2020-2021 Mercy High School Infobook

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION 2020-21

Personal Focus. Global Perspective.

DEAR FUTURE MERCY FAMILY, At Mercy High School, girls always come first! In the classroom, in student government and in every competition, performance and pep rally, our girls lead. Our innovative academic and co-curricular programs connect accomplished and inspiring women with our girls. And, generations of alumnae tell us very clearly that their life-changing Mercy education helped them find their voices, break barriers, and make history!

As Mercy begins its 60th year as a leading independent school in the region, our mission to provide world-class academics and support the growth and achievement of girls is stronger than ever. Standing as the only Catholic girls’ school in the Baltimore area authorized to offer the highly rigorous International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, Mercy is a school of choice for discerning families. Recognizing that our school life is enriched by the diverse gifts, talents, and perspectives of our students, we are committed to building an excellent and inclusive community in the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in necessary changes to our fall Admissions plan in order to keep you and our community healthy and safe, we have created numerous opportunities for you to get to know Mercy better and to explore our impressive campus—modern classrooms, professional performance spaces, and expansive gymnasium and playing fields, including the premier AstroTurf field in the state. I am confident that you will still experience our warm and caring community and personal attention for which we are known, and find Mercy a superb choice. As impressive as our programs and our 26-acre campus are, the real strength of our community comes from our Mercy values. Excellence, hospitality, service, justice, and compassion motivate us as we prepare Mercy Girls to become the leaders our world needs.

Our Mercy values mean that each Mercy Girl is an important individual in her own right, created in the image of God. We provide each student an individualized experience that recognizes her learning style, areas of strength and development, and college and career goals. Those Mercy values also connect us to a powerful network of Mercy schools in the United States and around the world.

I invite you to experience the MAGIC of Mercy, and to discover how our personal focus, global perspective helps girls succeed and lead now, and in the future.

Sincerely,

Mary Beth Lennon ’85 President, Mercy High School Contact our Admissions Team: admissions@mercyhighschool.com, 410.433.8880 www.mercyhighschool.com Visit us on Facebook: facebook.com/mercyhighschoolbaltimore Instagram: instagram.com/mercybaltimore and Twitter: twitter.com/mhsbaltimore

INSIDE: m IMPORTANT DATES ................................................................ 3 m APPLICATION CHECKLIST .................................................... 4 m APPLICATION PROCESS ........................................................ 5 m FAQ ........................................................................................... 6 m VIRTUAL VISITING DAY INFORMATION .............................. 8 m COVID-19 RESPONSE ............................................................. 9 m SUPPLEMENTAL PROGRAMS AT MERCY ...........................10 m STEM PROGRAMS: WOMEN IN MEDICINE PROGRAM ........................................11

WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM ................................ 12

PROJECT LEAD THE WAY BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE PROGRAM .............................................................. 13

SISTER AGNESE NEUMANN SCHOLARS PROGRAM ........14

m LAW AND SOCIAL ACTION PROGRAM .............................. 15 m VISUAL ARTS PROGRAM ...................................................... 16 m DANCE PROGRAM ................................................................. 17 m THE FRANCES WARDE SERVICE LEARNING PROGRAM ........................................................... 18 m CATHERINE McAULEY HONORS PROGRAM...................... 19 m INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMME ............................................ 20 m ATHLETICS AT MERCY ......................................................... 20 m FINANCIAL AID ......................................................................2 1

7 IMPORTANT DATES Attend a Virtual Magic Moment Information Session to learn more about Mercy’s programs and opportunities, meet members of Mercy’s leadership team, take a virtual tour, and ask your questions about the admissions process. Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade families and students are welcome.

From September through December, virtual visiting days are available on many school days.

Schedule your day online at mercyhighschool.com. The events are offered each month from September to December to accommodate prospective families’ busy schedules.

Learn more and register for these events at mercyhighschool.com. n September

2020

Online registration for the High School Placement Test (HSPT) opens.

Go to baltimore.stsusers.com to register.

22: Virtual Magic Moment Information Session for prospective families from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. n October

2020

13: Magic Moment Information Session for prospective families from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

24: Virtual Open House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m n November

2020

10: Virtual Magic Moment Information Session for prospective families from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. n December

2020

5: High School Placement Test at Mercy, 8 a.m.

9: Virtual Magic Moment Information Session for prospective families from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

12: High School Placement Test at Mercy, 8 a.m.

