Programs

The curriculum at St. Joseph School encompasses that outlined in the School Code of Illinois.  In addition, all students participate in daily religion classes in accordance with the directives of the National Catechetical Directory for Catholics of the United States.  Special curricula in respect for life (sex education, understanding the aging, etc.) are included. In addition to the state mandated program, our curriculum includes music and art.  The IJHAS Science Fair is an annual event (Grade 7-8).  Elective offerings include:  Recorders (Grade 4), Cadet Band (Grade 5), Varsity Band (Grades 6-8), Technology (Grade 7-8), Cadet Choir (Grades 3-4), Concert Choir (Grades 5-6), Show Choir (Grades 7-8), and Library Instruction (Grades PreK-8).  Classroom subject matter is reinforced by means of guest speakers, field trips, and other special resources.

Religion

Religion is a fundamental part of our formation instruction.  The integration of religion into school life is a significant difference between St. Joseph School and the public schools.  All students are engaged in faith-based education.  This includes the many rites, celebrations, sacraments, and practices that identify us by our faith.  Each student learns about the practice of Catholicism and in turn is invited to participate in that practice.

Besides religion classes, students participate weekly in the Eucharistic Liturgy and other religious activities.  Parents are encouraged to attend these activities. 

During the year, students are given the opportunity for private celebration of the sacrament of Reconciliation as well as participation in communal Penance Services.  The staff at St. Joseph School also assists parents in the preparation of their children for the sacraments.

Extracurricular Activities

St. Joseph School students may participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities.  They include:  Speech League, Team Quest, Math Competition, Boy’s and Girl’s Cross Country, Boys' and Girls' Basketball, and Track. (#6145.2)

The minimum age for participation to these activities is dependent upon the number of students interested in the activity and the criterion for each activity.  Participation in grades 4 and 5 will vary annually based on enrollment and class size.  All students participating in the athletic programs must have a physical on file in the school office.

St. Joseph School Booster Club supports Cross Country, Boys' and Girls' Basketball, Track,  and Speech League.  They also help support the elective course in Band.

Art

St. Joseph School supports artistic expression with weekly art classes in small groups.  Children learn a variety of art forms and have opportunities to participate in art contests. 

Music

Students in pre-school take an early childhood music course as part of the regular curriculum. 

Students in grades K-2 take general music class with exposure to a variety of music types with a focus on religious songs. 

Students in grades 3 - 8 participate in organized choir, learning to read music and participate in a large church singing group. 

Students in grade 4 take a semester of recorder to learn instrumentation and reading music.  Students may then participate in beginning band in grades 4 and 5.  Band students in grades 6 - 8 join varsity band.

Spanish

St. Joseph School offers Spanish to students in Pre-School - 2nd grade to support early language acquisition. 

Children in grades 6 - 8 take Spanish I over the course of 3 years in order to proficiency high school Spanish I class.