K-8 Curriculum
Students at St. Robert Bellarmine receive a strong academic
foundation that prepares them for the challenges of high school and
beyond. A values-based curriculum also helps them grow to see
themselves as unique individuals in relationship to God and the
global community.
"I'm extremely pleased with the progress my son has made
since transferring to SRB. The nurturing environment really
makes a difference." Parent of a recent transfer student
Addressing Individual Needs
Flexible special learning groups in reading and math allow us to
address the individual abilities and needs of students. A full-time
Reading Specialist is also available.
Language Arts
We believe it is critical to develop the ability to use language to effectively convey ideas. Our curriculum
stresses skills in grammar, composition, reading, spelling, library science, and handwriting. As the
most basic and essential subject taught in the elementary grades, reading is given high priority. English
stresses skills in capitalization, punctuation, dictionary usage, grammar, and the writing of sentences,
paragraphs, and letters. At all levels, we maintain a close relationship between Reading and English
classes so students come to appreciate both comprehension and writing as the twin skills of language.
Poems and essays written by our students are regularly included in nationally-judged anthologies.
Mathematics
Our math curriculum has an emphasis on conceptual manipulative work in the lower grades and a focus
on disciplined analysis and accuracy in the middle grades. Critical thinking skills are stressed so students
learn to productively apply not only arithmetic skills, but also mathematical concepts. Beginning in fifth
grade, students begin a progressive course of study with the ultimate goal of algebra and geometry in
eighth grade. Each child is placed in the math series which seems to best suit their needs. Every student
in the appropriate grade is eligible to try out for the math teams.
Science
Studies include a range of subjects and principles including the
environment, the animal kingdom, astronomy, geology, scientific
methods, life science, and earth science.
Social Studies
The Social Studies program begins with the concepts of community and human relationships. These
concepts are very close to our school’s purpose as a faith ministry of our parish. History and Geography
form the core of the program. We are concerned throughout the sequence with broadening our students’
understanding, appreciation, and critical analysis of cultural, political, and economic diversity—essential
characteristics of the contributing adult in our society.
Music
Students have weekly music classes and experience music in a variety of ways including singing, listening,
and movement.
Art
Students have weekly art lessons. Projects draw their inspiration from class curriculum. These experiences
help students develop an understanding of art as a visual means of expression.
Physical Education
Our PE program helps students master individual goals related to physical coordination and a healthy
lifestyle. PE instruction reflects the current sports season and/or worldwide events such as the Olympics
or World Cup. Classrooms also have recess daily, which gives students time for unstructured physical
play that complements academic pursuits.
Other Areas
Our curriculum also includes computer instruction, physical education, and library class. Sharing activities, such as older children
reading with younger ones, also provide creative and positive ways
for children to learn to be responsive, cooperative, and respectful.
Religion
We use the Silver Burdett Religion Series as a text, but Religious Education permeates all that we do in our school. The series focuses on stories from scripture and from the lives of saints in our tradition and connects those stories to the day to day lives of the students and the world. Our students also put their faith into action through service projects, character eduction, prayer services, retreat days and participation in Friday liturgies.
Learn more: For more information and to schedule a visit, please call 773-725-5133 or email our Principal, Carrie Mijal.