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Academics
The core of the academic program is oral and written language, reading and mathematics in the primary grades, with science and social studies taking on greater importance beginning in grade three. In grades 6 - 8, a departmental program is in place for instruction. Physical education, fine arts and computer classes are part of the required weekly program for grades K - 8.
An advanced math program is available for students in grades 5 - 8 who meet
the 94% requirement in Terra Nova standardized testing, final grades and who give evidence of an
above average IQ.
Enrichment, remedial help and support of students with mild learning disabilities is available on a limited basis as determined by need and availability. To be served by the learning disabilities teacher, a formal testing must be on record.
Recognizing the importance of technology in today’s education
Students attending St. James School are encouraged to utilize technology from the PreK4 up to the 8th grade. Many students have technology they are using at home such as computers, cell phones, computerized games and iPods. We know they are drawn to these technologies and are excited to be able to integrate technology in our classrooms.
We are proud to be able to offer 15 SMART boards throughout the school. The teachers are able to pull up internet, websites, work on lessons, and involve students interactively with this awesome learning tool.
In our Advanced Math classroom we have Texas Instrument Calculators that link the students work with the Smart boards to bring learning to a new level as students can compare answers to see what works and what does not and how the correct answer was achieved.
Our Media Center has 15 computers that allow students to do research, work on PowerPoint presentations and learn what makes a website valid for research purposes.
We believe in teaching research skills to prepare our students for the work they will do at the high school level.
Next we come to our Computer Lab that currently has 34 computers for students to utilize (complete with head sets) for optimal computer training. Skins are used to cover the keyboard so students can master keyboarding skills. The SMART board in this class has been in a particular asset so the students can learn instantaneously as the teacher covers new computer skills. Upper grade students are taught to use MSWord and PowerPoint and Touch-on-Graphing with Excel software.
