Xaverian Brothers High School Program Guide 2023

OPPORTUNITY AWAITS

DO YOU KNOW YOUR OWN STRENGTH?

Strong is about respecting others and yourself. It’s taking responsibility and giving credit where it’s due. Strong is speaking out, and it is also holding back. Strong is doing a favor and not expecting one in return. Strong is doing the right thing even when it’s not popular. Strong is having faith in the face of doubt.

At Xaverian Brothers High School, you will discover the true meaning of strength in an inclusive community where the dignity of each person is respected so that all can thrive. We empower students to achieve beyond their expectations and share their gifts with a world in need.

For over half a century, we have helped to shape strong young men in the best sense of the word. Today, we are more than 11,000 strong.

XAVERIAN VALUES

As a Catholic, Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School, we emphasize five core values rooted in the Xaverian Brothers’ tradition.

HUMILITY

Humility is not a passive attitude, but an attitude leading to action, and that action is service.

ZEAL

Nothing special is achieved without much labor, effort, and zeal.

TRUST

Trust is the meeting place of mind and heart, faith and courage.

SIMPLICITY

Simplicity frees the heart, the mind, and the soul, for service.

COMPASSION

Compassion leads one to a lifestyle rooted in mercy and forgiveness.

Xaverian Brothers High School is an independent Catholic school sponsored by the Xaverian Brothers, serving young men in grades 7-12.

STRONG IS ACHIEVING BEYOND THE EXPECTATION

AND YOU’LL GET THERE WITH THE HELP OF XAVERIAN TEACHERS

An academically demanding program is a hallmark of the Xaverian experience, and our teachers are a phenomenal resource in helping our students master the material. Their unique teaching methods match the way boys learn best, allowing students to feel comfortable and confident in and out of the classroom. Xaverian teachers employ cutting-edge technology, research, problem-solving, collaborative learning, and critical-thinking activities to help each student maximize his potential.

Our students have strong and honest relationships with trusted faculty and staff. They feel safe to be themselves and speak up. Xaverian teachers embrace their roles as mentors and role models. They are deep listeners and keen observers who get to know and appreciate each student. They help each young man see the obstacles as well as the opportunities ahead, advising him on the best course based on his unique abilities.

STRONG IS KNOWING WHERE TO FIND HELP

QUESTIONS? YOU’LL DISCOVER THE ANSWERS HERE.

Imagine finding all of the teachers of a given subject matter in one room when you have a question. Academic centers are a hub of intellectual activity where help is available all day. Whether it’s a question about math, language, history, science, or all of the above, these dedicated learning centers are the best place to connect directly with a teacher outside of class.

Xaverian provides a daily unstructured block (what other schools might call a “study” or “free period”) and a lunch block so students have the flexibility to visit the centers for help with homework, a project, or preparation for an upcoming test.

STRONG IS BUILDING YOUR TOOLKIT

ARE YOU READY FOR THE JOURNEY?

The Francis Xavier Division (FXD) academic program challenges students in seventh and eighth grade with a rich, integrated curriculum that prepares them for the demands of high school while emphasizing study skills. Individual attention is provided through small class sizes and access to teachers outside of class in our unique academic centers.

Our FXD classrooms are positive (and energetic) places where students are encouraged to be hands-on, talk, work hard, collaborate with their classmates, and use their senses to grasp subject matter thoroughly. With the right guidance, the right stimuli, and teaching techniques tailored to boys, we forge strong and authentic relationships with students while we channel middle school exuberance into a positive and productive learning experience.

FXD STUDY SKILLS PROGRAM

Through a combination of individual meetings and group classes, the Xaverian counseling department meets the needs of each FXD student. Class topics include the characteristics of successful students, proper use of Xaverian academic centers, organization in school and home, time management and note-taking strategies, and test preparation techniques. Faculty regularly reinforce these lessons within the context of each subject area. Having mastered these study skills, students have the complete toolkit to achieve academic success in high school, college, and beyond.

