Early Childhood and Elementary

Holy Nativity’s Jr. Pre-K program is focused on introducing our students to the joys of school, friendship and a love for learning. Our classrooms are equipped with play areas that provide opportunities for dramatic play, expansion of the imagination and gross/fine motor development while learning to cooperate and interact with others. We strive to teach them how to treat others with dignity and respect, through our school rules of “Love God” and “Love your neighbor”. Students are eased into the school routine by learning how to be independent and responsible for their belongings, transitioning to different activities and becoming an active member of instructional and play time.

We adhere to the traditional concept that you can never read too many books to a child while also incorporating today’s cutting edge technology through the use of iPads and Chromebooks.

Our academics for the Jr. Pre-K program include but are not limited to:

• Upper and lowercase letter identification
• Phonemic awareness
• Number sense and sequencing
• Patterns
• Shape recognition and handwriting

We use such tools as “Mat Man” from the Handwriting Without Tears program to learn about correct formation of letters, positional concepts and body awareness. We use a letter of the week theme and incorporate numerous art projects and a weekly science project to reinforce each letter we are studying. Some examples of our science projects include making homemade play-doh, planting and growing seeds, and studying the mixtures of colors to create new colors. To ensure continuity through out their schooling at HNES, we begin teaching key vocabulary from our school-wide Singapore math program so that our children are familiar with some of the math terms as they advance. We specifically work on number bonds and explore how numbers work together to create a larger number.

Jr. Pre-K is an important step for every child to easily transition into the next level of rigor in the school routine and academics.

Holy Nativity’s Pre-K is a fun, happy place filled with exciting learning experiences and social development. Students are immersed in a fluid mixture of math, language arts, science, social skills, and the creative arts. We use a cutting edge curriculum, founded on solid brain research, with attention to the varied developmental stages of preschool-age children. Students are expected to practice academic skills independently, in small groups, and in whole class experiences. Our days are filled with visits from members of the community like Sargent Gailfoil, who teaches us that police officers are cooler than superheroes, and Nurse Cathy, who teaches us how to protect ourselves from germs. Our goal is to create fearless learners who love to tackle new information and skills. We provide an environment where children learn not only academics; they learn to appreciate their own uniqueness and the wonderful uniqueness of those around them.

Our academics for the Pre-K program include but are not limited to:

• Surpassing State Standards in our learning expectations incorporating the Whole Language approach
• Digital fingerprinting with the Sheriff’s Department
• Gyotaku painting with a real fish
• We become scientists with so many experiments
• Wall-sized rainbow collage which Incorporates the idea of recycling
• Pre-K Quilt which celebrates the individual uniqueness of us all

Holy Nativity’s Kindergarten program aligns to FCIS standards while incorporating Florida State and National Common Core Standards.

Students are immersed daily in Journey's Language Arts, Singapore Math, and Handwriting Without Tears. All three curriculums are based on the latest brain research and best practices. We include a strong focus on Social Studies and Science through field trips and in-house experimentation. Collaborative learning is fostered through teacher led small group activities in which all students are expected to participate and engage each other. Great attention is paid to the varied levels of individual learners and differentiated instruction is used to meet the needs of all students. iPads and Chromebooks are used for group and individual learning.

This is a rigorous program, but the children just see it as fun!

The following are the current choices for our elementary curriculum. Our curriculum choices are driven by our mission and based on the most current research into what works to effectively educate children.

SINGAPORE MATH (PRIMARY MATH FROM SINGAPORE)
Singapore Math is fully implemented in Jr. Pre-K through 5th Grade. The deep conceptual understanding will become more and more apparent as math becomes more complex. There are many informative videos available on YouTube to view actual classrooms using this leading international math program.

Singapore Math Sample Subtraction Problems

Singapore Math Sample Multiplication Problems

MATH AND SCIENCE MANIPULATIVES
Many, many manipulatives are used with our Singapore math lessons. All concepts are initially introduced at the concrete stage of development. Materials, such as those for measurement, are also useful for science.

ROCKET MATH
Adopted in 2012-2013, to supplement Singapore Math, Rocket Math is a daily 10 to 15 minute approach to teaching and reinforcing math facts fluency—addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. This vital aspect of math is not included in Singapore Math because, in Singapore math facts are learned at home and not included in school work. More information is available on the Rocket Math website and there is a great Rocket Map App available that compliments our classroom efforts perfectly.

SCIENCE MATRIX
Our kindergarten through 5th grade teachers vertically aligned all of their science units, thus ensuring that every science topic and all standards are included in our elementary curriculum. HNES did not adopt the “integrated science” curriculum approach being used by the state of Florida (a way of presenting science where a portion of each science topic is taught at each grade level with increasing depth). Our elementary and middle school science is topic specific, so that a subject can be treated in depth when and where the students encounter it. A copy of the science matrix created by the teachers is available for all parents, and the teachers at each grade level welcome parent suggestions and sharing of expertise—in or out of the classroom.

SOCIAL STUDIES MATRIX
A coordinated K-5th social studies matrix is now in production and estimated to be completed by the beginning of the school year. This matrix will serve a similar purpose as the science matrix, to guarantee that students are taught all the standards and topics of the elementary social sciences, plus will help parents know what to expect at each grade level. The talents and interests of our families enrich our classrooms and we hope this matrix will better enable members of the HNES family to share these talents and interests with their children.

