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Science

Science Philosophy

The Saint John’s Science Department’s purpose is to promote and encourage scientific investigation and reasoning in its students and the surrounding community during and after the students’ time at Saint John’s. Our graduates should be life-long learners and students of science. 

It is not possible to understand and appreciate the natural world without a study and respect for scientific inquiries and discoveries from prehistoric metallurgy to contemporary studies of subatomic phenomena.  Likewise, a deep knowledge and appreciation of the material universe cannot be nurtured without a concentrated practice and development of skills for critical observation and analysis of natural phenomena. 

To understand and appreciate the natural universe is essential to honoring our God.  Therefore, the Science Department at Saint John’s fervently engages its students in the development of their scientific faculties. 

Our Goals

List of 3 items.

  • Application of Science to Real-World Issues

    This goal emphasizes the practical application of science in solving complex, real-world issues such as climate change, health, technology, and sustainability. Students are encouraged to connect their scientific learning to global and societal problems, exploring solutions through both scientific knowledge and ethical considerations. It helps students see the relevance of science in everyday life and understand its role in decision-making processes. Problem-solving, teamwork, and communication are essential components of this goal, as students learn to collaborate and contribute to solutions to current issues.
  • Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking

    We strive to foster a students' skills in scientific inquiry, which is the foundation of all scientific disciplines. Students should be able to design and perform experiments, make observations, ask questions, and formulate hypotheses. They should also learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data to draw logical conclusions. Critical thinking is emphasized, allowing students to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and refine their ideas based on new data. This goal encourages students to think like scientists and understand that science is a process of continuous questioning and exploration.
  • Understanding of Core Scientific Concepts

    Acquire a deep understanding of fundamental scientific concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. The goal is not just memorization but the ability to apply these concepts to solve real-world problems and understand how the scientific principles influence daily life.

Explore Our Courses

Department Faculty

List of 11 members.

  • Photo of E. Frederick Borchelt

    E. Frederick Borchelt 

    Faculty
  • Photo of Steven Davis

    Steven Davis 

    Faculty
  • Photo of Meta Foster

    Meta Foster 

    Faculty
  • Photo of Sebastian Gameros

    Sebastian Gameros 

    Middle School Science Faculty
  • Photo of Sean Hastings

    Sean Hastings 

    Assistant Director of Athletics
  • Photo of William James

    William James 

    Faculty
  • Photo of John Jeniski

    John Jeniski 

    Faculty
  • Photo of Mykenzie Natale

    Mykenzie Natale 

    Faculty
  • Photo of Wayne Penn

    Wayne Penn 

    Faculty
  • Photo of Patrick Tobin

    Patrick Tobin 

    Middle School Science Faculty
  • Photo of Edward Tonelli

    Edward Tonelli 

    Science Chair
Saint John’s High School has educated young men under the sponsorship of the Xaverian Brothers since 1898. Through the Saint John’s strong college preparatory curriculum, over 900 students in grades seven through twelve pursue personal and intellectual growth in an environment that is committed to the development of the whole person and recognizes a moral dimension of life through service to God and to others.