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Departments
Departments

Academic Departments at JC

Click on a department below for an overview of its focus and available courses.

Computer Science 

The Computer Science Department, located in our new Innovation Center, provides students the opportunity to develop 21st century skills in Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence with Data Analytics, Java Programming, and two Advanced Placement Computer Science classes. Using state of the art equipment, students will garner knowledge and skills that will accelerate our Patriots through an IT world with infinite opportunities. Course offerings in the Computer Science Department include:

  • AP Computer Science A
  • AP Computer Science Principles
  • Java Programming
  • Cyber Security
  • Artificial Intelligence with Data Analytics
English

The English curriculum challenges students to use literature as a tool for discovering, understanding, analyzing, and evaluating self, society, national identities, and global responsibilities. 

Over the course of four years of English, our students engage with a diverse body of texts, with each grade level approaching the study of literature through a specific lens:

  • English 9 – Discovering Self through Literature
  • English 10 – Understanding Society through Literature
  • English 11 – Analyzing American Identities through Literature
  • English 12 – Evaluating Global Responsibility through Literature

In addition to this broad study of literature, there is a structured scope of formal writing assignments across all four grade levels, with an emphasis on the research process and critical analysis. 

Honors classes are offered in each of the grade levels, and Advanced Placement Program provides juniors and seniors the opportunity to engage with an introductory-level college English curriculum. AP English Language and Composition (Grade 11) focuses on rhetorical analysis of non-fiction texts and the development of evidence-based analytical and argumentative writing, while AP English Literature and Composition (Grade 12) focuses on critical reading and analysis of poetry and fiction.  

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 

As a result of the quality of instruction and personal attention that our AP students receive, they perform well above the state average, as indicated by our most recent AP test results:

  • AP Language and Composition - Juniors who took the exam in 2021 earned a mean score of 3.94 (compared to 2.98 for Maryland) with a 100% pass rate (compared to 61.8% for Maryland)
  • AP Literature and Composition - Seniors who took the exam in 2021 earned a mean score of 3.06 (compared to 2.5 for Maryland) with a 70.6% pass rate (compared to 46.1% for Maryland)

Overall, the John Carroll English program provides a guided study of literature, composition, and oral communication that enables our students to develop the skills necessary to succeed at the college level as well as in their professional careers. 

Fine Arts

The Arts at John Carroll play an integral role in academic and co-curricular school life, promoting divergent, creative, critical thinking skills while effectively communicating through sensory expression. Developing an understanding and appreciation of the artistic achievements of people from different times, places and cultures plays a key role. A discipline-based curriculum addressing sequential development of knowledge and skills, aesthetic and spiritual dimensions flourish through diverse and substantive offerings in the Visual, Performing and Literary Arts. Students with extraordinary talent and commitment in these areas may pursue a Diploma with Distinction in Fine Arts, beginning their arts career as freshmen, and opening additional opportunities as upperclassmen. The success of this program has led many students to outstanding colleges, including University of the Arts, NYU – Tisch, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Savannah College of Art and Design, Maryland Institute College of Art, Art Institute of Chicago, and Rochester Institute of Technology.

Through both traditional studio classes and technology-based computer classes, in the Visual Arts program students challenge the boundaries of the ordinary. From AP Studio to architecture, a myriad of courses broadens their horizons and expressive capacities as they learn to design their futures.

The Performing Arts program presents an unparalleled quality and variety of music, theatre and dance opportunities.  Whether in the classroom, award-winning productions and concerts, or supporting the school in assemblies and extracurricular activities, this department has it all, including a College Preparatory Dance Program that provides conservatory-level training as part of coursework. Extracurricular dance is also available through the on-campus Academy of Performing Arts and Dance.

Courses in creative writing, journalism, and yearbook journalism offer tremendous opportunities for students with a penchant for writing, photography, and graphic design. The Literary Arts program has garnered national recognition with an extensive list of awards for The Patriot, Pacificus, and Pinnacle publications.

For discipline specific information, please see the dropdown menu under Arts and feel free to contact Julie Parrish, Director of Performing Arts at jparrish@johnarroll.org or Lisa Collins, Fine Arts Department Chair at lcollins@johncarroll.org with any questions.

Math

The Mathematics Department provides a college preparatory curriculum in which students are taught to value mathematics as a necessary tool in today’s global society and to be effective problem solvers. Each teacher presents material analytically, verbally, numerically, and graphically by using various forms of technology. Through the study of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics students become critical thinkers better equipped to solve real-world problems.

