PRE-KINDERGARTEN
Our Pre-K program is Christ-centered with an emphasis on the whole child and is designed to support parents in the education of their children. The classes introduce the child to school through a variety of activities, in music, play, art, reading readiness and math preparation. Cultural activities include visits to local community helpers, age-appropriate trips to theater works, and on-site visits by performing artists when available. Our early childhood program has its own play area and special seasonal activities throughout the school year. Our youngsters are taught to thank God on a daily basis for all the benefits provided to them by hard-working parents. A basic respect for self and others is stressed through a positive, Christian-based and child-centered curriculum.
KINDERGARTEN
The wonderful work of the Pre-K is continued in our Kindergarten class. A more formal, balanced, yet comfortable reading program is introduced at this time. Children soon become familiar with the world of print. Emergent readers write and read stories for teachers and classmates and integrate important skills which will serve as a foundation for the work they will encounter in the next grades.
An exciting and adventurous math program, with a strong emphasis on the use of manipulatives, is also introduced at this time. Children become familiar with numbers, shapes, and simple problems. In addition to these programs, Kindergarteners have an opportunity to take art, music, gym and library classes each week, all of which are taught by specialist teachers who promote age-appropriate activities in class.
FIRST GRADE
In first grade students begin the first year of a two-year program which prepares them for the sacraments of Reconciliation (Confession) and Eucharist (First Communion). This program involves parents and children in the study of our Catholic beliefs, values, prayers, and practices and culminates in the wonderful celebration of Eucharist in grade two. Students participate in liturgical events throughout the school year.
The first graders at ICS receive instruction in all required areas of the curriculum. Reading and language arts are taught and children are introduced to fine literature through textbooks and trade books. Comprehension, critical thinking, and vocabulary are taught as well as spelling and grammar.
Math is taught through the use of a working textbook, visuals, and manipulatives. Basic instruction in addition and subtraction as well as problem-solving is given to all students.
Social studies is taught in grade one using creative approaches which allow children to discover and enjoy each other's cultures and customs. Students take imaginary "trips" to other lands and bring a sense of tradition to our classes.
Our science curriculum is designed to allow students an opportunity to work on age-appropriate experiments in our science lab. Each Middle School class has a designated time in the lab and students enjoy this practical approach to the study of science.
Many of our textbooks are now available on disc for parents to purchase. This allow students to lighten the book bag weight by using the disc at home. In addition, students are able to access homework assignments on-line at the Middle School level.
Computer classes are begun in grade one where students learn basic keyboarding techniques in order to advance in our program which includes word-processing, use of graphics and databases. All classes are held in our Computer Lab on up-to-date computers with CDROM. In addition, several classes have SMART Boards. Internet.
All students in first grade participate in music, art, physical education, and library on a weekly basis. As one can see, students in our elementary section have an opportunity to enjoy learning and all are challenged to strive for their best in every area.
