The High School program at Saint Demetrios Prep offers hands-on college preparatory course work through our internal Advance Placement program and our University/College alliance program. We strive for experiences that equip our students to be pioneers, challenging themselves and each other as they develop life skills that prepare them for their roles as the world’s future leaders.
Students in the High School master challenging high school coursework, whether in our accelerated level curriculum, honors courses or through advance placement. All our classes are tailored to their individual learning style and needs to ensure success. Our math program is segmented via our students aptitude, with our accelerated Freshmen starting with Geometry and our sophomores with Algebra 2. Our literature program rests with the foundation of the classics in American, British and Greek literature across genres, generating mastery of language and composition skills.
Our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) program focuses on the real-world application of our classroom learning, hands-on interactive experiences, making connections between disciplines, and building relationships between peers, teachers, and industry professionals. Our students have the opportunity to delve into 3D modeling, design, dance, engineering and robotics, photo/video/digital media, music, art and more.
Our Science and Stem laboratory offers extensive, hands on opportunities in mathematics, computer science and robotics and engineering, biology and chemistry sciences, visual arts and performing arts.
Our students learn by experiencing. Our courses include a myriad of opportunities outside the classroom. In addition, our seniors have the opportunity for dual enrollment at a local partner colleges to pursue independent study programs and apprenticeships.
The Saint Demetrios Preparatory School program produces the complete individual who, upon graduation, is ready to take on a world of opportunities.
ENGLISH
English 9R Full year 1 credit This course provides a sampling of short stories, poems, plays, and full-length novels of representative authors of the Western World, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Of Mice and Men, Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, among others. Select works are studied to create an awareness of Western ideas and values and to develop an understanding of the historical context of those values. The writing component is literature-driven, and aims to nurture critical thinking skills, expository techniques, and a distinctive student voice.
English 10R Full year l credit This course allows students to examine a wide variety of short stories, poetic forms and models, plays, full-length novels, non-fiction and informational texts; in addition, vocabulary acquisition and the thorough review of English grammar, usage, and mechanics continue to receive strong emphasis throughout. Extensive reading from a variety of genres is intrinsic to this course, as is the development of research skills. Literary selections have been chosen as a basis for the continuity of instruction and interdisciplinary understanding, and include a Shakespearean play and Elie Weisel’s memoir Night, among others. The composition program stresses both the analytical and personal response to literature along with primary modes of rhetorical discourse outlined in the NYSED Framework for the English Language Arts. Students will begin to prepare for the NYS Common Core English Regents and the PSAT/SAT exams.
English 11R Full year l credit Representative American authors are studied with an emphasis on understanding their ideas and values, and also with a view towards helping students gain an awareness of historical context. The composition program continues to stress both the analytical and personal response to literature and informational text along with primary modes of rhetorical discourse outlined in the NYSED Framework for the English Language Arts. Since all students will take the New York State Common Core English Regents Examination, intense preparation is offered in realizing the New York State English Language Arts learning standards. Vocabulary acquisition and inquiry-based research skill utilization are stressed throughout the year. Preparation for PSAT/SAT exams is included in the curriculum; in addition, college-style writing and analysis is introduced and developed.
English 12R Full year 1 credit This course presents a global approach to literature based on poetry, short stories, drama, novels, fables, myths and legends from around the world. Students will encounter some of the world’s greatest authors and will be challenged by the relevance of their works and the values inherent in them. Students develop a strong literary background and greater experience with literary discourse, which is utilized in the development of their writing skills. In addition, the course includes a mandatory Senior Project research paper and a variety of portfolio writing assignments. Numerous essays and short readings will be included in the curriculum to model writing techniques. College applications, college essay writing and SAT preparation are also features of this course.
The high school course offerings in mathematics at Saint Demetrios Preparatory High School (SDP) include courses to prepare students for Regents Exams, which are required by the NYSED, and a selection of advanced courses for students to take based on teacher recommendation and/or grades including college requirements.
Courses to Prepare for Regents Exams Starting in Fall 2021, our school is implemented a new math series, eMath Instruction, for all 3 courses that lead to Regents Exams. This series provides high quality materials aligned to the New York State curriculum, including videos on their website (emathinstruction.com) for each lesson. Students can watch these videos to review and reinforce the day’s lesson, or view the videos when they are absent for a lesson.
Algebra I: Students taking Algebra I will explore a variety of topics within algebra including linear, exponential, quadratic, and polynomial equations and functions. Students will achieve fluency in solving linear and quadratic equations as well as with manipulation of polynomials using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and factoring. Students will understand the key differences between linear and exponential functions. Students learn to model problems using algebra, functions, sequences, probability, and statistics.
