Academic Overview
In conjunction with the Mission Statement and Philosophy of St. Patrick School (SPS), the administration and staff have implemented a strong curriculum developed by the Diocese of Corpus Christi Catholic Schools Office. It emphasizes the core subjects of Religion, Social Studies, Science, Math and Language Arts, all provided in a safe and caring, Christ-centered environment.
Preschool
The SPS preschool program is developmentally appropriate, constructed to develop students’ abilities academically, emotionally, socially, physically and spiritually. Each day’s schedule includes small and large group instruction, centers, outside guided and free play. Each K-3 and K-4 class is led by a full-time teacher and teacher’s assistant.
Primary and Intermediate
Instruction in the upper grades includes Religion, Mathematics, all of the Language Arts, Science, Social Studies and Health. The school utilizes the Sadlier Religion Program, Rowland Reading “Superkids” in grades Kinder through third grade, Houghton Mifflin reading in grades 4-6, supplemented by authentic literature, Harcourt Science and Social Studies and Modern Curriculum Press Phonics.
The IXL Program is used for Math enrichment and acceleration in 1st through 6th grades. Accelerated Reading is used to enhance our Language Arts program in K5 and continues through 6th grade.
Our Guidance Counseling Program includes Friendzy, a Biblical/Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Friendship Curriculum.
Special Classes
In addition to our strong curriculum, and in teaching the whole child, students in all grade levels experience weekly classes in Spanish, Computer Applications, Guidance, Art and Music. Each student also has a daily PE class.
Academic Experiences
Students are encouraged to participate in the Our Annual Science Fair, the Coastal Bend Regional Science Fair, Math League, STREAM activities, Spelling Bee and other academic competitions. The school administers the IOWA Test of Basic Skill (ITBS) in the fall of each year to grades 1-6. The test results are used diagnostically, enabling the teachers to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each child, class and grade level. The faculty and administration of SPS believe that assessment is critical to monitoring student progress, identifying priorities and evaluating appropriate teaching strategies. Collaboration among teachers across grade levels is essential to monitor student development and achievement. Teachers continue their own education throughout their careers to enhance their teaching skills as well as their knowledge and understanding of children.
The school also has an extensive Library along with a Computer Lab, Art Lab and Music Room.
SPS, along with all the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Corpus Christi. The school year begins in the middle of August and ends the last week of May. The calendar includes a fall break in early October, a week long Thanksgiving break, traditional Christmas Holidays, Spring Break and an extended Easter Break.
After graduating from St. Patrick School at the completion of sixth grade, students maintain high standards and perform well through middle school, high school and college. It is a joy to have our Alumni share the importance of their experiences during their time at St. Patrick School.