Academic Curriculum

CURRICULUM

St. Margaret Mary School follows the curriculum framework of the Archdiocese of Louisville. The framework focuses on national standards and benchmarks. Teachers work collaboratively to align curriculum and choose appropriate resources. https://louisvillecatholicschools.com/join-us/curriculum/)

STREAM

St. Margaret Mary School seeks to nurture the unique strengths of every child through academic, social, and faith formation. One way that we have chosen to do this is through our biannual STREAM weeks. Twice a year, we focus as a school on a science- based theme that allows us to integrate all subjects and disciplines into a challenging and enriching learning experience for our students. The teachers work in vertical and cross-curricular teams to plan lessons and projects that integrate Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Students at all grade levels JK-8 get to delve deeply into a subject, work in collaborative teams, and think critically about their place in the larger community and world. They are challenged to see the connections of all people and their own important place in taking care of God’s world and each other.

21st Century Learning

St. Margaret Mary School is committed to 21st Century Learning. This type of learning is student centered, engaging, and focused. It incorporates the 4 C’s of Creativity, Communication, Critical Thinking, and Collaboration. Students are taught through flexible grouping, project-based learning, and hands on activities. Technology is used a as effective tool to promote communication, media literacy, group skills, and student engagement.

Maker Space

Our Media Center engages students in MAKERSPACE education. This area is a space in the library that is designed to allow students to learn through critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving. The space and activities are managed by the librarian and the computer teacher. Students will work together in small groups to create and innovate using robotics, coding, a 3D printer, Chromebooks, research tools, and craft materials.

Arts and Humanities

St. Mary School is well known for its extraordinary Arts and Humanities program.  Students receive drama instruction beginning in grade 4, which leads to musical productions in grade 6, 7, and 8.  Students work with professional scripts, sets, and costumes to create remarkable theatrical experiences for a packed house each year.  Many of our students go on to perform in community theater and high school productions.

Students are able to use their musical talents in music classes but also in audition choirs that begin in grade 3. We offer “Supernova” and “Encore” for our serious singers and dancers.  We offer band for students in grades 4-8.

Our visual arts program begins with weekly art classes where students get to explore a variety of techniques. SMM has its own kiln, and students are able to take home a finished piece of pottery each year.  We also have an after school pottery wheel class, an annual Art Fair, and encourage students to enter community art contests.

Co-Curricular Experiences

  • STREAM weeks at all grade levels
  • JK- JK Celebration
  • K- Gobblepalooza, K/1 Christmas Play
  • 1st – Mother’s Tea, K/1 Christmas Play
  • 2nd- Poetry Bash, First Communion
  • 3rd- Book Bonanza
  • 4th- Pioneer Day, Science Fair
  • 5th- Speech Contest, WSMM
  • 6th- Festival of Nations
  • Jr High- Family Groups, Leader Groups, Beta Club, Student Council,  Confirmation, Stations of the Cross