Academic Programs
STEM Program
STEM at SPX
In the last five years, over 65% of SPX graduates indicated a STEM area of study in college based on ACT-Defined STEM Majors and Occupations. A St. Pius X education prepares students for college and beyond. Graduates indicate they are well-prepared for college studies in all subjects.
STEM Curriculum
Business & Technology
- Business & Technology
AP Computer Science Principles
This course entails the study of concepts of web site design and maintenance using HTML and software such as Dreamweaver, or Frontpage. This course also covers text styles, images, Web-based database access concepts using MySQL or other relational databases. Students encounter an introduction to PHP, Javascript, and relational database concepts.
- Business & Technology
Computer Programming I
This is a beginning level course in coding, introduce students to the fundamentals of computer programming using the Python language, The course will also teach students how to write, test, and debug code with a focusing on core concepts like variables, data types, control structures (loops and conditionals), functions, and basic input/output operations.
- Business & Technology
Introduction to Business
This course is designed for high school students interested in gaining a foundational understanding of business principles through hands-on experience. This course provides students with the opportunity to learn key aspects of running a business by managing a school breakfast store. Students will explore various business functions, including branding, marketing, finance, operations, customer service, and management, as they apply these concepts in a real-world setting. This course will require students to arrive at school early to take turns running the breakfast store.
- Business & Technology
Web Development
This course entails the study of concepts of web site design and maintenance using HTML and software such as Dreamweaver, or Frontpage. This course also covers text styles, images, Web-based database access concepts using MySQL or other relational databases. Students encounter an introduction to PHP, Javascript, and relational database concepts.
- Business & Technology, Practical Arts
Personal Finance
This course is designed to give students an introduction to the basic fundamentals of personal finance. The content of this course will consist of basic concepts such as balancing a checkbook and preparing a personal budget. The course will provide students with a first hand look at money management and personal investment techniques on a daily, monthly and annual basis. Students will keep a weekly journal and will work on several individual and group projects; in addition, they use a textbook/workbook but will also incorporate other outside business periodicals such as the Wall Street Journal.
Math
- Math
Dual Credit Statistics
The focus of the course will be on developing critical thinking abilities and decision-making using data in everyday life. Emphasis will be on statistical reasoning underlying the methods of sampling, statistical inference in terms of evaluating the accuracy of an estimate in the context of uncertainty, drawing conclusions from data, and studying relationships in data. Students may elect to sign up for advanced college credit through UMKC.
- Math
Math (101, 201, 301, 401)
This course is designed to build and reinforce essential math skills for students who need additional support in mathematics. It focuses on strengthening number sense, operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and basic algebraic thinking. Students will work on problem-solving strategies, mathematical reasoning, and real-world applications to develop confidence and competence in math.
- Math
Dual Credit Pre-Calculus
This course addresses the fundamental topics of algebra and trigonometry necessary for Calculus. Topics include linear, quadratic, and miscellaneous equations and inequalities; relations and functions including polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; graphing; systems of equations; the degree and radian measure of angles; the definition of the six trigonometric functions; the solution of triangles and appropriate application problems; the solution of conditional trigonometric equations; the verification and usefulness of identities; the inverse trigonometric functions; the trigonometric form of a complex number and polar curves; and arithmetic and geometric sequences. Students may elect to sign up for advanced college credit through UMKC.
- Math
Dual Credit Calculus I
This course aims to provide a working knowledge of the concepts and theorems of elementary calculus of functions of one variable. Topics covered include a review of precalculus, limits, derivatives, and integrals of a wide variety of functions and their applications to curve sketching, maximum and minimum problems, area and volume. Students may elect to sign up for advanced college credit through UMKC.
- Math
Honors Algebra I
Students in this course will acquire the algebraic skills necessary for success in future math courses. Topics covered include: solving and graphing (one and two variable) linear equations and inequalities, problem solving, factoring, solving systems of linear equations, simplifying rational expressions, simplifying radicals, fractional exponents, imaginary numbers, and an introduction to linear and quadratic functions. This course provides the foundation for further mathematical understanding and success.
- Math
Algebra I (A)
This course teaches algebraic concepts at a slower pace for those students that are not ready for Algebra. Topics covered include many pre-algebra skills including fractions, ratios, proportions, variables and exponents. This course will culminate in the study of polynomials and the solving of linear equations and inequalities. *(May only be 0.5 for some colleges and universities)
- Math
Algebra I (B)
This course follows Algebra 1 (A) and continues to build problem solving skills and higher order thinking. This course completes the Algebra I curriculum. Topics include more linear equation solving and graphing, writing equations of lines, functions, rational expressions, systems of equations, factoring, and quadratics. *Though SPX only requires students earn three math credits, those enrolled in Algebra I (A) and I (B) will take four in order to meet our requirement of taking Algebra II.
- Math
Algebra I (M)
Students in this course will acquire the algebraic skills necessary for success in future math courses. Topics covered include: solving and graphing (one and two variable) linear equations and inequalities, problem solving, factoring, solving systems of linear equations, simplifying rational expressions, simplifying radicals, and an introduction to linear and quadratic functions. This course provides the foundation for further mathematical understanding and success.
- Math
Algebra II
This course offers a review of algebra followed by the study of functions (linear, quadratic, higher order polynomials, absolute values and logarithmic) and their graphs. Students will also study complex fractions, exponents, nth roots, matrices, and variation. Upon successful completion, this course prepares students for Trigonometry or College Algebra. Other students will be encouraged to enroll in Introduction to College Algebra. Note: Algebra II does not provide adequate preparation for Pre-Calculus.