Geometry: Students taking Geometry will acquire tools to help them explore two-dimensional and three-dimensional space. These tools include Euclidean geometry, rigid motion transformations, dilations and similarity, and coordinate geometry. Students will learn how to prove various geometric facts about triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles by using axiomatic proof and coordinate geometry proof. Finally, students will model real world objects using geometric formulas for perimeter, area, and volume. Three dimensional objects such as prisms, pyramids, cones, cylinders, and spheres will be used in a variety of models.
Algebra II: Students taking Algebra II will learn about a variety of advanced topics in algebra. Students will expand their understanding about functions by learning about polynomial, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. These new functions along with linear, quadratic, and exponential, will be used to model a variety of problems, including compound interest, complex numbers, growth and decay, projectile motion, and periodic phenomena. Polynomial and rational algebra is extensively covered including advanced factoring and polynomial long division. Advanced work in probability is included that focuses on the use of conditional probability. Extensive statistics work is done to help students understand how population parameters can help to infer properties about populations.
Additional Courses in Mathematics SAT Mathematics Prep: This course reviews key mathematics topics for the SAT, ACT, and PSAT exams. Practice SAT math sections are also completed and reviewed in this course, especially just before the PSAT and SAT exam dates for our school.
Pre-College Math: For students who have already passed all required Regents Exams in mathematics for graduation, this course is intended to help students sharpen the math skills that were accumulated in those courses. The course focuses on algebraic concepts that are useful for students taking or retaking college entrance exams (SAT or ACT) and college placement exams, and are needed to build a strong foundation in math. The course topics will include solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities; exponent and polynomial rules; factoring; quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions; systems of equations; radical expressions and equations; and any additional topics selected by the instructor.
Career and Financial Management
Course Description: Students will be introduced to the concepts and skills required for success in today’s workplace. In an introduction to business, students will understand the global economic environment; business organizations, management, operations, and technology; and personal financial management. Practical applications that connect students to the business world will be applied. This course meets NYSED requirements.
College Advantage Program Saint Demetrios High School is a participating school in the College Advantage Program through Saint John’s University. This program provides qualifying high school juniors and seniors with the opportunity to enroll concurrently in high school and credit bearing St. John’s courses. Upon graduation from Saint Demetrios High School, the college credits are accepted by most colleges toward the undergraduate degree, provided that a grade of B- or higher is earned for the course.
Participation in this program for mathematics courses requires all of the following: a grade of 80 or higher in the Algebra II course, a grade of 80 or higher on the Algebra II Regents, an SAT math score of 580 or higher (or an ACT math score of 24 or higher), an overall SAT score of 1080 or higher (or an ACT composite score of 21 or higher), and a High School GPA of at least 85% in the 5 major subjects: English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Foreign Language. Students who do not meet all of these requirements before the start of a course can still take the course, but for high school credit only.
Depending on student interest, the courses offered include:
Pre-Calculus (College Algebra and Trigonometry): This course covers the following topics: Equations and Inequalities (including Polynomial, Rational, and Absolute Value); Functions and Graphs; Sets of linear equations (and solving by matrices); Exponential and Logarithmic functions; Trigonometry.
College Calculus I: Concepts of functions and analytical (coordinate) geometry will be reviewed and applied during the course, which covers the following topics: Limits and their properties; Differentiation of algebraic and transcendental functions; Applications of derivatives; Anti-derivatives.
College Calculus II: This course covers the following topics: Definite Integral and applications; Techniques of integration; Improper Integrals; Polar coordinates.
Applied Statistics I: An introduction to general statistical methods for all disciplines. The specific topics to be covered are: Exploring Univariate Data, Exploring Bivariate Data, Planning a Statistical Study, Probability Theory, Sampling Distributions, Confidence Intervals, and Hypothesis Tests.
*All teachers in the mathematics department provide extra help per week, either before, during, or after school.*
The aims and goals of physical education are very broad-based. It does not deal with physical well being alone. It should benefit the whole individual and aid his/her development in such a way that he/she is in a position to promote the well-being of the society in general. It should increase the individual’s physical, mental and intellectual capabilities for the benefit of the society. It also helps in developing leadership qualities and social skills as well as the ability to handle completion effectively.
General Objectives All-round development of the personality Physically, Mentally, Emotionally, Socially, and Spiritually well balanced individual Sport participation allows interaction with other students various other high schools team sports players
Specific Objectives Make a fine tuned individual Make high level performers Stress on the individual needs Participation in sports provides satisfaction and main thrust is given on recreation and relaxation
Health (Required) This course focuses on physical, social, emotional, and mental aspects of health. Students will explore the impact of physical activity and nutrition on one’s health; mental health; the impact of various legal and illegal drugs and medications, tobacco, and alcohol on the body; infectious and noninfectious diseases.
