Saint Mary's School Academics
Academic Program: St. Mary’s uses a curriculum approved by the Diocese and offers the students a well-rounded educational program including: Religion, Language Arts (Reading,Writing, Spelling, Phonics and Penmanship), Mathematics, Science, Health, Social Studies, Spanish, Music, Art, Physical Education, Library and Computer Applications.
Grading System: St. Mary’s uses traditional grades (A-F) for students in grades 3-6. Letter grades are given with the following equivalents:
For students in our primary grades (Kindergarten, First Grade & Second Grade), St. Mary’s uses the following system:
O Outstanding
VG Very Good
S Satisfactory
I Needs Improvement
A narrative report is provided for parents of the Preschool students.
Report Cards: The school year is divided into four quarters of approximately 9 weeks each. We encourage parents to make an appointment to discuss their child’s progress at any time. St. Mary’s School believes a close home-school partnership is essential. Regular parent-teacher conferences are held at the end of the first and third marking quarters.
Standardized Testing: Standardized testing is done annually. Test results are reported to parents and a copy is kept on file. These tests are one tool used in reviewing the whole picture of our curriculum and of students’ learning.
Homework: Homework is done regularly in all grades. It is assigned as a means to help students review, strengthen, and enrich subject matter taught. Written homework is only one type of work given; oral and study assignments are also given. Homework is a responsibility, with an emphasis on completeness, accuracy and neatness. Students may lose recess time for homework unfinished in a timely manner.
Homework quantity varies from grade to grade. It is important to find out from the teacher(s) what they expect with regard to homework. St. Mary’s is guided by national guidelines; 10 minutes per grade level, excluding reading. Any concerns about homework should be addressed to your child’s teacher.
