MORE THAN CORE CURRICULUM

Every Child Has God-Given Abilities, Talents & Needs

At St. Mary of Gostyn School, our teachers develop and utilize instructional methods that guarantee personal growth and individual success for each child. Students experience Catholic faith formation in addition to a superior academic education. Our comprehensive curriculum is an expanded, enhanced version of the Illinois Common Core Learning Standards and follows Diocese of Joliet Standards. We emphasize creativity, critical and analytical thinking and real-world application with a Catholic worldview.

Math

Students will acquire a knowledge of mathematics and the ability to apply math skills to solve problems through the use of specially selected texts.

Science

Students use concrete, hands-on experiences to understand science in the physical and natural world around them through observing, predicting, questioning and explaining.

Language Arts

Students will develop skills that allow them to read with fluency, comprehend and interpret written materials, communicate well and listen and speak effectively.

Religion

Students will learn about their Catholic faith through stories, activities, Scripture, prayer, discussion and reflection.

Social Studies

Students will progress from learning awareness about the people and life around them to an understanding of our society, history and government.

STEAM

Students will build background knowledge of the different scientific concepts using sensory experiences, while building problem solving and critical thinking skills. STEAM instills a passion for innovation in our students.

Physical Education

Students will learn and explore factors of a healthy lifestyle about good health habits as well as physical activities designated for their grade.

Spanish

Students will learn the Spanish language and culture through song, authentic Spanish literature, and art.

Music

Students will experience the joy of music from multiple, grade appropriate, perspectives including music analysis and musical construction, sharpening listening skills as well as vocal and instrumental performance.

ACCREDITATION

All schools within the Diocese of Joliet are accredited by AdvancEd, the parent organization for the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), the Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACA CASI).

Highlights:

  • Supplemental Reading & Math Resource Programs

  • Periodic standardized testing beginning in Kindergarten, as well as AIMSweb and other tools are used to ensure students are meeting benchmarks

  • Teacher aides available in all classrooms to assist individual students or small groups as directed by the teacher

  • Individualized/Differentiated Instruction & Classes

  • Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) is used to identify learning needs of struggling students and provide intervention support

  • Special classes include STEAM, Spanish, Physical Education/Health & Music

  • Student-to-Student Tutoring, Student Service Opportunities & Faith Buddy Program

Technology:

  • Our Technology program goes beyond Illinois and Diocesan standards and includes programming

  • 1:1 Technology Initiative means each student has his/her own electronic device for learning

    • K-Grade 3: iPads
    • Grade 4: Samsung Chromebooks
    • Grade 5-8: Samsung Chromebooks

  • Google Classroom replicates technology used by local high schools

  • SchoolSpeak parent communication program

  • Interactive whiteboards, document cameras, ceiling mounted projectors found in each classroom

Dedicated to the Success of Each & Every Child

Our faculty members nurture your child throughout their formative grade school years so that upon graduation from SMG they are well prepared for the academic challenges of high school.