If you’re looking for a unique and enriching educational experience for your sixth grader, consider St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Greenville, SC. Their Sixth Grade Academy, the beginning of the seven-year program of study in the school’s college prep program, offers opportunities to allow children to transition more easily to middle school while feeling fully supported by a team of dedicated teachers. With single-gendered classrooms, a separate sixth-grade wing, a team mindset, and a responsive schedule, St. Joseph’s allows room for students to thrive both academically and personally.
In addition, they’ve been voted the #1 Catholic High School in South Carolina, the #1 College Prep Private High School in South Carolina, and the #1 College Prep Private High School in Greenville by Niche. Learn more about this exceptional program here.
Thank you to St. Joseph’s Catholic School for sponsoring this article.
Single-Gendered Classrooms
One of the unique aspects of the Sixth Grade Academy at St. Joseph’s Catholic School is that all classes are single-gendered. The staff at St. Joseph’s want children to be confident in who they are, particularly in the school building and the community. During the middle school years, there’s rapid discovery, growth, and questioning. Single-gendered classrooms allow for a more tailored approach to teaching and learning, as teachers can address the specific needs and learning styles of boys and girls separately. This approach has been shown to increase confidence and academic growth in students, as they are able to focus on their own learning without distractions or pressures from the opposite gender.
Separate Sixth-Grade Wing
The Sixth Grade Academy at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Greenville, SC is housed in a separate wing of the school, providing a unique and focused learning environment for students. This allows for a sense of independence and ownership over their learning experience, while still being a part of the larger school community. The wing includes classrooms, lockers, and a common area. This separation also helps to ease the transition from elementary to middle school for students, as they have their own space to navigate and grow in.
Small Class Sizes
One of the standout features of the Sixth Grade Academy at St. Joseph’s Catholic School is the small class sizes and individualized attention that students receive. With class sizes generally capping at 22 students, teachers are able to provide personalized instruction and support to each student. This allows for a more tailored learning experience and helps students to reach their full potential. Additionally, the close-knit community at St. Joseph’s fosters a supportive environment where students feel valued and encouraged to succeed.
Team Mentality for Both Students and Teachers
One of the standout features of the Sixth Grade Academy at St. Joseph’s Catholic School is the team mentality that is fostered among both teachers and students. It’s the secret sauce of the school. There’s a strong love of collaboration among the teachers. And there is a dedicated team of teachers within the Sixth Grade Academy. All of the sixth grade teachers know all of the students. This helps to ensure that no student runs under the radar. Teachers work collaboratively to plan lessons and activities that are engaging and challenging for students, while also providing individualized support when needed. Students are encouraged to work together and support each other in their learning, creating a sense of community and belonging within the Academy. This team mentality helps to create a positive and supportive learning environment for all involved.
Responsive and Flexible Schedule
The Sixth Grade Academy at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Greenville, SC offers a responsive and flexible schedule that allows for personalized learning experiences. This approach helps students to develop a deeper understanding of the curriculum and build confidence in their abilities. Additionally, the flexible schedule allows for more time to be spent on subjects that students may struggle with, ensuring that they have a strong foundation for future academic success. There’s even a well-loved class called Foundations that exists to help students with executive functioning, reading, and more. There’s lots of room for flexibility in this class alone to address any issues or situations that need more attention.
Virtue Education & Community Involvement
Each quarter, St. Joseph’s focuses on two Catholic virtues: Fortitude, Perseverance, Courage, Self-Disipline, Compassion, Loyalty, Prudence, Responsibility, and Faith. The school tries to incorporate these virtues into many of the lessons throughout the year. Community members are invited to visit and share how these virtues have played a role in their lives. Members of the police department, nurses, priests, servicemen, and even Pearle Harris have spoken to students. Each quarter, students work on an altruism project where they choose a way to help others either in the immediate community or somewhere in the world. In 2021, for example, students works with Set Free Alliance and raised funds to sponsor a well for a village in Africa.
Overall, the Sixth Grade Academy at St. Joseph’s Catholic School offers a unique and effective approach to education that sets students up for success in their academic and personal lives. Admission season opens in early October, but St. Joseph’s offers rolling admissions, as well. So if you’re interested in attending, be sure to apply as soon as possible to secure your spot.
