Academics

Academics at Spalding

Excellence in Education

At Archbishop Spalding High School, learning is dynamic, purposeful, and student-centered. Our academic program emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration, inspiring students to explore ideas with curiosity and confidence. Supported by a passionate and experienced faculty, Spalding students are encouraged to reach their full potential—developing the knowledge, skills, and character to thrive in college, career, and life.

Our Departments

List of 10 items.

  • Art

    Art at Archbishop Spalding

    The Art Department inspires creativity, self-expression, and collaboration, providing students with opportunities to explore a diverse range of artistic disciplines. From drawing and painting to digital media, ceramics, and photography, our courses encourage students to develop their skills and pursue their unique artistic journeys.


    Clubs & Enrichment

    • Art Club & Sketching Club
    • National Art Honor Society
    • Empty Bowls Service Project 


    Major Events

    • National Art Honor Society Induction (Spring)
    • School-Wide Art Show (April/May)
    • Art Gallery Exhibits (year-round in the Art Wing)


    Course Opportunities

    Students can explore a wide range of classes, from introductory visual art to advanced AP Studio courses, ensuring there’s a path for every artist:
    • Non-Prerequisite Courses: Yearbook I, Intro to Film, Drama, Media Productions, Art History (Ancient to Modern), AP Art History
    • Introductory Courses: Introduction to Drawing, General Fine Arts
    • Intermediate & Upper-Intermediate Courses: Drawing II, Painting I & II, Ceramics I & II, Photography, Digital Art I & II, Honors Applied Design, Honors Communication Graphic Design
    • Advanced Courses: Painting III, Independent Art for Advanced Concepts, AP Studio (2D, 3D, Drawing, or Architecture)

    At Spalding, the Art Department not only fosters artistic talent but also cultivates creativity, leadership, and community engagement — preparing students to express themselves confidently both in the classroom and beyond.

  • Computer Science/Engineering

    Computer Science/Engineering at Archbishop Spalding

    Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a nonprofit organization that provides research-based, hands-on STEM curriculum, partnering with universities and companies to create transformative learning experiences. As a certified PLTW school, Archbishop Spalding High School offers two exciting PLTW pathways: Engineering and Computer Science, giving students the opportunity to explore, innovate, and prepare for future careers in STEM fields.

    Engineering Pathway

    Our four-year Engineering Program is integrated into the students’ core curriculum, combining math and science courses to prepare students for college majors in engineering and technology. Students have the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school.

    Program Highlights:
    • Eligibility: Limited enrollment through an application process. Selection is based on student interest, commitment to the four-year program, middle school math and science grades, and strong performance on the HSPT math section.

    • Course Progression:
      • 9th Grade: Introduction to Engineering Design (½ credit CS, ½ credit Fine Arts)
      • 10th Grade: Principles of Engineering (1 full credit General Elective)
      • 11th Grade: Digital Electronics (½ credit CS, ½ credit General Elective)
      • 12th Grade: Engineering Design & Development (1 full credit General Elective)
    • BYOD Requirement: Students must bring their own devices for coursework.

    Computer Science Pathway

    Students interested in Computer Science can follow the PLTW CS Pathway, which consists of four elective courses:
    • Computer Science Essentials
    • AP Computer Science Principles
    • AP Computer Science A
    • Cybersecurity

    Clubs & Competitions:
    • CyberPatriot Team
    • Engineering Service Society
    • FIRST Robotics Team
    • Major Events: FIRST Robotics competitions throughout the school year

    The PLTW programs at Spalding give students hands-on, real-world experience, preparing them for STEM careers while fostering problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration skills.

  • English

    English at Archbishop Spalding

    Rooted in Archbishop Spalding High School’s mission, the English Department fosters a love for literature that cultivates both mind and soul. Students are guided to become critical thinkers, interpreting stories in conversation with faith and reason; skilled communicators, expressing their ideas with clarity, compassion, and integrity; and lifelong, empathetic learners, prepared to engage as thoughtful, productive members of a global society.


    Clubs & Enrichment

    • National English Honor Society
    • Writing Center (weekly in Room 109)
    • Spelling Bee
    • Creative Writing Club
    • Yearbook


    Major Events

    • Spelling Bee
    • Department-led literary events and contests throughout the year


    Course Opportunities & Graduation Requirements

    All students complete four years of English to graduate. Courses build skills progressively, offering both required classes and electives:
    • Core Sequence: World Literature → Writing & Rhetoric → American Literature / AP Language / IB English I → British Literature / AP Literature / IB English II
    • Electives: Yearbook, Film
    At Spalding, the English Department cultivates a love for reading, writing, and critical inquiry, helping students develop the intellectual and moral tools to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.