18: Application for admissions is due. Application for financial aid is due. n January

2021

9: Auditions for Dance Troupe (snow date: January 10), 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

16: Scholarship Interviews by invitation (snow date: January 23) n February

2021

17: High School Acceptance Letters Mailed 25: Class of 2024 Welcome Reception, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. n March

2021

5: Registration deadline for accepted students 25: New Student Information Night, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Due to COVID-19 regional indicators, these dates are subject to change.

To stay up-to-date on the latest information, please visit www.mercyhighschool.com/admissions.

3

4 APPLICATION CHECKLIST m I created an account at mercyhighschool.schooladminonline.com/portal to schedule events, apply online, and communicate with the Admissions Team.

m I scheduled a Virtual Visiting Day at Mercy. m (Optional) My family registered to attend a Virtual Magic Moment Information Session.

m We put Mercy’s Virtual Open House on our calendar: October 24 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

m I registered for the High School Placement Test at Mercy on December 5 or December 12 at 8 a.m.

Eighth grade students who currently attend select Catholic schools throughout the Archdiocese of Baltimore will test on December 2 at their schools.

m I filled out my application online at mercyhighschool.schooladminonline.com/portal, including any supplemental applications for the STEM programs (Women in Medicine Program in partnership with Mercy Medical Center, Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science Program, Sister Agnese Neumann Scholars Program in partnership with MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, or Women in Technology Program), the Law and Social Action Program, the Visual Arts Program, or the Dance Program.

m We submitted a request for records and common referral form to my current school.

(For families currently in a Catholic middle/elementary school: Your daughter’s school should provide this for us. You do not need to submit our additional form unless noted by your school.)

m (Optional) We filled out the financial aid forms by December 18.

4

APPLICATION PROCESS 1. Go to mercyhighschool.com. You can create an account with us, sign up for events, get on the mailing

list, and track your application from start to finish!

2. Sign up for a Virtual Visiting Day. Go to mercyhighschool.com to register online, or contact the

Admissions Team by phone or email. We recommend that 8th grade students schedule a Virtual Visiting Day sometime between October and December. You will also have a brief interview with an Admissions Team member on your virtual visit.

3. Register online at baltimore.stsusers.com for the High School Placement Test. The test is offered at most area Catholic high schools. You may take the test at any location that is convenient for you with no effect on your application’s status.

4. Fill out the online application for admissions, student questionnaire and personal statement, and any supplemental applications for special programs at www.mercyhighschool.com.*

Submit a Request for Records to your current school, and a Common Referral Form to a teacher of a core subject (mathematics, social studies, science, or English).** A student’s records and referral forms should be submitted directly to Mercy. Application materials are due to Mercy by December 18. Please submit your applications promptly to be considered for scholarships and special programs.

5. If needed, fill out the Mercy application for financial aid. We will also need your family’s 2019 and

2020 1040 and W-2 tax forms. Financial aid applications are due by December 18.

6. The Mercy admissions committee will review all files in mid-January. We will invite scholarship

candidates for an additional interview at this time. Most scholarship interviews will take place on January 16, 2021.

7. Decision letters are mailed on February 17, 2021. The packet will contain letters notifying you of

our admission decision, scholarship awards, special program acceptance, and financial aid package (if applicable).

We also send a special acceptance email on February 18, 2021, to the parent email address provided on your application. This email only contains acceptance decisions.

8. Make your decision! We welcome all accepted students to celebrate their achievement with us at our accepted student reception on February 25, 2021. You can talk with current students and teachers,

ask questions about special programs, and enjoy a relaxing and enjoyable evening at Mercy with your potential new classmates. You may also want to return for another Virtual Visiting Day—we’d love to have you back for a second look. Please call the Admissions Team to schedule at 410-433-8880.

9. Complete your registration online by March 5, 2021 and come to Mercy for New Student Night on March 25, 2021—required for all new students. You and your parents/guardians will be introduced to

everything you’ll need to know as an incoming freshman at Mercy, including the schedule, uniform, upcoming placement tests, and more.

POLICY ON NON-DISCRIMINATION: Mercy High School does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, programs or activities, its admissions policies, financial aid or scholarship programs, and other school-administered programs.

*Mercy’s Visual Arts Program, Dance Program, Women in Medicine Program in partnership with Mercy Medical Center, Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science Program, Sister Agnese Neumann Scholars Program in partnership with MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, Law and Social Action Program and Women in Technology Program **For parents of students in an Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic elementary/middle school, referral forms and records release forms will be given to you by your daughter’s current school. You do not need to fill out these forms again.