A notable strength in the Mathematics Department is the collaboration of teachers as they work together planning lessons, sharing materials, and helping each other. Members of the department have an impressive number of years of teaching experience, which is reflected in the variety of teaching methods and materials used in instruction. The mathematics faculty recognizes the ongoing need for professional development, and they take advantage of the opportunities to attend workshops and conferences both during the school year and in the summer to revise and improve the curriculum as appropriate.

Religion

The mission of the religion department is to invite students to deepen their awareness of God’s presence in their lives, to appreciate the rich history of the Catholic Church, to make informed choices guided by the teaching tradition of the Church and to worship intelligently in the school community and their parish communities. To achieve this end a series of courses covering the person of Jesus, the teachings of the Catholic Church, Catholic morality, the Scriptures, peace and justice, world religions, and Christian life are presented to the students. Each student enrolls in a religion course every semester.

In addition to coursework, every day starts with morning prayer and prayer precedes every class. A weekday mass or prayer service is celebrated on Tuesdays after Advisory time and “all-school” masses occur about once a month. Each grade participates in an annual retreat.

Grade 9 Courses:

  • The Revelation of Jesus Christ in Scripture – a general introduction to the Bible and especially of Jesus’s message in the Gospels.
  • Who is Jesus Christ? – a very specific focus on the person of Jesus Christ and his place as the revelation of God among us and his place in the Trinity.

Grade 10 Courses:

  • The Mission of Jesus Christ (The Paschal Mystery) – a view of Jesus emphasizing his life, death and resurrection, and what that means for us as disciples.
  • Jesus Christ’s Mission Continues in the Church – seeing the Church as empowered by the Holy Spirit and the means through which we can encounter Jesus.

Grade 11 Courses:

  • Sacraments as Privileged Encounters with Jesus Christ – an examination of the seven sacraments and especially the Eucharist as encounters with God through Jesus.
  • Life in Jesus Christ – reflecting the Beatitudes in our lives and observing the commandments as we mirror God’s love reflected in Jesus’ life.

Grade 12 Courses:

  • Social Justice – an introduction to the social teaching of the Church and Jesus’ concern for others, especially the poor and needy.
  • Christian Life – invites students to reflect on their life choices.
  • Ecumenical and Interreligious Issues – examines the relationship of the Church to other traditions.
  • Introduction to Philosophy (Honors) – examines the basic questions of existence and how these pertain to the self and Jesus Christ.
  • Honors Exploration of Human Rights, Genocide, and the Pursuit of Justice - provide the tools students need to perpetuate the messages and lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides.
Science

The science curriculum provides an academic, college preparatory program that seeks to foster an interest in scientific knowledge and careers. The program provides courses and electives in four major fields of science: biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. In an effort to accommodate the diverse needs and interests of the student population, all core sciences have three levels: College Preparatory, Honors, and Advanced Placement. Electives include Forensic Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Marine Biology, Zoology, Introduction to Engineering, Robotics, and AP Research. Extracurricular science activities include the Envirothon Team, Chemathon Team, Science Quiz Bowl Team, Robotics Club, Aerospace Club, and Science Olympiad Team.

The Science Department faculty incorporate a variety of teaching methods designed to meet the needs of the different learning styles of the students. Technology is incorporated into lessons through the use of computer lab simulations, research work, data collection interfaces and sensors, and note taking. Enrichment is provided through outside learning experiences, such as job shadowing and internships and field trips to science events and businesses. The Diploma with Distinction in Science Program is also available to interested students who will graduate with at least five credits in science, conduct a senior project related to science, and meet other specified grade and science-related experience requirements.

Social Studies

The John Carroll School Social Studies Department seeks to develop innovative thinkers, problem solvers, and world changers! Each teacher is tasked with the mission of cultivating the love of learning in every student and challenging students to develop critical 21st century skills.

The department strives to equip and prepare students with a proper appreciation for the principles and practices of social science inquiry. Along with the encouragement of recognizing and respecting the diversity of humankind and a variety of opinions and perspectives, students are trained in research and analytical reasoning skills to both defend their own position and to consider alternative views. A strong emphasis in the department is placed on academic rigor and real-world application. Teachers recognize that we live in an ever changing dynamic world and as such our curriculum seeks to integrate a recognition of past forces that are shaping our modern world. Courses are offered both in broad conceptual understanding of topics and areas of social science as well as more intricate and specific areas of study.

The JC Social Studies Course Offerings

  • Human Geography
  • Western Civilization
  • United States Government
  • United States History
  • Post 1945 US History
  • Psychology
  • Anthropology
  • Economics

The Social Studies Department is also excited to be the home of John Carroll's FLEX Program (Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurial Exploration). Our Flex Program seeks to challenge students to become more engaged in the area of finances, economics, business development, and the process of problem solving.

