Third - Fifth
The Third-Fifth grade years at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School are designed to help students grow academically, spiritually, and personally as they transition from foundational learning to greater independence and responsibility.
Our third-grade program serves as an important bridge between the Lower Elementary and Middle Grades. Students continue to benefit from the support of
both a classroom teacher and a dedicated aide while developing the executive functioning skills, organization, and independence necessary for future academic success. Building upon the strong foundations established in Kindergarten through Second Grade, students learn to take greater ownership of their learning while strengthening critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
In fourth and fifth grade, students begin a departmentalized learning experience, rotating between dedicated teachers who specialize in Mathematics, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish. This model prepares students for middle school while allowing teachers to provide deeper content expertise and engaging instruction in their subject areas.
Recognizing that every child learns differently, St. Francis of Assisi offers multiple levels of Mathematics beginning in fourth grade. Students are placed in learning environments that best match their readiness and learning style, ensuring appropriate challenge, support, and opportunities for growth. This personalized approach allows students to build confidence while mastering essential mathematical concepts.
Faith formation remains at the center of the student experience. Students participate in daily Religion instruction and continue to deepen their relationship with Christ through monthly schoolwide Masses, monthly class Masses, Eucharistic Adoration, and weekly faith formation experiences. Through prayer, service, and reflection, students learn to live out Gospel values in their daily lives.
Our curriculum is aligned with the California Common Core State Standards and is designed to challenge students while fostering curiosity, collaboration, and a love of learning. In addition to their core academic subjects, students participate in Physical Education, Music, and Art, providing opportunities for creativity, wellness, and personal expression.
Technology is thoughtfully integrated throughout the Upper Elementary program. Every student is issued a school-owned iPad that serves as a tool to enhance and extend classroom learning. As students progress through grades three through five, they develop increasingly sophisticated digital literacy skills and learn to use technology responsibly and effectively.
Students utilize a variety of educational platforms and creative applications, including ALEKS, IXL, Google Workspace, iMovie, Canva, and other instructional tools that allow them to practice skills, explore concepts more deeply, collaborate with peers, and demonstrate their understanding through innovative projects. Technology at St. Francis is never a replacement for quality teaching; rather, it empowers students to create, communicate, and expand their learning in meaningful ways.
Through personalized instruction, faith-centered learning, innovative technology integration, and a commitment to developing the whole child, the Upper Elementary program at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School prepares students to become confident learners, compassionate leaders, and faithful disciples of Christ.