5

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is required for admission to Mercy? What does the Admissions Team consider when evaluating applications?

Mercy’s application for admission can be found online at mercyhighschool.com.

The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is required for admission to Mercy. You can register to take the test at your home school (if offered) or in December at Mercy by visiting baltimore.stsusers.com. We also consider grades and standardized tests from 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, as well as teacher recommendations.

A Virtual Visiting Day to Mercy (which includes a brief interview) is required for all applicants. The Admissions Team considers all materials submitted when evaluating a candidate. Potential students must show a solid academic background, interest in Mercy’s programs, and enthusiasm for joining the Mercy community.

2. What is the Mercy uniform? Where can uniforms be purchased?

The Mercy uniform is a white button-down shirt, plaid skirt, and a red blazer for formal occasions. Students may choose from a variety of uniform sweaters during colder weather, and may wear knee- or ankle-length socks in white or black, or opaque black tights. Shoes are an all-black buck oxford.

Uniforms are available at FlynnO’Hara in Parkville, and shoes may be purchased at many locations, though we recommend Van Dyke and Bacon on Northern Parkway, just down the road from Mercy.

3. What sports are available?

Fall: Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball (Tryouts for fall sports will be held the summer prior to the school year.)

Winter: Basketball, Cheer, Indoor Track, Indoor Soccer Spring: Lacrosse, Outdoor Track, Softball, Golf 4. What extracurricular activities are available?

There are many activities available at Mercy, and if we don’t have what you are looking for, we encourage you to start it! Just a few activities we offer include The Shield (student newspaper) and The Lance (literary magazine), The Garnet (yearbook), creative writing, Footlighters (drama club), National Art Honor Society, Art Club, Social Justice Society, Model Diplomacy Team, Student Council, Dance Troupe, Apprentice Dance Company, Pep Squad, vocal arts, and many more.

5. How many students attend Mercy? Our enrollment for this year is approximately 425 students in total.

6. What is the average class size? The average class size is 20-22 students. Electives and junior/senior

year courses tend to be smaller.

7. Is there transportation available to and from Mercy?

After your registration, we will send you information about other Mercy families who live in your area, if you would like to arrange a carpool. In addition, Mercy offers two bus routes, one to Catonsville and one to the Perry Hall area, which are available at an additional cost to families if interest allows for the route to run.

6

8. Are there Advanced Placement (AP) and college credit opportunities available?

Yes! AP courses available include Biology, Calculus AB/BC, U.S. History, English Literature and Composition, English Language and Composition, Computer Science Principles, Psychology, French or Spanish, and Studio Art. There are opportunities for upperclassmen to earn dual credit for high school and college through online classes via Notre Dame of Maryland University and Anne Arundel County Community College.

9. Are there STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) programs available?

Yes! All students will receive a thorough background in science and mathematics thanks to our university-level labs and rigorous curriculum. Students with special interests in science and/or medical fields may consider applying for our Women in Medicine Program in partnership with Mercy Medical Center, Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science Program, Sister Agnese Neumann Scholars Program in partnership with MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, or Women in Technology Program, which offer students in-depth experiences in medicine, information technology, and biomedical science. All of these programs require a supplemental application.

10. What is the tuition? Tuition and fees for the 2020-2021 school year are $16,275.

11. Is there tuition assistance? Financial aid? Scholarships?

Yes! Scholarships are based solely on merit, and do not have a separate application. We will choose scholarship candidates based on their HSPT scores, grades, and other information and invite them for an additional interview in January. Scholarship candidates will be notified of grants and awards in their acceptance packages. Scholarship amounts vary, but no full scholarships are granted. Scholarships are usually renewable for all four years based on academic performance and participation in the Mercy community.

Financial aid may be applied for online through FACTS Management at https://factsmgt.com/parent-resources/ grant-and-aid. Financial aid awards are based on FACTS Management’s calculation of a family’s need. We do our best to meet the needs of all of our families with the limited resources we have. However, we expect that education will be a high priority in a family’s budget. Please apply for financial aid by December 18, 2020.

12. Can my daughter attend Mercy if we are not Catholic? What is Mercy’s religious education program like?

Absolutely! Mercy welcomes students of all backgrounds and traditions. Our mission reflects the values of the Sisters of Mercy and the teachings of the Catholic Church. Our religious education curriculum is a four-year requirement for all students that covers Church history, ethics, social and moral responsibility, and world religions, and encourages each student to grow in her relationship with God. Our service learning requirement encourages an attitude of reflection and grace as our students learn the importance of giving back to their communities.

