High School American History (St. Therese Session E 1:50PM) 9th-12th, $100/Semester

To understand America’s future, students must first wrestle seriously with her past—ideas, ideals, failures, and triumphs alike.

This two-semester High School United States History course offers a rigorous, lecture-centered survey of American history, integrating structured discussion and student presentations to deepen comprehension and civic literacy. Students will engage the American story as a coherent narrative shaped by ideas, geography, faith, conflict, and human decision-making.

Instruction centers on clear, organized lectures supported by primary and secondary sources. A portion of each class is devoted to guided discussion, encouraging students to articulate historical arguments thoughtfully and charitably. Each student will also research a small portion of the upcoming topic and present a brief summary (approximately one paragraph) to the class, cultivating skills in synthesis, public speaking, and historical perspective. Pre-class reading is required, and outlining and notetaking will be taught and part of the grade. There will be a midterm and final, as well as one paper each semester.

Semester 1 examines American history from its earliest foundations through the ratification of the Constitution, emphasizing the colonial experience and the philosophical, religious, and political ideas that gave rise to the American experiment.

Semester 2 continues from the early republic through the modern era, providing a comprehensive overview of American growth, conflict, reform, and global influence. Special attention is given to political developments, cultural movements, and national turning points—making this semester particularly valuable for students interested in visiting or studying the historic sites of Washington, D.C., while remaining an excellent survey for all students.

In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States, the course highlights the enduring question at the heart of American history: whether a free people can govern themselves wisely across generations. Students are challenged to see history not as distant events, but as a living inheritance that demands understanding, gratitude, and responsibility.

Required Material: Coming Soon

Instructor: Stephanie Martin, Email: stephanie.martin.1009@gmail.com

*** Significant discounts are available for families. ***
Contact Mary Milligan for questions (260) 243-8192.

St. Therese Catholic Church, 2304 Lower Huntington Rd., Fort Wayne, IN

* If a student has special needs, please contact the teacher to discuss any accommodations that might be made.

** All classes require online family registration and enrollment. Year-long classes carry a $50 yearly enrollment fee. This enrolls your student in the class for the entire year. There is no need to re-enroll for 2nd semester. The cost of the class is due no later than the first day of each semester in an envelope labeled with your student's name & the class name with cash or a check made out to the teacher. Registration and Enrollment Fees are non-refundable.