The Issues courses are designed to help students develop responsible decision-making skills through a greater understanding of themselves and of the society in which they are growing up. Students examine the influences on their lives of family and friends, school, religion, and the media. The discussions, which are the core of the program, encourage students to clarify their own views and gain respect for the opinions of their classmates. In keeping with the principles of the school’s Mission Statement, the Issues courses emphasize the importance of respect, kindness, trust, and judgment.