Curriculum & Standards

At Saint Benedict, we are committed to providing a high-quality, faith-based education for all students. Coursework is based on the curriculum guidelines of the Education Office of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. We strive to provide a curriculum that helps our students grow academically and in faith, preparing them for the next level of education.

Math & Science

St. Benedict believes its math and science instruction sets it apart from other area schools. In math, students in the lower grades master basic skills through hands-on activities and manipulatives. Students in the upper grades expand on that strong foundation as pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving skills are introduced. Manipulatives help transfer thinking from the concrete to the abstract and to higher-order reasoning. Application of mathematics to everyday life is stressed at every level, culminating with a consumer math unit in 8th grade.

In science, students in 4th through 8th grade have daily classes in the Science Lab, with an eighty-minute lab period scheduled each week. Science process skills are continuously broadened through inquiry, analysis, and the scientific method.

Accelerated Reader Program

Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade complete the Accelerated Reader Program, which partners library books and technology to motivate students to read and to monitor their reading practices. It has been proven to help all students—average, gifted, and remedial—become successful readers. Point requirements by grade:

Students must complete one-fourth of their points by the end of the 1st marking period, one-half by the 2nd, three-fourths by the 3rd, and all points by the final marking period. Students who do not meet these milestones are placed on “academic probation” and are not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities, events, or recess until the requirements are met. Points may be earned before school begins if desired, though students are encouraged to read throughout the year.

Grading Scale