Upper Elementary: Grades Four Through Six
As with the younger grades levels, a fully credential teacher leads each grade. Class size is allowed to be a bit larger, but is still on the small side, typically ranging between 20-24 students.
A strong and well-rounded academic program challenges and nurtures the growing intellectual abilities of this age group. Thought provoking novels and selections from the basal reader expose the students to increasingly advanced vocabulary, thematic material and higher order thinking skills. The writing program supports the development and succinct expression of ideas. Mathematics includes advanced levels of calculations along with problem-solving and basic concepts of algebra and geometry.
Fourth through sixth graders also enjoy a regular schedule of weekly classes conducted by specialist teachers for art, music, PE, computers and Spanish. These studies are frequently coordinated with the core academic program to optimize the students’ learning experience.
Leadership opportunities for these upper grade students are plentiful. Students take on roles in the chapel program, in special performance opportunities, and in community service projects. Sixth graders serve as buddies for first graders, as fifth graders do for the kindergartners. Each sixth grader leads a “School Family Group”, composed of at least one student from every grade in the school. Third through sixth graders are eligible to run for Student Council, and the representatives from fifth and sixth grade serve as officers for that body.
Field trips continue to local resources at the upper elementary levels, especially supporting topics in science and social studies. Additionally, fifth graders make a three-day, two night trip to Astrocamp in Idyllwild, and the sixth graders embark each fall on a four-day, three-night camping trip to Santa Cruz island. These overnight adventures not only support the academic program but provide unique opportunities to build leadership skills and community.
After sixth grade, St. Patrick’s graduates move on to local secondary schools. Most students and their families choose to continue in a private school setting. Some, however, do choose a local public middle school. Whatever the family’s choice, every middle and secondary school that receives a St. Patrick’s graduate reports that St. Patrick’s students are well prepared for their academic programs and to participate in their extracurricular offerings.
Curriculum Overview
For a curriculum overview by grade level, click the links below.
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