The Social Studies Department offers a wide spectrum of courses designed to address student needs and interests at various levels. Their goal is not to prepare students for today’s world, but to equip them for the world of tomorrow.

World History and U.S. History are the only required courses for graduation, but the choices build from there. Electives range from Geography, World History Honors and AP U.S. History, to Global Economics, Psychology, Sociology, and Urban Studies.

By the end of their sophomore year, students must pass the U.S. Constitution and Illinois Constitution tests. The Constitution review packet is to be completed as a summer assignment for any student who has not passed the U.S. Constitution and Illinois Constitution tests by the end of their freshman year. These packets are to be turned in on the first day of school. Any sophomore who has not passed the U.S. and Illinois Constitution tests by the beginning of their sophomore year will take the tests during an activity period in August. They may be covered during independent learning sessions where the student completes a study guide on both tests, before sitting for the exams. Or, they may attend an intensive summer school class designed to help them understand the state and federal constitution, and succeed on the tests.

Advanced Placement courses are offered in U.S. History and European History, as well as in Comparative Government, where the governments and politics from major foreign countries are covered in college-level depth, including: China, Great Britain, Mexico, Nigeria and Russia. Students taking these AP courses are required to take the AP exam in May for college credit. They also may earn college credit through an arrangement with St. Mary’s University in Winona, MN. However, emphasis in these classes goes beyond preparing students for college testing. Students are immersed in college level material, and they are encouraged to further explore their studies through research projects and writing.

One such project took place during the 2008-2009 year when AP U.S. History students interviewed World War II veterans and compiled their stories into a self-published book that was widely promoted in the Northwest suburbs. Additionally during the 2010-2011, AP U.S. History and AP European History students interviewed Korean War Veterans. This book is currently being edited for publication.

In the Social Studies curriculum, students are met with a multitude of learning styles and educational modes to prepare them for today’s global society and diverse cultures. Classrooms are equipped with the latest technology, including computers and interactive SMART boards, while detailed maps still line every classroom.

Field trips further reinforce classroom lectures and discussion. Urban studies trips in particular help students understand the geographical, racial, socio-economical, cultural and architectural development of Chicago.

• The Social Studies Department prepares students to participate in an increasingly global society and one which embraces diverse cultures.
• World History and U.S. History are the only required courses, but electives include: Geography, World History Honors and AP U.S. History, as well as Global Economics, Psychology, Sociology and Urban Studies.
• Students must pass the U.S. Constitution and Illinois Constitution tests, but this may be done through independent study in the summer.
• AP courses are offered in U.S. History and European History as well as in Comparative Government.
• Upperclassmen are encouraged to explore topics in depth, such as the World War II book completed by students, filled with their interviews of surviving veterans.