Elementary Curriculum
(Grades 1-5)​

• ​​Program Overview
• Math
• ​Physical Education
• Music & Art
• Religion & SEL
• Science
• Language Arts
• ​Social Studies
• Foreign Language
• Technology

St. John's elementary school classes offer a well-rounded education that focuses on the academic, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth of each child. Students participate in foreign language, religion, SEL, music, and art classes while also building on concepts in reading, math, social studies, and science. Homework is first assigned in 1st grade, and gradually increases at an age appropriate level as students progress through the grades. 

When students leave 5th grade and enter our High School Prep Program, they are equipped with the skills they need to take on the responsibilities and expectations that increase in junior high. 

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The elementary school math curriculum, Big Ideas Math, focuses on abstract thinking, reasoning, and inquiry as students advance through the program. Students participate in engaging activities that continue to build on previously learned concepts. Students are equipped with the precise language and structure necessary to build mathematical understanding and proficiency.

Beginning in 1st grade, students may qualify for Title 1 services for additional help in reading.

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Fourth grade students round multi-digit numbers.

Through gym class and recess, students participate in physical fitness, recreation activities, group games, and team sports.

Gym uniforms are required beginning in 5th grade.

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Elementary school students participate in St. John's jump-a-thon.

Music: 

During music classes twice a week, students learn about rhythm, music theory, and music appreciation. Our music teacher, Mrs. Jurica, incorporates song, dance, and a variety of instruments into her lessons. Learn more about Mrs. Jurica on our Teachers & Staff page.

Students also participate in school musicals every other year. Private guitar, piano, and ukulele lessons are available and band instruction is provided by Walther Christian Academy. 

Art:

In-school art class is offered to 1st through 4th grade students. These classes feature drawing, painting, and mixed media activities and students also learn about art appreciation. Mrs. Green teaches art classes in 1st-4th grade. Learn more about Mrs. Green on our Teachers & Staff page.

Students in 5th grade may elect to participate in art activities through the after-school art club.

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First grade students create chalk drawings in art class with Mrs. Green.

​Religion:

The religion curriculum in grades 1 - 5 features worship, Bible study, catechism, memory work, church history, and developing a personal faith. Service hours are another component of the religion curriculum, and students regularly learn about various organizations and have the opportunity to participate in service projects throughout the school year. 

Social Emotional Learning:

We believe that social emotional learning (SEL) is essential to each child's growth and as a part of our whole child approach, we work to help foster the emotional and social heath of our students. 

Our K-8 SEL curriculum, the Friendzy Program, focuses on self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, social awareness, and relationship skills.

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5th grade students participate in a blindfold exercise as a part of a lesson on how we need each other (Thessalonians 5:11). 

As with all subjects, science is taught from a Christian perspective.  Science classes vary by grade level and include general science, biology, and earth science. Health and safety skills are also taught during science classes.

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Second grade students participate in a science experiment to learn about buoyancy. 

Language arts classes include reading, phonics, English, spelling, literature, handwriting, and creative writing activities. 

Grades 1-5 use the MyView Reading curriculum, and St. John’s also has an extensive library of leveled books that are used to supplement classroom reading activities.  

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Fourth grade students visit St. John's annual Book Fair.

Grades 1-5 use the MyWorld Social Studies curriculum, and students study geography, history, citizenship, current events, and the United States and Illinois Constitutions. Our goal is that students will become well informed citizens who have a heart for service to their communities.

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Third grade students study various products and where they are made as a part of a lesson about the economy.

Spanish is taught by Mr. Bryant in grades 1-4. In Spanish class, students learn about Spanish culture and study vocabulary and grammar rules as they advance through the grades. Learn more about Mr. Bryant on our Teachers & Staff page!

Beginning in grade 5, students utilize Duo Lingo to choose the language they would like to study.

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Fourth grade students learn directions in Spanish class.

Technology is introduced in elementary school at an age-appropriate level and teachers focus on computer safety and responsibility.

Typing skills, word processing, and computer-generated activities are a part of the elementary school curriculum. Each student has access to a Chromebook during the school day, and 5th grade students are assigned a Chromebook for homework use. 

We are currently working on designing a STEM classroom where classes can work on science, technological, engineering, and math projects. St. John’s also has two 3-D printers and a green screen for creating short films. 

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First grade students use Chromebooks for a research project about animals.

​"St. John's has been a great school so far. I have 2 kids at the school and the teachers and staff have been nothing but wonderful. St. John's has a great community and we are all like family. We have met some of our best friends while attending this school! I would highly recommend St. John's to anyone looking for a great school."
-current parent
Review taken from GreatSchools.org

What does a typical day look like for a 2nd grade student?

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Sample Second Grade Schedule

What does a typical day look like for a 4th grade student?

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Sample Fourth Grade Schedule

"St. John’s has some of the most dedicated teachers ever. They expect great things from their students, and help them achieve that! My children love to go to school."
-Kara C., Parent