Academics
Divine Child Elementary School offers a comprehensive curriculum accredited by the Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools and focuses on the development of the whole child. Our academic core curriculum, centered in the Roman Catholic faith, is aligned to Archdiocesan and Michigan standards and is augmented with religious education, art, music, physical education, computer literacy and foreign language at all grade levels.
Curriculum
Kindergarten
Kindergarten
Our full-day, academic Kindergarten program nurtures the natural curiosity of our youngest learners, encouraging them to ask questions, seek answers and discover new ideas. Students grow as happy, confident and eager learners while developing their God given talents and building a solid foundation for their academic career.
Core Subjects
Religion
Our major goal in Kindergarten is to help the students establish a close and loving relationship with the Lord. We learn about God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The students practice daily prayers such as The Sign of the Cross, The Our Father, the Angel of God Prayer, The Hail Mary, and grace before meals. Students embrace God’s love through everything they do and say. Learning how to interact with one another in kind ways is an essential part of our Religion curriculum. The students listen and participate in Bible stories and attend weekly Mass halfway through the school year. The Virtue Program is utilized at all grade levels.
Language Arts
In our kindergarten language arts curriculum the focus is primarily based on phonics, verbal comprehension, reading fluency, vocabulary building and following instructions. A foundation of beginning skills are taught, as kindergarteners learn through guided lessons, direct teaching and the exploration of fundamentals with specific focus on the alphabet and letter sounds, phonemic awareness, and rhyming words. Focus areas include exploring all possible sounds and blends, creating phonological and phonemic awareness.
Through a series of pre-reading, reading, comprehension, and pre-writing activities, students develop strategies such as recalling details, drawing conclusions, and summarizing stories. Kindergarten culminates with a thorough review of phonics, highlighting letter, sound recognition and writing for a variety of audiences.
Mathematics
In our curriculum, students use manipulatives to build a stronger understanding of mathematical concepts. At the Kindergarten level, students develop a deeper knowledge of numbers through 30, add and subtract through 10, compare objects by weight and length, sort and classify objects by color, shape, and size, and continue geometric patterns. Students learn how to tell time to the hour and half hour, the denominations of coins and bills, and graphing skills. A school-wide online math program reinforces and evaluates student achievement.
Science
In Kindergarten, life, earth, and physical sciences are explored through a variety of direct teaching of content knowledge and student-centered experimental opportunities. The students collaborate with one another, hypothesize, test their hypothesis, problem solve, and conclude their findings as they explore new scientific concepts and ideas.
Social Studies
In our Social Studies curriculum, students are encouraged to work together both at home and in school. Friendship and conflict resolution is a major part of Kindergarten’s social studies curriculum. Students also learn about the national and Catholic Church holidays, recognize that maps and globes represent places, and identify the United States and the state of Michigan on a map. American democracy is introduced through United States symbols, rules and fairness, safety signs, and community leadership. Economy and public issues are also discussed throughout the school year. Some topics include goods and services, needs and wants, community jobs, and classroom meetings to solve current problems.
Special Classes
Art
Kindergarten students are inspired to express their creative spirit during their once a week art class. They are introduced to art vocabulary and the artistic process. They have a differentiated program with concentration in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture and basic art history. Students develop a personal portfolio of completed work throughout the year. Their work is displayed at the end of each school year in a school-wide art show.
Music
World Language
Spanish for students are introduced to the basic skills and culture of the Spanish language. Students learn vocabulary and basic grammar through songs and activities. The language is presented at an age-appropriate basic level. Students are also exposed to the different traditions and customs of the Spanish speaking world. Students are excited to practice their new vocabulary through speaking and listening activities which reinforces proper pronunciation.
Physical Education
In gym the students are introduced to the basic fundamentals of physical fitness and physical activity. They learn and develop their locomotor skills, non -locomotor skills, motor skills and knowledge of how they use these skills in various activities. Students are assessed on their basic skills after each unit and also take a modified fitness test (Fitnessgram) twice a year. Students are taught the importance of best effort, sportsmanship and communication. The curriculum is taught through various activities and games. All concepts align with the national (SHAPE America) and state (SHAPE Michigan) physical education standards.