  • Math

    Mathematics at Archbishop Spalding

    The Mathematics Department at Archbishop Spalding High School is dedicated to helping students develop a deep understanding and appreciation for how mathematics shapes the world around them. We meet each learner where they are—challenging and supporting them as they grow in confidence, problem-solving ability, and logical reasoning. Through a wide range of courses and learning levels, students strengthen their analytical thinking, perseverance, and ability to communicate mathematical ideas clearly and effectively. Note: A TI-84 Plus graphing calculator is required for all mathematics courses at Archbishop Spalding.
     

    Clubs & Enrichment

    • Math League – Compete in local and state contests through Mathleague.org. High-performing students advance to State, National, or International Championships.
    • Mu Alpha Theta (Math National Honor Society) – Recognizes and supports students who excel in mathematics through service projects and academic competitions.

    Course Opportunities & Graduation Pathways

    Students complete a core sequence of math courses designed to build both skill and confidence. Most courses are offered across Honors, Advanced, and College Preparatory levels.
    • Core Sequence: Algebra I → Geometry → Algebra II → Precalculus
    • Advanced Courses: AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, IB Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations HL
    • Electives: Problem Solving, Statistics, Trigonometry, Calculus Concepts, Bridge to College Math

    At Spalding, mathematics isn’t just about numbers—it’s about discovery, logic, and unlocking the potential to solve real-world challenges with confidence and precision.

  • Music

    Music at Archbishop Spalding

    The Music Department at Archbishop Spalding High School offers students the opportunity to explore their musical talents, build confidence as performers, and deepen their appreciation for the arts. Through a variety of ensembles and courses, students develop both technical skill and creative expression while learning the importance of collaboration, discipline, and joy in performance. Whether through voice, instrument, or composition, every student is encouraged to find their unique sound and share it with the community.

    Clubs & Ensembles

    • Tri-M Music Honor Society – Honors excellence in music, scholarship, and service.
    • Jazz Cavs – Instrumental ensemble performing jazz standards and contemporary works.
    • Women’s Chorus – Vocal ensemble dedicated to choral excellence and harmony.
    • Chromosome Y – Male vocal ensemble performing a range of contemporary and classical pieces.
    • Show Choir – High-energy performance group combining singing and choreography.
    • Liturgy Band – Leads the community in worship through music at school liturgies and special events.

    Annual Highlights

    • Christmas Concerts
    • Variety Show 
    • Annual Music Trip 
    • Spring Concerts 

    At Spalding, music is more than performance—it’s community, creativity, and connection. Our students bring energy, talent, and heart to every note they play and every song they sing.

  • Physical Education

    Physical Education at Archbishop Spalding

    The Physical Education program at Archbishop Spalding High School emphasizes lifelong fitness, wellness, and the development of athletic skills. Courses are designed to engage students through hands-on participation, promote teamwork, and teach the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Students explore a variety of sports, fitness activities, and health concepts while developing leadership, confidence, and personal growth.


    Courses & Highlights

    Health and Fitness Foundations – Required for freshmen, this course introduces students to the concepts of total wellness, including physical, mental, and emotional health. CPR and First Aid certification are included.
    Fitness for Life – A dynamic, activity-based course for sophomores, focused on building lifelong fitness habits through strength training, cardiovascular exercise, flexibility routines, and sport-specific drills.
    Fitness Mastery – An alternative for sophomores, this course emphasizes skill development and teamwork through a variety of sports, promoting sportsmanship and confidence in athletic abilities.
    Physical Education Aide – Juniors and seniors may assist instructors in Fitness Mastery classes, demonstrating leadership and character while supporting student learning.
    Sports Medicine – Open to juniors and seniors with departmental approval, this course combines the study of exercise physiology with practical application in injury prevention, CPR, taping, and rehabilitation. Includes a required 5-hour internship and reflection paper.
    Team and Individual Sports – Students develop skills in a variety of individual, dual, and team sports, learning strategies, rules, and game concepts to enhance overall fitness.
    Weight Training – Focuses on strength and endurance through proper weightlifting techniques and cardiovascular exercises, designed for students ready to enhance their athletic conditioning.
    At Spalding, our Physical Education program is about more than fitness — it’s about fostering lifelong wellness, teamwork, leadership, and a positive relationship with physical activity.

  • Science

    Science at Archbishop Spalding

    At Archbishop Spalding High School, the Science Department empowers students to think critically, explore deeply, and understand the world through scientific inquiry. Through hands-on experiments, field experiences, and classroom discussions, students learn to analyze information objectively, form evidence-based conclusions, and appreciate the role of science in everyday life. With courses offered across multiple ability levels, our program prepares students to become thoughtful global citizens who can navigate an ever-changing, technology-driven world.

