Pre-Kindergarten through Fifth Grade

Curriculum Overview:  Building a Love of Learning

The curriculum is established according to the developmental level of each age group. Emphasis is on learning introductory academics through play, utilizing active involvement with hands-on activities. Time is provided for independent play, group activities, art, music, outdoor and indoor play.

The object of the Lower School curriculum is to lay a strong foundation for each student’s life experience. It is designed to challenge students and prepare them for a demanding, college preparatory high school program. Our principle educational philosophy and pedagogical techniques center on the integral formation of a person through his/her academic, intellectual, human, spiritual and apostolic development.

Religion
The goal of the religion program is to give students knowledge of their Catholic faith while instilling in them a desire to learn more about it, to be certain of God’s eternal love and mercy, to be apostles for Christ, to be attracted and love the sacramental life, to love and be obedient to the Church and the Holy Father, and to seek God’s will in all they do. Students are introduced to the lives of Mary, the Mother of God and the saints as models for life. They are also given liturgical formation by instruction, practice and a well developed prayer life.

History, Geography, Civics Education
It is designed to help students think critically and analytically about past events, as well as to provide an organized framework for understanding other cultural works such as literature or art. An emphasis is placed on the role played by Christians in the development of our country and the world.

Mathematics
The mathematics curriculum provides traditional programs which emphasize mastery in basic skills and facts, both to accuracy, speed and understanding of concepts of arithmetic and problem solving. It is expected that students will learn and become confident in math that will support future mathematical work in their classes, careers and everyday lives. Calculators do not replace basics, but assist in the speed of areas previously mastered.

Science
Our science curriculum strives to awaken a sense of wonder in the students about the world and how it works. Facts and applications are presented from a Christian perspective. The general strands of study cover earth, space, life, ecology, environmental and physical science.

Language Arts
The language arts curriculum includes reading, phonics, spelling, word study, handwriting, English (grammar and composition) and literature.

Foreign Language
Spanish is offered to students grades K through 6th. Classes engage students in language and culture which prepare them for advanced work in this language.

The Arts
In our program, we teach students music and art to develop the aesthetic dimension of the human mind. Students are taught not only to understand true masterpieces of art and music but also to use a variety of materials in creating their own works. They are also given an opportunity to learn theory, to practice and perform in music.

Physical Education
The physical education curriculum includes organized exercises, activities and lessons that help keep students fit and teach them about good health habits and life skills. Motor skill development and coordination will be emphasized in a sequential curriculum. A large, well-equipped gym and spacious grounds enable our physical education programs to continue year round.

Technology
Technology has taken our students beyond computer keyboarding. Additional focus will be hands-on lessons with Palm Pilots, digital and video cameras, and presentations using word processing and spread sheet applications. Aligned with NCE curriculum and integrated into the classroom will be the study of energy and robotics.