Technology/Computer
Students are introduced to technology as a tool for life-long learning. During their weekly computer time, they learn to develop hand/eye coordination through typing and mouse tracking. Students are also introduced to proper keyboarding skills and develop a basic understanding of word processing. Computer projects focus on creativity, sequencing, and following verbal and written directions. Students learn about the wide variety of technology uses and are introduced to safe and appropriate Internet use. Internet safety is introduced starting at kindergarten.
Library/Media
The Divine Child School Library is a place where a collaborative learning community assist students in their educational growth. The Library program focuses on three main objectives:
- The development of information of literacy skills necessary for learning in the 21st century
- Aiding in the development of fluent readers
- Fostering a lifelong love of reading
Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade attend scheduled weekly library classes. In addition, they visit the library for class projects, to do independent and group research, and to check out books at any time during the school day. Students are given opportunities to collaborate with each other through peer mentoring and to participate in a vast array of differentiated enrichment activities including poetry slams, Reading Counts, Readers Theater, book clubs, Book Cafes and online programs which extend the Language Arts curriculum.
Lower Elementary (Grades 1-3)
Lower Elementary
Lower elementary students strengthen their academic foundation and critical thinking skills through both individual and group instruction in self-contained classes. Students are exposed to basic techniques that nurture the development of written and oral communication skills, understanding of math concepts and more.
Core Subjects
Religion
Our mission is to instill Catholic values across the curriculum through words and actions. Students prepare and participate in weekly liturgy. In second grade, students receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist in order to become more active participants in the Catholic faith. Children are immersed in a Catholic atmosphere in which bible stories, the rosary, the Ten Commandments, and prayer are a part of their daily life. The Virtue Program is utilized at all grade levels.
English Language Arts
Our language arts program encompasses reading, phonics, handwriting, spelling, grammar and the writing process. In the reading textbook, a variety of genres are explored to foster a love of reading. Skills of phonemic awareness, fluency, expression, spelling, grammar and vocabulary are developed. Comprehension strategies are incorporated weekly in order for students to become independent readers. Students use the writing process to develop and produce various samples. Through creative writing, children learn to develop a personal style and voice. Students move from printing to cursive writing in third grade.
Mathematics
In our mathematics curriculum, students build a strong foundation with manipulatives, technology and engaging activities. Our goal for every student is to employ problem solving techniques and increase recognition of math vocabulary and basic operations. Math manipulatives and games are utilized to access prior knowledge, reinforce skills and introduce new concepts. A school wide on-line math program reinforces and evaluates student achievement.
Science
Social Studies
In our social studies curriculum, we aim to model and inspire our students to become active, involved and informed citizens in their families, school and community lives. Students discover how people work together within a community to fulfill the needs and wants for the common good. The core democratic values along with Catholic values are taught and instilled within a loving Catholic environment. In the context of Michigan history, third grade also examines politics, government, early history, explorers and Native Americans.
Special Classes
Art
Students in the primary grades continue to develop their cognition while incorporating art vocabulary and an introduction to the artistic process. We offer a differentiated program with concentration in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture and art history, Students develop a portfolio of completed work throughout the year. Their work is displayed at the end of each school year in a school-wide art show. Primary students are inspired to express their creative spirit.
Music
World Language
Spanish for students in the primary grades begin to learn the basic skills and culture of new language. Students learn vocabulary and basic grammar through songs and activities. The language is presented at an age-appropriate basic level. Students are also exposed to the different traditions and customs of the Spanish speaking world. Students are excited to practice their new vocabulary through speaking and listening activities which reinforces proper pronunciation.
