OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
One way St. Clare measures the academic achievement of our students is through the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. The IOWA test is a nationally normed standardized test and offers educators a diagnostic look at how their students are progressing in key academic areas. This differs from public schools in Colorado who use the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP), which is used to determine the level at which Colorado students meet Colorado standards, not national standards.
Results show that students at St. Clare perform an average of one and a half to two grade levels above student performance across the nation. This increases as students move from elementary school into middle school where student scores show ability at two and a half to three grade levels above average.
St. Clare teachers do not teach to any specific test. This national perspective gives a much bigger picture of students’ performance and helps teachers to tailor lessons which will meet student learning needs.
St. Clare students go to Vail Christian High School (80%) as well as Battle Mountain High School, Eagle Valley High School and Vail Mountain School.
St. Clare graduates go on to many elite universities including Stanford, Harvard, Denver University, University of San Diego, Notre Dame, University of San Francisco, Northern Arizona University and Duke University.
ACADEMIC ENHANCEMENTS
Technology (K – 8): Smart boards are utilized in every classroom and students have daily access to iPads and MacBook Airs. Students use technology in a variety of ways. Examples include using programs to review basic skills, research writing, and creating presentations and iMovies. Teachers also help students learn internet etiquette and safety.
Specials – 2 times a week
Art: St. Clare promotes the natural creativity of children by allowing their artistic passions to flourish in the classroom.
Music (K – 4): Students learn essential music skills and start playing the recorder in third grade.
Band (5 – 8): Our students begin band in 5th grade and learn to read music and play an instrument. Skills learned are displayed at our annual Christmas Pageant and Spring Concert.
Physical Education (K – 8) & Health (6 – 8): Students learn specific sports, play games, learn the benefits of physical fitness, and practice sportsmanship.
Reading Specialist: St. Clare employs a part time reading specialist who provides additional help for students to help increase fluency and comprehension.
Electives (6 – 8): Middle School students have the privilege of participating in 2 different electives during the school year. Electives are opportunities for our students to explore different interests such as cooking, art, volunteer work, iMovie, bridge building, drama and many more.