Curriculum Overview

Instruction in Mathematics adheres to the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards to deliver instruction in grades K-5. Every classroom is equipped with an interactive display board for state-of-the-art instruction, and School of St. Elizabeth provides a 1:1 Chromebook ratio.

Teachers in grades K-5 may differentiate classroom Math instruction with flexible grouping. Formative and Summative assessment analysis is provided through MAP Testing results, and measures of both achievement and growth help drive the pace of instruction.

Learning activities incorporate the mastery of basic skills in grades K-5 and include the use of manipulatives, games, “Calendar Math” and technology applications to ensure a consistent and coherent scaffolding of math skills from one grade to the next. Math journals are utilized to improve critical thinking skills and enhance a student’s ability to solve real world word problems.

The School of Saint Elizabeth has integrated the Next Generation Science Standards in the Kindergarten through 8th-grade curriculum. Our students explore the three branches of science (physical, earth/space, and biology) through inquiry-based units. All science lessons are written in the 5E model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate) to encourage scientific inquiry, passion and determination of understanding by all students. Students are assessed based on their application of the knowledge rather than just demonstrating understanding of the concepts. Our Science specialist and STREAM coordinators run regular professional development for all staff on the NGSS standards, 5E lesson model, Technology tools and STREAM integration. Our science specialist consistently consults with classroom teachers on the science lessons to maximize engagement and scientific understanding.

Technology is completely integrated into our science curriculum. Students consistently use technology to explore science topics through online simulations, Google apps and other educational technology tools like Peardeck, Edpuzzle, Google Expeditions and more. Middle school science is taught as almost a completely paperless class. Students gather their content knowledge through multiple up-to-date sources and experiences they have in the classroom during hands-on labs. Every lesson includes a lab component, class discussion and reading to reach all types of learners.

Our K-8 STREAM program works alongside the science curriculum to push our students to demonstrate their knowledge of the world and has changed the way our students tackle problems. All students are taught the engineering design process and are required to record their progress in their engineering design notebooks. All students are regularly asked to create and generate materials to go beyond the content they gain in the classrooms. We are fostering our student to make a positive impact on the global community.

Our Middle School program prepares students for success in high school as they begin their rigorous college-preparatory journey.

Middle School courses are designed to:

• Fortify a child’s academic foundation in a faith-filled learning environment 
• Nurture intellectual, spiritual and personal growth  
• Foster excellence inside and outside the classroom
• Develop fundamental academic and critical thinking skills  
• Strengthen character and sense of civic and Christian responsibility

School of St. Elizabeth Boasts a 100% Acceptance Rate to Premier High Schools

By the time a student reaches 8th grade, they will be prepared for the transition to high school. Those seeking admission to private high schools will be guided through the rigorous application process, with optional tutoring and entrance exam preparation services available from multiple teachers. 

Students in Class of 2022 and 2023 were offered admission to the following private high schools, many with valuable merit scholarships:

• Delbarton School  
• Villa Walsh Academy  
• Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child
• Seton Hall Prep
• Mount Saint Mary Academy
• Oratory Prep
• Immaculata High School
• Academy of Saint Elizabeth
• Morristown Beard School
• Morris Catholic High School
• Saint Dominic Academy
• St. Peter’s Preparatory School

Our students develop “brag sheets” and learn to create a resume of their skills and accomplishments. Middle School students are expected to take accountability for their work and learn the importance of time management and organizational skills critical to their success. 

Middle school students develop a passion for learning and are offered tools and encouragement to reach their fullest potential. As active members of the Parish and Diocesan community, they work together to solidify their values, fortify their faith-life and prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Our graduates learn the importance of service and are well-positioned to become future leaders and responsible citizens of the world.

The Language Arts curriculum utilizes block scheduling for instruction in writing, grammar, vocabulary, reading, and literature. Projects and group work flourish with this use of class time. In grade six, students are introduced to the Literature Survey Program, which continues through grades seven and eight. Grammar, vocabulary and spelling are also stressed in these grades. Holistic scoring is used in the writing program, which emphasizes expository skills. Oral presentations enhance public speaking and listening skills. Free reading and book discussions support the reading program along with novels and poetry. Extra novels are used to supplement the text. Writing has a persuasive component as the class learns to frame a point of view. Mastery in non-fiction writing and use of research skills are stressed in grade eight.