Life Skills In this one-quarter course, students will be presented with material covering topics such as self-esteem, teamwork, communication, stress and anger management, self-discovery, and coping skills. This course will also prepare the student for independent living and for the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
First Aid First Aid will help each student to meet the needs of most situations when emergency first aid care is needed. It will incorporate personal safety and accident prevention information. Each student will be better prepared to assist others wisely and care for themselves in case of injury or illness. They will learn an orderly method of handling emergency problems according to priorities without confusion or panic. The instructor is certified by the American Red Cross.
Earth Science This laboratory science course is designed for all students. This course is designed to meet the New York State Science Standards in the areas of Earth Science as well as Investigation and Experimentation. Topics explored include astronomy, plate tectonics, energy cycles, atmospheric and oceanic convection, climate, biogeochemical cycles, structure and composition of the atmosphere, and geology. Laboratory experiences are an integral part of the course and students can expect homework daily
Biology This laboratory science course meets the New York State Science Standards in the areas of Biology as well as Investigation and Experimentation. Topics explored include cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology. Laboratory experiences are an integral part of the course and students can expect homework daily.
Chemistry This laboratory science course meets the New York State Science Standards in the areas of Chemistry as well as Investigation and Experimentation. Topics explored include atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonds, conservation of matter and stoichiometry, gases and their properties, acids and bases, solutions, chemical thermodynamics, reaction rates, chemical equilibrium, organic and biochemistry, and nuclear processes. Laboratory experiences are an integral part of the course and students can expect homework daily.
Physics This laboratory science course meets the New York State Science Standards in the areas of Physics as well as Investigation and Experimentation. Topics explored include motions and forces, vectors, conservation of energy and momentum, heat and thermodynamics, waves, electric and magnetic phenomena. Students perform laboratory activities using various technologies. Students can expect homework daily.
Please Note: The New York State Education Department requires all students enrolled in laboratory based science classes to complete 1,200 minutes of laboratory experiences. Students must submit the corresponding laboratory reports as evidence of satisfactory content mastery and task completion. Students who fail to meet the minimum time requirements will be prevented from taking the culminating Regents Examination in June.
*Health Science/Anatomy & Physiology with Lab. Students in 11th grade learn about the systems of the human body, nutrition, prevention of disease, causes of disease, treatment of diseases, and careers in the Health Sciences.
*Honors Biology with Lab is taught in the 12th grade to seniors who have earned at least a 75 on the Living Environment Regents, English Regents, and the college readiness score on the SAT/ACT. Students who qualify for this course and pass it with at least a B- earn 4 college credits through the Saint John’s University College Advantage program and may have these credits transferred to other colleges/universities throughout the country.
9th grade students study Global History and Geography from prehistoric times until the Renaissance/Age of Exploration/Reformation. This course covers Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East with an emphasis on the early political, social, and economic facets of societies. Students also learn about world religions and how these religions are relevant to communities today. In the 9th grade the idea of cultural diffusions with its negative and positive consequences is examined. Teachers instruct students on how to analyze documents and then through comparison how to write a critically thought essay on multiple documents.
10th grade students study Global History and Geography from the Enlightenment to the present times with a main focus being on ENDURING ISSUES which impact global society; these enduring issues include human rights violations, global conflict and resolutions, modern economic systems, the physical environment/climate change, and the power of government on its own people and bordering nations. Students spend a great amount of time writing thematic essays and continue the analyses of documents which began in the 9th grade. Preparation for the Global History and Geography 10 Regents takes places throughout the year but especially in May and June when teachers practice multiple choice and work to improve essay writing.
U.S. HISTORY & GOVERNMENT This course will deal with a thorough analysis of the Constitutional foundations of the Republic. Key Constitutional principles such as separation of powers, check and balances, judicial review and the Bill of Rights will be examined. The remainder of the year is based on American History from 1865 to the present. Special attention is given to the American Civil War, American foreign policy, Civil Rights struggles of various minorities, and the impact of supreme court decisions on American Society. Students will be required to take the New York State Regents Examination in U.S. History and Government. All students must receive a grade of 65 to fulfill diploma requirements. This course is required by the New York State Education Department for all students for graduation.
PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS This senior course satisfies the graduation requirement. The Participation in Government course is taught during the fall term. The curriculum includes a study of the American system of government. The Constitution is a focal point of study and it is examined from both historical and contemporary perspectives. Students will also be involved in a “participation in government” experience. The Economics course is devoted to an examination of the American economy. Basic economic institutions will be examined including banking, labor, taxation and international trade. Comparisons will be made with other economic systems.
The Department of Fine & Performing Arts at Saint Demetrios Prep strives to educate, create, and inspire young artists to be passionate actors, singers, musicians, visual and graphic artists.
Through a wide variety of educational courses and extracurricular activities, Saint Demetrios Prep provides students interested in the arts with a rigorous and exciting educational experience. Theatrical productions, concerts, art shows, workshops and field trips are just some of the many avenues of instruction that the department offers to its prospective students.
