Curriculum

The Diocese of Phoenix coordinates a cycle of curriculum review, revision, and implementation for all curricular areas. Each school community has input into this process. St. Thomas Aquinas Grade School utilizes these adopted curricula to direct day-to-day learning. It is these curricula that articulate academic standards for each grade level. Our supportive environment in core curricula is augmented by weekly instruction in Spanish, technology, art, and physical education.

Student Learning Expectations

Any student graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas Grade School will be a:

 Self-disciplined thinker who

• Demonstrates effective and creative problem-solving strategies
• Uses technology as a tool in research, study, and creative academic work
• Knows, understands, applies, analyzes, synthesizes, and evaluates in all subject areas
• Masters Diocesan curriculum standards

Total person who

• Models positive leadership qualities
• Stands up for Christian values
• Takes responsibility for personal actions
• Demonstrates respect for others’ personal space and opinions
• Understands basic civic duties
• Tolerates and celebrates cultural uniqueness
• Appreciates and participates in the fine arts (music, art masterpiece study, drama, artistic technique)

Active Catholic who

• Understands the history and traditions of the Catholic faith
• Develops personal faith through prayer, reflection, and participation in liturgical celebrations
• Values diversity in own and others’ God-given talents and abilities
• Serves others within the Church, school, and wider community to demonstrate faith, hope and love

Goal-oriented student who

• Demonstrates a curiosity and enthusiasm for learning
• Works collaboratively as part of a team and is able to accept and offer criticism
• Develops own spiritual, personal, and academic expectations
• Persists in tasks

Successful communicator who

• Displays confidence and competence in public speaking (formal) and discussion (informal)
• Produces original writing that reflects the writing process (prewriting, revising, editing, and publishing)
• Demonstrates active listening skills