Curriculum

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The curriculum at St. Joseph Catholic School is designed to challenge and motivate students to achieve academic success, while simultaneously building self-confidence, self-discipline, healthy work habits, and learning about God's plan for their lives.

At the heart of our curriculum is our religion program. We incorporate our religious values into all areas of the curriculum, including English, mathematics, reading, science and social studies, with supporting classes in foreign language, computer science, art, music, library science, guidance and physical education.

We believe that students need to have a strong foundation in their academics, while also having the skills to work effectively. Students are taught basic study skills and how to be more effective, productive members of the team.

The cornerstones of St. Joseph Catholic School's academic curriculum are math, reading, science, social studies and English. Drill and practice are used in the lower grades for speed and accuracy of basic math facts, while in middle school these facts are used to perform higher-level math skills. We offer Algebra I and an Honor's Math program for higher achieving math students. A two-pronged approach is utilized in reading. Students are taught a structured phonics program in order to decode words, while at the same time introduced to a variety of literature for comprehension. English, spelling, vocabulary development and writing blend effectively with this reading program in order to develop and apply the skills. In science, students begin instruction with the four pillars of science: life science, earth science, physical science and the human body. The middle school students expand this prior knowledge by a concentration of instruction that allows for more in-depth studies. Labs and demonstrations enhance the learning for our students.

Middle school students are afforded the opportunity for curriculum electives called "Pathways" to round out their curriculum. These courses are designed to develop specific skills and foster special interests. Examples of subjects available for exploration include wildlife management, botany, band, guitar, improvisation, multimedia, art, health, current events career exploration, Russian studies and SSAT preparation.

This curriculum empowers St. Joseph Catholic School students with confidence, providing them the academic competence to excel at the high school level. Many graduates gain entrance into high school honors classes. St. Joseph graduates leave equipped with a solid education, the discipline to be successful in their endeavors, and more importantly, with a sense of responsibility to serve others.