ACADEMIC COURSES

ENGLISH

English 7 – Critical Reading and Writing: Outside Looking In

English 8 – Critical Reading and Writing: Difficult Decisions

English 8 Advanced –Critical Reading and Writing: Difficult Decisions

MATHEMATICS

Math 7 – Pre-Algebra

Math 7 Advanced –Pre-Algebra

Math 8 – Intro to Algebra 1

Math 8 Advanced – Algebra 1

SCIENCE

Science 7 – Earth Science

Science 8 – Rocketry, Robotics, and the Human Body

Science 8 Advanced –

Rocketry, Robotics, and the Human Body

Grades 7–8

SOCIAL STUDIES

S ocial Studies 7 –Geography and Civics

Social Studies 8 –World History

Social Studies 8 Advanced –World History

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Computer Science 7 –Building Computer Skills with Block-Based Programming

Computer Science 8 –Exploring Computers and Text-Based Programming (with Python)

WORLD LANGUAGES

Choice of French or Spanish

World Language 7

World Language 8

World Language 8 Advanced

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

Visual Art 7 – Introduction to Painting, Drawing, and Mixed Media

Music 7 – Band / Orchestra / Chorus

Music 8 – Band / Orchestra / Chorus

Theater 8 – Introduction to Theater

THEOLOGY

T heology 7 – Xaverian Tradition and Fundamentals of Catholic Faith

Theology 8 – Living in Faith

Theology 8 Advanced –Living in Faith

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & WELLNESS

P.E. & Wellness 7

P.E. & Wellness 8

STRONG IS SOARING HIGHER EVERY DAY

CUSTOM FIT COURSE PLACEMENT

At Xaverian, you will have a college-preparatory curriculum of the highest caliber with state-of-the-art technology and resources that are the ingredients of the best schools and colleges. Collaborative learning remains a priority for upper-level students, and our teachers create thought-provoking, interactive experiences that spark curiosity and imagination.

While all courses at Xaverian cover college-preparatory material, we offer four unique course levels. They are College Prep, Accelerated, Honors, and Advanced Placement. Students are placed into specific levels based on entrance exam results, placement exam results, and previous grades. Some schools place students in the same level across the curriculum. Here at Xaverian, you won’t be confined. We place students in levels on a subject-by-subject basis according to their strengths. Every student can sharpen skills where he excels while he continues to build and improve in another area. And, there’s always the opportunity to move up!

ACADEMIC COURSES

ENGLISH

The Hero ’ s Journey – H, A, CP

American Literature – H, A, CP

British Literature – H, A

World Literature – H, A

English Language – AP

English Literature – AP

THEOLOGY

Introduction to Scripture – H, A, CP

Catholic Christianity – H, A

Understanding Catholic

Personal and Social Morality – H, A

Faith and Reason – H, A

Grades 9–12

MATHEMATICS

A lgebra I – A, CP

Geometry – H, A, CP

Algebra II/Trig – H, A, CP

Intro. Calculus – H

Pre–Calculus – A

Calculus AB – AP

Calculus BC – AP

Introduction to Business Principles – A

Statistics – AP, A

Multivariable Calculus – Post – AP

Accounting – A

SCIENCE

Physics I – AP, H, A, CP

Chemistry I – AP, H, A, CP

Biology I – AP, H, A

Physics C – AP

Environmental Science –AP, A

Introduction to Engineering – A

Biochemistry – H

Anatomy and Physiology – A

Marine Science – A

Topics in 21st Century Science – A

Science Research and Capstone – H

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

To be eligible for a diploma from Xaverian Brothers High School, a student must complete the following course of studies prescribed by the Board of Trustees:

• English – 4 years

• Mathematics – 4 years

• Theology – 4 years

• Science – 3 years – 1 each in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

• Social Studies – 3 years (Grades 9, 10, 11)

• World Languages – 2 years in French or Spanish (3 years strongly recommended)

• Physical Education – 2 semesters

• Computer Science – .5 credit (1 semester course)

• Fine Arts – .5 credit (1 semester course)

• Campus Ministry – Freshman Day of Awareness, Sophomore Faith Experience

SOCIAL STUDIES

Human Geography –

AP, H, A, CP

World History:

