The curriculum at Our Lady of Sorrows School insures strong academic expectations and the development of the whole child. The curriculum is delivered through lesson plans designed to meet student's unique social, physical, emotional and academic needs.

The curriculum meets the standard requirements of the State of Texas - Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) as well as the objectives set forth in the curriculum guides adopted by the School Department of the Diocese of Brownsville. The Principal observes and works closely with classroom teachers to serve the needs of all students. The core curriculum is supported by a variety of enrichment classes and programs to support student learning.

Religious Education

All students are required to attend religion classes and participate in daily Morning Prayer, weekly Mass, and monthly Eucharistic Adoration. Students also participate in seasonal Para liturgical celebrations, retreats and required community service projects.

Reading Program

The reading program incorporates the Drop Everything and Read Program (DEAR) into class instruction. The school also uses "Success Maker®" a research based software program from Pearson Digital Learning to improve reading and comprehension skills. One-on-one and small group tutoring is also provided to students based on ongoing assessments.

Technology

Teachers have integrated technology into all core curriculum subjects. All core subjects use technology at the appropriate level of student proficiency according to the state's Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Enrolled students will also have the opportunity to take technology courses to increase their technology skills. The school is equipped with a Computer Lab, Mobile Computer Lab, Reading Mini Lab, as well as computers in every classroom.

Tutorials & Homework Help

Teachers also provide small group Reading and Math Tutorials to meet the individual strengths and weaknesses of each child. An after school Working on Winning (WOW) Program also provides homework and study help to students.

Pre-Kinder/Kinder Montessori

The school utilizes the Montessori method, which allows the child to work with concrete manipulative materials in all areas of the curriculum. The materials are presented to the child according to his/her abilities and special needs. In this type of environment the child is able to advance at his/her own pace, since the materials are presented individually.

The Montessori curriculum includes: Art, Handwriting, Language Arts (Writing, Phonics and Reading Skills), Library, Math, Music, Practical Life Skills, Religion, Science, Sensorial Apparatus, and Cultural subjects. Classes are composed of mixed ages (3-4-5). In this type of setting children learn from each other. The younger ones observe the older students' activities and the older students reinforce what they have learned by teaching the younger ones.

Elementary

Elementary students are provided balanced core curricula of Language Arts, Library, Math, Physical Education, Religion, Science and Social Studies. Students are also offered enrichment classes such as: Art, Music, Spanish and Technology.

Junior High

Junior High students are provided balanced core curricula of Language Arts Math, Religion, Science, and Social Studies. Enrichment classes include: Art, Library, Physical Education, and Technology Applications. Students in 7 th and 8 th grade are provided advanced courses, which may qualify for advanced high school credit in Spanish, and Algebra. In addition to the above curricula, 7 th graders as part of their Texas History course take a historical tour of the missions in San Antonio . Similarly, 8 th graders are provided a wilderness experience at the YO Ranch in May. Below is a list of all core curricula and enrichment courses and activities.

Core Curricula

* Advanced Placement courses are eligible for high school credit.

Enrichment Courses & Activities 

Academic Support Programs

The Private Schools Interscholastic Association (PSIA) also supports our academic program in a meaningful way. The PSIA is an excellent opportunity for students to refine their physical and mental aptitudes, nurture self-realization and build self-confidence.

PSIA encourages academic excellence and it complements student Classwork with practice and performance. Students are challenged to do their best and in the process learn how to have fun doing it. For more information about the PSIA program go to the Extra-Curricular webpage.

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