Academic Excellence and Curriculum
At Nazareth, we empower students to achieve success as lifelong learners with a global vision. Our graduates leave not only prepared for the academic rigors of university, but also as compassionate leaders committed to service.
Why Nazareth?
Through a rigorous and innovative curriculum, including Honors and AP® coursework, we prepare students for the next level of their academic journey.
Our unique Block Schedule and integrated Educational Technology enhance student engagement, while our commitment to the values of Scholarship, Service, Spirit, and Unity creates a community of lifelong learners. Nazareth provides the prestigious State Seal of Biliteracy program and has been proudly recognized by the College Board every year since 2023 for its excellence in AP® program delivery.
A Tiered Approach to Success
We offer three distinct academic levels to ensure every student is appropriately challenged and supported on their path to higher education.
- College Prep: The standard for all Nazareth courses, designed to exceed diverse college entrance requirements.
- Honors Level: Accelerated coursework for qualified students in English, World Languages, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
- Advanced Placement (AP®): College-level courses approved by the College Board, offering the opportunity to earn university credit.
Advanced Placement Classes
Our AP® program allows students to engage in rigorous study across a wide variety of disciplines.
Department Course Offerings
- Mathematics & Computer Science: Precalculus, Calculus AB/BC, Computer Science A, Computer Science Principles, Statistics
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics C Mechanics
- Humanities: English Language & Composition, English Literature & Composition, European History, U.S. History
- World Languages: French Language & Culture, Spanish Language & Culture
- Fine Arts: Art and Design
Course Selection and Placement
Incoming freshmen receive course recommendations based on grades and test scores, including the High School Placement Test (HSPT). Every semester moving forward, students work closely with their academic counselor on course selections to ensure they are enrolled in appropriate and challenging courses and fulfilling graduation requirements.
Overview of a Four-Year Schedule
Students typically schedule six or seven classes per semester. Below is an example of a standard progression:
Accreditation
Accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED) and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Nazareth Academy is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory high school dedicated to educating the whole person.
Seal of Biliteracy
Nazareth Academy is pleased to offer a pathway to the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy, which honors high school seniors who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in one or more languages, in addition to English.
The Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to those whose proficiency level in English and a second language is equivalent to Intermediate-High or above, as determined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. The Commendation toward Biliteracy is awarded to students whose English and/or second language proficiency level is rated at Intermediate-Low or Intermediate-Mid.
A student who meets the requirements will receive this award on their transcript and diploma upon graduation.