Modern – AP, H, A, CP

United States

History – AP, H, A

European History – AP

Economics

(Micro and Macro) – AP

Modern American Culture – A

Practical Law – A

U.S. Government and Politics – AP

Conflict and Diplomacy – H

WORLD LANGUAGES

French I – H, A

French II – H, A

French III – H, A

French IV – H, A

French V – H, A

French Language – AP

Spanish I – H, A, CP

Spanish II – H, A, CP

Spanish III – H, A

Spanish IV – H, A

Spanish V – H, A

Spanish Language – AP

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Intro to Game Design – A

Intro to Programming in Python – A

Intro to Microcontroller

Programming – A

Intro to DIY and Programming – A

Principles of Game Design – A

Programming in Python – A

Computer Science

Principles – AP

Computer Science A – AP

Data Structures and Algorithms – Post – AP

Robotics – A

Computer Based Design – A

Video Design – A

Web Design – A

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & WELLNESS

P.E. and Wellness I

P.E. and Wellness II

Conditioning and Fitness – A

Intro to Exercise Science – A

Team Sports – A

Intro to Athletic Training – H

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

Drawing & Painting – A

Studio Art II – A

2D Mixed Media – A

Architectural Construction – A

Architectural Drawing – A

Digital Photography & Graphic Design – A

3D Design & Sculpture

Studio Art – AP

Beginning Guitar and Piano – A

Band I – A (II, III, IV, – H)

Orchestra I –A (II, III, IV, – H)

Music Business and Production – A

Music Theory – AP

Music Theory I – A

Chorus I – A (II, III, IV – H)

Senior Recital – H

Public Speaking – A

Film Studies & Design – A

Screenwriting – A

Theater I – A (II, III, IV – H)

The end of the school day begins another opportunity for students to explore their interests and enjoy the fellowship of their peers. Whether trying something brand new or delving deeper into your favorite pastime, there are over 40 extracurricular activities available to all students. Everybody can find something to broaden their horizons. Clubs and activities are one compelling reason why most students don’t go home at the final bell…they like hanging around here.

CLUBS

Board and Card Games Club

Business Club

Car Club

Chess Club

Communications Corps

Cooking Club

Environmental Science Club

Filmmakers Club

Fishing and Boating Club

French NHS (11-12)

Hawk News

History Club

Literary Magazine

The Concordian

COMPETITIVE TEAMS

Chess Team (9-12)

Esports Team

Math Team (9-12)

Mock Trial (9-12)

MediX Club

Ping Pong Club

PolitiX Club

Powerlifting (Strength & Conditioning)

SADD

Ski and Snowboarding Club

Spanish NHS (11-12)

Sports Journalism

TV and Movie Club

Woodworking Club

X-Ploring the World of Modern Science

Yearbook

FINE ARTS

Art Club

Art NHS (9-12)

A capella Group - X-Men

Chorus

Drama/Musical Productions

Drumline

Hawk Pride Pep Band & Jazz Band

Liturgical Ensemble

National Thespian Society (11-12)

Piano Club

Tri-M Music NHS (10-12)

COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND EQUITY

Model UN

Robotics Team

Speech & Debate Team

International Culture Club

Student Council

Without Xception

X-Represented

Young Men for Change

Whether it’s through a stirring soliloquy, a powerful painting, or a solo on the sax, many students surprise themselves with new-found interests and abilities at Xaverian. Our fine arts program provides numerous opportunities for students to explore their creative side.

MUSIC

Students at Xaverian experience the joy of music through performance. They gain lifelong skills and self-confidence by working with others. We challenge our students to perform, create, and respond to music with excellence while making connections with their peers. Xaverian offers a continuous arts experience from grades 7-12. Take the instrument program, for example. All seventh graders select an instrument – including vocals – and they can study it over the course of their six years here. In addition to the many courses offered, from Beginning Guitar and Piano and Music Business and Production to Advanced Placement Music Theory, there’s plenty to help our students hit the right note after the close of the school day, such as the Jazz Band, Chorus, X-Men, and the Pep Band.

For students who are even more musically oriented, private lessons are offered for a variety of instruments. Lessons are conveniently available on campus. They are taught by prominent local musicians who can also be found teaching at prestigious universities and working with some of music’s finest groups.

VISUAL ARTS

Students are given a channel to express their visual intelligence and creativity through Xaverian’s visual art program. Whether it’s cartooning, sculpting, or digital photography, the works of art they create connect to their personal and social lives in meaningful ways.

Complementing the many art classes available and the biannual gallery shows that go along with them, art students may also participate in Art Club, Art National Honor Society, Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, and The Concordian, Xaverian’s art and literary magazine.