The religion program is Christ-centered in the Judeo-Christian ethic. Students become informed Christians who are encouraged to take their places as leaders in the church, world affairs and business. In grade six, the Old Testament and how it relates to the New Testament and present day Christianity is explored. In grade seven, students grow in the formation of their knowledge and faith. The eighth grade curriculum enhances the study of God’s faithful love and prepares students for the sacrament of Confirmation.

Our social studies program integrates the social sciences to equip students with historical thinking skills, geographical spatial knowledge, and critical tools to develop engaged, lifelong learners.  Our students grow as informed and dedicated leaders and responsible global citizens who will positively impact the world through Christian values.

All middle school students study and implement historical thinking skills, including close reading, corroboration, contextualization and researching/evaluating reference sources. In grade six, students review the American Revolution and a comprehensive study of the Constitution. Other topics include the Early American Republic, the Jeffersonian and Jackson Eras, Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny, the Mexican-American War, slavery and the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Gilded Age of the Robber Barons, and finally the Progressives.

Seventh graders study World War I, immigration, the Roaring 20s, the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the Space Race, the Civil Rights Era, the Vietnam War, the Nixon Presidency and Watergate, the Reagan Era, the 1990s, the War on Terror and current events.

In their final year of study, 8th graders focus on World History, recapping early civilizations with a focus on major ancient civilizations like Rome, Greece, Egypt, Mali and MesoAmerican / Chinese dynasties. We explore the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Reformation and the Age of Exploration.

Students engage in lively debate and partner together in group projects to analyze and discuss the impact of historic events on modern day society.

The 8th Grade Capstone Project is a rigorous year-long research-based assignment requiring students to examine a local or global issue of their choice while presenting strategies and ideas for possible solutions.  The project prepares 8th Grade students for high school-level research assignments, and inspires graduates to become changemakers.

Students meet regularly with their advisor as they learn how to interpret, apply and connect ideas while drawing satisfactory conclusions about complex issues. The Capstone method challenges 8th graders to utilize innovation, creativity and design thinking while developing practical public speaking and presentation skills.

Students also learn how to collaborate with field experts, conduct interviews and communicate via professional emails and phone calls. At the culmination of the project, students will present their findings to students, faculty and parents.

Recent Capstone topics chosen by students include:

• Elephant Tourism in Thailand
• Bullying Prevention
• The Risks of Vaping
• Concussions in the NFL
• Fentanyl & Opioid Crisis
• Teen Anxiety
• Food Waste in America
• The Importance of Arts Funding in Schools

Through vocal and instrumental exploration, students at the School of St. Elizabeth participate in music individually and in ensembles. Music Director William Alford offers engaging instruction in an environment where students learn developmentally-appropriate skills across all grade levels. Even novice learners will gain impressive skills in improvisation, composition, and performance.

In addition to weekly music classes, St. E’s offers a number of choral opportunities, all led by Mr. Alford. Upper and Lower Grade Chorus ensembles, in addition to our Hand Bell Choir and Liturgical Choir,  perform in Christmas and Spring Concerts, during select Masses and at special events/exhibitions.

Art classes at The School of Saint Elizabeth are held once a week in grades Pre-K4 through 8th grade.  Art Club is offered to those students who seek additional art experience and/or guidance. Art Club members help design sets and props for our Spring Musical.

In class, students explore a myriad of techniques including drawing, painting, sketching, collage and sculpture. Various mediums are introduced alongside foundational knowledge of elements like line, shape, color theory, texture, composition and art history. Students develop their creative self while analyzing and interpreting art of their classmates, famous artists and as it appears within the realm of the Catholic faith.

Student artwork is displayed in a gallery format at the Spring Arts Celebration, typically held in May.