School Curriculum


All curriculum policies and procedures are established by the Catholic Schools’ Department of the Diocese of Harrisburg and are voluntarily consistent with the requirements of Chapter 5 of the Pennsylvania Department of Education.  As educators we acknowledge parents as the primary educators of their children, and call upon school and parish personnel to assist them in the Christian endeavor.  The planned courses of study followed by students in schools of the Diocese are those approved by the Superintendent.  These may be found in the Elementary  Curriculum Handbook.  Each elementary teacher has his/her own individual copy of this handbook.

Library:

The school library is an integral part of the school’s program and serves as a central resource for both students and teachers.  It is the store-house for all materials, prints and non-print.  Its purpose is to assist its users to discover, evaluate and apply information.  Here the student strengthens knowledge and skills in reading and other curriculum areas.  Age appropriate resource materials are available for interest, vocabulary and the ability levels of all the students in the school.  The library provides additional materials for the pleasure and recreation of the student.

Physical Education:

All curriculum policies and procedures are established by the Office of Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Harrisburg and are voluntarily consistent with the requirements of the Academic Standards of Pennsylvania Department of Education.

At the core of each physical education class are three general objectives.  First and foremost, class procedures and activities are designed to teach each student the importance of physical fitness and fair play.  Second, class instruction is combined with opportunities to help students learn basic loco motor patterns, kinesthetic awareness, and age appropriate sport related skills.  Finally, class sessions allow students to engage in positive social interaction in large and small group sessions.  And most importantly play is FUN.

Religious Education:

The Religion Curriculum for the Diocese of Harrisburg encompassed the study of Catholic doctrine and morality, the study and use of Sacred Scripture, the study and celebration of Liturgy, the practice of prayer, integration of the history and customs of the Church, including the lives of the Saints and development of Student spirituality.  The formation of a faith community is an essential component of the Religion curriculum.  Students are encouraged to participate in service to the parish and the community as an integral part of the Christian expression of faith.  The unique character of the Catholic School offers the opportunity to infuse this message throughout the entire curriculum and its extended activities.

Technology:

The goal of computer education is to acquire the skills of computer literacy in order to integrate the use of the computer across the curriculum and in the ordinary applications of daily life.  The computer should function as a tool in creative writing, math, science and social studies.  The use of calculators should be integrated in Math and Science classes.  All of our classrooms are equipped with Smart Boards and I-pads, plus the use of Document and Digital Cameras are integrated across curriculum areas where appropriate.