1st - 2nd Grade - St. Francis Xavier School

1st - 2nd Grade

At St. Francis Xavier School, we believe that the primary years, specifically 1st and 2nd grade, are a critical time for fostering a lifelong love of learning, personal growth, and a deep sense of purpose. Grounded in the Ignatian tradition, our program is committed to educating the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—within an environment shaped by the Jesuit values of reflection, discernment, service, and excellence.

Beyond our talented and dedicated teaching staff, each classroom also has an instructional aide.

Educating the Whole Child

We recognize that children in these formative years are eager learners, full of curiosity and a growing sense of independence. Our approach embraces a holistic educational model that honors each child’s unique gifts while encouraging growth across all dimensions of their being.

By anchoring our teaching in the five core elements of Ignatian pedagogy—context, experience, reflection, action, and evaluation—we aim to develop students who are thoughtful, empathetic, and ready to serve as "Kids for Others."

mind

Intellectual growth during 1st and 2nd grade lays the foundation for future academic success. We foster curiosity and a love of learning through inquiry-based activities, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Our curriculum integrates foundational skills in literacy, mathematics, and other core subjects with creative exploration, helping students develop confidence in their intellectual abilities while encouraging innovation and imagination.

body

Physical development continues to be an essential aspect of growth in the early elementary years. Our program provides opportunities for active learning through physical education, outdoor play, and classroom activities that enhance both fine and gross motor skills. Healthy habits and an appreciation for physical well-being are emphasized, encouraging students to care for and respect their bodies as God’s gifts.

spirit

As part of a Jesuit school, spiritual formation is integral to our mission. We guide students in developing a personal relationship with God through daily prayer, participation in Mass, and service opportunities. We encourage students to reflect on their faith and engage with the world through the lens of gratitude and wonder for God’s creation. The principles of cura personalis (care for the whole person) and Magis (striving for excellence) inspire students to grow spiritually and morally, seeking meaning and purpose in all they do.

Curriculum

Language arts

St. Francis Xavier School's 1st and 2nd graders benefit from the Amplify ELA program, a research-based curriculum designed to build strong foundational literacy skills. Through engaging stories, hands-on activities, and interactive lessons, students develop critical reading, writing, and comprehension skills while fostering a love for learning.

Aligned with our Ignatian values, Amplify ELA encourages curiosity, creativity, and academic growth, preparing students for success in the upper grades.

Math

The SFX math program for 1st-2nd grade is designed to cultivate a strong foundation in mathematics through engaging math conversations that foster a love for learning.

Students are encouraged to become enthusiastic problem solvers, instilling a sense of confidence and resilience in tackling various mathematical challenges. The curriculum incorporates a range of strategies to enhance conceptual understanding and critical thinking, empowering young learners to develop essential problem-solving skills.

Through hands-on activities and interactive lessons, students are inspired to think like mathematicians, encouraging the practical application of their knowledge in real-world contexts. This approach not only builds a solid mathematical base but also nurtures a lifelong appreciation for mathematics's practical and creative applications.

Currently, preschool through 2nd grade use Eureka Math Squared, as our core math curriculum.

Religion

Religious education at St. Francis Xavier is a priority and critical to our school’s mission of forming kids for others. Based on Diocesan curriculum standards and using Ignatian (Jesuit) pedagogy, the religion curriculum helps students learn about their faith and grow closer to God.

Students in 1st and 2nd grade learn about the faith in daily religion class using St. Mary’s Press Discover series, a scripture based curriculum. Students in second grade learn about and prepare to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation.

1st and 2nd grade students also grow in their faith through participation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program which introduces children to the teachings of the Catholic faith through hands-on activities. Central to the program is the "atrium," a carefully prepared space where children can engage with religious materials, fostering a deeper understanding of scripture, liturgy, and the life of Christ. Through quiet reflection and guided interaction, children develop a personal relationship with God, growing in their faith at their own pace.

Contact

Heather Cissell
1st Grade Teacher
[email protected]

Brittany Hansen
1st Grade Teacher
[email protected]

Ashley Ezell
Second Grade Teacher
[email protected]

Kiley Sifferman
Second Grade Teacher
[email protected]