Reading
Students in grades K-1 use Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts curriculum. This research based series, promotes a Science of Reading approach, with a special emphasis on building Background Knowledge, the foundation of comprehension. Topics studied at these levels include cultural knowledge such as traditional tales and nursery rhymes.
Students in grades 2-6 use HMH Into Reading, a science of reading based curriculum which focuses on a variety of engaging texts across genres to build student knowledge and promote a love of literacy.
Phonics
Students in grades K-3 utilize the Bridge2Read program, a concrete, research-based phonics curriculum, which builds early literacy foundational skills through daily word work and reading practice, based on the Science of Reading.
Handwriting
Our students use the Zaner-Bloser Handwriting curriculum in grades K-5. Students focus on manuscript in K-2, with a transition to cursive in grade 2. Grades 3-5 work to improve the overall appearance of their cursive writing by practicing spacing, neatness, slant, smooth and rhythmic letter formation and letter connections.
English Language Arts
In grades 1-8, our English courses are guided by Loyola's Voyages in English, and Sadlier’s Grammar Workshop in grades 3-5. These programs are designed to include the major areas of English and Language Arts including grammar, sentence structure, library and research skills, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Mathematics
Students in grades K-5 use Sadlier Math, a comprehensive, core math program which provides the keystones of mathematical learning that fosters students’ conceptual understanding and skill development.
Students also use Simple Solutions, a spiraling math review workbook, which ensures repeated practice across all math domains.
Grades 6-8 use Big Idea's Math and You. This program helps to create an engaging and innovative math experience that uses hands-on activities and scaffolded instruction. The instructional design guides students through concepts from surface-level to deep-level learning, and allows them to transfer these skills to new concepts in a complete and comprehensive way, preparing them for high school and beyond.
Science
Students in grades K-5 use the Nancy Larson science program. The Science K program focuses on the children and their interaction with the world around them. Science 1 focuses on life science and the children’s environment. Science 2 focuses on physical science and the way things work. In Science 3, children explore the world beyond their immediate environment as they study earth and space science. The Science 4 program focuses on organisms and their interactions as well as forms of energy. Science 5 focuses on the interactions of systems on a micro- and macro-scale. The program ensures an in-depth study of topics that help promote long-term learning and understanding of concepts.
Grades 6-8 use the McGraw Hill Inspire Science curriculum.
Social Studies
Students in Grades K-5 use Savvas My World curriculum, a project-based social studies curriculum that encourages active inquiry while introducing civics, economics, geography, and history concepts. It encourages students to explore their world, expand their thinking, and become active, responsible citizens. Through this program, students develop critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills for engaged civic life.
Older students in Grades 7 and 8 use the textbook, Pearson’s American History.
Religion Studies
At Sts. Peter and Paul School, our Catholic Identity is the foundation and cornerstone of our school community. Our K-8 religion classes promote a comprehensive education focusing on the teachings, traditions, and values of our Catholic Faith.
We use the RCL Benziger: Blest Are We curriculum in the lower grades K-6, and Dynamic Catholic in the upper grades, 7-8.