Curriculum
St. Mary of the Mills School follows the curriculum standards set forth by the Catholic Schools Office of the Archdiocese of Washington. Our philosophy emphasizes the uniqueness of each student and the need to help each child reach his or her full potential in a supportive academic environment. We are fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS-CASI) through a partnership with AdvancED.
As a Catholic School, religious education is the cornerstone of our curriculum. The doctrine and dogma of the Catholic faith exist as the framework of our religious instruction. From there, we encourage students to explore and develop a personal faith relationship with God through a variety of formal and informal spiritual activities.
The curriculum for Early Childhood programs promotes the spiritual, emotional, aesthetic and intellectual growth of the young child in a thematic format*. Grades 1 – 8 include formal instruction in religion, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Additionally, St. Mary of the Mills provides instruction in the following: computer education, music, art, physical education, media use and research, Spanish, advanced math and guidance. We utilize differentiated instruction and other research-based teaching strategies and techniques that promote individual student success.
St. Mary of the Mills School participates in regular, on-going curriculum evaluation and modification as directed by the Archdiocese of Washington. Using the process of Curriculum Mapping, all teachers within the Archdiocese of Washington are examining the taught curriculum and comparing it to nationally recognized standards to determine appropriate goals and objectives which will serve as the framework for the new Archdiocesan Curriculum. This process will be repeated annually, focusing on a different subject each year.
St. Mary of the Mills School administers nationally recognized standardized tests selected and approved by the Catholic Schools Office of the Archdiocese of Washington. The results of these tests are interpreted and used as an additional measure of identifying strengths and weakness within our taught curriculum. Curriculum adjustments are made accordingly to benefit the students.
Click the button below to learn more about the Archdiocesan Academic Standards:
Primary
Primary
Primary - Kindergarten through Grade 2
At St. Mary’s, our primary grade students are immersed in a language-rich, integrated curriculum designed to meet their developmental needs while sparking curiosity and creativity. Lessons are hands-on, engaging, and tailored to respect the individuality of each child. Flexible grouping, student choice, writing across the curriculum, and child-centered teaching foster an environment where children grow as thinkers, communicators, and decision-makers.
Even at this early stage, critical thinking and questioning skills are actively nurtured. Teachers use a variety of both traditional and authentic assessment tools to identify individual needs and guide future instruction, ensuring each student receives the support and challenge they need to thrive.
Language arts instruction is literature-based, with reading and writing skills introduced in meaningful contexts and practiced in authentic, engaging ways. Our goal is not only to teach the mechanics of reading and writing but to cultivate children who love to read and write—by choice.
Mathematics follows the current National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards, emphasizing both conceptual understanding and computational fluency. Students explore math using manipulatives and real-world problem-solving, building a strong foundation of skills and confidence. (Note: The curriculum is currently under review by the Archdiocese of Washington.)
Science, Social Studies, and Religion are often integrated into language arts and math to provide a holistic learning experience, while also being taught as stand-alone subjects to deepen students' understanding of the world and their faith. In Religion, second graders prepare for and receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist—a deeply meaningful part of their spiritual journey.
To support the development of the whole child, students also participate in regular classes in physical education, music, art, library sciences, computer technology, and foreign language. These enriching experiences foster creativity, collaboration, and a love for learning that extends beyond the core subjects.
Above all, our dedicated primary grade teachers are committed to creating a nurturing, engaging environment that inspires children to become confident, active, and joyful lifelong learners.
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate - Grades 3 through 5
The intermediate grades continue to build upon the foundational “hallmarks” of the primary years: a language-rich environment, developmentally appropriate instruction, and the nurturing of critical thinking skills. Recognizing these years as a vital bridge between early education and middle school, we also emphasize growing responsibility and independence, helping students take greater ownership of their learning.
In language arts, students delve into the writer’s craft to develop essential grammar and writing skills while also learning to read with greater depth and discernment. They come to appreciate literature not just for its educational value, but as a source of beauty, imagination, and inspiration.
Mathematics instruction focuses on solidifying skills in whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Students engage in both computation and meaningful problem-solving activities that develop logical thinking and real-world application.
In social studies, learners expand their understanding from local and personal communities to national and global contexts, gaining cultural awareness and historical perspective.
Science is approached through hands-on exploration and the Scientific Method, allowing students to investigate topics in earth, life, physical, and chemical sciences. Curiosity is encouraged, and students begin to see themselves as young scientists making sense of the world.
Spiritual and moral development is an integral part of the curriculum. Children deepen their understanding of the Church’s teachings, actively participate in community service, and grow in faith through prayer and worship experiences.
To support the development of the whole child, our curriculum also includes rich instruction in art, music, physical education, computer technology, library sciences, and foreign language. These subjects enhance creativity, collaboration, and confidence—skills that will serve students well both in and out of the classroom.
Middle
Middle
Middle School - Grades 6 through 8
In middle school, students are encouraged to take greater ownership of their learning as they grow in independence. Under the guidance of caring and supportive teachers, they are given meaningful opportunities to accept responsibility, make choices, and develop the skills necessary for academic success and personal growth. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to honor the transitional nature of this developmental stage—balancing structure with increasing autonomy.
Language arts instruction spans all literary genres, helping students gain a deeper appreciation for literature and its power to reflect the human experience across time and cultures. Through process writing, students strengthen both the mechanics and expression of their writing, learning to communicate their thoughts with clarity and creativity.
In social studies, students explore world geography, cultures, resources, and history, developing a global perspective. This foundation leads into a focused study of U.S. history, helping students understand their heritage and role as informed citizens.
Mathematics instruction centers on preparation for Algebra I, with the course offered to qualifying students. Differentiated instruction ensures that all learners are challenged and supported according to their individual needs.
The science curriculum rotates through earth, life, and physical sciences, allowing students to immerse themselves in a new area of scientific study each year. Hands-on activities and inquiry-based learning foster curiosity and analytical thinking.
Religion classes guide students in a deeper exploration of both the Old and New Testaments. In seventh and eighth grades, students prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, continuing their spiritual journey through faith formation, service, and worship.
To educate the whole child, the middle school program is enriched by instruction in music, art, physical education, foreign language, computer technology, and library sciences. These courses nurture creativity, cultural literacy, collaboration, and healthy living—skills that support both academic and personal success.Back to Top