Lower School

The curricula followed by the students in the Elementary Schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are developed and/or approved by the Secretary of Catholic Elementary Education. This is coordinated through the Department of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment and related staffed development for Pre-K through 8th Grade.

The core subjects for elementary students include: Religion, English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies.

First Grade

Students build strong foundations in faith, reading, writing, and math. They learn how to add and subtract, develop writing skills, and grow as confident readers. 

Highlights include the Saints' Day Pageant and Church Fest, which deepen faith and introduce public speaking.

Second Grade

Students prepare for Reconciliation and First Eucharist, growing in faith and love of God. 

Academically, they transition from learning to read to reading to learn, begin cursive writing, and use technology tools to enhance learning.

Third Grade

Third graders study U.S. history and leadership through the Patriotic Show, portraying historical figures in a performance. 

Science and social studies become graded subjects, and students master math facts and cursive writing.

Fourth Grade

Students adjust to switching classes and subject teachers. 

Focus areas include multiplication, division, hands-on science, and novel-based reading. Social studies centers on Pennsylvania history.

Fifth Grade

Fifth graders use Chromebooks daily for collaboration and research. 

They deepen their understanding of Sacraments, study the Holocaust through literature, and apply math skills like fractions to science experiments on color, light, and sound.