Academics

Mercy's academics are rigorous, innovative and focused on the critical thinking, writing, research, and communication skills that students will need to lead in college, in the workplace, and in the world. At Mercy, students practice skills that help them learn and investigate concepts that help them engage with complex global challenges. Using an inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning, Mercy’s courses foster creative thinking and reflection to empower graduates for a lifetime of learning.

International Baccalaureate

Mercy High School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the Middle Years Programme!

IB World Schools share a common philosophy—a commitment to improve the teaching and learning of a diverse and inclusive community of students by delivering challenging, high quality programs of international education that share a powerful vision.

According to its Mission Statement, the International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programs of international education and rigorous assessment. These programs encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

Our Academic Program

The academic program at Mercy High School is an opportunity for students to experience success in college preparatory classes. Mercy offers a supportive learning environment which fosters creativity, thoughtfulness, and an awareness of an individual's responsibility to the greater community. Members of the faculty serve each student by being attentive to her academic needs and by guiding her through the challenges of all four years of high school.

The Catherine McCauley Honors Program

Program Requirements

Achieve an overall average of "B" or better in final grades each year
Participate in one co-curriculuar or extra-curricular activity each year
Enroll in seven courses in their junior year
Complete and present a research project in senior year

Advanced Placement

Advanced Placement is offered in the following courses: Language and Composition, Literature and Composition, Calculus, Advanced Calculus, U. S. History and Introduction to Psychology.

Advanced Placement (AP) offers the highly motivated student the opportunity to take college level courses that will prepare her for the rigors of the Advanced Placement Examinations. Students may earn college credit in this way. Although the best preparation for an AP examination is the AP course, AP courses are not a requirement for sitting for the AP exams. AP exams have been taken, for example, in U.S. Government, French and Spanish.