Introduction & Mission Statement

Villa Maria Academy, a Catholic college-preparatory school for girls, rooted in the Charism of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, empowers young women to lead lives of spiritual growth, intellectual inquiry and Christian service.

As Villa Maria Academy approaches its sesquicentennial in 2022, the academic program looks to ensure a premium 21st Century educational experience that challenges each student to develop her God-given potential through:

• Strengthening the current academic program to support learning that is collaborative, creative, cultural and global in scope, as well as interdisciplinary and technologically appropriate.

• Cultivating an environment where the technology infrastructure and learning space support a 21st Century academic program.

• Implementing an effective faculty professional learning community that provides the time and resources for teachers to grow in their knowledge of innovative, research-based pedagogy.

Propelled by its mission of educating young women to be critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, and collaborative citizens with strong communication skills, the course of studies is arranged to equip the student with the skills necessary to support that mission and to continue her learning through life. Villa Maria requires students to meet a sequence of coursework in a canon of subjects: Theology, English, Mathematics, Science, World Language, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Computer Science, Physical Education, and Health & Wellness. Villa Maria students also are required to participate in a Capstone experience that is the broadest application of their learning and research skills. These academic requirements are enhanced by required annual retreats and service learning requirements.

Our students are expected to pursue a course of study that will continually reinforce acquisition of knowledge at the highest levels, with a mind toward preparation for a learning terrain that is defined by tomorrow’s limitless boundaries of technology and innovation. Coursework at every level of instruction requires a learner who can think and work independently and collaboratively. Honors courses are taught at an accelerated pace to challenge the academically competent student who is able to pursue in-depth study. For those students ready and able to do college-level work, 24 Advanced Placement courses are provided. In order to fully benefit from these accelerated courses, the student is required to take responsibility for extensive outside content preparation. Traditional coursework is supported by opportunities for occupational experiences and research in addition to direct opportunities for test preparation.

The annual Academic Catalog has been prepared to help the student select her courses for the upcoming school year as part of an overall match with college and major interests in preparation for career planning. Course selection decisions are made with the guidance of teachers, counselors, administrators and with the approval of parents. The student is expected to continue in those courses so elected for the entire year.

With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the tireless efforts of a dedicated faculty, and the consistently effective study of the student, these years at Villa Maria afford an excellent opportunity to build a solid foundation for a successful college education and the attainment of life’s goals.