Principal Aaron Gottbrath at (502) 368-6519.