Beyond the traditional curriculum and our FLEX program, the department seeks to emphasize the importance of technology integration, both as a research tool and as a presentation and communication tool to prepare students for twenty-first-century learning. Additionally, students are challenged by faculty to utilize technology, primarily Web 2.0 tools, to further their understanding and awareness of a vast array of social science issues.

Finally, beyond our classroom walls and personal screens, the Social Studies Department seeks to engage students in a variety of outside-the-classroom experiences and opportunities. Some of the opportunities available to students are as follows:

  • Student Government Association
  • Speech and Debate Team
  • Maryland Student Page Program
  • Morning Star Native American PowWow
  • Psychology Fair
World Languages

The World Languages Department offers four-year sequential programs in French, German, and Spanish. There is a range of classes for all ability levels, including Advanced Placement. School facilities include a Language Lab where students work to perfect their listening and speaking skills in the target languages. The commitment of the department members to excellence in instruction and respect for students combines to achieve a positive climate of mutual growth and acceptance. Our goal is to enable our students to develop language proficiency in oral, written, reading, and comprehension skills.

Foreign Exchanges

The John Carroll School has exchanged with schools in France, Germany and Spain. Exchanges give our students exposure to the culture and spoken language that is unavailable in the classroom. These valuable experiences have allowed our students to form close friendships throughout the world. The school enthusiastically supports these varied and important programs. Students also have ample opportunities to travel. Countries visited in recent years include Costa Rica, England, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Scotland.

International Student Program

The School welcomes admission to qualified international applicants as one-semester or one-year exchange students, as well as to students who are interested in pursuing a John Carroll diploma. As part of the admissions process, students are required to complete an interview and take the TOEFL test. Based on their language proficiency, students may be placed in the Culture and Communications course. International students become integral members of the community by attending classes, joining teams, and participating in a variety of extracurricular activities. Students live with individual host families, many of which have children attending the School. Male students also have the option of living in the dorm on campus. The School community strives to prepare its students “to serve responsibly in shaping a more just and compassionate global society.” The International Student Program supports this part of the School’s mission statement by fostering international friendship, promoting intercultural understanding, and developing foreign language skills. For additional information, please view the International page.

School Counseling

The John Carroll School Counseling Department

The John Carroll School Counseling Department has the unique position to observe and support the whole person. Counselors provide a mental health perspective who understand and respond to the challenges presented by today’s diverse student population. Counselors align and work with the school’s mission to support the success of all students as they prepare for the ever-changing world of the 21st century.

True to The John Carroll School mission statement, Counselors are privileged to help with the development of the spiritual, intellectual, physical and social person. Counselors assist students in developing a respect for self and sensitivity to others as they grow through their high school experience and graduate towards adulthood. Counselors continue their relationship with their students throughout all four years, assisting with all aspects of the high school experience.

Transition to High School

Counselors work with small groups and individual students during freshman year to assist with the transition to high school. Counselors discuss academic issues such as: course placement, study skills, organizational skills, grades, preparation for exams, graduation requirements, and planning for the future. Personal issues such as social adjustments, peer relationships, and school involvement are also addressed.

Academic Counseling

Counselors assist students with academic issues including classroom performance, academic difficulty, course selection, study skills, effective communication with teachers, and perspectives on academic credentials. Using a team approach with teachers, support staff and parents, Counselors can help plan steps to improvement and success. Students experiencing learning struggles and difficulties may be interested in investigating the St. Joseph Program. Students should see their Counselor for more information.

Personal Counseling

Often of more immediate importance is the need for personal counseling. Counselors are available to students in many areas of need, with the fullest confidentiality. In particular, students are encouraged to speak one-on-one with their Counselor about concerns such as personal, peer and family relationships, stress, depression, anxiety, concentration difficulties, substance use and abuse, eating issues, self-esteem, pregnancy and suicidal thoughts and feelings. As the need arises, students and families are referred to professional resources outside of The John Carroll School.

Mediation

The purpose of the Mediation Program is for students to meet with a Counselor and resolve conflicts in regards to student disagreements and low-level disciplinary problems. Students will meet in a private, safe and confidential setting until the identified issue is resolved. Referrals to the Mediation Program will be submitted by administration.

Bullying, Harassment, Intimidation Policy

Bullying, harassment, or intimidation of any student on school property or at school-sponsored functions or by the use of electronic technology is prohibited in all Archdiocese of Baltimore Schools. Such behaviors are contrary to school life in a Christ-centered community, which respects the dignity and uniqueness of all God’s children. To foster a school environment where all students are educated in a safe and caring atmosphere, all Archdiocesan schools will follow established procedures for prevention and intervention. Students should see a Counselor immediately or complete an Archdiocese of Baltimore Reporting Form.

