Holy Cross School Policies - Curriculum

Students are challenged to learn in classroom settings, which remain the core learning areas. Learning takes place by the teachers first coming to know the students and their learning styles and then through the use of organized programs in each of the subject areas including: Religion, reading, spelling, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign language, handwriting, music, art, computer technology, library, and physical education. The program includes a departmental system, unit systems, cooperative learning, tutoring programs, and laboratory programs. The student's experiences range from abstract analysis to multi-sensory experiences. The following are some general sources to help you understand what your child is learning:

- A map of the core subject areas taught at each grade level is available for review as an appendix to this text.
- The syllabus for each grade level is made available at the beginning of the year.
- Periodic memos are sent by the teachers.
- Hold on-going conversations with your child.
- Read through the textbooks used by your child.


As a Catholic school, Holy Cross School has a religious education program which is consistent with the National Conference of Bishops documents TO TEACH AS JESUS DID the CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH, and with the directives of the NATIONAL CATECHETICAL DIRECTORY. The students are given foundations in doctrine, Scripture, the Eucharistic Liturgy (Mass), and morality. They learn to obtain an ease and familiarity with praying in different ways.
The students are prepared for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist in Grade Two (2). This program takes place in collaboration with the Religious Education program of the parish. Parent meetings are scheduled during the preparation period for the Sacraments. Parents are expected to attend.

All registered students participate in the religious education program of the day school. Students who are not baptized, or not baptized in the Roman Catholic Church do not participate in the Sacraments and/or are not considered candidates for Reconciliation or First Communion, unless the parent(s) of the student takes the initiative and follow the steps set forth by the Pastor for membership in the church.


Non-Catholic students do not receive Communion during regularly scheduled Liturgies attended by the students. In the event that a non-catholic student wishes to receive a blessing, he may approach and signal the priest by placing his right hand over his heart.

Each grade level participates in a retreat. Themes are used for each grade level to guide the children through prayer, meditation, study, discussion, and instruction. It is our hope to introduce the students to the traditions of the church to take time away from the daily routine to reflect and deepen one's relationship with God, self, others, and the universe. Please make a conscious effort to include your child and his classmates in your mealtime or nighttime prayer. When your child comes home, talk about the experiences of the day. In general, remember to bless your child each day and let your child/ren see you in prayer.

Parents are encouraged to recognize that their own witness to their faith and their expressions of peace, justice and care for the needs of the human family are central to fostering the faith of the children. Home prayer, active participation in parish functions and prayer, particularly Sunday Mass, and the witness of their own values consistent with the model of the life of Jesus are fundamental.