Academics
St. Michael Catholic School has a tradition of providing an environment that fosters spiritual growth and academic excellence. St. Michael staff work to maintain high standards and reasonable expectations for all students.
Academic achievement is measured in class by formal and informal assessments. Academic growth is measured with the standardized MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) test, administered each fall and spring. Teachers utilize MAP results to tailor instruction to meet the needs of students.
Over 80% of St. Michael Catholic School students score at, or above grade level proficiency on the MAP test. We are proud of their achievement and work to help each child achieve to the best of their ability.
It is common to hear from alumni and families that St. Michael prepares students very well for high school and post-secondary education. We hear how confidently our students enter the world beyond St. Mike’s with the spiritual foundation provided during their time here.
Whether attending Prior Lake-Savage High School, Holy Angels, Holy Family, or another Catholic high school, St. Michael graduates become leaders. Alumni frequently return to visit to thank their former teachers. They tell of their involvement in clubs, sports, National Honor Society, student council, performing arts clubs, etc. During the 2009-10 school year, 4 of the 5 PLSHS National Honor Society Officers were St. Michael graduates!
We are exceptionally proud of our students and alumni who demonstrate preparedness academically, socially, and spiritually to live the Gospel message in an ever changing, diverse world.
St. Michael Catholic School believes in the positive values and developmental opportunities provided by extra curricular activities. Academic progress takes priority over extra curricular activities. Students must meet academic and behavioral standards in order to participate in extra curricular activities.
Art Adventures
The Art Adventure Program introduces K-5 students to works of art from a variety of cultures. Parent volunteers, who were trained at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, visit classrooms with posters/slideshows of art relating to the theme Family, Friends and Foes. In addition, students create an art project related to the theme.
Curriculum
Curriculum Overview
PreK – 8 Language Arts Curriculum Outline
PreK – 8 Math Learner Outcomes Outline
PreK – 8 Science Learner Outcomes Outline
K-5 Everyday Math
Field Trips
Field trips enrich students’ education. Students must meet academic and behavior expectations to participate. Each grade participates in one or two field trips every school year. Additional fees may be charged for transportation or admission. Fee scholarships are available by contacting the teacher or principal. Written parental approval is required to transport children.
Chaperones are needed to accompany students on all field trips. Teachers will send home specific information regarding each field trip and request volunteer chaperones as necessary. All chaperones are required to have completed Virtus training, as mandated by the Archdiocese. (See Volunteer Handbook for Chaperone Guidelines)
Sixth grade: Eagle Bluff field trip. Every year the sixth grade students attend Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center. This is a 3-day, 2-night overnight trip near Lanesboro, Minnesota. The class may decide to organize and participate in a fundraiser to help cover the expenses for this trip.
Eighth grade: Wolf Ridge field trip. Every year the eighth grade students attend Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center near Lake Superior. This is a week-long overnight trip. The class may decide to organize and participate in a fundraiser to help cover the expenses for this trip.
Fine Arts Program
Students participate in St. Michael Fine Arts activities. These include special performing arts (singing, acting) and the visual arts. Grades 1-6 participate in a Christmas Program. Grades 7 & 8 participate in a Spring Musical. Art Fairs are also held each year in conjunction with the Spring Musical.
