Saints Peter & Paul School has a rich tradition of offering a quality faith and academic curriculum, which has enabled our students to be successful in middle school, senior high school, and post-high school education. The curriculum includes the core subjects of religion, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. With the goal of educating the whole child, the school also offers art, physical education, music, and technology.
Religion
Central to who we are is our Catholic faith. We partner with our students' parents in forming their child in our rich, Catholic faith. Saints Peter & Paul School has adopted the Blest Are We curriculum.
The four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church are incorporated into the unit structure at grade level. Scripture, the foundation of every chapter, leads to a presentation of Catholic doctrine-statements of belief, worship, morality, and prayer. In addition, inspiring stories are included to bring Saints and other important catholic figures to life.
Reading / Language Arts
Our reading curriculum is aligned with current research in reading instruction. Saints Peter & Paul School has adopted the INTO Reading program. Teachers engage students by providing them first with explicit instruction, then guided practice, and finally practice using skills independently. Spelling, English, phonics, and handwriting are also part of the language arts program.
Mathematics
Houghton Mifflin's Math Expressions is a comprehensive curriculum that offers new ways to teach and learn math. It combines elements of standards-based instruction with the best traditional approaches. Through drawings, conceptual language, and real-world examples, it helps students make sense of mathematics.
Social Studies
The main objective of our social studies program is to prepare thoughtful, active citizens who can function productively in a multicultural, rapidly changing, and increasingly independent world. The social studies program provides a variety of affective and cognitive experiences that contribute to the recognition of the dignity of each human being.
Through an integrated study of social studies disciplines, students acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes, as they become lifelong learners. Students learn through a variety of active and relevant learning experiences.
Science
Project Lead the Way is an innovative STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) program that is an exciting addition to our curriculum. Project Lead the Way offers a different approach to learning and teaching.
Through activity, project, and problem-based curriculum, PLTW gives students in Kindergarten through Fifth Grade a chance to apply what they know, identify problems, find unique solutions, and lead their own learning.
Art
We believe the arts offer avenues for self-expression and creativity in individual learners and groups. Art is basic to education and learning across disciplines and can serve as a centerpiece for teaching and learning.
Arts education contributes to the multiple intelligences of all learners and recognizes cultural diversity. Arts education should include visual media for all learners.
Health
We use a variety of materials to integrate the study of health into other areas of learning. Current Health, a magazine that explores health issues, is part of this effort.
Individual units in health education are also used. Students in Grade 5 are taught a unit in sexual education. Parents are informed of the program and invited to observe all lessons.
Music
Saints Peter and Paul School has a shared-time music program with District 750. Classes are offered two times each week. The major components of the curriculum include music theory, music history, and an introduction to a variety of music genres.
Physical Education
Saints Peter & Paul has a shared time program for physical education with ROCORI District. Tennis shoes are required for this class.
A strong skill development program is followed, as well as a continual striving for good physical fitness. Intermediate students also enjoy units in swimming and bowling. Children who are unable to participate in physical education due to medical reasons must have a doctor’s statement.
Technology
The use of technology is intended to prepare all students to be technologically competent individuals who utilize available resources to express themselves, solve problems, and explore emerging technologies. Students have access to computers, iPad, Smart Boards, and Student Response Systems.
Testing Program
Saints Peter & Paul School uses a nationally recognized standardized testing program provided by the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA).
NWEA is a research-based, not-for-profit organization that supports students and educators worldwide by creating assessment solutions that precisely measure growth and proficiency. The specific assessment tool is called MAP.
Field Trips
We recognize the importance of field trips as educational experiences. Each grade level is scheduled for one major field trip each year. Depending on the trip and entrance fees, families may be asked to pay for part of the trip. Parents are welcome and encouraged to help chaperone field trips. Chaperones are determined by a random selection of those available.
Through their fundraising efforts, the Home and School Association provides monies to pay for all of the bussing for field trips.
Extra-Curricular
We encourage students to choose activities that provide balance in their educational growth. We recognize and support each family’s decision to determine what is appropriate for their circumstances.
Opportunities for Growth
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Student Council
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Speech
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Academic Competitions
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VEX Robotics
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Sports opportunities through ROCORI
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Community activities