ARCHDIOCSEAN CURRICULUM STANDARDS

At Saint Gabriel School, we are more than just a school—we are a community dedicated to fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth. Our students benefit from small class sizes, individualized attention, and a supportive learning environment. With outstanding student-to-teacher ratios, our NWEA test scores consistently exceed national averages.

We follow the Archdiocese of Hartford’s curriculum, developed by The Center for Catholic Education and Formation. This rigorous, standards-based curriculum is rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church and infused with elements of Catholic Social Teaching. Grounded in fundamental skills and enriched with innovative programs designed for 21st-century learning, our curriculum ensures a seamless progression from pre-kindergarten through high school.

All curriculum standards align with national benchmarks, exceed Common Core State Standards, and uphold the high expectations set by the Center for Catholic Education and Formation. Below, you will find links to individual grade-level curriculum overviews, along with additional resources.

 

We understand the importance of educating the whole child, honoring the traditions that strengthen our foundation, and embracing a forward-thinking approach that fosters hope and success. We believe that true learning happens when students develop fluency in information, enabling them to think critically and conceptually. In a safe and nurturing environment, students are empowered to discover their strengths, build confidence, and reach their full potential.

 

Preschool - Grade 2

At Saint Gabriel School, our Pre-K to Grade 2 program is a child-centered, nurturing environment where young learners develop independence while becoming part of a supportive, interdependent community. We are committed to fostering both academic growth and social-emotional development in a safe and loving atmosphere.

Our early elementary curriculum integrates language arts, math, social studies, science, and religion through project-based learning, learning centers, and cooperative activities designed to engage and challenge each child. Basic skills are reinforced through differentiated instruction, ensuring that students receive personalized learning experiences tailored to their unique needs.

Beyond the core curriculum, our Pre-K students benefit from weekly specials classes in library, art, music, world language, and physical education, providing a well-rounded foundation for lifelong learning.

Our dedicated teachers prioritize social-emotional growth and maintain open communication with parents, fostering a strong home-school partnership to support each child’s development. Through a balance of structure, creativity, and faith-based learning, we help our youngest students build confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning that will carry them through their educational journey.

 

Grades 3 - Grade 5

At Saint Gabriel School, our Grades 3-5 program builds upon the strong academic and spiritual foundation established in the lower grades, fostering greater independence, personal responsibility, and a commitment to others. As students grow, they are encouraged to take an active role in their learning, developing problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative reasoning skills that will prepare them for middle school and beyond.

Advanced skill development is a key focus in math, reading, and science, with daily differentiated instruction in math and language arts to meet students at their individual levels. Our language arts program includes novel studies throughout the year, and writing is emphasized across all subject areas to strengthen communication and analytical skills.

Students engage in independent research, reflective thinking, and hands-on learning experiences, helping them become capable, confident, and self-reliant learners. Teachers provide guidance and support while encouraging students to take ownership of their classwork and homework, developing the skills needed for future academic success.

Through this well-rounded approach, our Grades 3-5 students gain confidence, accountability, and a love for learning, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of middle school.

 

Middle school

At Saint Gabriel School, our middle school program (Grades 6-8) provides a challenging and enriching academic experience that prepares students for the transition to high school. With a transitional class structure, students engage in Math, Language Arts, Literature, Science, World Language, Religion, History, Social Studies and Geography, allowing them to develop a deeper understanding of each subject while applying their skills in diverse, real-world contexts.

In addition to core subjects, students participate in weekly special's classes, including art, library, world language, music, and physical education, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Our curriculum is designed to promote critical thinking, leadership, and faith-based community involvement, helping students grow as both scholars and responsible individuals.

Middle school students play a key role in leadership opportunities on campus, developing responsibility and independence as they prepare for high school. Many of our graduates go on to take Honors and sophomore-level courses as freshmen, demonstrating the strength of our academic foundation.

Through rigorous academics, engaging enrichment programs, and leadership experiences, our middle school students leave Saint Gabriel School confident, capable, and well-prepared for future success.