Journalism
Journalism is only open to students who exhibit a good work ethic, an above average level of writing skills, and, most important, the ability to work independently.  The students design the forty page yearbook online using a variety of tools that allow them to create colorful backgrounds and complex layouts.  Also created is a monthly four-page newsletter, Tales from DeSales, which covers a variety of school activities including sports, classroom activities, assemblies, Masses, retreats and much more.  The student journalists use the program Publisher to format their newsletter and include many photos to enhance the articles.

Speech (one semester, offered on a need and year-to-year basis)
Speech class focuses on improving speech delivery skills (eye contact, voice, posture, gestures, etc) along with the structure of a well written speech.  It utilizes various formats of speech delivery including memorized, manuscript, impromptu and extemporaneous.  Along with writing and delivering speeches, students will study various speeches throughout history up to modern day.  They will analyze these speeches through presentations, class discussions, and individual reflection. 

Independent Living
This class is designed for the student that will soon be living on his or her own (whether dorm room or apartment). Five major subjects are covered that are needed for an independent home life. This project-based class encompasses:

• Money Matters (budgeting, bill paying, insurance, taxes, and debt)
• Foods and Nutrition (recipe language, basic baking, meal planning, nutrition, and hospitality)
• Housing (history, cost of housing, interior design, and care)
• Families and Caregiving (role of family, early childhood development, and elder care)
• Textiles (care of clothing, mending, how to operate a sewing machine)

Band
The DeSales Band has had a rich tradition since our school opened.  Under the direction of Mr. Phil Lynch, our band members learn everything from basic instrumentation to music theory.  Students are taught to use their skills on a variety of instruments.  Band activities include pep band, athletic events, concerts and more.

Choir

DeSales offers interested students the opportunity to receive fine arts credit for participating in the parish choir at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, one of our supporting parishes. One credit is available per semester. Students participate in weekly evening rehearsals and Sunday Masses as well as occasional Tri-parish and school Mass events. Because students will join an existing adult choir, some prior musical experience is needed. Each prospective student will meet with Mrs. Gogl at the beginning of the semester to ensure a good match for this elective and a smooth transition into the choir.

For more information, please contact:

Mrs. Jo Anna Gogl

 [email protected]

Art
In high school fine arts classes, students are encouraged to not just pursue, explore, and take ownership of their creativity through traditional means (e.g. art technique and artistic mediums), but also to explore it in context of a developing faith in Jesus Christ and what it means to be an artist in the Kingdom of God. Fine arts instruction includes various mediums from pencil to watercolor, the application of the Elements and Principles of Design, along with discussion and reflection on art and art topics. Students produce and present work for two art shows, the Fall Showcase and the Spring Showcase, presented in conjunction with school theater productions.

Leadership
In developing leadership skills, it is imperative that we remain focused on the teachings of
Christ: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Some skills and goals that are focused on with this course include:

1. Construct realistic expectations for achieving success.
2. Develop self-awareness.
3. Build a future-oriented attitude.
4. Improve academic success skills.
5. Improve leadership skills.
6. Improve ‘soft skills.’ (a collection of abilities, behaviors, and attitudes)
7. Gain listening skills
8. Learn conflict resolution
9. Identity roles and responsibilities of ‘team’ members