Elementary School (K-5)

Building strong foundations in faith, academics, and character

The Elementary Years at St. Augustine

Elementary school is where lifelong learners are formed. At St. Augustine, Kindergarten through 5th grade students experience rigorous academics integrated with Catholic faith formation, all within small, nurturing classrooms where every child is known and valued.

Our Notre Dame ACE Academy curriculum ensures students master essential skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies—while developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and a love of learning that will serve them throughout their lives.

Core Academic Areas

English Language Arts

Reading: Phonics, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, literature analysis

Writing: Narrative, informative, and opinion writing with grammar and mechanics

Speaking & Listening: Presentations, discussions, active listening skills

Mathematics

Number Sense: Operations, place value, fractions, decimals

Problem Solving: Word problems, multi-step reasoning, real-world applications

Foundations: Building blocks for Pre-Algebra and Algebra in middle school

Science

Life Science: Plants, animals, ecosystems, human body

Physical Science: Matter, energy, force, motion

Earth Science: Weather, rocks, space, natural resources

STEM: Hands-on experiments and engineering challenges

Social Studies

History: American history, world cultures, historical thinking

Geography: Maps, regions, continents, cultural diversity

Civics: Government, citizenship, community responsibility

Catholic Social Teaching: Integrated throughout

Faith Formation & Catholic Identity

Faith isn't an add-on—it's the foundation of everything we do.

Daily Religion Class

Age-appropriate catechesis using approved Catholic curriculum. Students learn Scripture, Church teachings, and how to live as disciples.

Sacrament Preparation

2nd Grade: First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion
Regular: Reconciliation services throughout the year

Weekly Mass

All-school liturgy every Wednesday. Students learn to actively participate in the Mass and encounter Christ in the Eucharist.

Prayer & Devotions

Morning prayer, meal blessings, classroom prayer, Rosary in October and May, Stations of the Cross in Lent.

Service Projects

Monthly service opportunities teach students to serve others and live Catholic social teaching in action.

Faith-Integrated Learning

Catholic worldview integrated into all subjects—from math word problems to science ethics to literature discussions.

Enrichment & Specials

Students attend weekly enrichment classes that develop well-rounded skills and talents.

Art

Drawing, painting, sculpture, and creative expression

Music

Singing, rhythm, music theory, and seasonal performances

Physical Education

Fitness, sports skills, teamwork, and healthy habits

Technology

Digital literacy, typing, coding basics, internet safety

A Typical Elementary Day

8:15 AM Arrival & Morning Prayer
8:30 - 10:00 AM ELA Block: Reading, Writing, Grammar
10:00 - 11:00 AM Math Instruction & Practice
11:00 - 11:30 AM Religion Class
11:30 - 12:00 PM Lunch & Recess
12:00 - 1:00 PM Science or Social Studies
1:00 - 2:00 PM Specials Rotation (Art, Music, PE, Tech)
2:00 - 2:45 PM Independent Reading, Projects, or Intervention/Enrichment
2:45 - 3:00 PM Closing Circle, Homework Review, Dismissal Prayer
3:00 PM Dismissal

Note: Schedule varies by grade level. Wednesdays include all-school Mass.

What Makes Our Elementary Program Special

Small Class Sizes

Average 18-20 students per classroom means teachers can differentiate instruction, provide individual support, and know each child's strengths and needs.

Dedicated, Caring Teachers

100% hold Bachelor's degrees, 70% hold Master's degrees. All receive ongoing training through Notre Dame ACE Academy. Most importantly, they love teaching and know your child by name.

Safe, Nurturing Environment

Students feel known, valued, and safe. Anti-bullying programs, character education, and a culture of kindness rooted in Catholic values.

Strong Family Community

Parents are active partners. From volunteering to attending events to supporting at home, families and teachers work together for each child's success.

See Elementary Learning in Action

Visit our K-5 classrooms and meet our elementary teachers.

Schedule Your Tour