Standardized Testing and Placement Tests

St. Joseph School does not use an entrance or placement test for students applying to enter into the school. We do ask that potential kindergarten students go through a screening process to assess their readiness for school. For all other students we ask to see report cards from the two previous school years as well as two years of standardized test scores if they are available. An interview with the principal is also a part of the application process.

All students in grades two through eight take the Iowa test of Basic Skills (ITBS) each September. This test is taken by all elementary school students in the Diocese of Sacramento. The ITBS is a norm referenced test that measures student growth in the areas of reading, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, maps and diagrams, and reference materials. In each of these areas students receive detailed scores which include Grade Level Equivalents and National Percentile Rankings. The ITBS Test helps teachers and parents chart student growth in many academic areas. The ITBS Test also helps our staff to track the progress of groups of students and assess yearly growth. In grades three, four, five and seven students also take a Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT). This test measures student’s reasoning abilities on verbal, quantitative and non-verbal tasks.

ITBS testing is very helpful in the planning of instruction for both individual students and grade level groups. Unlike the Star Testing done in public schools in California, ITBS is not designed to give an overall score for our school. However, the results that we receive do help us to measure the success of our instructional program. In all areas – reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies and science - our students score very high as an aggregate group. In each of these subjects, seventy-five percent of our students score in the top two quartiles as compared to other students throughout the United States. Also, in each of these subject areas all of our classes consistently show at least a year’s worth of growth each year as they progress through the grades.

CURRICULUM

Religion

Love of God, neighbor and self is at the heart of St. Joseph Parish School. Prayer is part of every class. Our students pray several times every day, attend Mass weekly and celebrate the church year with prayer services and para-liturgies. Students receive formal religion instruction each day. The religion program emphasizes community service, social justice, and family life. Gospel values are woven throughout the curriculum and recognized in daily adventures.

Language Arts

Reading and writing skills emphasis begins in Kindergarten. The focus is on decoding skills (including phonics) in the primary grades, formal handwriting and spelling, and reference skills. Language arts skills are developed through storytelling and puppetry, literature based classes, pre-writing and editing, different forms of composition and literature, research for formal presentations such as plays, speeches and term papers, class discussions, shared life experiences, the use of library, and enrichment activities such as B.E.A.R. Night.

Mathematics

Our math program covers basic skills such as computation mastery, concepts and word problems as well as geometry, pre-algebra, and algebra. Math enrichment opportunities are available. Math skills are developed through drill, mental math, math manipulatives, math games, tutoring (teacher-directed and peer), and real life experiences.

Science

Science is introduced in kindergarten and begins with an emphasis on practical applications and the scientific method. Students explore through lab, hands-on activities, projects, research, field trips and use of media. All grades experience working in the school garden twice a month.

Social Studies

Social Studies is introduced in kindergarten. Students learn about social structures, world and US history, basic economics, study of cultures (ancient and modern), government, California history through research, field trips, and the use of technology to facilitate learning Social Studies. Emphasis is placed on social interaction and recognition of schoolwide learning expectations.

Music

Music is taught in grades K through 8. It includes music appreciation, rhythm, reading basic notation, the history of music, liturgical music, and a Christmas music program.

Spanish

Spanish is taught in grades K through 8 and emphasizes vocabulary, basic grammar, usage, conversational phrases, elements of and appreciation for Hispanic culture (including some religious practices), and music.

Art

Art is taught in grades K through 8 and is integrated with other subjects. The focus is basic art principles, the use of various art media, art appreciation and history, and art displays. Art is taught by a local experienced artist as well as by the homeroom teachers.

Physical Education

Physical Education is taught in grades K through 8. The emphasis is on basic skills, movement, fair play/sportsmanship, exercise, games, and the rules and skills of games.

Computer/Technology

Computer/technology is taught in grades K through 8. St. Joseph has a fully equipped lab with a T1 internet connection. The focus is on computer literacy, online capability, and keyboarding. We integrate our computer/technology program throughout all subjects.

Athletics

St. Joseph's offers after-school athletic activities for boys and girls in grades 4 through 8 that include football (boys only), basketball, volleyball, track, and golf. Most teams start in Grade 5. Sportsmanship is emphasized and all participants play. We are part of the PAL (Parochial Athletic League).

Choir

St. Joseph students participate in the Children’s Choir of St. Teresa of Avila Parish. The choir ministers at the weekly school masses as well as the Sunday Children’s Liturgy at 11:00.

St. Joseph Parish School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Schools and the Western Catholic Educational Association