Curriculum
We are committed to providing our high school students with exceptional educational opportunities. Our dual enrollment program is a shining example of this commitment, offering juniors and seniors a unique chance to not only pursue their personal interests through elective courses but also experience the rigor and pace of university-level study.
To maximize the use of their time and talents, our students follow an innovative eight-day block rotation schedule, ensuring that they receive a well-rounded and enriching education that prepares them for success in both their academic and personal pursuits.
Academic Offerings
The Engineering & Technology department strives to provide students with opportunities to identify, develop, and document design solutions to a variety of practical applications.
The AHN English Department aims to cultivate critical thinking through an inquiry-based approach to reading and writing.
The Fine Arts Department prioritizes defining a path for a student to develop, improve and excel in the arts.
The Math Department builds on the foundational skills obtained through Pre-Algebra and Algebra 1, and develops the standards of mathematical practice in students through Algebra 2, Geometry, Precalculus, Calculus and Statistics.
The Health & Fitness Department’s goal is to develop individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity.
Students at the Academy begin their science courses in biology to engage students in the study of life, while simultaneously being exposed to complex scientific skills such as asking questions, developing models, analyzing and interpreting data and engaging in arguments based on evidence.
The Social Studies Department prepares students to be more informed, critical thinkers in society through a diverse curriculum fostering a student’s individual thinking about challenging concepts and relevant issues that link the past, present, and future.
The Academy's World Language Department aims to create an intellectually challenging and diverse academic environment to broaden a student’s intercultural perspective and enable her to communicate confidently in another language.
The Christological centrality of the theology curriculum is designed to form the content of instruction as well as to be a vehicle for growth in one’s relationship with the Lord so that each may come to know him and live according to the truth he has given to us.
Transcript Distinctions
Students have the opportunity to earn transcript distinctions by following specialized curriculum pathways in various areas, enabling them to delve deeper into their individual interests or passions. These pathways encompass a wide range of academic pursuits, empowering students to excel in fields such as STEM, humanities, and fine arts. Our current distinctions include:
- AHN Scholars
- Fine Arts
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- World Languages
honors & Advanced placement courses
At the High School, we emphasize "Placement for Success" in alignment with the SNJM Sisters' vision to nurture faith-filled, inquisitive, innovative, independent, and empathic young women. Student admissions and course placements are determined through a comprehensive evaluation process, including High School Placement Test (HSPT ©) scores, prior academic performance, standardized tests, teacher recommendations, and relevant placement assessments.
We offer Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses in English, math, social studies, world languages, science, and art, providing an opportunity for college credit with a score of 3, 4, or 5 on the National Exam. For detailed course information, please refer to the Academy Academic Catalog.
Dual Enrollment
The Academy offers a dual enrollment program through the University of Florida and the University of South Florida for students in their junior and/or senior year. Both programs give our students the opportunity to earn college credit through fully accredited four-year universities. Upon successful completion of dual enrollment courses, students receive increased options for transferring earned credits to other four-year institutions. Students are assigned an independent study into their schedule to allow them time during the school day to take their dual enrollment course. Students are permitted to take a maximum of one UF or USF course per semester.
Block Rotation
The block rotation cycle allows for a complete rotation of every set across eight days. This rotation provides students the opportunity to go into greater depth in their academic subjects as each class meets for an extended period of time, approximately 75-80 minutes. A rotating block schedule avoids the same class always meeting at the beginning of the day, just before or after lunch, or at the end of the day. Every class gets an early morning, mid, and late learning time for optimal learning experiences for both students and teachers. It also reduces the impact of the athletic early-release time.