Physical Education
In the primary grades students are introduced to the basic fundamentals of physical fitness and physical activity. They learn and develop their locomotor skills, non -locomotor skills, motor skills and knowledge of how they use these skills in various activities. Students are assessed on their basic skills after each unit and also take a modified fitness test (Fitnessgram) twice a year. Students are taught the importance of best effort, sportsmanship and communication. The curriculum is taught through various activities and games. All concepts align with the national (SHAPE America) and state (SHAPE Michigan) physical education standards.
Technology/Computer
Students are introduced to technology as a tool for life-long learning. During their weekly computer time, they learn to develop hand/eye coordination through typing and mouse tracking. Students are also introduced to proper keyboarding skills and develop a basic understanding of word processing. Computer projects focus on creativity, sequencing, and following verbal and written directions. Students learn about the wide variety of technology uses and are introduced to safe and appropriate Internet use. Internet safety is introduced starting at kindergarten.
Library/Media
The Divine Child School Library is a place where a collaborative learning community assist students in their educational growth. The Library program focuses on three main objectives:
- The development of information of literacy skills necessary for learning in the 21st century
- Aiding in the development of fluent readers
- Fostering a lifelong love of reading
Students in kindergarten through eighth grade attend scheduled weekly library classes. In addition, they visit the library for class projects, to do independent and group research, and to check out books at any time during the school day. Students are given opportunities to collaborate with each other through peer mentoring and to participate in a vast array of differentiated enrichment activities including poetry slams, Reading Counts, Readers Theater, book clubs, Book Cafes and online programs which extend the Language Arts curriculum.
Mental Health & Wellness
- Paper People Program (Grade 1 & Up)
- Safety First Program (Grade 2 & Up)
- Peer Mediation (Grade 3 & Up)
Paper People Program (Grade 1 & Up)
The Paper People Program is a school-based Substance Abuse Prevention and Health program for children in the primary grades. First graders are introduced to the program that consists of eight lessons designed to focus on the developmental needs of early elementary students and the significant factors which influence them such as family, television, advertising and technology. A variety of learning techniques are utilized such as paper bag puppets, felt board group discussions, singing and drawing.
Safety First Program (Grade 2 & Up)
Peer Mediation (Grade 3 & Up)
Third graders are introduced to the Peer Mediation Program. Students who are having peer difficulties may seek assistance from our trained student Peer Mediators. A peer mediator is a student trained in Conflict Resolution and who is supervised by a staff advisor during school hours to help the students solve their difficulties.
Upper Elementary (Grades 4-6)
Upper Elementary
In upper elementary grades 4-6, students begin switching classes and are introduced to best practices for responsible learning. From organization and study skills to research, writing and reporting, these young scholars are challenged to broaden their critical and abstract thinking skills in a cooperative setting.
Core Subjects
Religion
In an effort to truly “Unleash the Gospel,” Divine Child is aligned with the invigorating set of new curriculum standards released by the Archdiocese of Detroit. In religion class, students deepen their personal relationship with Jesus as they contribute to their "Disciples of Jesus Portfolios." Each grade level develops different products and pieces to showcase the journey toward unity with God. With teacher support, students select the final contents of their portfolio that provides the evidence from each grade level of their personal faith experience.
A wealth of opportunities to strengthen and deepen one’s understanding of the Catholic faith are offered. Students participate at Mass and Adoration on a weekly basis and encounter Christ in the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the school year. Students live the Light of Christ as they organize Christian service projects, assist as altar servers at Mass, lead morning prayer on the school’s broadcast system, and participate in mentor projects that stretch across grade levels. The Virtue Program is utilized at all grade levels. We work together with the parents to assure a good moral foundation is developed during these formative adolescent years.
Language Arts
Our Language Arts learning environment provides the opportunity for learners to become fluent readers and critical thinkers that use comprehension skills, such as synthesizing, analyzing, inferring, making connections, providing evidence, and drawing conclusions. Application of these skills along with the utilization of grammar rules are consistently reinforced within all content areas. Students are taught how to read and write within a variety of genres. Throughout the year student become authors and have opportunities to submit poetry and essays to outside sources for publication. Students are inspired to become lifelong readers and writers.
