Elementary Education (Second – Fifth Grades)
“Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him” ~ Psalm 127:3
Second through fifth grades are a special time when children grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity. Our program provides a supportive, nurturing environment where students continue building strong academic and social skills while deepening their understanding of the Catholic faith. We follow the Diocese Consensus Curriculum of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, offering a faith-centered education that encourages each child to learn, grow, and thrive.
Second Grade
Second grade deepens core skills in Religion, Language Arts, Math, Science (including Marine Science), and Social Studies, with enrichment in Music, Spanish, Art, Physical Education, Library, Technology and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Students prepare for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion, while building strong reading, writing, and math foundations. Hands-on science and studies of ancient civilizations spark curiosity and connect learning to the wider world.
Third Grade
Third grade builds confidence in independence and critical thinking. Students study core subjects along with Music, Spanish, Art, Physical Education, Library, Technology and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Religion lessons emphasize the sacraments, liturgical seasons, and daily living of the faith. Language Arts integrates reading, grammar, and spelling through engaging stories and projects, while Math develops multiplication, division, and fractions. Science explores astronomy, chemistry, geology, and zoology, and Social Studies introduces world cultures, map skills, and the foundations of government and citizenship.
Fourth Grade
Fourth grade emphasizes deeper comprehension and responsibility in both academics and faith. Students engage in daily Religion, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, with enrichment in Music, Spanish, Art, Physical Education, Library, Technology and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Religion studies focus on Scripture and the life of Christ, while Language Arts develops strong reading and writing skills. Math introduces multi-digit operations, fractions, and geometry, while Science explores ecosystems, energy, and electricity. Social Studies centers on Virginia history, early America, and Native cultures.
Fifth Grade
Fifth grade prepares students for middle school with rigorous instruction across core subjects and enrichment in Music, Spanish, Art, Physical Education, Library, Technology and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Religion emphasizes sacraments, prayer, and vocations, while Language Arts incorporates novel studies, research writing, and public speaking. Math moves into fractions, decimals, algebra, and geometry with opportunities for advanced placement. Science spans life, earth, and physical sciences with a strong marine science component. Social Studies explores U.S. history from Colonial times through the Civil War, developing historical understanding and citizenship.