For many eighth graders, the transition to high school can feel both exciting and overwhelming. New schedules, higher expectations, and unfamiliar hallways all come with starting a new chapter. At Bishop Feehan High School, the Honors Pathway program helps ease the transition by giving academically motivated students early direction and confidence as they prepare to enter high school. For members of the incoming Class of 2030, this program offers recognition, opportunity, and a strong foundation for future success.
The Honors Pathway is designed for students who demonstrate strong academic performance and potential. Eighth grade applicants who score in the 80th percentile or higher on the High School Placement Exam (HSPT) are invited to participate. Students who accept the invitation are guaranteed placement in at least three honors-level courses, often more, during their freshman year. The program was introduced in 2021 after Feehan’s academic team analyzed years of admissions and placement data and discovered that students who met this benchmark consistently succeeded in multiple honors classes.
To learn more about the program, we interviewed Mrs. Nicole Romano, Director of Admissions at Bishop Feehan. Mrs. Romano explained that the Honors Pathway reflects years of careful research and planning. She mentioned how “the Honors Pathway is designed to recognize not only strong academic performance, but also a student’s future academic potential”. She also emphasized the importance of student involvement during events, noting that families benefit from meeting current Feehan students who are proud, engaged, and welcoming. Mrs. Romano added that course placement is flexible, allowing students to move between levels as they grow academically and shape a path that fits their individual needs.
In addition to speaking with administrators, hearing from students helps bring the Honors Pathway experience to life. An incoming freshman, who was invited to join the program, shared his thoughts on being selected. He said, “When I found out I was invited, I felt really proud”. He also explained that the program helped him feel prepared and motivated as he steps into his new chapter here at Feehan.
While the Honors Pathway highlights strong academic achievement, Bishop Feehan emphasizes that all accepted students are capable of succeeding. Through a comprehensive placement process and ongoing evaluations, the school works to ensure that every student receives the right balance of challenge and support. As the Class of 2030 prepares to begin its high school experience, the Honors Pathway remains one of many ways Feehan fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and a strong sense of community.