13. What is Mercy’s college acceptance rate?

100% of Mercy graduates are accepted into college. The Student Services Team works closely with students and their families to help them navigate the college exploration and application process, find scholarships and financial aid, and succeed on the SAT and the ACT. Recent Mercy graduates have chosen to attend selective schools, including Yale University, Howard University, Dartmouth College, The Citadel, Case Western Reserve University, Kent State University, University of Virginia, Spelman College, the University of Maryland College Park and more.

7

VIRTUAL VISITING DAYS AT MERCY

We’re so excited that you are planning to visit us at Mercy!

Here’s what you need to know for your day.

1. What is a Virtual Visiting Day?

The health and safety of each future Mercy Girl and her family is our priority. As such, Mercy has developed a new procedure for Visiting Days, which includes a virtual tour of our campus, communication with a student ambassador, and a taste of the robust virtual learning opportunities available to our current students.

2. Who can participate in a Virtual Visiting Day?

We require all 8th grade students who are thinking about applying to Mercy to participate in a Virtual Visiting Day between October and December. Potential transfer students are welcome to participate in a visiting day when they begin the transfer process. Seventh graders who are eager to begin the high school selection process should look for more information on our Magic Moment Information Sessions and options for our visiting days in spring 2021.

3. How can I schedule a Virtual Visiting Day?

Please visit www.mercyhighschool.com to schedule a visit and receive more information. Contact Admissions at 410.433.8880 or admissions@mercyhighschool.com if you have any questions.

4. Can I visit campus?

Due to the evolving nature of the pandemic, please check with the Admissions Office for tour availability. We look forward to welcoming prospective Mercy students and families at our first opportunity!

5. What should I wear to my Virtual Visiting Day?

If your school has a uniform, please wear it during your virtual visit. If your school does not have a uniform, please dress in nice and appropriate—but comfortable—clothes. This means dress pants or skirts and nice tops. (No jeans, please.)

6. What do I need to attend a Virtual Visiting Day?

To schedule a Virtual Visiting Day, you must have internet access in the location from which you will be attending. Also, bring your questions! This is an opportunity for you to interview us about what you’d like to do in high school. We want to make sure we answer all your questions! We ask that you attend the Virtual Visiting Day in a quiet environment, free from distraction.

7. What can I expect?

You’ll be paired with a student ambassador to observe classes and get an idea of what life will be like in high school. You will also meet with a member of the Admissions Team for a brief interview. Please make our Admissions Team aware of any extracurricular activities in which you are interested such as drama, dance, sports, music, or writing. We will provide you with information about whatever program interests you.

8

COVID-19 RESPONSE

Mercy High School has been forward thinking in our approach to COVID-19. By assembling a COVID-19 Response Team and a Public Health Resource Group, Mercy has risen to the challenge of providing continuous learning for each of our Mercy Girls.

To guide us through this uniquely challenging year, Mercy High School has prepared four distinct models that reflect the innovative tradition of the Sisters of Mercy. Each of our academic models carefully considers local and regional health indicators, the ability of our students, faculty, and staff to shift quickly as the external environment changes, and how we can provide an experience marked by excellence for our Mercy families. As such, each model is prudent, flexible, and robust.

INSTRUCTIONAL MODELS • Mercy Online 3.0 expands on our remote efforts from spring 2020, by providing rigorous academic instruction alongside virtual student life activities.

• Mercy PACE employs many of the same instructional features of Mercy Online 3.0, but also allows for carefully monitored in-person activities that support the online classroom experience such as Big Sister-Little Sister events, assemblies, and orientations for each year level.

• Mercy Hybrid allows for Mercy Girls to alternate between in-person and online instruction.

In this model, longer class periods limit movement on campus while ensuring depth of pedagogy and inquiry.

• Mercy 60 permits a full return to in-person academic and community programming.

9

SUPPLEMENTAL PROGRAMS AT MERCY At Mercy, you’ll receive the rigorous liberal arts education you need to excel in college and beyond. You’ll explore art, science, language and literature, technology, religion, history, world languages, mathematics, and what’s more, how they all come together.

But you may already have a passionate interest in a certain subject—something that you’re ready to investigate more deeply as you enter high school. If you have a special interest in science, medicine, technology, social justice, performing arts, visual arts, writing, law, or athletics, or if you just want to challenge yourself academically, Mercy has unique opportunities for you.

Applications for our special programs must be submitted along with your application for admission to Mercy, and may be found online at www.mercyhighschool.com.