    Clubs & Enrichment

    • Environmental Club

    Major Events


    Students extend their learning beyond the classroom through engaging field trips, including:
    • Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (AP & IB Environmental Science, Introduction to Environmental Science)
    • National Aquarium (Marine Science)
    • Maryland Zoo (Zoology)
    • Air and Space Museum (Astronomy)
    • Smithsonian Institution (Earth Science)

    Course Opportunities & Graduation Requirements


    Students are required to complete three science credits, with at least two of these credits being lab sciences.
    • Typical Sequence: Biology (9th), Chemistry (10th), Physics (11th or 12th)
    • Electives: Astronomy, Earth Science, Marine Science, Zoology, Principles of Genetics
    • Advanced Options: Forensic Science, Honors Human Anatomy & Physiology, IB Environmental Systems & Society, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics (I & C), AP Environmental Science

  • Social Science

    Social Science at Archbishop Spalding

    At Archbishop Spalding High School, the Social Science Department empowers students to become culturally literate, globally aware, and ethically responsible citizens. Through the study of history, government, psychology, business, and economics, students learn to analyze the complex forces shaping society and to think critically about their role in an interconnected world. Our program fosters creativity, independence, and civic engagement—preparing students to lead with knowledge, compassion, and integrity.

    Clubs & Enrichment

    • Model United Nations
    • Rho Kappa: Social Studies Honor Society
    • Debate Club
    • Career Exploration Club
    • Equality Now Club
    • Maryland General Assembly Student Page Program

    Major Events

    • American Government students visit the U.S. Capitol to meet with Representatives and Senators.
    • Model United Nations teams compete at conferences in New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C.
    • AP Economics students attend the Berkshire Hathaway Shareholders Meeting in Omaha, NE.

    Course Opportunities & Graduation Requirements


    Students are required to complete World History, United States History, and American Government to graduate.
    • Freshman Year: World History (AQ, CP, Honors, or AP)
    • Sophomore Year: Elective options encouraged (e.g., Psychology, Economics, Business, Sociology)
    • Junior Year: U.S. History (AQ, CP, Honors, AP, or IB*)
    • Senior Year: U.S. Government (AQ, CP, Honors, or AP)

    In addition to required courses, students may explore more than a dozen electives and advanced AP and IB options, allowing them to tailor their academic experience to their interests and goals.

  • Theology

    Theology at Archbishop Spalding

    The Theology Department at Archbishop Spalding High School is dedicated to meeting students where they are—no matter their faith background or where they are on their spiritual journey. Rooted in the principle of faith seeking understanding, we strive to create an environment where students can thoughtfully engage with scripture, prayer, and meaningful dialogue. Guided by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops curriculum, our program invites students to encounter Christ and grow in discipleship through both classroom learning and the relationships formed within our school community.

    Clubs & Enrichment

    • Snacks and Scripture
    • Monthly Adoration in the Chapel
    • Weekly Examen
    • Friday Morning Prayer in the Chapel
    • Collaboration with Campus Ministry on retreats, service projects, liturgies, and other events

    Major Events

    • The Passion of the Christ Viewing (Sophomore Year)
    • World Religions Site Visit (Senior Year)
    • Lessons of the Shoah
    • IB World Religions Panel Discussion
    • Take the Journey Day: Responding to Christ’s Call (Senior Year)
    • Bible Museum Field Trip – Sacred Scripture (Senior Year)

    Course Opportunities & Graduation Requirements


    All students are required to take Theology each year as part of their graduation requirements.

    Freshman Year
    • God’s Revelation: Jesus Christ (Semester 1)
    • Christ’s Mission and Ministry (Semester 2)
    Sophomore Year
    • Jesus Christ: Our Salvation (Semester 1)
    • The Church: Our Story (Semester 2)
    • Seminar Option: Beginning sophomore year, students may select the seminar track, offering an enriched approach to the core curriculum.
    Junior Year
    • Sacraments (Semester 1)
    • Morality (Semester 2)
    • Seminar Option: Students may continue in the seminar track for deeper study.
    • IB Option: Students may begin the two-year IB World Religions program (IB World Religions I – full year).
    Senior Year
    • IB Students: Continue IB World Religions II (full year)
    • Non-IB Students: Choose two semester-long electives from the following:
      • Sacred Scripture (Semester 1)
      • Comparative World Religions (Semester 1)
      • Catholic Social Teaching (Semester 2)
      • Responding to Christ’s Call (Semester 2)

    At Spalding, theology is not just a subject—it’s an invitation to explore faith, discover purpose, and live out the Gospel through compassion and service.

  • World Languages

    World Languages at Archbishop Spalding

    The World Languages Department at Archbishop Spalding High School is dedicated to promoting linguistic proficiency and intercultural understanding, equipping students to engage meaningfully in a global society. Our focus is on developing communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing while deepening students’ appreciation for diverse cultures. Through a student-centered approach, we emphasize authentic experiences, collaboration, and real-world application to inspire lifelong learning of languages and global citizenship.

