Below is a brief description of Cataldo's curriculum.
Philosophy of Religion
Christianity is a life long journey of conversion rooted in our baptism and guided by the Holy Spirit. Cataldo Catholic School recognizes this ministry as its primary purpose and contributes to this process of conversion by informing, forming, and transforming people in Christian faith. That conversion is evidenced by love of God, self, others, and faithfulness to all ministries, culminating in full participation in the life of the Catholic community.
Through this ministry, students are called to become prayerful people of faith who have a sound awareness and knowledge of Catholic doctrine, tradition, and practice, and who give witness by a lifestyle of commitment to the Church.
Cataldo Catholic School recognizes its responsibility for the religious education of all. Parents have the primary responsibility for the religious education of their children. Cataldo Catholic School affirms and supports this endeavor.
Goals
In accordance with the above philosophy, our goals are that each student will
* Have an understanding and appreciation of our Catholic heritage through the study of scripture and tradition.
* Have a personal relationship with the triune God.
* Be committed to living gospel values.
* Acknowledge and accept responsibility for their actions.
* Celebrate with the community of believers through Eucharist, common prayer and participation in the other sacraments.
* Be of service to others by following the example of Jesus.
* Accept responsibility for the stewardship of all of God’s creation.
Philosophy of Literacy
Cataldo Catholic School believes in a balanced literacy framework that connects reading, writing, speaking, and listening across all curricular areas. The study of language literacy is a life-long process that progresses across a developmental continuum. Students are given opportunities to become faith-filled, diligent, and responsible members of the Church and society.
Goals
In accordance with the above philosophy, the goals are that each student will…
* Read, write, and communicate clearly and effectively for a variety of purposes and audiences;
* Use a variety of resources to create and communicate knowledge responsibly;
* Read and interpret a wide range of print and non-print text;
* Analyze and evaluate the effectiveness and reliability of written work and other forms of communication;
* Listen, observe, and question to gain understanding;
* Gather, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information to create meaning;
* Reflect, set goals, and evaluate progress to improve reading, writing and communication skills.
Philosophy of Math
Cataldo Catholic School believes the study of mathematics leads the student to understand more fully the patterns and intricacies evident in God’s creation. Students learn the science and language of mathematics through an active process of exploration, discovery, and reflection, in which individual abilities are recognized and fostered. Through a variety of coherent, focused experiences students understand and apply concepts, developing mathematical connections to everyday life. Students develop confidence in their ability to communicate their mathematical reasoning and use problem solving strategies in an ever-changing world.
Goals
In accordance with the above philosophy, each student will:
* Understand and apply the concepts and procedures of mathematics.
* Understand how mathematical ideas connect within mathematics, to other subject areas, and to real-life situations.
* Use critical thinking to analyze and solve problems.
* Develop mathematical reasoning through analyzing patterns, making conjectures and justifying results.
* Communicate knowledge, understanding and reasoning in both mathematical and everyday language.
* Integrate the use of technology and other tools in mathematics.
Philosophy of Science
Cataldo Catholic School fosters an awareness and respect for God’s creation based on a Catholic foundation. Students become scientifically literate through the application of scientific ideas and methods. They develop an awareness of scientific concepts and experience science that is practical, relevant, connected and stimulating. Students engage in experiences that require them to apply the scientific method. They also engage in hands-on activities to further their understanding of scientific concepts. Students are learning to become responsible, ethical, and moral members of society as well as stewards of the world.
Goals
Based on Christian ethical and moral principles, the students will be able to:
* Know and understand scientific concepts and principles.
* Apply the scientific method to solve problems and meet challenges in a changing natural world.
* Use effective communication skills to build and demonstrate an understanding of science.
* Integrate scientific knowledge and skills with other subject areas and into real-life situations.
* Incorporate use of technology and scientific tools to demonstrate understanding.
Grade Level Science Strands Science Outcomes
Philosophy of Social Studies
In keeping with Catholic Social Teaching, the Diocese of Spokane examines Social Studies through the lens of Gospel values. The focus of Social Studies is to instill a global view of humanity emphasizing social responsibility and respect of self and others. The students’ natural curiosity about human experiences and diverse cultures leads to development of skills and concepts. The knowledge and understanding of the past, awareness of our present world and a vision for the future are necessary to participate and contribute in a global society. Elective programs vary from semester to semester. They have included: Music, Ministry, Drama, Band, Technology, Leadership, Health & Fitness, Media, Christian Living, Beginning Guitar, and art classes, students can express themselves creatively in an encouraging environment. Through Yearbook students are involved in the planning, preparation, design and distribution of Cataldo's yearbook.
After School
Our after school program for students in preschool-6th grade provides organized activities, outdoor playtime, and homework time. This program is managed and staffed by our primary grade teachers. Their unique knowledge of these students assures an enjoyable and well supervised environment.
Beyond the Curriculum
Developing strength, confidence and character.
Cataldo has an historic view of child development. We promote academic success commensurate with each student's potential and hold high expectations for student behavior and decision making. A multifaceted program targets the uniqueness of every child.
Enrichment Activities
Our music curriculum provides a varied program that is a scheduled part of the day. Performance opportunities are also part of the program. Performance choir, strings for students in grades 5 - 8, and an after school drama program are available.
Our health and fitness instructor teaches a well-rounded program that encourages a healthy lifestyle and exposes students to a variety of activities.
Our interscholastic athletic program for grades 3 - 8 emphasizes teamwork, skill-building, fair play, leadership and confidence. Over 85 percent of our students choose to participate. We offer volleyball, football, basketball, baseball, softball, cross country and cheerleading.
Art enrichment takes place during the year in addition to regular classroom art instruction. Students learn art history and experiment with a variety of mediums.
Students participate in various interscholastic academic arenas such as Math is Cool, Science Fair, writing contests and other challenging competitions.
Technology as a Tool
Technology will equally challenge and expand the minds of our children. At Cataldo, we have integrated computers into the curriculum and every learning environment. Technology is utilized as a tool throughout the normal everyday learning process. We have a server-based network of computers with supervised internet access, which enriches the educational opportunities of every grade level.
As a result of our selection as a model school grant recipient by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, we now have every classroom equipped with state-of-the-art technology. A ratio of at least one computer per every three students is now in place.
Cataldo follows the Diocese of Spokane curriculum. Click here for more information.
