About St. Mary's Academic System
St. Mary’s School embraces a unique and innovative approach to learning by utilizing a module system instead of traditional trimesters or quarters.
This system is a fundamental part of how students at St. Mary’s excel academically, using their strengths and interests to achieve academic success.
So, what exactly is the Mod System?
At St. Mary, the academic year is divided into seven 26-day modules,
where students attend 4 class periods (three 90-minute classes and one 45-minute class).
The 90-minute classes are core classes needed to graduate, such as Math, Science, English, Art, etc.
Moreover, St. Mary’s also recognizes the importance of nurturing students’ diverse interests beyond core subjects.
That’s why St. Mary's allocate 45 class periods beyond the core curriculum.
These classes function as elective classes and are still required to graduate; however, they enable students to flourish in their interests. These classes include music, art, language, cooking, business, or even writing your very own books.
Mods 1 -7 2023-24 School Year
5 Pros of the Mod System from the students
#1 Flexibility and Uniqueness
You can choose whatever classes you like from various choices as long as it meets credit requirements every year. As a result, students have different schedules.
#2 Learning your limits
You learn what you can handle, which teachers fit you, and more about your type of student.
#3 Appealing to colleges
Learning in a mod system shows that you are capable of a fast-paced environment and how you can handle different types of courses.
#4 You can take more courses in less time
Unlike traditional schools where you take English for a whole year, at St. Mary’s, you are only required to take three bins of English a year (about three months), with a variety of options to choose from.
#5 Many Breaks
You have traditional breaks like spring, winter, and Thanksgiving, but mod breaks between every mod are about three days long.
Tips for adjusting to the Mod system
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Know your classes in that particular mod and any other extracurriculars such as sports or TMTO.
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Buy the necessary textbooks or materials needed for the class beforehand if you cannot, contact your teacher for other options or substitutes.
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If you're continuing a course from a different mod, consider reviewing before the mod. If you had AP Statistics bin one in mod one and bin two in mod four, consider reviewing because it has been a few months since you studied the subject.
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Ask upperclassmen or friends about the class and if they have any notes or tips they are willing to share.