Mathematics
By activating prior knowledge and using appropriate tools and strategies, students develop confidence and deepen perseverance in mathematics. Students learn different ways to model mathematical content and solve realistic problems while attending to fluency and precision. They learn the importance of providing reasoning to prove their understanding of mathematical concepts. A variety of strategies and activities are implemented to address all learners, while students collaborate with peers in a way that supports our Catholic faith and values. With the skills the students gain in middle school mathematics, they undoubtedly are proficient and enthusiastic mathematicians!
Science
The science program encourages students to explore the natural world using inquiry methods creating future problem solvers and community leaders. Through group collaboration students learn to participate in and facilitate discussions. Students conduct hands on experiments and activities, investigate and research science processes, principles, and phenomenon while understanding God as the center of the universe. Fourth and Fifth grade students follow an integrated science program while sixth grade students focus on Earth Science incorporating physical science. This is a time to further spark the curiosity that leads to becoming life-long learners and passionate scientists.
Social Studies
Fourth grade students focus on the regions of the United States, fifth graders study the Western Hemisphere, and sixth graders finalize world studies with the Eastern Hemisphere. Areas of focus are the history, physical geography, culture, resources, current issues and map skills. A variety of methods are utilized to engage and assess students, such as atlas work, updated textbooks, projects, technology resources, skits and Promethean board activities. Age appropriate and relevant current events are discussed in keeping with our Catholic Faith.
Special Classes
Art
The Divine Child Art curriculum is aligned to the National and State of Michigan standards for the visual arts. We offer a differentiated program with concentrations in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics and art history. Students actively learn to express their creativity and develop their understanding of the arts through participation in these areas of discipline.
Students in grades 4 – 6 continue to develop their artistic vocabulary in order to participate in classroom critiques on his/her own work and the work of their peers. In the upper elementary grades, students understand and demonstrate the artistic process. A portfolio of work is developed throughout the year, and work is displayed in our spring art show.
Music/Band
The students are encouraged to make music and worship a joyful part of their daily lives. Students in fourth and fifth grades attend a weekly music class in which they experience all aspects of music: vocal, instrumental, and movement. Our curriculum is aligned with the national standards for music education. Fourth grade spends the majority of the year learning to play the recorder and they perform in the spring music concert each year. In addition to the weekly music class, fifth grade students have the opportunity to expand their instrumental music learning in the school band by choosing a woodwinds, brass, or percussion instrument. Students in grade 6 have the opportunity to learn or continue learning an instrument and to play and perform in the school band.
World Language
Students in grades four through six continue to build upon their previous knowledge of the Spanish language. Students focus more closely on grammar and continue to build their vocabulary. The use of audio and visual activities immerses the students in the language and encourages them to use proper pronunciation and syntax. The students also build their writing skills in the target language through continued practice. Spanish traditions and culture are also explored in order to deepen the students’ understanding of different cultures and backgrounds.
Technology/Computer
The technology curriculum focuses on creating competent, independent computer users. Through direct instruction and project based, integrated assignments, students further their understanding of a variety of basic computer skills. Keyboarding progress is part of the technology curriculum at this level and focuses on accuracy. Online typing programs are utilized to allow students to progress on an individualized pace. Students learn proper internet search techniques and web-evaluation strategies, Students are given on-line access to many of their textbooks and PowerSchool can be accessed for assignment and grade tracking. Students begin to use their skills through cooperative learning and group assignments. They learn proper electronic communication protocol, document attachment and collaboration procedures. Internet safety issues are discussed and reinforced.
Physical Education
The fourth and fifth grade students focus on fundamental sport skills, including the rules, positions, and basic information of each sport. The sixth graders focus on advancing their sport skills, knowledge of each sport, and critically thinking in game like situations. Students incorporate their locomotor skills and motor skills into various sports. They play modified target games, invasion games, net/wall games and striking and fielding games. Students are assessed on their basic sport skills and their knowledge of basic information after every unit and through a fitness test (Fitnessgram) twice a year. Students are taught the importance of best effort, sportsmanship, communication and team building. This curriculum is taught through various sports, games, and activities. All concepts align with the national (SHAPE America) and state (SHAPE Michigan) physical education standards.