Art Appreciation Students will learn to recognize and utilize the elements of art. They will focus on creating successful compositions in each finished work of art. Students will develop skills in two-dimensional design, observational drawing, one-point perspective and watercolor painting.
Principles of Design Students will explore a variety of media, including ebony pencil, pen and ink, collage, acrylic, watercolor and papier mâché. An introduction to contemporary and historical art will be provided through PowerPoint presentations, readings, and computer research. Students will be evaluated based on their portfolio and presentations.
Graphic Arts I
This course provides a basic understanding of graphic arts, printing technology, and their processes through the use of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop programs. Assignments include a personal logo design, program cover, T-shirt designs, and etc. Music Appreciation
The course is designed to introduce students to the elements and history of music. Exploring the music of the past, present and future, students will relate commercial music to classical music and appreciate the musical culture of different places and times. Videos, audio and live concert performances will enhance the musical experience.
Greek Dance
This course will provide students with a solid foundation in different dance techniques. Students will also study the origins and development of these dance styles along with learning to recognize various choreographers and praised performers. This course is designed to teach students to express themselves emotionally and creatively as they explore the dance elements of body, space, time and energy.
Saint Demetrios Preparatory believes that language is the basis of human relationship and communication. Multi-lingualism is essential in an ever-changing, global society, and it opens the door to opportunities. Proficiency in a foreign language demands the ability to communicate purposefully, while appreciating contemporary and classical cultures in an intercultural population. Students will be enabled to communicate with native speakers of that language and to understand other cultures better.
Greek
*Greek is taught as a second language to students in grades 9-12. For students who have attended Saint Demetrios Elementary and Middle Schools, there is a progression to intermediate and advanced Greek language which focuses on the works of Homer, Sophocles, and the modern literary figures such as Seferis and Elytis. Students perfect their grammar, spelling, writing, and speaking skills through essay writing and debate of current events. Greek history and civilization is taught in the Greek language; grades 9 and 10 are taught about the development of the creation of the modern Greek nation after the 400 year Ottoman occupation while grade 11 is taught how Greek Immigration impacted the United States.
Students who have mastered the modern Greek language by their senior year, study an advanced college level course in CLASSICAL GREEK offered by the University of OHIO and the Classical Junior League. In the spring of their senior year these students take a test in the subject to check their mastery of classical or ancient Greek.
*For students who are new to Saint Demetrios High School beginner Greek is offered so that students may learn the foundations of the language in the written and oral formats. In addition, the advancements and achievements of the Hellenic civilization and modern Greek history are taught in English and students are encouraged to work on projects that feature famous Greeks and Greek-Americans. PHILOSOPHY is taught to new Greek speakers in English so that they may develop an understanding of a subject which has been an asset to Western Civilization.
Students who did not take the Greek Comprehensive Exam (traditionally called Regents) in the 8th grade and have studied Greek for at least 3 years in high school are encouraged to take the exam as a LOTE (language other than English) in June of the 11th grade. In addition, the Greek department of Saint Demetrios promotes the ELLINOMATHEIA or GREEK PROFICIENCY exam at various grade levels from beginner to master. Throughout the past decade, all Saint Demetrios students who have taken Levels A and B have received ratings of EXCELLENT, while several have received ratings of EXCELLENT on Levels G1/G2 which allows them to teach or work in Greek government, public education, and the private sector of European Union nations.
*Upon graduation from Saint Demetrios High School, students who have completed 4 years of study in intermediate/advanced Greek and have passed the Greek Comprehensive with a minimum score of 80 receive a diploma from the Greek Ministry of Education of Greece. The honor of any school outside of Greece to be allowed to give a Greek diploma to its eligible students is a testament to the efforts of the Greek teachers who are licensed from the National Ministry of Greek Education and the universities where they earned their degrees in Pedagogy, History, Psychology, and Educational Philosophy.
Our STEAM Department curriculum is designed for students who want to explore the connections between the arts, sciences, engineering and math while further developing technology and computer skills. STEAM uses project-based learning and the design thinking model to engage students. The classes in the STEAM program will strengthen students abilities to be creative and flexible problem solvers, explore different ideas, and communicate well with others! We encourage a collaborative approach to learning that embraces technology, encourages unique solutions, welcomes creative and inventive thinking as well as problem-solving to prepare for careers in computer science, the arts and engineering.
Saint Demetrios Prep is a school committed to nurturing the traditions of our Greek Orthodox faith throughout our entire school system. Education for us is more than learning the necessary academic subjects. It is about cultivating the individual as a whole. Incorporating our faith in our education has been an intrinsic part of Saint Demetrios school since it’s inception.
Religion class is offered to all our students and is taught by our clergy throughout the entire school system. At least once a month throughout the academic year, the school day begins with Divine Liturgy in our church. This strengthens the foundation of our community among our Saint Demetrios family.
