Jesuit Education

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St. Francis Xavier is the only Jesuit Catholic elementary school in Arizona and we are proud to share in the characteristics of Jesuit education that are rooted in a common vision. The focus of this vision is to provide the fullest possible human development during the formative years of a child’s life. Our mission is aligned with that vision and fosters both the academic and faith formation of our students. 

We have instructional aides in every classroom in Preschool through 3rd grade. We also have shared aides in 4th-8th grade to provide extra support to our teachers. 

What makes Jesuit Education unique?
Jesuit Education is rooted in the belief of developing the whole student - mind, body and spirit. Jesuits see spiritual and moral growth to be equally as important as intellectual growth. Students are challenged to become critical thinkers, creative problem solvers and life long learners. This comprehensive approach to education helps to prepare our students for a rapidly changing world. 

Another key element of Jesuit Education is learning about the importance of serving others by sharing our God given gifts and talents to help those in need. There's an emphasis on social and environmental justice, inspiring students to make the world better. It is our mission at St. Francis Xavier to form Kids for Others.

What is our teaching philosophy?
As a Jesuit school we follow Ignatian Pedagogy, which is a teaching model that seeks to develop students of competence, consciousness and compassion. Our teachers encourage students to be responsible for their own actions and to be independent thinkers. They strive to embrace each student's unique characteristics and try to help students make the best decisions through a process of discernment. 

Student Learning Expectations
Our entire school program is designed around the five Student Learning Expectations (SLEs) of Jesuit Education. The SLEs are incorporated into every aspect of our students' learning environment and reflect the mission of our school community. At graduation, our students will be: 

Religious

1.  Actively participates in private or liturgical prayer.
2.  Uses Christ as a model for living.
3.  Applies Christian conscience in making moral choices.
4.  Demonstrates faith in Jesus.
5.  Knows and practices Catholic doctrine and traditions

Loving

1. Respects and celebrates human diversity.
2. Has made specific contributions to building up the school community
3. Responds appropriately to complex interrelationships.
4. Is capable of putting self in another person’s place and understanding what that person is feeling.
5. Is more sensitive to the beauty of the created universe and is more caring about life and the natural environment.

Intellectually Competent

1. Uses problem solving skills.
2. Uses communication skills.
3. Gathers, recalls, and applies information to new situations.
4. Is organized in learning.
5. Performs grade level skills.

Open to Growth

• Takes responsibility for growth as a person.
• Is learning how to accept self, both talents and limitations.
• Understands and practices self discipline skills.
• Applies prior experience and knowledge to new situations.
• Initiates own learning.

​Committed to Doing Justice 

• Displays an understanding of the call to treat others justly.
• Demonstrates an understanding of putting faith into action.
• Participates in community service projects.
• Affirms the dignity and rights of others.
• Participates in cooperative learning activities.

Contact

Mandi Jemsek
Director of Curriculum
[email protected] 

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Jesuit Resources

The Society of Jesus

Jesuits West

Jesuit Resource

Jesuit Schools Network