Library/Media
The Divine Child School Library is a place where a collaborative learning community assist students in their educational growth. The Library program focuses on three main objectives:
- The development of information of literacy skills necessary for learning in the 21st century
- Aiding in the development of fluent readers
- Fostering a lifelong love of reading
Students in kindergarten through eighth grade attend scheduled weekly library classes. In addition, they visit the library for class projects, to do independent and group research, and to check out books at any time during the school day. Students are given opportunities to collaborate with each other through peer mentoring and to participate in a vast array of differentiated enrichment activities including poetry slams, Reading Counts, Readers Theater, book clubs, Book Cafes and online programs which extend the Language Arts curriculum.
Mental Health & Wellness
Safety First Program (Grade 2 & Up)
Peer Mediation (Grade 3 & Up)
Third graders are introduced to the Peer Mediation Program. Students who are having peer difficulties may seek assistance from our trained student Peer Mediators. A peer mediator is a student trained in Conflict Resolution and who is supervised by a staff advisor during school hours to help the students solve their difficulties.
Junior High (Grades 7-8)
Junior High
Junior High (Grade 7-8) students become more confident, mature learners by deepening their knowledge of core subjects through an individual schedule. Junior High teachers are subject area specialists which allows pupils to advance their literacy in all disciplines. Young men and women also learn to self-advocate and take responsibility for their individual success aiding in the transition to high school.
Core Subjects
Religion
We believe that faith is to be “believed, celebrated, lived and prayed. It is a call to integral Christian education”. (General Directory for Catechesis, no. 122) We encourage developing a strong Catholic identity at Divine Child. In seventh and eighth grade, students gain an in-depth look at the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and focus on developing a relationship with Him. The students strengthen their knowledge of our Church and its history and what we believe as Catholics. A major emphasis is placed on what their faith means to them and how to live their lives according to the teachings of the Catholic Church. The Virtue Program is utilized for both grade levels. Students also prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation, becoming missionary disciples in an ever-changing world.
Mathematics
Mathematicians in grades 7-8 use logical thought processes to solve real-world and theoretical problems. Learners investigate concepts of number theory, algebra, geometry and statistics, and apply these skills to persevere through challenges until a solution is reached. They gain and hone skills needed for high school and the rest of their mathematics career.
ELA: Literature, English and Vocabulary
Junior High students have three language arts classes per day: Literature, English and Vocabulary. In English, students focus on developing their grammar skills through such areas as phrases, clauses and sentence diagramming. They also focus on composing various types of essays and speeches in a clear, coherent fashion with an emphasis on research and MLA-style citations. In literature, higher level thinking is supported as students examine different forms and genres collected by theme. The course emphasizes reading fluency, literary analysis and application of evidence-based writing. Vocabulary class employs word and sentence structure, relationships between words, word origins, classical roots and prediction in order to increase and diversify students’ knowledge of the English language.
Science
Junior High science students gain knowledge and skills that prepare them with the foundation for the subsequent courses in high school. Seventh grade focuses on life science, from the study of cellular structure and function to the interactions of organisms with ecosystems. Eighth grade focuses on physical science with topics including motion, forces, energy, the structure and composition of matter, and chemical reactions. All junior high students engage in activities that develop engineering and design skills. They participate in laboratory activities and experiments that are conducted within a fully renovated science lab. Students enjoy the cooperative learning environment as they investigate and analyze microscope specimens, collect and interpret data, and develop and finalize a supported conclusion.
Social Studies
The Junior High students study the chronological history of the United States. The curriculum in 7th grade covers the beginnings of the U.S. history to the Civil War and the 8th grade curriculum starts at the end of the Civil War and continues through the end of World War II. Students are challenged to analyze and evaluate the political, economic and social issues facing America throughout its history. Students learn to compare and contrast events from the past to the present and learn from the past events on how they can become better Catholics and influence the future. Both 7th and 8th graders read and learn to critically analyze primary source documents from our nation’s past.
