Lower & Middle School
The academic program for the Lower and Middle School (grades 1-8 ) of Sacred Heart Schools, St. Joseph’s School of the Sacred Heart, is committed to the development of the whole child. We do this by following the Goals and Criteria of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools. Designed to foster a life-long love for learning, our academic program offers all students the challenge of discovering and mastering new ideas while encouraging them to maximize their potential across the curriculum in a caring and nurturing environment. This division of the SHS community seeks to create an academic atmosphere of support and collaboration in which every student can thrive, grow, and excel.
Small classes allow for individualized and differentiated instruction at every level by outstanding, dedicated teachers.
The curriculum is incredibly broad, yet tackles each subject in depth. Technology is integrated throughout the curriculum on a daily basis.
Lower School Grades 1-5
Learning is an active process for students in grades 1-5, or the Lower School. Skills and concepts are taught within the context of themes that thoroughly integrate subject matter, helping students form meaningful connections for deeper understanding Learners by nature, curious about their world, and eager for accomplishment, Lower School students are given the opportunity to explore the world and their place in it. Children study core subjects with their homeroom teachers, while specialists enrich the learning and development of their young students in other academic areas. Technology is integrated throughout the curriculum on a daily basis.
The Lower School curriculum stresses the acquisition of foundational skills in language arts and mathematics. Reading instruction is carefully tailored to the level of each child to ensure that every student progresses steadily in both the mechanics of reading and reading comprehension. Exposure to outstanding literature and the understanding of its elements are essential to the richness and depth of our reading program. Mathematics instruction focuses on mathematical awareness and concept development, as well as efficient and accurate computation. Students are introduced to algebraic and geometry models to ease transition into Middle and High School mathematics courses.
In addition, Religion classes introduce students to God and give them the opportunity to explore their relationship with the transcendent. Science is theme-based and classroom instruction is enhanced by the students’ weekly time in the lab. Social Studies provides sequential opportunities for the students to learn about their class, town, state, and country. Every student takes either French or Spanish, and all children participate in drama, music, and art, classes rich in discovery and expression for their students. Finally, the Physical Education program stresses healthy lifestyle choices while introducing each student to a variety of sports and different athletic skills.
Middle School Grades 6-8
Rigorous and demanding, the curriculum for grades 6-8 or the Middle School is designed to form thoughtful leaders who can meet and embrace the challenges of living in the modern world. In the Middle School, students are active participants in their learning journey. Instruction is geared towards promoting inquiry, critical thinking, and creativity.
The Middle School curriculum is designed to be challenging yet appealing to each student. Students rotate through different subject areas, experiencing a variety of pedagogical methods and styles. They grow in their higher order and abstract thinking skills, while developing their ability to articulate their ideas both orally and in writing.
The Mathematics program is fast-paced, demanding, and far-reaching, offering both algebra and geometry by the eighth grade. Language Arts focuses on instilling a love and appreciation of literature while emphasizing both grammar and reading comprehension. Religion examines ultimate truths and helps students deepen their relationship with God within their own religious traditions. Science is hands-on and allows students to explore different disciplines, from chemistry to biology to the earth sciences. Social Studies investigates the world, both far and near. The Foreign Language department provides students the opportunity to learn Spanish, French, Latin, or Mandarin. Our Physical Education curriculum is wide-ranging, moving from the courts and fields to the track and swimming pool. Finally, Fine Art offerings are extensive and varied, including drama, art, music, band, and chorus.