K-8 Curriculum

Religion
Faith formation is central to everything we do. In addition to daily religion classes, students participate in weekly All-School Mass, liturgical services, service projects, and prayer throughout the day. Religious values are integrated into all subjects and extracurriculars.
English Language Arts
Primary grades receive 1.5 to 2 hours of instruction daily, including time in a dedicated literacy center. Students in Grades 5–8 benefit from double-period ELA blocks focused on reading, writing, grammar, and communication. Writing is emphasized across the curriculum.
Mathematics
Math instruction is provided for a minimum of 50 minutes daily in all grades. Students in Grades 7–8 may be eligible for Freshman Honors Algebra based on academic performance. Supplemental software is used for both remediation and enrichment.
Science
Our science curriculum is hands-on, inquiry-based, and encourages collaboration. STEM and STREAM projects are embedded to support real-world learning and innovation.
Social Studies & History
Social Studies instruction uses up-to-date digital textbooks to keep pace with current events and global understanding. Enrichment resources help deepen engagement.

Spanish
Spanish instruction is provided weekly for all students and includes both language acquisition and cultural exploration.
Technology
Students in K–4 attend technology class twice a week; Grades 5–8 attend once weekly. All students use 1:1 Chromebooks and receive instruction in digital safety, media literacy, and responsible technology use.
Health Education
Health topics are incorporated throughout the curriculum—in Science, PE, and other classes. When available, the D.A.R.E. program is offered to Grades 5–8 in partnership with the Washington Police Department.
Physical Education
PE is held daily for primary grades and twice weekly for upper grades, meeting all diocesan and state standards. Grades 6–8 are eligible to participate in our athletic programs, with select opportunities available to Grade 5.
Band & Choir
Band and Jr. High Choir are elective offerings for students in Grades 5–8. Younger students also have opportunities for introductory music experiences.

Virtue and Character Formation
In accordance with Diocesan policies, we integrate Virtue Formation and Chastity Education throughout the curriculum. Our partnership with SportsLeader Ministry reinforces these values in both academics and athletics through the “Virtue = Strength” program.
Sacramental Preparation
We work in partnership with parents to prepare students for the Sacraments:

Reconciliation: Introduced and celebrated in 2nd grade
First Holy Communion: Received during the same academic year
Confirmation: A two-year process beginning in 7th grade with the sacrament received in 8th grade. Preparation includes classwork, sponsor involvement, and a Confirmation retreat.
Curriculum and Assessment
Religion is taught daily by qualified Catholic educators using Diocesan-approved curriculum and sacramental preparation texts. Students are assessed through tests, projects, discussions, and written work, and receive formal grades in Religion.
Safe Environment and Student Protection
We implement the Diocese of Peoria’s Safe Environment Program as part of our annual curriculum. This initiative teaches students how to protect themselves and others, while reinforcing our commitment to a safe, faith-filled learning environment.
Spiritual Development Plan
Each year, St. Patrick School publishes a Spiritual Development Plan that outlines our goals for spiritual formation, school-wide liturgies, and service. It serves as our guidepost for helping students grow as disciples of Christ.