Academics

At Saint Monica School, we offer a strong, comprehensive, values-based academic education. For a curriculum overview by grade, view the Curriculum Highlights PDF.

In addition to core subjects, a variety of enrichment classes round out our program. Here are some highlights:

  • Science: Our Science Center was renovated in 2017 providing a spacious and modern learning center for all students at Saint Monica. Science instruction includes core curriculum with corresponding experimentation. Students in grades 6 through 8 receive daily science instruction in the science center with our science specialist teacher. Students in grades K-5 receive core instruction in the classroom with their classroom teacher and experimentation instruction once a week in the science center with the science teacher. Field trips build upon what is being learned in science. Examples of field trips include the Academy of Sciences, Exploratorium, Pt. Reyes National Seashore, canoeing near Sausalito and more.
  • Technology: Saint Monica School is a 1:1 device school fully incorporating technology into each classroom. Each student in kindergarten through third grade receives an individual iPad. Individual Chromebooks are issued to students in fourth through eighth grade. Students use technology in a variety of ways, for example, interactive lessons, enriching programs like Mathletics. In primary grades, students make the transition from using devices as a toy to a learning tool. Students begin learning keyboarding skills in 2nd grade. Being mindful of the presence of technology in our students’ lives, students are taught to use technology safely and responsibly.
  • Engineering: Engineering is incorporated into our larger technology program. Students in 1st grade are introduced to coding with a mix of exploration and Lego Robotics. Using iPads, 2nd graders begin simple coding using the program Scratch. 3rd graders continue to use Scratch first on iPads, then transition to Chromebooks. In 4th and 5th grades, students use role play games through CodeCombat to learn Python language. Students in 5th grade also participate in weekly Lego Robotics instruction building robots to complete specific tasks. After school, students have the opportunity to further their engineering skills in our after school Lego Robotics Club and/or STEM Club. These activities are available either free or for a nominal fee.
  • Art: Art education is an integral part of a well-rounded education. Students in all grades receive weekly art instruction in our dedicated Art Room. Our art program is hands-on where students work with different media while learning artistic concepts and the foundational principles and elements of design. Our Art Program expands students’ artistic and cultural horizons by incorporating art history into lessons. It also provides a rich educational experience while encouraging creative self-expression. As students progress through the grades, they master basic elements of design and theory, such as perspective, portrait, and color appreciation. Students take pride in and our community enjoys their masterpieces, many of which are displayed throughout the school
  • Physical Education: Physical activity is an important aspect of both a child’s well-being and learning. In addition to recesses, students participate in PE twice a week. Saint Monica contracts with Rhythm and Moves to provide an engaging and comprehensive physical education program. Through PE, students make the connection between physical fitness and improved schoolwork, and are encouraged to make physical activity a part of their everyday lives. A strong emphasis is placed on the importance of fair play and respect for others. Activities alternate between physical conditioning exercises, team building exercises, and participation in traditional team sports. Training exercises for speed, power, agility, reaction and quickness (SPARQ) are interspersed throughout the year. PE takes place in the school yard or in our gym. Students wear their PE uniforms to school on PE days.
  • Music: Music instruction rounds out art education at Saint Monica School. Students of all grades experience the joy of music. Junior high students create ensemble groups using Orff instruments and perform in our annual Christmas Program and Spring Talent Show giving students an opportunity to gain confidence in their abilities.
  • Learning Support: Mastery of academic concepts including developing strong reading skills at a young age is central to continued academic success. Recognizing that not all students learn in the same way or at the same pace, our Learning Support staff collaborates with classroom teachers to provide support for students in grades K through 8.

    Our support staff includes one full-time Learning Specialist and one part-time learning support teacher. Support can include small group pull out, in classroom support, 1:1 support.

    Students may also take advantage of teacher referred academic support through our Peer Tutoring program offered twice a week or through our Middle School Study Hall program.

    Our Learning Specialist is also a resource for parents navigating testing through SFUSD for students with learning differences and establishing a Student Success Team (SST) as appropriate.

St. Monica Curriculum Highlights By Grade: