Student Programs

The Academy of the Sacred Heart is committed to offering every interested student the opportunity to participate in our interscholastic athletic program. Our “no-cut” policy provides a place for each student who has the commitment and desire to learn a sport. We offer a wide range of sports and a variety of championship-level teams.

At the end of the year, there is a presentation of athletic awards and recognition of our student athletes. Since 1988, the Academy of the Sacred Heart has produced five All-Americans, 14 “Coach of the Year” honorees, two Catholic League Hall of Fame coaches, and several district, regional and state championship teams, including the 2021 MHSAA Division 4 Tennis State Champions.

Our athletic program has allowed for hundreds of young women to learn new skills, enhance friendships and have fun. Additionally, several young women have received full or partial tuition assistance from Division I and II colleges for their athletic prowess, and many others continue to play in Division III programs.

In an effort to instill community awareness and involvement in all of our students, community service is a regular, integral part of the Upper School. Each student in Grades 10-12 participates in a service activity weekly, with placements lasting one academic year. Grade 9 visits different service placements to explore options for the following year. Community service experiences can include:

• Teacher aide duties in neighboring public school classrooms
• Work in food distribution centers
• Placements with the disabled, elderly and needy

The social action program is comprehensive, incorporating Catholic Social Teaching and social analysis, a speaker series, regular reflection and a culminating project. Students are frequently recognized for their commitment to service through local Youth Assistance Programs, the Society of St. Vincent DePaul and the alum association, with the Alumnae Service Award.

Besides our weekly program, students (and adults) may also participate in a monthly Saturday program at Focus:HOPE in conjunction with the young men from the University of Detroit Jesuit High School (continuous since 1989).

The Academy of the Sacred Heart, Bloomfield Hills, is part of a worldwide network of Sacred Heart schools, which makes it possible for qualified ASH students to attend other schools in the United States and abroad on an exchange program. We encourage sophomores, in particular, to exchange within the network for a period of two to four weeks.

LEARN MORE about exchange >>

Freshman Seminar develops an awareness of our community and all of its offerings in our Grade 9 students. The curriculum evolves annually and includes experiences in art and design, an exploration of sacred spaces, RULER, our social emotional program, and discussions on social justice issues.

All Upper School students participate in the Mobile Technology Program. The goal of this one-to-one program is to enrich and enhance the educational program of the Upper School. The Mobile Technology Program supports research, communication, problem solving and the development of presentation skills. The program is motivational for students and has been an agent for change in the instructional practices of faculty members. If you have any questions about our Mobile Technology Program, please direct them to Angie Saylor or visit our Mobile Technology Program website.

Through the Upper School's Eleventh Hour Theatre Company, students are able to participate in all aspects of theatrical productions. The theatrical repertoire includes straight dramas and musicals. Students can contribute on stage in acting roles or behind the scenes in set production or lighting and sound.

Sacred Heart students have additional performance opportunities through the Forensics program and Model United Nations, and competitive debate. Teams participate within a consortium of area Catholic Schools and have the opportunity to qualify for national competitions.

LEARN MORE about the arts at ash >>

Each year every student in the Upper School participates in an eight-day experiential learning opportunity created by the faculty. Using the lens of the Goals and Criteria and the three dimensions of a Sacred Heart Education (ethical, mystical and ecological), students gain awareness of the world around them. Experiences can include such things as researching fields in oceanography through university programs in the Gulf of Mexico, searching deeply within the soul in the heart of the rainforest, and learning about social justice issues within and around the local community. These unique programs have been offered through Project Term for nearly 50 years.

LEARN MORE about Project term >>

Students, in relationships of trust, love and prayer, develop an active faith in God and the building of school community. Sacred spaces are available for student reflection, regardless of religious affiliation. Integral to the religious atmosphere, annual grade level retreats provide opportunities for prayer, discussion, individual reflection and class bonding. At various times throughout the year, the retreat experiences are revisited and enhanced upon.

The Upper School participates in all-school liturgies that take place throughout the year and allow for opportunities for prayer and reflection. Students also participate in a variety of Upper School prayer services throughout the year.

The Student Council is comprised of a president, vice president, and secretary treasurer for each class. The leadership application process is articulated to students annually in the spring. Student leaders must accept responsibility for decisions made; participate in the completion of projects; and work to create a positive atmosphere in the school. Leadership is both a tremendous challenge and a great opportunity for personal growth. 

Student Clubs empower students to take action and responsibility for building a stronger community. Club activities are student generated and supported by the Dean and a faculty moderator.