Frequently Asked Questions
Academic Matters
Q: Is there “ability grouping” at St. Dominic Savio?
A: St. Dominic Savio has only one course of study—college preparatory. In order to provide a quality educational experience, SDS has developed three college preparatory pathways—STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Honors, and Accelerated. These pathways differ in the courses offered, and speed and depth to which the material is covered. As an example, students in the STEM pathway will have a STEM seminar class every day, while students in the honors and accelerated pathway will not.
Q: What are the advantages of having three pathways?
A: The pathways allow us to tailor our curriculum to the abilities and interests of our students. By placing students in an appropriate pathway, students in all pathways are eligible for academic awards. Likewise, students throughout each pathway are eligible for membership in the National Honor Society.
Q: How are students placed in a pathway?
A: In general, we use the composite score your son/daughter received on the placement test and his/her academic transcript. However, we also consider teacher recommendations and information gained during student interviews.
Q: Can a student change pathways?
A: Yes. All freshmen will be evaluated during the first marking period and again at the end of the year. If a student has done well (an A average would be required) AND his/her teachers and guidance counselor recommend a move AND there are available spaces, a student can change pathways.
Q: My son/daughter is currently taking Algebra I. Can he/she place out of Algebra I as a freshman?
A: Those students who have had a full-year and rigorous Algebra I course in eighth grade may take an Algebra placement exam to determine if they are qualified to start St. Dominic Savio with Geometry. Successful completion of Algebra I in eighth grade and a passing grade on the Algebra I placement exam is required for students interested in the STEM pathway.
Q: My son/daughter is taking Spanish in eighth grade. Can he/she start with Spanish II at SDS?
A: Those students who have had a full-year and rigorous Spanish I course in eighth grade may take a Spanish placement exam in May to determine if they are qualified to start St. Dominic Savio with Spanish II.
Q: What kind of services will the Guidance Department offer to St. Dominic Savio students?
A: Each student will be assigned a guidance counselor who will normally remain his/her counselor during the students’ tenure at SDS. In the freshman year, students will meet with their counselor and discuss their transition to SDS and their academic program. Students experiencing academic difficulties meet with their counselor who will work closely with teachers and parents. A student’s guidance counselor will also be their college counselor.