Lower School Curriculum

Literacy Instruction: Kindergarten through Grade 2 - Superkids
At St. Mary's Academy, we believe that strong readers are built on a foundation of explicit, systematic instruction paired with joyful, engaging learning experiences. In Kindergarten through Grade 2, we use the Superkids Reading Program, a comprehensive literacy curriculum grounded in the Science of Reading. Through carefully sequenced instruction, students develop the foundational skills necessary for lifelong literacy, including phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and written expression.

Superkids brings literacy to life through memorable characters, engaging stories, and meaningful opportunities to read, write, speak, and listen every day. Our teachers provide explicit instruction while differentiating to meet the needs of individual learners, ensuring that every student is appropriately challenged and supported. As students build confidence and independence, they develop not only the skills to become proficient readers but also a genuine love of reading that prepares them for success across all subject areas.

Literacy Instruction: Grades 3 through 5 - HMH Into Reading
As students transition from learning to read to reading to learn, our literacy instruction continues to emphasize deep comprehension, thoughtful analysis, and purposeful communication. In Grades 3 through 5, St. Mary's Academy uses HMH Into Reading, a comprehensive literacy program that builds upon students' strong foundational skills while expanding their ability to think critically about increasingly complex texts.

Through a rich collection of authentic literature and informational texts, students strengthen their reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Lessons encourage students to analyze ideas, make meaningful connections across subjects, and respond to texts through discussion and writing. Guided by our experienced teachers, students engage in collaborative learning, independent reading, and authentic writing experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and confidence. This balanced approach develops skilled readers, thoughtful writers, and effective communicators who are well prepared for the academic challenges of middle school and beyond.

At St. Mary's Academy, our distinctive approach to science education is designed to engage every student, fostering a deep appreciation for the marvels of the natural world. Through inquiry-based activities, hands-on projects, and captivating investigations aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, your child will embark on a path of discovery and curiosity. 

Early Years Adventure: K-Grade 2 Exploration

In the early years, from Kindergarten to Grade 2, we ignite the flames of curiosity through the immersive Mystery Science Program. This dynamic platform combines discussion questions, thought-provoking videos, nonfiction reading, and interactive hands-on activities. Through this approach, young learners are captivated by the wonders of science, setting the stage for a lifelong love for exploration. 

Grades 3-5: Unveiling the Mysteries

As students progress to Grades 3 to 5, they team up with dedicated science specialists and delve into the captivating FOSS (Full Option Science System) curriculum. Developed by the renowned Lawrence Hall of Science at the University of California, Berkeley, FOSS offers a comprehensive framework for in-depth understanding. Students engage in immersive experiences that unravel the complexities of the natural and designed worlds. The curriculum encourages active participation in scientific practices, where students lead their investigations and analyses. Within this journey, a strong emphasis on engineering is seamlessly woven into the fabric of science instruction. Students learn to question, observe, sketch, and create physical models as part of their exploration. 

Igniting Creativity through STEAM

Our commitment to nurturing innovation and creativity takes center stage through STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education. We aim to equip students with the skills to question, think critically, investigate, and pioneer. Our state-of-the-art inspiration Lab, equipped with a 3D printer, is a hub for design-based thinking. In our endeavor to empower students, each child in Kindergarten through Grade 5 receives an iPad and essential accessories for classroom and lab usage. 

A Green Footprint: Environmental Focus

Embedded within our curriculum is an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. As a Loretto School, we intertwine sustainability education into our science program. Our students become conscious global citizens, learning about vital concepts such as recycling, water conservation, and current events related to environmental preservation. Within the Lower School, hydroponic plan growing towers and designated campus areas provide students with hands-on experiences to study plant life within their natural habitats. 

The Next Generation Science Standards guide our work with students.

At St. Mary’s Academy, we're not just educating students; we're preparing students to become powerful agents of change in the world. We are dedicated to helping young people become contributing citizens in a culturally diverse, democratic society. Through a dedicated commitment to fostering critical thinking, informed expression, and empathetic listening, we empower students to engage thoughtfully with their peers, their community, and the broader world. 

A Journey of Discovery: Unveiling Social Studies

Our approach to Social Studies is an exploration that begins with the individual and radiates outward to encompass families, neighborhoods, communities, the vibrant State of Colorado, and the entire United States. Each grade level offers a window into historical events, geographical features, resource dynamics, economic decision-making processes, and the intricate web of civic roles and responsibilities.

Empowering Education with Curated Resources

To support these educational goals, our teachers draw upon a rich tapestry of resources: Scholastic News to the myWorld Social Studies Program tailored for Kindergarten to Grade 5, Discover Colorado, online platforms, and thought-provoking expository texts - these resources ignite curiosity and deepen understanding. Storytelling is the foundation of the myWorld Social Studies Program, which makes it truly engaging to Lower School learners and also offers a key benefit of literacy development.

Nurturing Minds, Building Bridges

SMA students are more than recipients of knowledge; they are active contributors to their learning journey. Through immersive experiences, they develop the art of perspective-taking, navigating conversations with peers who hold differing beliefs. This skill is a cornerstone of citizenship, fostering empathy, open-mindedness, and a shared purpose of working toward the greater good.