Space is limited for these prestigious programs—please submit your application on time to be considered!

10

WOMEN IN MEDICINE PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MERCY MEDICAL CENTER The Women in Medicine Program is a unique partnership between Mercy High School and Mercy Medical Center. It is an opportunity for young women with an interest in medicine and the health professions to observe and meet with medical professionals in a specialized healthcare environment.

The goal of this four-year program is to increasingly expose students to outstanding women leaders in health-related careers, to broaden their knowledge of medical fields, and to expand their understanding of the qualities and skills necessary for a successful healthcare professional.

The program is open to qualified ninth graders and will continue throughout their enrollment at Mercy High School. There are limited spaces available each year for this highly prestigious program, the only one of its kind in Baltimore. For students considering a career in healthcare—as a physician, nurse, pharmacist, physical therapist, or research scientist—this program offers an unparalleled experience.

During her junior year, each student participates in a group case study with a health care administrator.

Students will research appropriate courses of treatment based upon the patient’s presenting symptoms.

Throughout the course of the case study, each student will fulfill the role of a member of the patient’s medical team to recommend next steps. As the patient’s circumstances change, assignments on the medical team will as well, allowing students to explore multiple professional roles within the medical field. During her senior year, each student will continue to work on the case study, and will provide an overview of the patient’s background and treatment recommendations based upon clinical research to the Mercy High School community.

Please submit a completed Women in Medicine application form along with all other required admission materials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Excellent mathematics and science preparation and skill level m Strong standardized test results m Strong High School Placement Test (HSPT) results m Well-written and thoughtful applicant statement m Completed supplemental application CURRICULUM 9th Grade

Biology or Biology Honors, Algebra I or II, or Geometry

10th Grade Introduction to Physical Science or Introduction to Physics (Honors), next level of mathematics 11th Grade Chemistry or Chemistry Honors, next level of mathematics, consideration of case studies with a team of students representing medical professionals 12th Grade Physics (Honors), Biology II (Honors), or AP Biology, next level of mathematics, presentation of case study and its results to the Mercy community

11

WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM This four-year program is designed to introduce students to a more intense and broader technology experience. The program will provide an opportunity for Mercy students to explore career paths in technology and to gain both experience and in-depth knowledge in various information technology areas. The Women in Technology Program includes programming, software design, hardware design, networking, operating systems, website design and management, computer graphics, audio and video editing, computer and network security, computational thinking, applications in information technology and information systems, emerging technologies, social issues involving cyber security, privacy, copyright, and the global impact of technology. Students graduating from this program will be better prepared to enter technology-oriented college disciplines that can lead to high-tech careers in Baltimore and beyond.

Please submit a completed Women in Technology application form along with all other required admission materials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Completed supplemental application m Well-written and thoughtful applicant statement, submitted as a video m Strong grades in middle school CURRICULUM

m Four-year sequence of computer science courses m Guest speakers and field trips m Webinars in areas of interest m Independent study course m Mentorship opportunities m Networking with women leaders in technology fields

12

PROJECT LEAD THE WAY BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE PROGRAM This four-year, nationally recognized program allows students to explore the biomedical science area of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics or medicine) fields.

Over the course of their high school careers, students will take a four-year sequence of classes focused on biomedical science.

Please submit a completed Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science application form along with all other required admission paperwork by the deadline.

About Project Lead the Way: The rigorous and relevant four-course Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Science sequence allows students to investigate the roles of biomedical professionals as they study the concepts of human medicine, physiology, genetics, microbiology, forensic science, and public health. Students engage in activities like investigating the death of a fictional person to learn content in the context of real-world cases. They examine the structures and interactions of human body systems and explore the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, all while working collaboratively to understand and design solutions to the most pressing health challenges of today and the future.

Each course in the Biomedical Science sequence builds on the skills and knowledge students gained in the preceding courses. For more information, visit www.pltw.org.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Completed supplemental application m Well-written and thoughtful applicant statement m Strong grades in middle school mathematics and science courses m Strong standardized test scores CURRICULUM 9th Grade

Principles of Biomedical Science

10th Grade Human Body Systems 11th Grade Medical Interventions 12th Grade Capstone Course—Biomedical Innovation These courses will be taken in addition to the regular science and mathematics courses that all students at Mercy are required to complete.

