Kennedy Catholic Math
Department Overview
The John F. Kennedy Catholic Preparatory High School Math Department offers a math curriculum that strives to challenge students to develop sound reasoning, problem solving, and critical thinking skills necessary for success in today’s world. Math is a subject that continues to build on itself from previous concepts and becomes more exciting and complex as skills increase.
The Math Department curriculum begins with the exploration of Algebra and sequentially moves through Geometry, Algebra II, PreCalculus, and Calculus, and a possibility for a more in-depth study of statistics. These courses empower the student to become confident in their mathematical knowledge in new situations.
Math Department Course Offerings
Grade 9
Regents Level
Algebra 1 or Geometry
Algebra 1 - This course introduces the student the use of variables in evaluating expressions, writing equations, graphing functions, solving quadratics, and understanding inequalities. Students in Algebra 1 typically build conceptual understanding and gain procedural fluency of concepts that are required for more advanced math subjects.
Geometry - This course studies the properties of space that are related through distance, shape, size, and relative position of figures. It includes the measurement and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids.
Grade 10
Regents Level
Geometry or Geometry Honors
Geometry – This course studies the properties of space that are related through distance, shape, size, and relative position of figures. It includes the measurement and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids.
Geometry Honors – This course is an accelerated approach to Geometry (see above). It includes an extended study of geometric topics and enrichment topics.
Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 Honors
Algebra 2 – This course explores a more advanced study of equations and inequalities, graphing of functions, and probability and statistics. Students gain an understanding of the concepts of exponents, logarithms, trigonometry, and mathematical modeling.
Algebra 2 Honors– This course is an accelerated approach to Algebra 2 (see above). It includes an extended study of advanced algebraic topics and enrichment topics.
Grade 11
Regents Level
Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 Honors
Algebra 2 – This course explores a more advanced study of equations and inequalities, graphing of functions, and probability and statistics. Students gain an understanding of the concepts of exponents, logarithms, trigonometry, and mathematical modeling.
Algebra 2 Honors – This course is an accelerated approach to Algebra 2 (see above). It includes an extended study of advanced algebraic topics and enrichment topics.
PreCalculus or PreCalculus Honors
PreCalculus – This course builds on the concepts learned in previous math courses as a structured entry to advanced studies leading to Calculus. It emphasizes problem solving and mathematical analysis that prepares the student for college level mathematics. Students can earn SUNY Albany college credits for the spring semester.
PreCalculus Honors– This course is an accelerated approach to PreCalculus (see above). It includes an extended study of advanced PreCalculus topics and enrichment topics.
Grade 12
PreCalculus
This course builds on the concepts learned in previous math courses as a structured entry to advanced studies leading to Calculus. It emphasizes problem solving and mathematical analysis that prepares the student for college level mathematics.
AP – Calculus AB
This course explores the concepts, methods, and applications of differential and integral calculus. The student will apply their knowledge and skills to problem solving in theoretical and real-world scenarios. Students can earn college credit upon successful completion of the AP Calculus exam.
AP – Statistics
This course explores major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. It emphasizes reasoning based on probability and statistics while improving the power of decision making. Students can earn college credit upon successful completion of the AP Statistics exam.
Department Leadership
Arlene O’Rourke
Department Chairperson
Stephen Schmidt
Vice-Principal for Academics
Robert Furey
Math Teacher
William Olson
Math Teacher
Catherine Halleran
Math Teacher
