Academics: Enrichment Programs
Computer Labs
We have state-of-the-art computer labs. All new iMacs were purchased in 2007. There is a focus on technology and providing our students with the skills they need in today’s quickly changing environment technological world. Computer instruction is integrated into the core curriculum.
Spanish
Spanish classes meet twice per week. There are two Spanish teachers who teach extracurricular Spanish for Pre-4 and Kindergarten classes, grades 1-3 and advanced Spanish.
Library
There are two libraries, one for grades 4-8 and one in the primary building for grades Kindergarten through third grade. All students visit the library once per week. Students are allowed to check out age-appropriate books and instruction is given on research techniques.
Art
Students attend art once per week where they explore age-appropriate art methods and techniques. The children’s artwork is displayed throughout the school.
Music
Students attend music once per week. A piano recital is held in the spring for those students participating in outside instruction who wish to share their talents with the student body.
Gym
Students in Grades 1-8 attend gym class twice per week. Pre-4 and Kindergarten attend once per week.
Religion
Grades attend Mass weekly on different days of the week. All-School masses are celebrated at special times during the year including the beginning and end of school and holy days of obligation. Partnered grades help to plan each of these Masses. Special prayer services are prepared by the students for important liturgical events such as Ash Wednesday, Holy Thursday, and May Crowning. K-3 grades come together in prayer once a week.
Field Trips
Field trips are an important part of the students' educational experience. Grades plan field trips that integrate with a particular unit of study. Signed permission slips are required and fees are assessed to cover the cost of transportation and/or admission. As for a regular day of school, students wear uniforms unless the field trip activity requires different attire.
Some field trips require extra chaperones. Parents are encouraged to sign up; however, all chaperones must have completed a background check and Virtus training as part of the Protecting God's Children Program.
Grade Buddies
In order to provide a connection and appreciation for students across the grades, each grade is buddied up with another grade for the school year. Buddy grades are 1st and 5th, 2nd and 6th, 3rd and 7th, and 4th and 8th. Teachers and students of buddy grades plan academic or social activities several times during the year. A highlight is the buddy lunches held during Catholic Schools Week. Another favorite for the fourth grade is when the eighth graders teach them a song and dance from the eighth grade musical!
Buddy grades also plan together two all school liturgies in which students from those grades perform special ministries for the Mass. Four year old preschoolers and kindergartners also act as buddies as they share activities especially during the seasons of Advent and Lent.