Progressive Education

Good Shepherd School is dedicated to the development of the whole child. We offer a faith-based curriculum that provides a firm foundation for intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual growth. Our students benefit from 21st-century teaching methods and the progressive use of technology in the classroom. They gain the foundational skills they need to succeed at higher levels of education.

EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD

While focusing on core curriculum areas like reading, writing, math, social studies, science and physical education, Good Shepherd School also offers religion, art, music, foreign language, technology, and a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) enrichment program.

ALL-DAY KINDERGARTEN

Kindergarten can set the tone for your child’s future school years, so we pride ourselves on making it a positive experience. Since every child has different needs, Good Shepherd School offers a kindergarten program that includes large-group, small-group and self-directed learning activities. With a strong values-centered curriculum, our kindergarten program allows for extended study of academic subjects, plus time for social interaction, outdoor play, field trips, dramatic play, cooking and relaxation.

GRADES 1 – 4

We want each student to reach his or her fullest potential, and we aim to provide a positive atmosphere in which students develop a sense of self-worth and a love of learning. Teaching strategies we employ include cooperative learning, team teaching, and large-group, small-group and individual instruction. These methods accommodate the individual needs of students and enhance their learning. Teachers of these grades work together to offer a continuous curriculum that enables students to build on their knowledge each year.

GRADES 5 – 6

The fifth and sixth grades at Good Shepherd School follow a middle school philosophy, which promotes individual talents and uniqueness. This philosophy centers on the development of responsibility and leadership in preparation for junior high. Individual student needs are met through a homeroom base, which encourages positive relationships between classmates and the teacher. We help students hone their computing skills to prepare them for the future.

STEM

All students at Good Shepherd receive extra science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) enrichment. Students gain hands-on learning experiences to help them actively engage in grade-level content through 21^st-century, inquiry-based learning.

TECHNOLOGY USE

Computer literacy is a vital part of any child’s education. Our students receive formal instruction in our computer lab twice each week and use technology regularly in their classrooms:

• Kindergarten – Grade 2: A 2:1 ratio of students to iPad tablets used to support language and math development.
• Grades 3-4: Access to iPads, and a 2:1 ratio of students to MacBook Pro laptop computers for students to start composing and sharing papers, spreadsheets and PowerPoint projects.
• Grades 5-6: A 1:1 ratio of students to MacBook Air laptops, so kids can share their work, research and develop ideas, and collaborate on larger projects.
• Upper grades: Opportunities to learn coding and video editing in class and in after-school camps and programs.

Students use Google Apps, and Apple and Microsoft software, preparing them for future PC or Mac environments.