XIX. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

General Guidelines

Saint Mary School curriculum is within state and Archdiocesan requirements and provides for the development of the student’s spiritual, moral, physical, emotional, and intellectual growth.

At St. Mary School preparation for reading, writing, science, and math is approached through creative activities in preschool and kindergarten. Art, music, and field trips enhance the program. Especially important are the religious lessons taught at this level.

In the elementary grades, 1st-8th, the student is provided a foundation in the important skills of reading, writing, and math, as well as social studies and science. In all classes a sense of personal responsibility is promoted through guided motivational teaching.

Technology education is continuous from Pre-K-8th. Students from grades 4th – 8th are encouraged to participate in competitive sports, student government, and extra-curricular activities. These activities provide students a way to apply personal values to social situations and build on the foundations of faith they have acquired. Service is emphasized in all grades.

Religion

Religion is more than a formal class; Roman Catholic doctrine and values are a part of all subjects every day. The primary responsibility of all staff members is to guide our students on their faith journey and model Catholic-Christian values.

Areas covered and activities include:

• Scheduled religion classes
• Participation in Mass and prayer services.
• Prayers & Catholic devotions include the Rosary, Advent Wreath Ceremony & Stations of the Cross
• Service to younger grades
• Outreach to the needy and service projects to the poor

All students, Catholic and non-Catholic, are expected to participate, to the best of their ability, in these activities. As parents are the first and most influential educators of their child, we expect that parents/guardians will share religious experiences with children and demonstrate their commitment to the mission of St. Mary School.

Student Outreach

St. Mary School fosters service and stewardship within the school. Students participate in outreach benefiting the parish, community, or others. Projects include but are not limited to:

• Feed the Hungry program participation
• Food and clothing bank volunteer hours and collections
• Thanksgiving/Christmas basket collection
• Hosting coffee hour after Mass
• Individual class projects