The curriculum at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School ensures strong academic expectations and the development of the whole child. The curriculum is delivered through lesson plans designed to meet students' 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.
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 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 (Phonics, Reading, and Writing Skills), Library, Math, Music, Practical Life Skills, Religion, Science, Sensorial Apparatus, Technology, and Cultural subjects. Classes are composed of mixed ages (3-4-5). In this type of setting, children learn from each other: younger ones observe older students' activities and older students reinforce what they have learned by teaching the younger ones.
Elementary
Elementary students partake of a balanced core curriculum of Language Arts (English, Writing, Spelling, Grammar), Library, Math, Physical Education, Religion, Science and Social Studies. Students also receive enrichment classes in Art, Music, Spanish and Technology.
Junior High
Junior high students immerse themselves in a balanced core curriculum of Language Arts, Math, Religion, Science, Social Studies and Spanish. Enrichment classes include Art, Library, Music, Physical Education, and Technology Applications. Students in 7th and 8th grade are provided access to advanced courses, which may qualify for advanced High School credits in Algebra and Spanish. They are also offered a choice of electives ranging from Competitive Choir, American Sign Language, Robotics, Yearbook, Mentoring and Study Hall. Below is a list of all core curricula and enrichment courses and activities.
Core Curricula
Religion
- Catechesis / Doctrine
- Life & Social Skills
- Liturgy & Prayer Service Preparation
- Scripture
- Sexuality Catechesis
Foreign Language
- Spanish (6th - 8th grade)
Language Arts
- Grammar
- Literature
- Phonics
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing Workshop
Mathematics
- HMH Go Math
Junior High (Additional)
- Pre Algebra
- Algebra I (7th or 8th AP)*
* Advanced Placement courses may be eligible for High School credit.
Physical Education
Physical Education Courses are age appropriate by grade level.
Science
Elementary
- Hartcourt Science
Junior High
- Savvas Realize online platform (6 - Elevate Science Earth, 7 - Elevate Science Life, 8 - Elevate Science Physical)
Social Studies
Elementary
- Texas Edition for Social Studies
Jr. High
- American History (6th)
- Texas History (7th)
- World History (8th)
Enrichment Courses & Activities
Enrichment / Electives
- Art (5th – 8th)
- Mentoring (8th)
- Music (K5 – 5th)
- Spanish (6th – 8th)*
- Technology (K5 – 5th)
- Yearbook (8th)
* Advanced Placement courses may be eligible for High School credit.
Athletics
- Basketball
- Cross-Country
- Soccer
- Track
- Volleyball
Religious Education
All students are required to attend religion classes and participate in daily Morning Prayer, weekly Holy Mass, and monthly prayer/adoration time. Students also participate in seasonal paraliturgical celebrations, retreats, and community service work and projects.
Math & Reading Program
The school uses IXL and Accelerated Reading, research-based software programs, to improve math, reading, and comprehension skills. One-on-one and small group tutoring is also provided for 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 also have the opportunity to take technology courses to increase their technology skills. The school is equipped with a Windows-based Computer Lab, Windows-based computers in every classroom, and school-supplied Chromebooks for 4th-8th grade students.
Tutorials & Homework Help
Teachers provide individual and / or small group Tutorials to meet the individual strengths and weaknesses of each child. This assistance may take place before school, during school, and / or after school. Please contact each teacher individually for more information.