Academic Program/Curriculum

Our Lady of Victory’s academic program begins with Pre-K and ends with eighth grade. The curriculum is based on sequential skill development and acquired knowledge in religion, science, mathematics, reading, language arts, social studies, music, physical education, art, guidance, library science, French, and computer. The Archdiocese of Atlanta provides all of its elementary Catholic Schools with a defined curriculum that they must follow. The curriculum consists of Standards and the Benchmarks used to achieve those Standards. Teachers are required to designate one or more Standards and one or more Benchmarks for each lesson they teach. There is a defined curriculum for math K-8, science K-8, social studies K-8, Language Arts K-8, religion K-8, art K-8, music K-8 and physical education K-8. Textbooks are not and do not guide the curriculum at Our Lady of Victory Catholic School; they are one of the tools used to achieve the Standards and Benchmarks. Curriculum Guides are available, by appointment, in the Admission Office of Our Lady of Victory, for current and prospective parents to view.

Computer technology is taught and integrated into the instructional program. Each year, on a rotating basis, one academic area of study is evaluated, updated, and textbooks replaced as needed. An Archdiocesan Committee consisting of teachers from various Catholic Schools, under the guidance of the Curriculum Coordinator of the Archdiocese conducts the study. Religion was studied in 2001-2002 and curriculum guidelines presented to the schools. 

Religion

A basic text, chosen from the recommended list, is used from Pre-K – 8th grade. In addition, the curriculum is enhanced by: children’s Liturgy, prayer services, service projects, prayer throughout the day, celebration of specific seasonal functions during Advent and Lent, retreats or days of reflection for students, Catholic Schools’ Week, and more.

Sacramental preparation takes place in the second grade for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. Students are prepared for these Sacraments, however they are received in their Parish and parents are to follow the guidelines as set forth by their Parish priest. A Catholic sexuality program is taught each year with the major emphasis on relationships. There is a family resource book for parents to read as an educational guide for instruction of sexuality.

Reading

A basal reading series is used in grades K-4, with homogeneous reading groups formed at each grade level where students are able to advance at their own rate. Reading and math are taught in the morning each day in K-4. Fifth grade is a transitional year in reading and literature. In the middle division (6-8), the shift to literature takes the place of reading and students are introduced to a wide genre of literature.

Language Arts

English, spelling, vocabulary, composition, phonics, and handwriting, blend with the reading in the Lower Division (K-4). Grammar, writing, and vocabulary development are separated from literature in the Middle Division (5-8).

Mathematics

A hands-on learning approach is used to introduce abstract concepts in grades K-3. Memorization and drill reinforce application of concepts to reach accuracy and speed. In the Middle Division, students are grouped according to performance and standardized test scores. General math, pre-algebra, and algebra are taught. Accelerated math instruction begins in fourth grade and continues through eighth grade. Students can move between accelerated and average math classes based on teacher recommendation.

Algebra I: Criteria for Program Admission

The following outline is a recommended procedure for evaluating a student for admission into an 8th grade Algebra I class.  A student should be placed in the Algebra I class if he/she has:

• Achieved a total mathematics ITBS score in the 85th percentile in the 7th grade year. New students should have achieved an equivalent national percentile on their last achievement or basic skills test.
• Achieved a minimum score of 85 percent on their report card at the conclusion of 7th grade. New students need to be evaluated.
• Achieved a minimum score of 80 percent on an Algebra Readiness Test at the conclusion of 7th grade.
• Received a recommendation from previous middle school mathematics teachers who believe the student has demonstrated an appropriate maturity, work habits, and fundamental problem solving skills.
• Admittance into 7th grade Pre-Algebra does not ensure participation into the Algebra I class. 
• The principal and math teacher will make final decisions

Pre-Algebra: Criteria for Program Admission

The following outline is a recommended procedure for evaluating a student for admission into a 7th grade Pre-algebra class.  A student should be placed in the Pre-Algebra class if he/she has:

• Achieved a total mathematics ITBS score in the 85th percentile in the grade year. New students should have achieved an equivalent national percentile on their last achievement or basic skills test.
• Achieved a minimum score of 85 percent on their report card at the conclusion of 6th grade. New students will be evaluated.
• Achieved a minimum score of 80 percent on a Pre-algebra Readiness Test at the conclusion of 6th grade.
• Received a recommendation from previous middle school mathematics teachers who believe the student has demonstrated an appropriate maturity, work habits, and fundamental problem solving skills.
• Admittance into 7th grade Pre-Algebra does not insure admission to the Algebra I class. 
• The principal and the math teacher will make final decisions.

Science

A basal series surveying general science principles including health is used in K-5. In the Middle Division, earth science, life science and physical science are taught to students in 6th-8th grades using frequent experiments. Students are taught laboratory procedures involving predicting outcomes and writing lab reports. Health is taught in physical education and science in grades K-5 and emphasized in sixth grade.

Social Studies

The social studies series introduces concepts from a two-pronged multi-cultural approach; history and geography. Sequential content development begins with families, communities, regions, world cultures, and ends with U.S. History and Georgia government.

Physical Education

The goal is to engage each student in a variety of developmental activities beginning with fine motor skills and leading to sports participation. This program enhances skill development and physical coordination. All students participate in the program.

Art

The goal is to develop an interest in and appreciation for art through hands-on activities and the use of a variety of mediums. A yearly student art exhibit focuses on the creative talent of the students.

Music

Music appreciation, theory, and history are introduced through a sequential program of instruments, singing, and rhythm. Talented students perform at school functions. There is an OLV chorus and piano lessons are offered.

Computer Instruction

Instruction on the use of software and hardware, along with keyboarding, will begin in Pre-Kindergarten. Computer skills will be taught at least once a week. In the Middle Division word processing, the Internet, Power Point, and graphic arts, will be incorporated into the computer program.

Library Media Center

PK-Second Grades - Weekly class visits include story time and checkout. Students learn about story styles, genres, illustrators, basic research skills and organization of the library.

Third through Eighth Grades - Mix of literature, research and library skills are taught. Some time is reserved for independent research, reading and group projects.

Acceptable Computer Use Policy Electronic Network Use Guidelines

Middle Division Course Descriptions

Enrichment Course Descriptions

Lower Division

Middle Division