The Academy Program

The Academy Scholars Program is a four-year opportunity for students with high academic abilities or interests. Incoming freshmen are placed in the Academy Scholars Program based upon their entrance exam scores and their performance at the elementary school level.

The courses for the Academy Scholars Program are designed to encourage bright and creative minds to explore their potential and are taught at a pace and style suited to students who are self-initiating and highly motivated for their grade level. Together students and teachers contribute to a positive learning atmosphere where higher thinking skills are developed, stimulating ideas are generated and explored, and hidden talents are discovered.

Qualified freshman and sophomore students are placed in accelerated honors classes. At the beginning of junior year, students have the opportunity to earn college credits through the PACC and AP programs.

How can I earn college credits?

Program for Advanced College Credit

The Program for Advanced College Credit (PACC) is sponsored by Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. PACC courses are taught by Saint Patrick High School faculty who hold advanced degrees in their academic fields and serve as adjunct professors at Saint Mary’s. The learning environment is college level and fast-paced. Saint Patrick High School currently offers twelve PACC courses for a total of 38 potential college credit hours.

Advanced Placement Program

The Advanced Placement Program (AP) consists of courses that are also taught at the college level. At the end of the year, students have the option of taking the AP exam. Based upon exam scores, students may be awarded college credit.