Special Classes
Art
The art curriculum is aligned to the National and State of Michigan Standards for the visual arts. We offer a Differentiated Program with concentrations in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics and art history. Students actively learn to express their creativity and develop their understanding of the arts through participation in these areas of discipline. At junior high level students are invited to join Art Club. Junior High students interested in developing their artistic skill become members of the Art Club. The club provides the opportunity for students to explore and participate in creative experiences beyond the classroom. An art show is held every year where student work is on display for the community.
Music/Band
Junior High students have the opportunity to learn an instrument of woodwinds, brass and percussion in the school band. The beginning, intermediate, and junior high bands perform in the Christmas and spring music concerts. The Junior High band has additional performances during the year. They are also invited by Divine Child High School to join their band on special occasions. Divine Child is a member of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) which invites students to perform solos and small ensembles at the District Solo and Ensemble Festival. The entire band also performs at the district Band and Orchestra Festival with a focus on age appropriate music and sight reading.
World Language
Students in grades 7-8 use their previous knowledge of the Spanish language and culture and continue to grow in their Spanish knowledge base. Students use reading, writing, listening and speaking in order to strengthen their Spanish skills. They participate in activities and projects that incorporate the target language and culture. Grammar and vocabulary are strengthened and expanded upon throughout the course. Students develop a sound basis of the Spanish language and culture in which to build upon in high school.
Technology/Computer
The technology curriculum focuses on creating competent, independent computer users. Through direct instruction and project based, integrated assignments, students further their understanding of a variety of basic computer skills. Keyboarding progress is part of the technology curriculum at this level and focuses on accuracy. Online typing programs are utilized to allow students to progress on an individualized pace. Students learn proper internet search techniques and web-evaluation strategies, Students are given on-line access to many of their textbooks and PowerSchool can be accessed for assignment and grade tracking. Students begin to use their skills through cooperative learning and group assignments. They learn proper electronic communication protocol, document attachment and collaboration procedures. Internet safety issues are discussed and reinforced.
Physical Education
The 7th and 8th grade students are focusing on advancing their sport skills, knowledge of each sport and critically thinking in game like situations. Students play small sided target games, invasion games, net/wall games, and striking and fielding games. During these games, game rules and strategies are emphasized. Students are assessed on their sport skills and their knowledge of sport information after every unit and on the fitness test (Fitnessgram) twice a year. The curriculum also focuses on the importance of healthy habits and lifelong fitness. Students are expected to track their progress with each test. Students are taught the importance of best effort, sportsmanship, communication and team building. All concepts align with the national (SHAPE America) and state (SHAPE Michigan) physical education standards.
Library/Media
The Divine Child School Library is a place where a collaborative learning community assist students in their educational growth. The Library program focuses on three main objectives:
- The development of information of literacy skills necessary for learning in the 21st century
- Aiding in the development of fluent readers
- Fostering a lifelong love of reading
Students in kindergarten through eighth grade attend scheduled weekly library classes. In addition, they visit the library for class projects, to do independent and group research, and to check out books at any time during the school day. Students are given opportunities to collaborate with each other through peer mentoring and to participate in a vast array of differentiated enrichment activities including poetry slams, Reading Counts, Readers Theater, book clubs, Book Cafes and online programs which extend the Language Arts curriculum.
Mental Health & Wellness
Peer Mediation
The junior high students review the Peer Mediation Program. Students who are having peer difficulties may seek assistance from our trained student Peer Mediators. A peer mediator is a student trained in Conflict Resolution and who is supervised by a staff advisor during school hours to help the students solve their difficulties. Seventh and eighth graders may be trained as Peer Mediators.
Accreditation
Divine Child Elementary School is a member of the Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools (MANS) and retains full accreditation through the Michigan Non-Public School Accrediting Association (MNSAA). Our school is also a member of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA).