13

SISTER AGNESE NEUMANN SCHOLARS PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MEDSTAR GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL The Sister Agnese Neumann Scholars Program is in partnership with MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, which allows students hands-on experience in health care. This program exposes students to key specialties at MedStar Good Samaritan: aging science, occupational and physical therapy, nursing, and community/public health. Students will receive hands-on training in fundamental skills including CPR, patient safety training, infection prevention, and first-responder training. They will also attend special professional development sessions at the hospital which focus on cutting-edge topics in health care. The program spans three academic years and culminates with a summer internship.

This three-year program is open to incoming ninth graders and rising tenth graders. A limited number of spaces are available in this highly competitive program. The program’s name honors the first chair of Mercy’s science department, Sister Agnese Neumann, RSM, who went on to a career as a nurse practitioner. Sister Agnese continues to be actively involved as a volunteer at Mercy High School.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Excellent mathematics and science preparation and skill level m Strong standardized test results m Strong High School Placement Test (HSPT) results m Well-written and thoughtful applicant statement m Completed supplemental application CURRICULUM 9th Grade

Biology or Biology Honors, Algebra I or II, or Geometry

10th Grade Introduction to Physical Science or Introduction to Physics (Honors), next level of mathematics 11th Grade Chemistry or Chemistry Honors, next level of mathematics Summer

Internship practicum at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital

12th Grade Physics (Honors), Biology II (Honors) or AP Biology, next level of mathematics

14

LAW AND SOCIAL ACTION PROGRAM The Law and Social Action program provides students with opportunities to evaluate how interdependence, as well as political, legal, social and economic change, affect all communities, with a focus on both globalization and sustainable development. A study of social change through governance, social and legal policy, and justice provides students with an understanding of both individual and systemic power throughout their four years at Mercy. Students will be encouraged to engage in innovative, responsible action, culminating in the presentation of their Capstone experiences at a Law and Social Action Consortium.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Excellent English and social studies preparation and skill level m Strong standardized test results m Strong High School Placement Test (HSPT) results m Well-written and thoughtful applicant statement m Completed supplemental application CURRICULUM Year One

Attend three to four Symposia, keep a journal with a reflective assignment after each Symposium, and participate actively in one to two extracurricular clubs/organizations

Year Two

Attend four information Symposia, participate in two to three field trips focused on public policy, keep a journal with a reflective assignment after each Symposium, navigate applicable and rigorous coursework, produce the tenth grade Personal Project related to action research/critical concern, and continue participation in one to two extracurricular clubs/organizations

Years Three Work in collaboration to present material for Symposia, participate in the Mentor Program to Four (encouraged), study Global Politics, Baltimore: A study of historical and contemporary legal and social policy, Law and Social Justice, and World Language, take additional electives that complement the program, and hold a leadership position in one of the two extracurricular clubs/organizations. Students may take advantage of possible internship opportunities.

Capstone

Juniors and Seniors in the Law and Social Action Program are encouraged to participate in the following: Mercy Girl Effect Conference, Ignatian Family Teach-In, Baltimore Student Diversity Leadership Conference (AIMS), summer programs supported by the American Bar Association, and/or internships. Students report on their experiences at a Law and Social Action Consortium.

15

VISUAL ARTS PROGRAM Mercy’s four-year Visual Arts Program is for students with serious interest in developing their artistic skills, and in potentially pursuing the visual arts (such as painting, drawing, sculpture, etc.) in college or in their future careers.

The sequence of classes is designed to prepare students to create a varied portfolio to be submitted for Advanced Placement Studio Art credit in the senior year. Art students at Mercy explore the elements, principles, and history of art, develop their observational, creative, and critical skills, and learn to work in a variety of media—pencil, charcoal, clay, acrylic, tempera, watercolor, and more. Mercy’s visual artists have gone on to exceptional careers as professional painters, art instructors, graphic designers, and fashion designers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Completed supplemental application m Well-written and thoughtful applicant statement m Portfolio review by Mercy’s Art Department CURRICULUM 9th Grade

Introduction to Drawing (half-credit course)

10th Grade Basic Design (half-credit course) 11th Grade Introduction to Studio Technique: Mark Making (full-year course) 12th Grade Introduction to Painting (full-year course), optionally, Studio Art

16

DANCE PROGRAM Mercy’s Dance Program is a college preparatory, conservatorial program within the Fine Arts Department which emphasizes both the technical and artistic training of students. This premiere program offers students numerous opportunities to study with professional and alumnae guest artists in our dance studio and perform on stage in the widely acclaimed Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Auditorium.

