Ursuline Academy

Ursuline Academy believes that a primary program (grades 1, 2, and 3) should be an integrated and harmonious environment for the development of the whole child. With emphasis on the success of the child, teachers promote a positive sense of self, which is critical for academic achievement and success throughout life. Literacy skills are fundamental to the academic program, which is also broad and challenging. Each primary student has a unique learning style and will benefit from the teacher’s use of a variety of methods and strategies to enhance learning.

Primary children exhibit the characteristics of creativity, thoughtfulness, kindness, imagination, curiosity and love. They also show a growing awareness of what their strengths and weaknesses are, a desire for greater independence in their learning and a great response to praise.

Primary teachers at Ursuline Academy Lower School honor and nurture these characteristics and guide each student to capitalize on his/her strengths. Because assessment guides instruction, support is given to children who need appropriate intervention. Teachers also help each student make a smooth transition from a primarily dependent learner to an independent learner, by developing competence in basic skills. Teachers provide visual, auditory and “hands on” activities for children at this level.

Ursuline Academy believes that the benefits of coeducation in the primary grades are critical to the complete development of the whole child. Children are challenged to explore a wide range of learning experiences (including block stations and drawing and writing stations). Boys and girls gain social maturity through valuable interactive play and shared academic environments. When both sexes work together at a young age, they are better prepared to handle social situations.

Traditions and Core Values
In the primary grades, children will further explore the life of St. Angela Merici and Ursuline history. Children will develop an understanding of the important elements of St. Angela’s life and her unique spirituality. Teachers provide opportunities to make strong connections with the Ursuline sisters and their role in the community.

Academic Excellence
A challenging curriculum for primary children includes Religion, Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Foreign Language, and an appreciation of the fine and performing arts. Teachers of primary children want them to become responsible for their learning, and, even at a young age, teachers challenge the children to become creative problem solvers and critical thinkers. Through a curriculum that is both challenging and sequential, primary children develop skills that help them become independent and cooperative lifelong learners. Primary level children are taught to comprehend and to apply the content that is presented, while extending and expanding their thinking. They are encouraged to exceed rather than just meet expectations.

Social Consciousness

At the primary level, teachers and children respond to personal, community, and global needs through prayer by participating in Serviam opportunities. Teachers also foster awareness that each child’s actions can impact the classroom and school environment positively or negatively. Students are encouraged to see that they are responsible for the choices they make.