Religion

The teaching of the Catholic faith is the most important function of our school.  Having opportunities for the students to participate and apply their faith is planned in all subject areas. Activities for developing our Catholic identity include prayer, service, and worship.  Each day the students receive religion instruction using a curriculum designed by Sadlier publishers. The sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharist are celebrated in the second grade.  Students in every grade participate in some type of service project.  All of the above activities help us to focus on our school motto, “Our eyes are fixed on the Lord.”

Language Arts

Reading skills are taught through a literature-based reading series (McGraw Hill).  It is also enriched with supplementary reading. Students have opportunities to independently strengthen their reading skills through activities organized in weekly learning centers.  Phonics skills are reinforced from grades 1-3.  Comprehension strategies and vocabulary are emphasized throughout the grade levels. The English program (Houghton Mifflin) includes grammar, writing, and spelling.  Participation in Accelerated Reader (computer monitored reading program) allows students (grades 2-4) to progress at their own reading pace and monitor their comprehension progress.  We also offer fifth grade honors literature for students who qualify.

Math

This curriculum emphasizes computation, application, reasoning, and problem solving in conjunction with the use of a variety of manipulatives, technology, and practice activities. Instruction is consistently linked to situations relevant to the students’ everyday lives.  Harcourt math is the text used for grades K-6.  We also offer fifth grade honors math for students who qualify.

Science/Social Studies

These subjects are taught through text, technology,  and teacher generated study guides.  Hands-on activities and projects reinforce both subjects.  (Science published by McGraw Hill and Social Studies published by Scott Foresman)

Enrichment

Each day the students are provided an enrichment class such as physical education, library, computer, music, or French (grades 1-3) and Spanish (grades 4-7).

Individual Needs

This class meets the needs of students who need extra reinforcement, review, or minor classroom adjustments. Project Read, a phonics based reading program, is used as a supplementary reading reinforcement in grades 1-3.  Children attend this class instead of an enrichment class of computer, music or library. 

TerraNova

The TerraNova Test is administered to students in grades 3-7.  Students in grades 1-7 receive standardized test preparation throughout the entire school year.  Children receive both classroom and home practice for strengthening reading comprehension strategies and skills.

Standards and Benchmarks

Our textbook and curriculum grade level expectations are aligned with the Archdiocesan and State Standards and Benchmarks. This is a specific guideline of instruction for what students should know and be able to do at the end of each grade level.