THEATER

Theater is a study of the human spirit, through which understanding and compassion are gained. Theater students are asked to put themselves into another’s shoes and take on the joys, hardships, and life lessons that come with the territory. When you study theater, you study life.

At Xaverian, students participate in dramatic arts in a collaborative setting. Our program provides young men with a way to explore working as a team and to build strong communication skills. Theater courses include opportunities to study acting, directing, set design, and more.

In addition to theater classes, students can audition for the annual drama production and musical.

HAVING FAITH IN THE FACE OF DOUBT

Xaverian is more than college prep; it’s life prep. A large part of that comes from the campus ministry program.

What is campus ministry? It’s not what you might think. It’s service. It’s conversation. A listening ear. A place to unwind. It’s pizza parties. Even tug of war. The programs and activities offered by campus ministry help our students develop relationships with family, friends, and God. Local and international service provides an enhanced world view, giving students a better understanding of their role as global citizens.

We are committed to the moral and spiritual development of young men. Here, faith is talked about, but even more, it is lived – in our worship, in how we treat one another, and in our service to those in need. In a community of faith and respect, our students are challenged to live meaningful lives – in service to God, and to others. We welcome students and families from all faiths and backgrounds, appreciating the richness of diversity. Our inclusive community embraces experiences and perspectives from all walks of life.

PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

SERVICE

• Christian Senior Service

• Global Encounter service trips

• Grade 8 Day of Service

• X-ACT - weekly community service

• X-CEL - urban immersion service

RETREATS

• Eighth Grade Retreat *

• Francis Xavier Division Retreat

• Junior Retreat

• Senior Retreat

• Seventh Grade Retreat *

• Sophomore Faith Experience *

• SpiritHawk Retreats

• Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools Retreats

• Xaverian Leadership Institute

• Xaverian Pilgrimage to Italy

COMMUNITY

• Big Hawk & Little Hawk mentor program

• Freshman Day of Awareness *

• New Student Orientation *

• SpiritHawkWeekly youth group

• Xaverian Seminar Series

* Required program

STRONG IS GIVING IT YOUR ALL

XAVERIAN HAWKS

There are plenty of ways to find new athletic skills, hone existing ones, and discover what you’re made of at Xaverian. Student athletes learn lifelong lessons in teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Inspired by outstanding coaches, competitive schedules, and unparalleled facilities, our Hawks are challenged to reach their full potential.

No cuts are made at the seventh and eighth grade level, as the emphasis is on participation. Multiple teams are offered for sports with high participation levels. Programs at the sub-varsity level focus on the development of basic skills, appropriate attitudes, and team concepts. Varsity athletic programs compete at the Division 1 level in the Catholic Conference, regarded as the most competitive in Massachusetts.

+ Non-cut offering

• Tryout-based offering

FXD Francis Xavier Division (Grades 7-8)

FR Freshman (Grade 9)

JV Junior Varsity (Grades 9-12)

V Varsity (Grades 9-12)

800 Clapboardtree Street

Westwood, MA 02090

781-326-6392

xbhs.com

RECENT COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES (Partial List)

Amherst College

Babson College

Bates College

Bentley University

Berklee College of Music

Boston College

Boston University

Bowdoin College

Brown University

Bryant University

Bucknell University

Carnegie Mellon University

Colgate University

College of the Holy Cross

Cornell University

Dartmouth College

Duke University

Elon University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Emory University

Fairfield University

Fordham University

Georgetown University

George Washington University

Harvard University

Howard University

James Madison University

Johns Hopkins University

Marquette University

Michigan State University

New York University

Northeastern University

Northwestern University

Norwich University

Pennsylvania State University

Providence College

Purdue University

Quinnipiac University

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rhode Island School of Design

Stonehill College

Syracuse University

Temple University

Texas A&M University

The Ohio State University

The University of Alabama

The University of Edinburgh

Scotland

The University of North

Carolina at Chapel Hill

Trinity College Dublin

Tufts University

Union College

United States Air Force Academy

United States Military Academy at West Point

United States Naval Academy

University College London

University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, San Diego

University of Connecticut

University of Michigan

University of Notre Dame

University of St Andrews

Scotland

University of Vermont

University of Virginia

Vanderbilt University

Villanova University

Virginia Tech

Wake Forest University

Wesleyan University

Williams College

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Xavier University