This week, Marist High School hosted its annual Course Fair, welcoming freshmen, sophomores, and juniors into the gym to explore academic offerings and plan for the upcoming school year. The event provided students with the opportunity to learn more about Marist’s wide range of courses, ask questions, and make informed decisions as they prepare for the next stage of their high school journey.
During the Course Fair, academic departments from across the school were represented, with department chairs and faculty members available to discuss course pathways, graduation requirements, and advanced learning opportunities. Students were encouraged to ask questions, explore new subjects, and consider how their interests and goals align with Marist’s academic programs.
“Marist has a robust offering of innovative courses from Emergency Medical Services to A.I. Builders, Broadcasting, Sports Medicine, and more,” said Elaine Gaffney, Director of Teaching & Learning. “The Course Fair is an important step in increasing awareness and access to the variety of educational experiences available to our students.”
Supporting Informed Academic Choices
The Course Fair is an important part of Marist’s commitment to helping students take ownership of their education. By engaging directly with department chairs and teachers, students gain clarity on course expectations, academic rigor, and how different options can support future college and career plans.
For freshmen and sophomores, the event introduced opportunities they may not yet have encountered, including advanced coursework and specialized electives. Juniors were able to have more focused conversations about senior year schedules, college preparation, and opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
Exploring Advanced Placement Opportunities
One key focus of the Course Fair was Marist’s Advanced Placement program, which offers students the opportunity to engage in college level coursework across a wide range of disciplines. Advanced Placement courses at Marist are aligned with College Board curriculum standards and emphasize depth of content, critical thinking, and advanced analysis.
For the 2026–2027 school year, Marist offers 22 AP courses taught across 43 sections by 19 dedicated AP instructors. Students enrolled in AP courses are expected to be independent, self motivated learners who are prepared for a significant amount of work outside the classroom. All students enrolled in AP courses are required to sit for the AP exam in May.
Marist’s commitment to both achievement and access has led to strong outcomes. Sixty five percent of Marist seniors take at least one AP exam during their high school career, fifty two percent earn a score of 3 or higher, and twelve percent complete five or more AP exams.
Marist High School was recently named to the College Board’s 2024–2025 AP School Honor Roll, earning Gold distinction for student achievement and expanded access to Advanced Placement coursework.
AP Courses“This recognition reflects the intentional work our teachers and counselors do to support students at every level,” said Joy Lewis, Dean of Student Success at Marist High School. “We believe advanced coursework should be accessible, supportive, and meaningful. Our goal is not just participation, but helping students build confidence, academic skills, and readiness for college and beyond.”
Learning About Dual Credit Options
Students also learned more about Marist’s expanding dual credit offerings. Dual credit courses allow students to earn college credit through successful completion of a course while also meeting high school graduation requirements. These courses are offered in partnership with Benedictine University, Loyola University Chicago, and Saint Xavier University.
For the 2026–2027 school year, Marist offers 15 dual credit courses across both core academic areas and electives. Several Advanced Placement courses also carry dual credit options, allowing students to earn college credit through the partnering university rather than relying solely on an AP exam score.
Dual credit coursework provides meaningful benefits, including cost savings, early exposure to college level expectations, career exploration, and increased confidence as students prepare for postsecondary education.
Dual Credit CoursesHelping Students Chart Their Academic Path
The Marist Course Fair reflects the school’s commitment to academic excellence, student support, and thoughtful course planning. By providing opportunities for students to engage directly with faculty and explore advanced and college credit options, Marist ensures that students have access to a pathway that aligns with their strengths, interests, and future goals.
As students prepare to finalize course selections for the upcoming school year, the Course Fair serves as a valuable step in helping them make informed, confident academic decisions.
