St. Matthew's School



The Word of God is the most important subject in our K-8 school curriculum. It is not only taught as a separate subject but is also incorporated into all subjects of the curriculum. We strive to help our students learn to connect and apply God’s Word to every aspect of their lives. Each class sets aside time during the school day for Bible study. Alternating each school year between the Old and New Testaments, the students learn of the fall into sin and the need for a savior. With the emphasis of our Savior’s life, death, and resurrection, concepts of faith and character are applied to our students’ life situations. An appreciation of the Bible’s teachings and doctrines is fostered. Ultimately, this intentional study serves to help children grow in their faith in Christ Jesus.


Early on, the children explore numbers and number sense through hands-on learning. The teachers utilize various manipulatives to develop the skills of computation and a strong sense of mathematical operations. The students develop problem-solving skills within the context of real-life applications. Teachers supplement the textbooks with online resources such as IXL and Khan Academy. Upper graders are able to concentrate on pre-algebra and algebra.

Language Arts

Foundational reading instruction is focused on “word-attack” skills, vocabulary development, and comprehension by using a broad spectrum of guided reading, supplemented with rich picture books. Practicing a variety of reading strategies, readers develop their independent skills while participating in book clubs, reading and discussing novels, and engaging in literature units. The student’s transition from the goal of learning to read to the skill of reading to learn. Many genres of literature are explored throughout the classrooms. Writing focuses on grammar, sentence construction, and paragraph construction. These acquired language arts skills are integrated across the curriculum in the form of research papers and presentations.

Social Studies

In the primary grades, children develop knowledge and a sense of pride in their community and country, an understanding of history and heritage, and an awareness of current events. The students begin by learning about their own communities and progress to a study of the states and capitals through an overview of the United States’ regions. Upper-grade students study world history, starting with the ancient world and societies, and carrying through American History and current events. By expanding their knowledge of facts and ideas, students gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.


The science curriculum and instruction are designed to generate an understanding and appreciation for the order and function of God’s created world. The scientific method and design process are introduced and practiced as children explore topics related to all branches of science. Units from life science, physical science, earth science, and health and the human body offer age-appropriate discovery of the scientific world. Content includes matter, the earth’s materials, plants and animals, simple machines, energy, and health and wellness. Understanding the systematic nature of the world assists students in discovering new ways to use technology and nature to improve and protect the world today and in the years ahead.