PRE-KINDERGARTEN

Pre-kindergarten typically introduces the student to a formal school setting. The program
concentrates on the development of the whole child. We strive to build a strong foundation
for academic success by encouraging each child’s natural curiosity about the world, which
instinctively creates a desire to learn more. The class focuses on developing an appreciation of
God’s world and the joy of being a part of His community. The curriculum represents a hands-on
approach to learning, which caters to each child’s individual needs in order to form the readiness
skills necessary to begin his/her education. The student begins to learn the alphabet, sounds,
numbers, and shapes; each continues to   develop motor skills. The classroom setting assists as
each student cultivates many important social and emotional skills such as self-help skills, task
commitment and perseverance, observing and following home and school rules, accepting
correction, respecting others and their property, and a concept of self, family, and friends.  

KINDERGARTEN

The Kindergarten program meets the individual needs of each student and fosters cooperation
with each other. Students learn to become active Christians and to live what they learn in religion
class. They begin to discover the gifts God gave them and to strive to do their best. Students
learn to think for themselves and to use their imaginations. The development and continued
improvement of gross and fine motor skills are important factors in laying the foundation for
academic success. The Kindergarten curriculum teaches and builds an array of skills throughout
the year. Much of the curriculum intertwines, allowing the practice of these skills many times
throughout the day.

FIRST GRADE

Along with a strong curriculum in academics and religion, the first grade program stresses
organizational skills along with responsibility and accountability. This focus enhances the student’s
self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-confidence. It requires a strong teacher/parent team effort.
Students grow in knowledge and love of God and learn to evangelize through actions and prayers. They learn to read and write complete sentences. They develop independence and pride in themselves and in the work they do.

SECOND GRADE

The goal of the second grade program shifts more to responsibility and ownership. Time
management becomes a greater part of the students’ day, while they study concepts in greater
depth. In teaching our Catholic faith and traditions to our children, we help them form a
conscience.   Catholic students prepare for and take part in the Mass completely by receiving the
First Sacraments of Reconciliation and Communion.

THIRD GRADE

Students are encouraged and led by example to live a Christ-like life. The program continues to
build social skills and the ability to make good choices. Students practice time management as
they learn to accomplish the required tasks.   As they become independent in their work and
study habits, they develop organizational skills.

FOURTH GRADE

The fourth grade curriculum focuses on developing an increased sense of responsibility. Students
learn to organize their time at school and at home. Honor Roll recognition begins in fourth grade.
Every grade participates and discusses service ideas, however fourth grade takes an active role
as a class with a few specific projects such as making items and visiting the community at the
Houston Lighthouse for the Blind. They take a more active role in the school community by
sharing with us a Christmas tradition as they present Los Pasodas.

FIFTH GRADE

Beginning in fifth grade, students’ lives change at a rapid rate. Because they experience much
physical maturation and growth, their bodies seem new to them. As their minds continue to
develop, completely new worlds of learning open up to them. They are able to grasp complex
ideas and reach deep insights. Emotionally, they have a depth and intensity of feeling which is
new and which they must learn to express in appropriate ways. They are taken by surprise at their reactions to people and events around them. Because growth spurts differ among students, old friendships end and new ones begin.
Students develop more independent skills and time management skills. Academic preparation
focuses on the development of independent study skills in order to prepare them for Middle
School. Fifth grade students become involved in protecting the environment. In the spring, they
travel to Camp Kappe, School of Environmental Education. This is a three night, four-day trip with
teachers and some parents. They spend time working with each other and learning team building
and cooperative skills, responsibility and independence. They learn to waste nothing and share
what they have; to take only what they need and to treasure the world in which we live.

SIXTH, SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADE

Working with parents and in the school setting, these students practice leadership skills
throughout the day. Students are encouraged to avoid cliques and to appreciate diversity in
themselves and others. They learn appropriate ways to interact with friends and to value and
protect their sexuality. Departmentalized classes help prepare the students for high school. They
must take ownership and responsibility for their work and be organized. At this time, the students
are introduced to the concept of long-range projects, requiring them to plan their time and to do
more complex tasks in a methodical manner.