School Life

Counselors also participate in many activities throughout the school year, thus interacting and experiencing students in various situations. Senior Unity Day, Homecoming, Spirit Week, Team Building, Class Retreats, Pep Rallies, Athletic Events, Fine Arts and Music Program Events, Theatre Productions, Junior Ring Dance, Senior Prom, Senior Project, Graduation, among others. These activities allow students and Counselors to establish closer bonds.

Communications with Counselors

College Counseling

The College Counseling program at The John Carroll School is designed to assist students through the college search and application process. Although the college admission process is often perceived to be highly stressful and daunting, our belief is that through proper education, self-knowledge, and access to our professional resources, the stress will be alleviated and our students can take ownership of the process.

While each student will have a School Counselor to help them with academic and personal issues, they will also be working with their College Counselor whose sole objective is to work with the students during their college search and application process.

Through individual conferences, classes in both junior and senior year, and a variety of special events, the College Counselor teaches research and decision-making skills while helping students better understand themselves and their options. The goal of the program is to support each student in identifying colleges and universities which are a good match for his or her interests, needs, and aspirations, while also supporting the student and family throughout the application process.

While well-supported every step of the way, students are given increasing responsibility for this process over the course of the junior and senior years. It is our objective that the students have complete ownership of the process in the end, and that they are on their way to a college that is right for them when they graduate.

Timeline

9th grade:

  • Access to the College Center
  • PSAT exam in October
  • Paying for College Information Night
  • NCAA Athletics Information Night

10th grade:

  • Access to the College Center
  • PSAT exam in October
  • Paying for College Information Night
  • NCAA Athletics Information Night
  • John Carroll College Fair in the spring

11th grade:

  • Access to the College Center
  • PSAT exam in October
  • Paying for College Information Night
  • NCAA Athletics Information Night
  • John Carroll College Fair
  • Access to Family Connection through the Naviance program
  • Junior College Planning classes built into the schedule
  • Individual student meetings with the College Counselor
  • Junior Parent College Information Nights (fall and spring)
  • SAT practice test and score review session
  • Small group meetings with college representatives
  • Family meetings with the College Counselor
  • Access to summer Head Start application and essay writing class

12th grade

  • Access to the College Center
  • Access to Family Connection through the Naviance program
  • Senior College Planning classes with the College Counselor
  • Individual student meetings with the College Counselor
  • Family meetings with the College Counselor
  • Financial Aid Information Night
  • Small group meetings with college representatives
College Fairs

John Carroll has a college fair in the spring semester for sophomores and juniors. We bring in schools from all over the nation to meet with and inform our students about colleges and universities. Information regarding fairs will be provided to students via all communication methods and more information can also be found in the College Counseling offices and College Center.

College Rep Visits

Each fall representatives from different colleges and universities visit John Carroll to present information about their school and meet with our students. The reps are often the admissions counselor that will be reviewing your application to their institution. These visits are open to both juniors and seniors and you can attend up to 6 visits each year. Visit dates and times are located on Naviance and student must register via Naviance (link) to attend the meetings.

If you are a College Representative looking to schedule a visit time, please log on to RepVisits.com. Visits are limited to 30 minutes.

College Center

The College Center at John Carroll School is a resource room for students in all grade levels to complete college research. With bookshelves full of college related books and SAT/ACT study guides, a wall shelf displaying hundreds of college brochures, a large meeting table lined with several office style chairs, an additional work table, and a bureau with several college/testing/financial aid related magazines and brochures for the taking, John Carroll students have every college-search related item they need at their fingertips! Students are free to use the College Center on their free mods, before school and after school. College repetitive meetings with students are also held in the College Center, as well as family meetings with the College Counselor.

Communication with College Counselors

Meet your College Counselor

Mrs. Kelly Smith A-K - Mrs. Smith comes to John Carroll from having spent 9 years working in undergraduate admissions at 2 Maryland state schools, UMBC and Towson. Mrs. Smith will be working with students with last names beginning A-K. Her office is located in the Student Services hallway and she can be reached at ksmith@johncarroll.org as well as via phone at 410-879-2480 X 2053

Mrs. Carrie Siemsen L-Z – Mrs. Siemsen has been a School Counselor for the past 16 years and has been at John Carroll for 9 years and will be working with students with the last names beginning L-Z. Her office is in the Student Services hallway, and she can be reached at csiemsen@johncarroll.org or via phone at 410-879-2480 x2055