Students witnessed an interesting scene in the main hallway at Aquinas last week. A lone earring, a baseball cap and caution tape indicated that a crime had been committed. Fake blood and the outlined shape of a body created with masking tape indicated that this was actually a mock-scene created by Mr. Bryan Mooney for the new Forensics course.

AQ students and eighth-grade visitors touring from Siena Catholic Academy helped to assess the crime scene, as Mr. Mooney led an energetic lesson in forensic investigation.

Later in the day, AQ teacher Mr. Mark Gerbino, a retired Lieutenant with the Rochester Police Department, shared his perspective with students as they studied the history of law enforcement at the Federal, State and local levels of government in the new Criminal Justice course. The course gets high praise from students who enjoy the fast-paced lessons and interactive mix of dialogue, facts and on the job examples that Mr. Gerbino provides.

Meanwhile, students on the south end of the building learned that the basic principles of art and communication are essential components in our new technological world.  While students in the past concentrated on writing and grammar, students in the Digital Design and Digital Photography classes learn about visual design and creating a concise message. A benefit of technology in the classroom today is that students get immediate feedback. Student created web pages are displayed on screen in the front of the lab as soon as they are saved. Students collaboratively critique and praise the use of color, font choice, and image placement for each example and then incorporate the suggestions into their own assignments.

"Introducing a new course is a way to show students how much teachers enjoy learning too," said Cindy Rau, art teacher. "I'm as excited about the digital photography course as they are."

Energetic is best way to describe the new Movement Dynamics class.  The course was designed to help athletes improve flexibility, and strength, and to prevent injuries.  Class begins with stretching, followed by a series of drills that combine dance and athletic movement.  "It's a great class, but it took some getting used to," said one student while trying to master a move involving a wind sprint and leap. 

"I don't cut them any slack," said Donna Brett, dance teacher. "They think this is hard work, but I've seen them go all out on the field. This will only enhance their performance, because they are improving overall strength and flexibility."  Just watching Brett lead one non-stop session is proof that the concept has merit.

In all, eight new elective courses were introduced this school year, including French 4, Entrepreneurship, Sports Entertainment & Marketing, and Humanities. "New facilities and technology have allowed us to significantly expand both course selection and student activities over the last few years," said Dennis Sadler, Aquinas principal. "These features, plus 14 advanced placement courses and 11 dual-credit courses with Monroe Community College, provide Aquinas students with a definite advantage. They achieve success along the way because they are able to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom immediately in their every day activities," said Sadler.

Aquinas will host an Open House on Thursday, November 1 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. featuring performances by the dance, choir, band, and theatre departments. Hands-on demonstrations in each department will be set up throughout campus and include Forensics, Digital Photography, Robotics, Wheel Throwing, Virtual Business, the  student–run TV studio, Hovercraft labs, and more.  Join us to see just how young men and women Learn Life at Aquinas.