In these early grades, there is great emphasis on a spiral curriculum for Language Arts and Math. Core concepts are introduced and revisited, progressively becoming more complex. Phonics, sight word reading and comprehension are taught through literature; writing includes spelling, grammar, mechanics, and handwriting, presented in a variety of formats. In Math, the program goal is to enable children to become lifelong mathematical thinkers.
The world is explored in increasing depth through the Social Studies and History Programs, which extend from our local communities to the greater world, and from the present into the past.
Observation, communication, estimating, inferring and predicting are skills taught in Science through textbooks and hands-on experiments. Students are introduced to Life Sciences, Earth Sciences, Physical Sciences, the Solar System, and the Human Body.
Study skills and individual responsibility for one’s actions and work are highlighted as students begin to comprehend the power of their own abilities. In Grade 2, community service is introduced through children’s visits with homebound seniors. Once a month, Parishioners visit with 2nd graders on campus, to spend some time together and be treated to drawings and artwork prepared by students with the help of their 8th grade “buddies.” All students attend mass, learn hymns, songs and prayers.
All students receive enrichment classes. They begin to study Spanish. Music introduces them to rhythm and movement, and includes school wide performances. Art is taught by specialty teachers in the well equipped Art studio, while Physical Education is a fun curriculum providing exercise while building self-confidence, sportsmanship, and skill.