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Science

The science department is dedicated to developing students' science skills and fostering a deep engagement through the science and STEM curriculum. Our faculty prepares students through laboratory investigations, discussion, and collaboration, with a focus on the development of problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. They incorporate engaging laboratory activities to supplement student learning and build inquiry-based skills and scientific learning, as well as gain exposure to scientific equipment and materials.

In any given week, girls might be participating in DNA extractions in Biology, a 'flame test' in Chemistry, a dissection in Anatomy & Physiology, fingerprinting in Forensics, and circuitry in Physics. As they build comfort and confidence in the classroom, our students are encouraged to envision themselves in scientific fields and to pursue them. Mercy offers many science electives, including Forensic Science, Anatomy & Physiology, Sports Medicine, and Robotics, along with most science Advanced Placement classes. 

Classes Offered

Meet Our Science Department Chair
Louisa La Farge has been a teacher at Mercy High School for 10 years. She is the Science department chair and currently teaches Conceptual Chemistry, Chemistry, and A.P. Biology. Ms. La Farge has been an assistant coach for the Mercy Swim Team, and has served as Chapter Advisor for the Science National Honors Society. She currently moderates the Women in White Coats Club, and supervised the publication of the first edition of the Science Journal in 2021. She loves writing new curriculum and making science engaging and accessible to her students. 

Ms. La Farge earned her B.S. in Biological Science from the University of Michigan and graduated from Notre Dame de Namur University with a Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential and holds supplementary credentials in Biological Science and Chemistry. Her other passion is art history, and she was an arts education fellow at the National Endowment for the Arts. Prior to becoming a teacher, she worked in marketing and administration in the art and auction fields. Ms. La Farge has two adult children and is a swimmer with a local U.S. Masters group. 

Click HERE to download a PDF of the Science Journal.

Mrs. Lambdin's Physics
Science opens the door to the rest of the world. Hayley Zimmerman ‘13

Student Work: Actinium Poster by Jasmin L. ’22