OIL CITY, Pa. (EYT) – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) readiness, emphasis on the classics, and focus on problem-based learning form the basis of Venango Catholic High School’s new curriculum framework.

The new course of studies will debut in the fall and provides an interdisciplinary approach to studies.

Two new courses drive the new curriculum: Systems Science and Active Critical Thinking. Systems Science is honors-level, laboratory-based, and integrates the content and skills of full units of biology, chemistry, and physics.

“Venango Catholic affords the students and parents a quality, college preparatory educational experience in a faith based environment. Our faculty commitment to excellence is unparalleled and our curriculum is cutting-edge driven by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) methodologies. Any parent that wants their child to be challenged intellectually, prepared to be competitive collegiately, mentored from a strong, faith based and moral compass, Venango Catholic is the premier choice in the region.”

“Active Critical Thinking challenges students to explore locally relevant problems and devise effective solutions. Students will collaborate with each other, analyze meaningful data, design comprehensive solutions, and present their findings effectively.” Dr. Joseph Carrico Administrator, Pathways Adolescent Center, Former Superintendent of Oil City Public Schools and VCHS Advisory Board Member.

Algebra II, Religion, Literature and Composition, Art, Introduction to Communications, and Ancient Civilizations complete the curriculum’s first year.

Teachers are redesigning these courses to complement each other and the new Systems Science and Active Critical Thinking courses.