Students in Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade participate in Arts and Physical Education on a rotating basis.
Art
Beginning in pre-kindergarten, students are introduced to materials/mediums and techniques that are progressively more complicated and challenging. Famous artists and art work are used through slides and photo copies as an introduction to various artistic styles. Areas of concentration include art appreciation; understanding and using basic drawing skills, positive and negative space, and perspective; painting and color theory are introduced. Students focus on developing an individual style, understanding and appreciating cultures through art.
St. Stephen’s School believes every child possesses a natural and pure artistic instinct. In art class, students learn to really look at the world around them, to experience color, texture, shapes and value.
They learn to appreciate other student’s work through “critique” sessions that emphasize the positive aspects of each other’s work. Students do a variety of projects that let their individuality shine. Art history is also an important part of what they learn in art. They learn the importance of art in our society and of other cultures around the world.
Art literacy is an important component in the education of a child, because of this, field trips to the Aspen and Denver Art Museums are incorporated into the art program, when funds allow. In addition to field trips we hold an annual Art Show where certain pieces of our students’ art work is displayed for families to see and to also participate in hands-on art during the show.
Computer Science
Computer activities are used to enhance the units being studied in other subject areas, and develop keyboard skills and fluency in several software programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher.
In the primary grades (K-2), educational games are often used to develop keyboard and mouse skills, as well as to provide reinforcement for visual learners in content from other subject areas.
Middle school students learn advanced techniques in Microsoft Office programs.
Technology will enrich St. Stephen’s Catholic School by offering:
Music
Students gain an understanding of music history, literature, and theory by participating in singing, rhythmic movement, listening, and playing various melody and rhythm instruments. Through these activities students come to understand the musical concepts of rhythm, melody, form, harmony and style. Early grades start by singing standard religious and Folk Songs. Later grades explore more complex rhythms and melodies in songs and dances of America and other cultures. In addition to singing and playing music, Middle School students learn to read music by playing guitar through the Lead Guitar program.
Musical experiences and theory are incorporated into the music program at St. Stephen’s Catholic School. In keeping with St. Stephen’s Catholic School philosophy of educating the whole child, music is an important part of the curriculum at all grade levels.
Children receive training in developing a musical ear, finding their singing voice, rhythm and basic musical notation. The students are taught liturgical songs, which are appropriate for Eucharistic and para-liturgical celebrations, as well as other selections appropriate to the various grade levels.
Music programs are presented throughout the year to families and friends.
Physical Education
For Kindergarten through 2nd grade, each physical education class involves a stretch routine, a fitness challenge and a variety of organized games. A jump rope unit is taught during second trimester after which students participate in Jump Rope for Heart to learn about their own heart health, as well as helping others in their community. During third trimester, a stunts and tumbling unit provides body awareness activities, including rope climbing and swinging. Positive socialization and basic problem solving techniques between classmates are taught and practiced.
The curriculum for 3rd through 5th grade also involves a stretch routine, a fitness challenge and games. Lead-up games for team handball, indoor soccer, volleyball, basketball, flag football and baseball are included. Team sports are introduced and socialization and sportsmanship continue to be developed. Sport skills are demonstrated and used during game play and participation in the Catholic Schools Athletic League is encouraged. A jump rope skills unit is presented during the second trimester. This age group also participates in Jump Rope for Heart.
The middle school physical education curriculum emphasizes physical fitness, skill-related team sports and developmentally appropriate games. Personal fitness, sportsmanship and peer socialization are important goals in the gym setting.
St. Stephen’s Catholic School provides a balanced physical education program proportioned to the needs, interests, and abilities of all students. Primary emphasis shall be placed on the development of skills and positive personal attitudes which will enable students to participate in physical activities in the future. Because of the active nature of our physical education program, students are encouraged to be covered with appropriate insurance against injury.
Spanish
Listening, speaking and cultural awareness in order to be part as global citizens is necessary to build a strong foundation for the future study of Spanish. Our curriculum for K-8th grade is designed to meet or exceed the Colorado standards for foreign language education.
Students are immersed in the language through songs, vocabulary, and activities for the early learner. Themes introduced are shapes, colors, family, animals, weather, numbers, religious terms for the holy family and prayer, and festive days of the year.
Through the use of conversational dialogue, basic vocabulary is developed. Reading and writing skills are incorporated. A strong foundation in basic Spanish grammar is established. In addition to the text and accompanying workbook, internet resources and audio/visual supplementary materials are used.
This course continues to build on the skills introduced in Level 1. An emphasis is placed on vocabulary building and the comprehensive study of language and grammar is presented. In addition to the text and accompanying workbook, internet resources and audio/visual supplementary materials are used. Students who successfully complete this course are well prepared to study second-year Spanish in high school and many students test into higher levels.