Parents of team members are reminded that they must have fingerprint clearance, driver forms, and diocesan code of conduct if working directly with students. Contact the Dean of Students or the front office for forms and information.

May I join more than one team?

Membership on more than one team must be approved by the coaches.
I have never belonged to an academic team. Will I be welcomed?
Definitely! Teams depend upon an influx of new members each year.

If I am a freshman, should I wait a year before making a commitment?

The earlier you join, the more skillful you will become over your four years. If you wanted to play on a sport team, you would try-out as a freshman, not wait for a year or two. Think of academic teams in the same way.

Would participating on an academic team help me get into college?

Colleges value students with specific skills such as public speaking, proven leadership, and commitment.

How is my team membership recorded?

Coaches submit a progress grade each quarter of the year, with the culminating grade and one credit recorded on your transcript at the end of the year.

If I join a team, can I drop out if I find that I don’t have the time or interest to commit?

Keep in mind that these are teams, not clubs. Your commitment after an initial settling-in period during first quarter is to your team members (just as on an athletic team).You may drop out before October 15 without penalty (except Speech team for which you must audition and commit in August). After this deadline, your commitment is firm and if you drop out, your grade will be negatively affected. These are full-year teams.

Do I have to have high grades to belong to an academic team?

You must have and maintain a 2.5 GPA with no F’s and no more than one D.

How often does a team meet?

Teams normally meet after school, once or twice weekly. During competitions, teams will practice more frequently. For most teams, competitions are held in January or February.

Do I have to attend every practice from September through March?

Attendance is a part of your grade. Coaches will offer you some flexibility.

How does membership on an academic team compare with membership on an athletic team?

Both teams compete with teams from other high schools; both are dependent upon the firm commitment of team members; both provide coaching that enhances skills; both offer students opportunities to make new friends,enjoy competitions, and learn to cooperate as a productive member of a team.

How does membership on an academic team differ from membership on an athletic team?

Most academic teams do not meet every day, until immediately prior to competition. The academic team season extends from late August through February or March.