There are multiple components of our program: The Dance Troupe One of Mercy’s signature programs, The Dance Troupe is a co-curricular, comprehensive, and sequenced college preparatory program for experienced dancers. The Mercy Dance Troupe is selected by audition in the second semester of eighth grade or in the fall of every year. The Dance Troupe earns academic credit and meets an average of three days a week. In addition to rigorous instruction in the genres of dance, The Dance Troupe performs several times during the year including the formal dance concert in the spring. The Dance Troupe has appeared at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in the Archdiocesan Celebration of the Arts, the CCBC holiday performance of Our Favorite Things with the Baltimore Symphonic Band, and with the Independent Dance Network, an organization providing performance opportunities and master classes to students enrolled in private schools in Maryland. The Dance Troupe was also selected to perform for the Annual Archdiocesan Gala at the Marriott Harborplace East. Dancers work with the director of dance and with professional guest artists, choreographers, and teachers. Members of The Dance Troupe have earned awards in the Maryland Distinguished Scholar Program, and have studied dance at the baccalaureate level. Many graduates are teaching dance in studios and schools, choreographing, and performing professionally all over the country.

The Apprentice Dance Company The Apprentice Dance Company is designed for students with a desire, passion, and potential for dance, but with a more limited dance background. Apprentice Dance Company dancers are selected by audition in the fall of every year, earn academic credit, and meet an average of one to two days a week. The program focuses on developing technical skills in the genres of ballet, modern dance, and jazz dance, with exposure to improvisation, composition and choreography. The Apprentice Dance Company also performs several times throughout the year and has the opportunity to work with guest artists.

CURRICULUM Mercy’s Dance Troupe and Apprentice Dance Company are full-year, co-curricular activities which take place after the regular school day. Participants who fulfill the commitments set by the director of dance during the school year earn partial academic credit for their Fine Arts graduation requirement.

17

THE FRANCES WARDE SERVICE LEARNING PROGRAM Compassion and service are among the core values at Mercy High School. Thus, personal reflection, relationships, and a generous response to the needs of others are the foundation of service learning at Mercy.

In the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy and in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, our students are given the opportunity to experience service learning by sharing their time, talent, and treasure with our neighbors in need. Students are required to complete a minimum of 50 hours of service (not including school-wide service events and drives), and they may choose to complete these hours in one of two ways: m All 50 hours of direct service at one agency m At least 30 hours of direct service at one agency plus 20 hours of indirect service at multiple agencies/locations

Students submit a proposal for approval to the Service Learning Committee explaining their anticipated service activity. Once students begin their service, they are expected to meet the posted deadlines regarding completion of a specified number of hours within a certain time period.

In addition to serving for at least 50 hours, students are required to complete a culminating project. Students may choose one of the following culminating projects to be presented at a Service Fair in the spring semester of their junior year: m A PowerPoint™ presentation or a tri-fold poster that displays her service work, including photos and information about the agency

m A three to five page reflection paper that contains thoughtful insight regarding the student’s service

m Another project which the student proposes, and which the Service Learning Committee approves, that displays the student’s service learning experience.

18

CATHERINE McAULEY HONORS PROGRAM Students who are invited into the Catherine McAuley Honors Program demonstrate a desire for rigorous academic challenge and the confidence to succeed as a thinker and a scholar. McAuley Scholars achieve mastery beyond essentials in a learning environment that will excite them.

In freshman year, McAuley Scholars take the honors sections of the regular curriculum with their mathematics courses determined by placement testing. At the end of freshman year, they are given the opportunity to choose honors study in at least two disciplines to be continued over the next three years.

During the junior year, McAuley Scholars consider the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy and decide together where to put their combined energies. Once they decide on a topic of general interest, they determine a year-long project, research causes, and generate insights into possible solutions. Through their investigation, led by elected student leaders, McAuley Scholars develop a deep understanding of the issue and its many complexities. During their junior and senior year, Scholars work to create a service experience in the larger community as well as to create teaching opportunities within the school.

There is no application for the McAuley Honors Program. Invitations to qualified candidates to join the program will be in their acceptance packages, sent in February 2021.

SELECTION CRITERIA

m Above average grades in middle school mathematics and science courses m Above average standardized test scores m In the top 25% of scores on the HSPT among all Mercy applicants CURRICULUM 9th Grade

Take required honors sections of World Cultures, Biology, and English Language and Literature (mathematics and world language based on placement testing and/or prior coursework)

10th Grade Continue honors coursework in at least two academic disciplines 11th Grade Begin work on a Capstone Project and continue honors coursework in at least two disciplines 12th Grade Complete and present a Capstone Project to the Mercy community Participate in at least two honors courses per year from tenth to twelfth grade.

