Curriculum

The Upper School program is driven by the essential principles of a Mercy education and consistently seeks to instill into its curriculum and extra-curricular programs the importance of the mercy values such as compassion, service, justice, academic excellence, global awareness, and the dignity and value of each human being.

In addition to these essential mercy values, the Upper School focuses on the five key indicators of a highly engaging and relevant instructional program outlined by the National Survey on Student Engagement:

• Student Interaction with Faculty
• Active and Collaborative Learning
• Enriching Educational Experiences
• Level of Academic Challenge
• Supportive Campus Environment

The Upper School program is built around a seven period schedule that rotates each day to ensure that students are given the opportunity to take coursework at different points in the day within a seven day cycle. Freshmen and Sophomores take at least 6 courses and a study hall . Juniors and Seniors take at least 6 courses and, if scheduled, have a study period to work on homework or other responsibilities.

Each student is required to participate in at least 20 hours of community service each year and many students go far beyond this requirement due to their commitment to public service and the fulfillment of the Mercy values.

There is an extensive array of clubs and organizations for Upper School students to participate in and provide leadership to during the school year. Most students also participate in at least one of the varsity or junior varsity sports teams each year. The Mount de Sales Cavaliers enjoy a rich and successful athletic tradition within middle Georgia and the Georgia Independent School Association.