Preschool

Learning Philosophy for the School:
1. Each child experiences success in school everyday.
2. Parents are an integral part of the educational process. 
They are respected and involved.
3. All curriculum areas include learning foundations/
mechanics/basic skills, reading, writing, mathematics, 
science, social studies, physical education and the arts 
are of equal importance.
4. Curiosity and questioning is encouraged.
5. Creativity is fostered and celebrated. Student's 
learning styles vary. Therefore, instruction and learning 
modes are designed and presented to meet individual 
learning styles. Discipline is a part of the curriculum.
6. All students are taught productive, positive behavior. 
They are taught to take responsibility for their actions.
7. Christian values are stressed through modeling.

The goal of St. John Neumann Preschool is to help the 
child develop skills within the areas of personal and 
social growth, gross and fine motor development, and 
perceptual, cognitive and language growth. These skills 
are encouraged through a curriculum which includes free 
play, sharing/show and tell, stories, songs, finger plays, 
creative art activities, drama, nutrition, science and 
nature activities. Shapes, colors, alphabet and numbers 
are integrated in the preschool curriculum. We strive to 
enhance the child's spiritual development, by providing 
a Christian environment.

Algebra

Pre-Algebra sets the stage by introducing a transition 
from the arithmetic world to the algebra world. 
Pre-Algebra reveals the common sense approach 
involving the use of traditional numbers with variables, 
expressions, equations and procedures, required to 
develop problem solving skills.

8th Grade Algebra is the first major course in a
series of higher mathematics courses. The course will 
begin with expression and real numbers, advancing to 
equations, polynomials, graphing, factoring polynomials. 
The final segment of the course will involve Algebraic 
Fractions, ratios, proportions, variations, rational and 
irrational numbers, quadratic equations and the 
basics of trigonometry. 

Band

Beginning Band

Students will learn the fundamentals of Instrumental 
Music through the exploration of their instrument. 
Students will learn technique, and how to read 
musical notation. 

Advanced Band  (Audition only)

Students will continue learning the fundamentals of 
Instrumental Music. Students will be introduced to 
the basics of Marching Band, and perform in a variety 
of settings, including the Annual Parade of Lights.

Elementary Panther Bands

Bandsmen will not only be taught the fundamentals 
of instrumental music, but to carry on the tradition of 
excellence through discipline and dedication to the 
art of music.

St. John Neumann Marching Panthers

Students will learn a varied repertoire of music, and 
perform in both Marching and Concert Band performances. 
Students will be required to perform in a series of events 
and performances including the annual Apple Blossom 
Parade and the Parade of Lights.

Computers

Introduction to Computers
	
This course is designed to teach students the touch 
keyboarding system in order to operate the computer 
keyboard efficiently for information processing. 
When course is completed students will be able to use 
Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

7th, 8th Grade Advanced Computers/
Yearbook
	
This course is designed to improve proficiency in word 
processing, spreadsheets, databases, and multimedia 
presentations. Students will become proficient integration 
these applications. Students will also do the 
St. John Neumann yearbook working with Adobe PageMaker 
and Desktop Publishing. Students learn layout and design, 
photography, editing, and writing.
Pre-Requisite: Introduction to computers 

Enrichment

7th and 8th Grades

This course offers further studies in the areas of 
math and technology. Students interested in 
National Academic League are encouraged to 
take this course.

There is also a focus on the development of leadership, 
service, citizenship, and problem solving skills for the 
success of young people in our school community.

Language Arts and Journalism

7th Grade 
	
This course is designed to emphasize the mastery of skills 
in language arts. Students will complete units in understanding 
literature, grammar, composition, vocabulary and spelling.

8th Grade
	
This course is designed to emphasize the mastery 
of skills in language arts. Students will complete 
units in understanding literature, grammar, 
composition, vocabulary and spelling.

7th, 8th grade Journalism
	
This course provides instruction in journalistic style, 
information gathering, interview techniques, news 
writing and instruction on lay-out and design for a 
monthly newspaper. Students will also learn editing,
cooperative learning, and leadership skills. 

Physical Education & Health

Students will recognize the role of physical activity 
and its unique contribution to social, emotional, mental, 
and physical development. Students will understand 
the benefits and risks associated with involvement 
in physical activity. Students will demonstrate the 
ability to practice health-enhancing behaviors and 
develop fine and grow motor skills through 
physical fitness activities and games.

Religion

6th grade Religion
The sixth grade course of study starts with the 
creation stories in the Old Testament and continues 
through to the New Testament. This provides an 
in depth Bible study for the year. Community service 
is stressed as a means of making the Catholic 
faith come to life.

7th grade Religion
	
The theme of grade 7 is Jesus. Students study the 
life, values, and teachings of Jesus and are challenged 
to live a Christian lifestyle. Through Scripture, students 
will learn to appreciate the sacraments of Eucharist and 
Reconciliation as signs of hope. Students are encouraged 
to develop Christian attitudes and behavior for themselves 
and others. The Amen section of the pupil edition contains 
activities and suggestions for celebrating the seasons of 
the Church year and holy days. All students plan and 
attend the monthly Liturgy of the Mass in school.

8th grade Religion
	
The theme of Grade 8 is the Church. Students survey the 
major historical periods of the Church in order to come to 
a deeper understanding and appreciation for their heritage. 
Students will be encouraged to see how their own lives 
reflect the beliefs and commitment of the Church community 
by participating in the worshipping life of the Church through 
personal prayer, Mass and the sacraments, and living a 
Christian way of life. Students will learn that Jesus call his 
followers to live lives of compassion, care, and concern for 
their fellow human beings, particularly those in need. 
All students plan and attend the monthly Liturgy of the 
Mass in school.  

Science

The Silver Burdett and Ginn Physical Science Program has 
been developed to meet the needs of a wide range of 
student abilities. Although the basic text is geared toward 
the average learner, many features have been designed 
to accommodate the needs of the slow learner and 
academically gifted learner.

* Vocabulary review masters reinforce new terms and 
develop word skills.

* Skill masters develop basic science skills through a 
variety of exercises.

* Challenge/critical thinking masters help better 
students develop higher level critical thinking and 
problem solving skills.

* Activity investigations provide the opportunity for 
students to perform in-depth studies of science topics.

Social Studies

Sixth and seventh grade Social Studies classes study 
a variety of countries on the five largest continents from 
each country’s beginning as a civilization to present time. 
One book is uses for the two year study. Outside research 
is stressed using the scientific method.

8th Grade Social Studies is a study of the United States 
history from 1492 to the present. The course concentrates 
on the social, political, military, and geographical 
development of the United States. Emphasis placed on 
outside research, projects, and term papers.

Speech and Drama
7th and 8th Grade

The speech unit

The speech units provide students experiences in different
types of speaking situations, including giving speeches 
and panel discussions.

The students learn the mechanics of how speech is produced 
and the principles of effective public speaking.

The drama unit
Drama units give students experience with acting, staging 
and production techniques for theater.

Students will learn pantomime, oral interpretation and 
stage movement as well as how to project the voice and 
apply stage makeup.