Demonstrate leadership in one co-curricular or extracurricular activity each year.

19

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMME Mercy High School is proud to offer the highly respected International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP). Authorization as an IB World School is recognition of the high quality of teaching and learning at Mercy. Our commitment as a Mercy school to deliver challenging programs to a diverse and inclusive community, and to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect, is a natural fit with the philosophy of the IB. Mercy High School believes that students should have access to learning, opportunities for achievement, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of their education. To that end, all ninth and tenth graders will participate in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme.

ATHLETICS AT MERCY Mercy’s 26-acre wooded campus, spacious gymnasium, and two new athletic fields give us the home team advantage. Opened in 2019, our brand new multisport Sisters of Mercy Athletic Complex featuring a premier AstroTurf field, digital video scoreboard, and nighttime lights is home to the Mercy Magic! Mercy boasts championship teams in indoor soccer, lacrosse, and golf. Become part of Magic Nation!

WHICH SPORTS CAN I PLAY? Fall: Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball Winter: Basketball, Cheer, Indoor Soccer, Indoor Track and Field Spring: Lacrosse, Outdoor Track and Field, Softball, Golf Interested in cheering? Cheer and Pep Squad cheer on the Magic at home basketball games during the winter season. Cheerleaders also participate in competitions both in- and out-of-state.

Athletes generally practice each day after school during their season. Many students are multiple season athletes and participate in other school activities and extracurriculars.

THE GIRLS’ ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION Student athletes at Mercy are encouraged to join the Girls’ Athletic Association (GAA) to get involved with the community beyond the field. GAA members plan spirit events for the school, participate in community service projects, and hold fundraisers for their teams. At the end of each year, GAA members plan a special Athletic Awards Ceremony honoring athletes and their contributions to their teams, and to Mercy as a whole.

MAGIC MEDIA CLUB The Magic Media Club specializes in game day production, creative content, graphic design, and communications. Members are required to go to Varsity and JV home games all year, and play an integral part in running Mercy’s digital video scoreboard!

20

DEAR PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES, Congratulations on taking the first steps in the high school application process. I am so glad that your search has led you to Mercy, and I firmly believe that not only can Mercy offer your daughter an excellent college preparatory education, but that Mercy is the place that your daughter will flourish and find her voice.

Mercy High School encourages all families interested in applying to Mercy to do so regardless of their intention to seek financial aid. The process for admission is separate from the financial aid process and all candidates for admission are evaluated on their academic and personal qualifications, regardless of their financial situation. Once families apply for financial aid, the financial aid committee makes every effort to meet the demonstrated need of as many candidates as possible.

We partner with FACTS Management in our financial aid process. The instructions and application are online at https://factsmgt.com/parent-resources/grant-and-aid. Please visit this website as soon as possible to begin the financial aid process.

I know that the application process can be many-layered and often overwhelming, but I assure you that an entire team is here to help support you in the process. For more information about the process or to ask any questions you may have, please contact the Finance Office at 410.433.8880, ext. 223 or finance@mercyhighschool.com.

All the best,

Diana C. Rego Director of Finance and Operations Mercy High School

KEY INFORMATION TO HELP YOU COMPLETE THE FINANCIAL AID APPLICATION:

m To begin the financial aid application, go to: https://factsmgt.com/parent-resources/grant-and-aid.

m Deadline for completing the financial aid application is December 18, 2020. m Our finance office may be reached at financeoffice@mercyhighschool.com or 410-433-8880, ext. 223.

21

We, the community of Mercy High School Baltimore, are a private Catholic, college preparatory school for young women of diverse backgrounds from across central Maryland.

Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, we provide a rigorous education marked by academic excellence and personal attention. Here, students learn to communicate ideas and express themselves confidently, both individually and in collaboration with others. Mercy creates an environment where young women form habits of lifelong inquiry, critical thinking, and courageous action in a global society. In the tradition of Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, our work reflects a commitment to hospitality, service, justice and compassion.

MERCY HIGH SCHOOL IS A COMMUNITY OF FAITH, A COMMUNITY OF LEARNING AND A COMMUNITY IN THE WORLD. From Mercy High School’s Mission Statement

1300 E. NORTHERN PKWY.

| BALTIMORE, MD 21239 | P: 410.433.8880 | F: 410.323.8816 | WWW.MERCYHIGHSCHOOL.COM