The Elementary School (Kindergarten Through Fourth Grade) Experience:
During the elementary years, focus is placed on identifying and nurturing the students’ talents and strengths through an academic curriculum that integrates the arts, technology and addresses the unique multiple intelligences of the each child. Opportunities to work with artists-in-residence and partnerships with organizations, such as the Chamber Music of Lincoln Center, the NJ PAC (Performing Arts Center) Musical Theater Program and Liberty Science Center bring real-world learning to the classroom. In addition, our MIAD (Multiple Intelligence Arts Domain) Elective Course Program introduces students to varied disciplines that help enhance and support learning in the core academic subjects of Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies. In the Mini Court MIAD Elective, for example, first through third graders put their favorite fairytale characters on trial while exploring the role of a lawyer, judge, court clerk, jury, defendant, prosecutor or plaintiff. The course not only introduces the American legal system to young learners, it also helps build their speaking, reading, writing and problem solving skills through a creative and hands-on experience.
Creativity is fostered through a S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math) Curriculum, which includes the creation of unique original inventions and engineering prototypes showcased in an annual fair. Lessons in S.T.R.E.A.M. promote academic success by incorporating decision-making, high-level thinking skills and problem solving. Recent S.T.R.E.A.M. elementary project themes and models have included building original dog houses, waterproofing schools to protect them against natural disasters, developing a weather prediction system and other novel ideas.
Great attention is also placed on the children’s social and spiritual development by immersing them in Christian leadership opportunities, clubs and activities, service projects, faith formation and sacramental preparation. Our Religious education program helps students grow in faith and prepares them by second grade to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Communion. In addition, programs such as Zippy Friends promote social and emotional health in young children through games and role-play. Topics like friendship, making and losing friends, dealing with change, and making a new start are addressed through fun and age appropriate lessons.
In summary, the overarching goals guiding the elementary school experience include:
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Establishing the building blocks for achieving academic excellence throughout the elementary years, middle school and beyond through a robust academic curriculum.
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Celebrating children’s uniqueness by offering opportunities for them to thrive through an individualized differentiated curriculum and through electives courses that address the talents (Multiple Intelligences) of every child.
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Nurturing creativity by providing opportunities for students to engage in problem solving and the creation of original work.
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Nurturing confidence and self-esteem by celebrating student success through student work displays, concerts, presentations, award ceremonies, the S.T.R.E.A.M. Fair and other events highlighting student achievement.
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Growing leadership skills, responsibility, cultural awareness and citizenship through hands-on experiences.
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Encouraging a love of learning by providing dynamic learning experiences that integrate the arts, technology, hands-on learning and a S.T.R.E.A.M. approach throughout the academic curriculum.
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Developing an understanding of the teachings, doctrines and practices of the Catholic faith and providing opportunities for the students to experience their faith.
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In the photo below, a first grader is creating a water filter while learning that clean water is a valuable resource.