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

TRUST

COMPASSION

Humility is not a passive

Trust is the meeting

Compassion leads one

attitude, but an attitude

place of mind and heart,

to a lifestyle rooted in

leading to action, and

faith and courage.

mercy and forgiveness.

that action is service.

ZEAL

SIMPLICITY

Nothing special is

Simplicity frees the

achieved without much

heart, the mind, and

labor, effort, and zeal.

the soul, for service.

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 Grades 7–8 ENGLISH

SOCIAL STUDIES

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

Social Studies 7 – Geography and Civics Social Studies 8 – World History Social Studies 8 Advanced – World History

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Math 7 – Pre-Algebra Math 7 Advanced – Pre-Algebra Math 8 – Intro to Algebra 1 Math 8 Advanced – Algebra 1

Computer Science 7 – Building Computer Skills with Block-Based Programming Computer Science 8 – Exploring Computers and Text-Based Programming (with Python)

SCIENCE

WORLD LANGUAGES

Science 7 – Earth Science Science 8 – Rocketry, Robotics, and the Human Body Science 8 Advanced – Rocketry, Robotics, and the Human Body

Choice of French or Spanish

MATHEMATICS

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 Theology 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 Grades 9–12 ENGLISH

MATHEMATICS

SCIENCE

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

Algebra 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

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

THEOLOGY Introduction to Scripture – H, A, CP Catholic Christianity – H, A Understanding Catholic Personal and Social Morality – H, A Faith and Reason – H, A

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

COMPUTER SCIENCE

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

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

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 AP – ADVANCED PLACEMENT

H – HONORS

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

A – ACCELERATED

CP – COLLEGE PREP

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)

STRONG IS

TRYING SOMETHING NEW

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

FINE ARTS 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

COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND EQUITY

COMPETITIVE TEAMS Chess Team (9-12) Esports Team Math Team (9-12) Mock Trial (9-12)

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)

Model UN Robotics Team Speech & Debate Team

International Culture Club Student Council Without Xception X-Represented Young Men for Change

STRONG IS

STEPPING INTO THE SPOTLIGHT 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.

THEATER Theater is a study of the human spirit, through which understanding and compassion are gained. Theater students

VISUAL ARTS Students are given a channel to express their visual intelligence and creativity

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.

through Xaverian’s visual art program.

At Xaverian, students participate in

Whether it’s cartooning, sculpting, or

dramatic arts in a collaborative setting.

digital photography, the works of art they

Our program provides young men with

create connect to their personal and social

a way to explore working as a team and

lives in meaningful ways.

to build strong communication skills.

Complementing the many art classes available and the biannual gallery shows that go along with them, art students may

Theater courses include opportunities to study acting, directing, set design, and more.

also participate in Art Club, Art National

In addition to theater classes, students can

Honor Society, Scholastic Art & Writing

audition for the annual drama production

Awards, and The Concordian, Xaverian’s

and musical.

art and literary magazine.

STRONG IS

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

RETREATS

COMMUNITY

• Christian Senior Service • Global Encounter service trips • Grade 8 Day of Service • X-ACT - weekly community service • X-CEL - urban immersion service

• 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

• Big Hawk & Little Hawk mentor program • Freshman Day of Awareness* • New Student Orientation* • SpiritHawk Weekly 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)

SPORT Alpine Skiing Baseball Basketball Cross Country Football Golf Hockey Indoor Track Lacrosse Rugby Soccer Swimming & Diving Tennis Track & Field Volleyball Ultimate Disc Wrestling

FXD FR JV + +

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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