At St. John the Apostle we believe children learn best when they challenge themselves with their imaginations, through positive interaction with other children in a stimulating environment. We promote creative thinking, problem-solving and the love of learning. The curriculum follows guidelines adopted by the Archdiocese of Newark.
Elementary School Overview
Children in the elementary grades are encouraged to be dynamic, involved students who develop a recognition of their own strengths and talents. Academic challenges are designed within age appropriate programs at each grade level that emphasize critical thinking skills. When needed, students are given additional support through remedial skill classes and adaptation to the curriculum implementation. Through a cross curricular approach, elementary grade students consistently participate in STEAM activities that challenge them to develop the important skills of inquiry, creativity, design, collaboration and critical thinking. Classrooms are equipped with white boards, EPSON Bright Link technology, chromebooks and relevant reading materials. In addition to the academics, emphasis is placed on development of the whole child. Students are encouraged to participate in service opportunities and extracurricular activities. Social-emotional learning is also addressed with the Choose to be Nice program which focuses on self-awareness, responsible decision making, self-management, social awareness and relationship skills.