- Math
Honors Algebra II
This course begins with a review of Algebra I Honors topics, followed by the study of linear functions, complex numbers, quadratic equations and functions, variation, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences and series, permutations and combinations, and matrices and determinants.
- Math
Dual Credit College Algebra
This course addresses fundamentals of basic algebra. Topics include the real number system, basic operations of algebra, polynomial functions (linear, quadratic, and higher degree), inequalities, functions and graphs, systems of equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, and arithmetic and geometric sequences. This course is intended for students needing a thorough study of algebra in preparation for college level math courses for a liberal arts or business major. Students may elect to sign up for advanced college credit through UMKC.
- Math
Geometry
This course provides a study of: polygons, congruency and classification of triangles, deductive proofs, circles and their angles, right triangles, areas and volumes of plane and solid figures, basic transformations, basic constructions, ratio and proportions of similar triangles, and coordinate geometry. Mathematical vocabulary will be stressed and students will review algebra skills.
- Math
Honors Geometry
This course will include an intense study of: polygons, congruency and classifications of triangles, deductive proofs, circles and their angles, right triangles, areas and volumes of plane and solid figures, ratio and proportions of similar triangles, and coordinate geometry. In addition, students will develop visual skills, expand their mathematical vocabulary and review algebra skills necessary for success in Honors Algebra II.
- Math
8th Grade Algebra
Students in this course will acquire the algebraic skills necessary for success in future math courses. Topics covered include: solving and graphing (one and two variable) linear equations and inequalities, problem solving, factoring, solving systems of linear equations, simplifying rational expressions, simplifying radicals, fractional exponents, imaginary numbers, and an introduction to linear and quadratic functions. This course is the foundation for further mathematical understanding and success.
- Math
Dual Credit Statistics
Dual Credit Statistics is a rigorous, college-level course designed to introduce students to the major concepts and tools used for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. This course emphasizes real-world applications and statistical reasoning, preparing students for the Dual Credit Statistics exam and future studies in data analysis, business, science, social sciences, and more.
- Math
Math IV
A preparation for post-secondary math with an emphasis on modeling data and application problems. Topics include the study of functions in several representations, including tables of data, graphs, and formulas; characteristics of a variety of functions (including linear, power, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric); and building mathematical models from data. Conceptual mathematical background will be supplied as needed. This class is intended for students who want a fourth year of math but are not eligible to take any of the dual credit senior options (College Algebra, Precalculus, Calculus).
Science
- Science
AP Biology
Students continue a high level understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions.
- Science
Physics
This course is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, and conservation.
- Science
AP Environmental Sciences
In this course, students cultivate their understanding of the interrelationships of the natural world through inquiry-based lab investigations and field work as they explore concepts like the four Big Ideas; energy transfer, interactions between earth systems, interactions between different species and the environment, and sustainability.
- Science
Biology
Biology attempts to identify, explain, and predict the phenomenon of life from the molecular, cellular, individual, and ecological levels. Units focus on (1) food (units of general chemistry, chemicals of life, movement through membranes, & bio energy), (2) shelter (units on ecological principles and conservation of resources and theories of natural selection), (3) a mate (units on DNA, cell structures and functions, plant and animal reproductive systems, and genetic), and (4) types of life (units on taxonomy). Scientific methodology of experimental design and the collection, display, and interpretation of data to logical conclusions is integrated throughout the units of study.
- Science
Chemistry
Covers the basic topics of chemistry, such as formula and equation writing, atomic structure, gas laws, reactions, problem solving, and organic chemistry. Experiments will be conducted throughout this course, and are designed for those students entering into science, engineering, premed, etc. The student will need excellent math skills that include Algebra I.
- Science
Human Anatomy/Physiology
Designed for students to acquire basic knowledge of the structure and an understanding of functions of the cells, tissues, organs, and systems of the human body. Scientific methodology is incorporated in the classroom activities along with substantial anatomical names and terminology. These skills are intended to introduce students to general terms and concepts needed as young adults and future parents. These terms and concepts may also serve as an introduction to students interested in biological and health related careers. Units of study include introductory terminology, cytology, histology, and each of the systems (skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, integumentary, and reproductive).
- Science
Zoology I
The course gives an introduction to zoology, with particular emphasis on the morphology and systematics of both vertebrates and invertebrates. In addition, the students should acquire basic knowledge in ethology, evolution, and human ecology (including an introduction to the biosphere and biodiversity). Zoology is a course that will survey the nine major phyla of the kingdom Animalia. Zoology is the study of animal life. Zoologists research everything they think to ask about animals, including their anatomy and interrelationships, their physiology and genetics, and their distributions and habitats. Human beings have been zoologists for as long as there have been human beings. As humans, we are intricately tied to animal life.
CAPs Strand
- CAPS Strands
Global Business & Logistics
Partner with local, regional, national, and international businesses to produce marketing plans, advertising and promotional plans, customer research, social media plans, event management, and strategic plans.
- CAPS Strands
Digital Media & Technology
Students collaborate with mentors and business clients to deliver real products to their clients, as well as create a professional portfolio that illustrates your creative talent.
- CAPS Strands
Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing
Experience hands-on, active learning with immersion in real-world projects sponsored by business partners, structured around engineering processes.
- CAPS Strands
Medicine & Healthcare Technical Solutions
Unprecedented access to real world experiences in medicine and healthcare through immersion in North Kansas City Hospital and Liberty Hospital.
- CAPS Strands
Technology Solutions
Ideal for students who are interested in developing the professional and technical skills required to forge forward in exploring all areas of technology.