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Curriculum
Religious Studies (PK-8) Beginning with an appreciation of God as Creator, our students become familiar with the Bible, traditional prayers, and a variety of Church celebrations throughout the liturgical year. The Church is presented as a prayerful, caring, and ministering community of faith. Saint Mary School encourages students to bring Christ to the world through class and individual service. Our program moves from a study of the Commandments to an appreciation of the sacramental life of the Church and a deeper understanding of the Bible as the Word of God. The life of Jesus Christ, preparation for the sacraments of First Penance, First Eucharist, Confirmation, and time for self-reflection are important aspects of family life and faith development. The Family Life curriculum concentrates on the relevant issues of personal growth, respect for life, social living, family relationships, and social justice. All students (grades K-8) participate in Mass the first Friday of the month. In addition to this, each grade level plans monthly liturgies. Paraliturgical services, the lighting of classroom Advent wreaths, the Stations of the Cross, and the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation are an integral part of the spiritual life of Saint Mary School. In addition to this, the prayer life of our students is strengthened through the relationship of the Prayer Partner Program. The priests and religious of Saint Mary Parish are a vital part of the Saint Mary School community through their presence and support. Early Childhood (Preschool-K) Saint Mary Preschool Program is committed to the education of children with Gospel values. We focus on basic skills and work to enrich each child while striving for a balance among intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical attributes. The Kindergarten program is based upon a child-centered developmental approach. We accomplish this goal by structuring a curriculum program that stimulates the awareness and curiosity of each child while challenging him/her to recall, apply, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate their growing knowledge. Language Arts The Language Arts curriculum integrates listening, speaking, reading, and writing development through a variety of thinking skills and communication techniques. Grade appropriate instructional strategies, including technology, are employed to ensure the continual development of grammar, spelling, phonics, reading, usage, and mechanics required in conventional English. Our program is literature-based, which allows students to become familiar with different genres, authors, and writing styles. Reading and writing skills are integrated across the curriculum. Mathematics The Mathematics curriculum reflects the importance of applying math skills. Math strategies are taught to strengthen the student’s ability to solve problems and connect math to real life situations. Math manipulatives and technology are used to enhance the learning experience. Our goal is for all students to reason and communicate proficiently in mathematics. We offer a full year of Algebra 1 to all eighth grade students. Science Topics of physical, earth and life science are incorporated into each grade level. Using the Scientific Method, hands on activities, laboratory investigations, and technology, students are able to apply their scientific knowledge to the real world. Students are reminded of their role as stewards of the environment. Emphasis is placed on the role of God in all of creation. Social Studies Students are encouraged to understand and appreciate the fact that they are members of a variety of communities. Geography, citizenship, social justice, and current events are incorporated. A focus on the humanities is also connected in the exploration of culture. Students are encouraged to interpret historical events, to see connections between these events, and to focus on effects of events over time. Technology is used to research and explore topics. MINOR SUBJECTS World Language Students will see that language is a key to culture. Language and culture are inseparable. Students will be introduced to foreign languages through customs, demonstration, technology, and practice. Music Students at all grade levels are encouraged to enjoy music. Our students are given a comprehensive knowledge of theory, history, styles, and elements of music. In addition to this, students are exposed to instrumental music, with a focus on keyboarding and musical composition for junior high students. Technology Each classroom is equipped with on-line computers and software to develop and reinforce academic skills and for research. Students learn the functions of the computer and how to use technology to enhance different curriculum areas. Skills learned include but are not limited to Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Corel Graphics, and Midi keyboarding technology. Art All students participate in art classes. The program consists of art history, studying various artists and their styles, as well as providing an avenue for the development of each student’s’ own creativity. Physical Education/Health The physical education program at Saint Mary School focuses on health and fitness. The program is designed to motivate students to make healthy food choices and to provide a variety of physical activities linked to health concepts and skills. In addition to this, it is the desire of the school to provide our students with the necessary skills that will allow them to maintain good nutrition and a physically active life style. Enrichment Saint Mary School offers an enrichment program. The program is designed to challenge the student beyond the classroom. Three of the following criteria must be met to qualify: Cognitive Ability Test (CogAt) of 120 or above Consistent scores of 90 or above in national percentile (total math and/or language scores on the standardized tests) Evidence above average performance in classroom Recommendation of the teacher Our goal is to nurture and support the academic gifts of the students in this program. |