St. Philips Episcopal School
Academics
Academics at St. Philip's Episcopal School - Beeville
At St. Philip's Episcopal School, academic excellence is a cornerstone of our educational experience. We foster deep learning at every grade level, enriching minds and nurturing spirits.
St. Philip's Academic Edge
Our youngest learners begin their academic journey by exploring letters, sounds, and numbers, laying the foundation for future learning.
Preschool:
The DLM Preschool Curriculum starts early learners on the right track. This is a comprehensive child centered curriculum with strong teacher support and links instruction to the following content: Literacy, Science, Fine Arts, Math, Social Studies, Health and Safety, Physical Development, Personal Development and Technology. Children develop literacy skills for reading through exposure to multiple read-aloud selections each day and through daily phonological awareness and letter recognition activities. All lessons focus on language acquisition, which includes oral language development and vocabulary activities. Math is designed to develop children’s early mathematical knowledge through various individual and group activities. Writing is encouraged through activities and during center time. Social Emotional Development is addressed daily through activities that allow children to develop school language, rules and routines. Science and Social Studies are taught through strategically designed activities weekly. Our goal is to prepare and nurture the children to develop a love for learning and school.
Prekindergarten:
The “Imagine It” Pre-Kindergarten program is designed to bring the joy of reading to every child. It establishes the building blocks for early literacy. The curriculum builds awareness of print, books and the alphabet as it teaches children to love reading and helps them grow using quality literature. The diverse literature allows children exposure to a wide range of subject areas that are taught including - fine arts, health, math, science and social studies – all while building important early language and literacy skills. All children are given the opportunity to practice and grow through center play. Centers create an environment of stimulation that encourages exploration of their surroundings. The ultimate goal is for students to enter Kindergarten fully prepared to become strong, fluent readers and writers.
Kindergarten:
In Kindergarten, we utilize a balanced approach to help children see themselves as readers and writers and to practice those skills at their own instructional level. Through the Open Court Program, instruction will include the systematic teaching of sounds (Phonics) to decode words as a process to acquire the necessary tools to become fluent readers. Students experience reading and writing activities that build vocabulary, comprehension strategies and sight word recognition. Daily writing allows students to enjoy writing and creating stories. Math concepts are taught through the Math in Focus Program. The Kindergarten students also participate in a pull-out Science program that allows students to take a hands-on approach to learning. The inquiry method of learning allows students to develop an understanding of the scientific process and concepts. Social Studies teaches students about relationships with friends, family and their neighborhood and communities and the world around them.
First Grade
First grade focuses on developing independent learners through the Open Court Program, which balances skill instruction in phonics, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Students engage in daily activities to enhance written and spoken language. Math concepts are taught via the Saxon Math Program, emphasizing hands-on learning in place value, time, money, graphing, and probability. Science encourages active inquiry, while Social Studies connects students to their communities through literature and biographies.
Second Grade
Second grade transitions students from "learning to read" to "reading to learn" using the Open Court Program, integrating reading, writing, and word study. Students participate in literature circles to strengthen fluency and comprehension. The Saxon Math Program covers numeration, operations, estimation, geometry, and algebra. Science and Social Studies emphasizes observation, experimentation, and local history through thematic studies.
Third Grade
Third grade enhances critical reading and writing skills through the Open Court Program, focusing on narrative and expository texts. Saxon Math extends addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division skills. Science involves hands-on investigations, while Social Studies explores U.S. regions and notable historical figures, fostering an understanding of heroic individuals and significant contributions.
Fourth Grade
Fourth grade students apply advanced reading strategies to comprehend various genres through the Open Court Program. Saxon Math covers complex concepts such as fractions, number theory, and algebra. Science strengthens critical thinking and research skills through the Scientific Method. Social Studies examines Texas history, from early beginnings to modern times, highlighting significant events, cultural influences, and democratic values.
Fifth Grade
Fifth grade language arts and reading encourage exploration of novels, biographies, and poetry through critical analysis and understanding of literary devices. The Open Court Program teaches effective reading strategies and comprehensive writing skills, including grammar and multi-paragraph writing. Saxon Math focuses on efficient use of arithmetic operations and critical thinking. Science involves hands-on investigations, data collection, and defending results. Social Studies explores U.S. history and development through engaging curriculum, teaching research skills and positive character traits.
For more information about our elementary school program or to schedule a visit, click the link below. Join us at St. Philip's Episcopal School, where academic excellence and personal growth are nurtured at every grade level.
In middle school, students are encouraged to push themselves academically, explore new subjects, and discover their true potential. We provide a supportive environment where students can thrive and prepare for future educational endeavors.
Learn More About Our middle School Opportunities
