Curriculum

Language Arts

Reading and writing skills begin in Kindergarten. The focus is on decoding skills (including phonics) in the primary grades, formal handwriting and spelling, and reference skills. Language arts skills are developed through storytelling, chapter books, literature based classes, pre-writing and editing, different forms of composition and literature, research for formal presentations involving role-playing, speeches, term papers, the use of library, and group projects, and oral reports. Emphasis is placed on reading comprehension, vocabulary development, spelling, and handwriting skills.

Mathematics

Kindergarten through 6th grade utilize Eureka Math curriculum and closely follows the Common Core State Standards in mathematics. Our math program covers basic skills such as understanding math terminology, computation mastery, concepts and word problems as well as geometry, pre-algebra, and algebra. Math enrichment opportunities are available. Math skills are developed through drill, mental math, and the use of math manipulatives, math games, and Internet sites.

The 7th and 8th grade utilize Big Ideas Mathematics curriculum and cover pre-algebra and algebra I topics, practices, and skills.

Science

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) demand a focus on phenomena and scientific practices across all grade levels. Science is introduced in kindergarten and begins with an emphasis on experimentation, practical applications and the scientific method. Elements of Earth, Life, and Physical Sciences are taught throughout the grades. Following the NGSS, middle school students cycle through all three disciplines every year -- Earth Science, Physical Science and Life Science.

Students explore through our science center, hands-on activities, projects, research, and Internet sites. They also enjoy field trips that enhance their scientific experiences and encourage them to apply scientific concepts into their every day life.

Social Studies

Social Studies is introduced in kindergarten and first grade, where students learn about their community. Students in subsequent grades learn about social structures, World, United States, and California history. They study ancient and modern civilizations, city, state and federal government, and the importance of maintaining a global perspective. This is accomplished through study, research, field trips, and the use of media, especially Internet sites.

Religion

Religious education is the heart of Saint Vincent de Paul School. We begin each day together when we assemble for Morning Prayer. Prayer is part of every class. Our students pray several times every day and attend Mass monthly. Students receive formal religious instruction each day, and religion classes emphasize family life, the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, Christian service, Gospel values, character education, the sacraments, and the readings for each Sunday’s Mass.

Music

Music is taught from kindergarten through eighth grade. It is a comprehensive program that includes music appreciation, rhythm, reading basic notation, the history of music, the variety of types of music, liturgical music, music programs, and the basic knowledge and use of simple instruments.

Italian

Italian is taught from kindergarten through eighth grade and emphasizes vocabulary, basic grammar, usage, conversational phrases, elements of and appreciation for Hispanic culture (including some religious practices), and music. Students in grades kindergarten through fourth grade have Italian once per week for 40 minutes. Students in grades five through eight may have Spanish classes three times per week.

Art

Art is taught in grades kindergarten through eighth and is integrated with other subjects. The focus is on student creativity using various mediums and learning art history.

Physical Education

Our physical education program follows the National Standards for Physical Education.

Physical activity is critical to the development and maintenance of good health. The goal of Physical Education is to develop physically educated individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity. Motor skills are taught to kindergarten students to further develop their large motor skills. Skills such as balance, climbing steps, jumping, skipping, crawling, running, etc. are emphasized to improve each child’s development of coordination.

The National Standards for Physical Education include:

• Motor skills, movement patterns, movement concepts, principles, strategies and tactics as they apply to the learning and performance of physical activities.
• Participates regularly in physical activity.
• Achieves and maintains a health-enhancing level of physical fitness.
• Exhibits responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others in physical activity settings.
• Values physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression, and/or social interaction.

Technology

Saint Vincent de Paul School integrates technology in the classroom. ELA and mathematic platforms are utilized to personalize each student's educational experience. In the lower school, classes have one to one iPad capability to use for projects and differentiated learning. Students in fifth through eighth grade are issued iPads for use at school. Personal technology (phones, watches, etc) are turned into teacher at the start of the school day.

Drama

Drama is taught to students in grades first through eight. It emphasizes basic skills such as stage presence, voice projection, singing, dancing, and actual performance. Our drama curriculum produces musical performances and Shakespearean presentations twice a year during a theatre and art festival.