    Clubs & Enrichment

    • French National Honor Society
    • Latin National Honor Society
    • Spanish National Honor Society
    • Latin Ties

    Major Events

    • World Languages National Honor Societies Induction
    • French Week
    • Hispanic Heritage Month Activities

    Course Opportunities & Graduation Requirements


    Students must complete two consecutive years of the same language to fulfill the graduation requirement.
    French
    • French I / Honors French I
    • French II / Honors French II
    • Honors French III
    • Honors French IV
    • IB French
    Latin
    • Latin I / Honors Latin I
    • Latin II / Honors Latin II
    • Honors Latin III
    • Honors Latin IV
    • IB Latin
    Spanish
    • Span I / Spanish I / Advanced Spanish I / Honors Spanish I
    • Span II / Spanish II / Advanced Spanish II / Honors Spanish II
    • Span III / Spanish III / Advanced Spanish III / Honors Spanish III
    • Spanish IV / Advanced Spanish IV / Honors Spanish IV
    • AP Spanish
    • IB Spanish

    Additional Opportunities


    Through a dual enrollment partnership with Notre Dame of Maryland University, students may earn college credit in the following courses:
    • Honors French IV
    • IB French
    • Honors Latin III & IV
    • IB Latin
    • Honors Spanish IV
    • AP Spanish

    At Spalding, studying a world language is more than grammar and vocabulary—it’s an exploration of culture, connection, and perspective that empowers students to become thoughtful, informed members of a global community.

Our Academic Programs:

List of 3 items.

  • Advanced Placement

    Advanced Placement at Archbishop Spalding

    At Archbishop Spalding High School, we believe every student should have the opportunity to challenge themselves and pursue their academic interests at the highest level. Our Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow academically-prepared students to engage in college-level studies while still in high school. Each AP course follows a college-equivalent framework and culminates in a standardized AP Exam each May. Teachers design their courses to align with both AP goals and Spalding’s commitment to rigorous, meaningful instruction.
    In 2023, 2024, and 2025, Archbishop Spalding was awarded Platinum Honors from the College Board, recognizing our expansive, rigorous, and accessible AP program.

    AP Courses Offered (28 Total):
    • Computer Science: Computer Science A, Computer Science Principles
    • English: Language and Composition, Literature and Composition
    • Fine Arts: Drawing, Art History, Music Theory
    • Social Sciences: African American Studies, European History, Human Geography, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Psychology, US Government and Politics, US History, World History: Modern
    • Mathematics: Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Precalculus, Statistics
    • Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics 1, Physics C: Mechanics
    • World Languages: Spanish Language and Culture, Latin
    AP Course Enrollment:
    Some AP courses replace required courses (e.g., AP US History fulfills the junior year US History requirement), while others are offered as electives (e.g., AP Psychology). Each department sets its own prerequisites, which may include prior coursework, minimum grades, teacher recommendations, or application materials. Contact individual teachers or departments for specific enrollment requirements.

    AP Exams:
    Students enrolled in AP courses are expected to take the corresponding AP Exam in May. Teachers provide guidance and assist with registration for these exams. The May 2026 AP Exam Schedule can be found [here].

  • Honors Courses

    Honors Courses at Archbishop Spalding

    Archbishop Spalding High School offers Honors courses across multiple disciplines, providing students the opportunity to engage in advanced, challenging coursework that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and deeper mastery of subject matter. Honors courses are available in the following departments:
    • Art
    • Computer Science
    • Engineering
    • English
    • World Language
    • Mathematics
    • Music
    • Science
    • Social Studies
    These courses are designed for students who are ready to take their learning to the next level while developing the skills necessary for success in college and beyond.

  • International Baccalaureate

    International Baccalaureate (IB) at Archbishop Spalding

    IB Diploma Programme (DP) at Archbishop Spalding High School is a rigorous and well-rounded academic program designed to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond. IB courses encourage students to think critically, engage in independent research, and explore globally significant ideas and issues. Through these courses, students develop the skills and mindset needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world.

    IB Diploma Programme Courses (Grades 11–12):
    • English: Literature (HL)
    • World Languages: Spanish B (SL), French B (SL), Latin (SL)
    • Individuals & Societies: History (HL), World Religions (SL)
    • Sciences: Environmental Systems and Societies (SL)
    • Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL)
    • Core: Theory of Knowledge

    These courses offer a challenging yet supportive environment that fosters students' academic, creative, and ethical growth, aligning with Spalding’s mission to develop well-rounded, thoughtful global citizens.

One in Christ

Archbishop Spalding High School

8080 New Cut Road
Severn, MD 21144
410-969-9105