CURRICULUM
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.
LANGUAGE ARTS
Our reading curriculum is aligned with current research in reading instruction. Saints Peter & Paul School has adopted the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Journeys 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.
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.
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 us is call MAP.