Academics

Preschool

Little Learners, Big Adventures

Three-Year-Old Program

Key areas of focus include:

• Social and emotional development through guided play, routine, and relationship-building
• Pre-writing activities to strengthen fine motor skills and prepare for future writing
• Small group work for individualized learning and cooperative play
• Music and movement to promote coordination, creativity, and self-expression
• Zoophonics Multi-sensory Language Arts Program, introducing letter sounds and shapes through movement, song, and animal characters, helping to develop strong early readers
• Montessori-based religious education, fostering a sense of wonder, gratitude, and spiritual growth through hands-on learning rooted in faith

Four-Year-Old Program

Key areas of focus include:

• Letter formation using the Zoophonics Multi-sensory Language Arts Program, helping children connect letters, sounds, and handwriting through interactive, movement-based activities
• Comprehension of sounds to build strong phonemic awareness and early reading confidence
• Following multi-step directions, fostering listening skills, memory, and task completion
• Pre-math activities, including counting, sorting, pattern recognition, and simple problem-solving
• Montessori-based religious education in the Atrium, where children experience hands-on, quiet reflection and storytelling that helps them grow in their understanding of God’s love and presence

Transitional Kindergarten

Where Transition Meets Transformation

Recognizing the importance of giving children the gift of time, we offer a Transitional Kindergarten program. This full day developmental program is perfect for children that need more time to develop their social/emotional or academic growth. Daily, TK will practice:

• Social-Emotional Learning: TK helps children develop strong social skills, including how to share, work with others, resolve conflicts, and express feelings.
• Cognitive Skills: Activities in TK help children develop basic math, reading, and problem-solving skills, but in a hands-on, interactive, with a hands-on approach.
• Language Development: Language skills are emphasized, such as expanding vocabulary, improving listening skills, and enhancing both verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Preparation for Kindergarten Readiness
  • We build the necessary skills for success in kindergarten, such as following directions, listening attentively, and participating in group activities.
  • Developing fine motor skills (e.g., holding a pencil, cutting with scissors) and gross motor skills (e.g., running, jumping) to prepare children for physical activities in kindergarten.

Kindergarten

A New Chapter of Growth Begins

Children are so unique, and we celebrate that every day.  As your child begins Kindergarten, you will have even more opportunities to see their God-given traits and talents. Here is a snapshot of our day:

• Morning includes English Language Arts, Theology, Recess
• Afternoon includes Math, Social Studies and Science
• Kindergarten attends Art, Music, Physical Education twice a week, and Library once a week.
• Important “Brain Breaks” are also worked in daily as needed.

Grades 1-5

Igniting a Love of Learning

The elementary years are a time of exploring new academic concepts, forming lasting friendships, and discovering one’s place in the world. At St. Joseph Elementary, we foster curiosity and passion for learning in a supportive, loving environment, providing so much more than just an education. At St. Joseph Elementary, your child will be known and loved.

• First through third grades concentrate on reading programs, working towards mastery of phonics-based literacy.
• Math: Basic concepts are introduced and then mastered as students progress through the grades.
• Science: Students learn earth, physical and physical sciences along with hands-on projects and experiments.
• Theology: Emphasis on God’s love, moral development, and knowing, sharing and living the faith. Active participation in weekly school-wide Masses and prayer services Integration of faith into daily life through kindness, service, and classroom discussions. Grade 2: Sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. Prayer woven into the school day, including morning prayer, mealtime blessings, and end-of-day reflection
• Specials: Art, physical education, music, 5th grade band

Grades 6-8

Supporting Every Step: A Bridge to a Bright Future

Middle school is a pivotal time when students begin to transition from childhood to the independence and responsibility of high school and beyond. At St. Joseph Middle School, we provide positive guidance, strong moral values, and spiritual support to help students navigate these years. Here, they learn essential lessons in character and leadership, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

• Mathematics: Emphasis on foundational concepts, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Pre-Algebra and Algebra readiness with hands-on learning and real-world applications. Small-group instruction to support various learning levels
• Language Arts: Strong focus on reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary development. Writing across genres: narrative, persuasive, expository, and research-based writing.Novel studies and literature that challenge and inspire deeper thinking
• Science: Inquiry-based learning through labs, experiments, and STEM integration. Earth, Life, and Physical Science units that build year-to-year. Focus on the scientific method and real-world applications
• Theology: Deepening understanding of Scripture, Church teachings, and Catholic traditions. Daily integration of faith, prayer, and reflection. Active participation in weekly school-wide Masses. Opportunities for service, discussion, and personal faith development. Sacrament of Confirmation preparation through focused catechesis, retreats, and service opportunities
• Social Studies: Study of world history, U.S. history, geography, and civics. Emphasis on critical thinking, cause and effect, and connecting past to present. Projects, simulations, and research to promote engagement and inquiry
• Specials: Art, Physical Education, Choir, Band, additional elective “quarter classes” are offered on a rotating basis

High School

Empowering Students for the Next Steps in Life

St. Philip Catholic Central offers a challenging curriculum that flawlessly blends academics, the Catholic faith, the arts, athletics, and service. Our dedicated faculty understands that teenagers still need guidance from caring mentors as they prepare for adulthood and achieve that balance. With opportunities to spread their wings, students benefit from tailored schedules working in partnership with the Battle Creek Area Math Science Center, Calhoun Area Career Center, and Kellogg Community College, empowering students as they take the next steps toward a successful future.

• English Language Arts: Emphasis on literature analysis, academic writing, and critical thinking.Exposure to classic and contemporary texts across genres.Research papers, creative writing, and public speaking integrated throughout
• Sciences: Core courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Hands-on labs and inquiry-based learning. Advanced and AP-level science offerings available. Partnership opportunities with Battle Creek Area Math & Science Center
• Mathematics: Courses from Algebra I through Calculus and Statistics. Real-world problem solving, data analysis, and mathematical reasoning. Advanced and AP-level math options Dual enrollment available through Kellogg Community College, Battle Creek Area Math and Science Center.
• Social Studies: U.S. History, World History, Government, and Economics.Emphasis on civic responsibility, historical context, and analytical skills.. Research projects, simulations, and current events discussions
• Theology: Four-year faith formation curriculum rooted in Catholic teaching. Weekly student-led Mass. Study of Scripture, morality, Church history, and vocations. Regular opportunities for prayer, service, retreats, and liturgy. Integration of faith into academic and everyday life
• Languages: Spanish I–IV with emphasis on communication and cultural understanding. Latin and French are also offered.
• Electives: SAT Prep, AP Computer Science Internships, Art, Band, Choir, Yearbook, Psychology.
• Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: College-level coursework available in core subject areas. Students may earn college credit with qualifying AP exam scores
• Dual Enrollment & Specialized Programs
  • Kellogg Community College: Earn college credit while in high school.
  • Battle Creek Area Math & Science Center: Advanced STEM coursework and research.
  • Calhoun Area Career Center: Career and technical education in over 20 fields, from healthcare to engineering