READING CURRICULUM FOR K-5
For our reading curriculum we selected Journeys by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Journeys is where the reading adventure begins! Developed on a solid foundation of proven instruction and easy-to-manage organization, this exciting K–6 reading program includes Adventure Units and Guided Reading with literacy expert Irene Fountas. 

Kindergarten

• Valentine Day Sock Hop
• Mother Goose Parade
• Career Studies and Career Day Parade
• Fire Station Visit
• Picking Berries at the Strawberry Farm
• Halloween Costume Parade

1st Grade

• Famous Americans Research Paper and Schoolwide Presentations
• Famous American Schoolwide Parade
• PJ’s and Polar Express
• Animal Reports
• Visit to the Zoo on Panama City Beach, FL

2nd Grade

• Create a Family Memory Coat and Family Tree
• Magic Treehouse Report and Schoolwide Presentations
• Visit Gulf World on Panama City Beach, FL

3rd Grade

• State Research Report and Schoolwide Presentations
• Penguin Study and Projects
• Visit the Florida Caverns in Marianna, FL
• Visit the Mayor’s Office and the Commission's Meeting Room

4th Grade

• Host the Schoolwide Space Bubble
• Rainforest Study and Mural
• Novel Studies
• Visit our Florida State Capital in Tallahassee, FL
• 3 Day Field Trip to St. Augustine, FL

5th Grade

• Native American Tribe Research and Projects
• Novel Studies
• Middle School Shadow Day
• Beta Club Social
• Four Day Field Trip to Boston, MA

VISUAL ARTS AT HNES IS ART-RAGEOUS!  

Our Art program provides students from Junior Pre-K through 5th grade with weekly opportunities to explore creativity, self-expression, and artistic skill development in a supportive and inspiring environment.

In these classes, students explore a wide variety of artistic styles and techniques while experimenting with different mediums such as pastels, paint, collage, sculpture, and more. Through hands-on experiences, students learn the elements of art—such as color, line, shape, and texture—as well as principles like balance and composition.

Students are encouraged to think creatively, take risks, and develop their own artistic voice while also building fine motor skills and attention to detail. Lessons often connect to classroom learning, allowing students to express ideas and concepts through visual art.

Students also participate in some of our favorite annual art traditions, including designing their Christmas plate artwork, entering the yearbook cover contest, and creating realistic self-portraits in grades K–5. These special projects showcase student growth and give them a sense of pride in their work.

Our goal is to nurture creativity, confidence, and an appreciation for the arts that students will carry with them for years to come.

Our Library program provides students from Junior Pre-K through 5th grade with weekly opportunities to develop a love of reading, strengthen literacy skills, and become confident, independent learners.

In these classes, students explore a wide variety of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, while learning how to select books that match their interests and reading levels. They are introduced to essential library skills such as book care, organization, and how to locate and check out materials.

Students also build research and information literacy skills by learning how to ask questions, find reliable sources, and use both print and digital resources effectively. Lessons are designed to support classroom learning while encouraging curiosity and a lifelong love of reading.

Through engaging stories, activities, and discussions, students develop comprehension, critical thinking, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives and ideas.

Our goal is to foster enthusiastic readers and thoughtful learners who are empowered to explore, discover, and grow through reading.

Our Music program provides students from Junior Pre-K through 5th grade with weekly opportunities to explore rhythm, melody, movement, and expression while developing a lifelong appreciation for music.

In these classes, students are introduced to a wide variety of musical styles, instruments, and traditions from around the world. They learn foundational music skills such as steady beat, pitch, tempo, and dynamics through singing, movement, listening activities, and hands-on instrument experiences.

Students also develop music literacy by learning basic musical notation and vocabulary, while building skills in collaboration, performance, and active listening. Lessons are designed to support classroom learning and encourage creativity, confidence, and participation.

Through engaging songs, games, and performances, students strengthen their coordination, memory, and ability to express themselves artistically. They also have opportunities to perform and share music in age-appropriate settings that build confidence and school community.

Our goal is to inspire joyful, confident musicians who develop an appreciation for music and the skills to enjoy and participate in it throughout their lives.

Our Physical Education (PE) program is required twice per week for all students from Junior Pre-K through 5th grade. The program is designed to promote lifelong fitness, teamwork, and healthy habits in a fun and supportive environment.

The PE department emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship and character development, recognizing students monthly with Good Sportsmanship Awards during chapel. Students are also prepared for Presidential Physical Fitness testing and encouraged to set personal goals for growth and improvement.

Throughout the year, students participate in a variety of engaging activities and events, including Field Day during the last week of school, Junior Olympics, Extreme Sports units, and outdoor skill-building experiences.

One of the highlights of the year is the annual Fun Run held in February, a popular school-wide event that brings together students, families, and friends while also serving as an important fundraiser for the PE department.

Additional opportunities such as the 5K Fun Run/Walk and National and Presidential Physical Fitness Awards further encourage students to stay active and develop a positive relationship with physical activity.

Our goal is to inspire students to enjoy movement, build strong bodies, develop good sportsmanship, and understand the importance of lifelong fitness and wellness.

Our Spanish program provides students from Junior Pre-K through 5th grade with weekly opportunities to explore the Spanish language and develop an appreciation for Hispanic culture in a fun and engaging environment.

In these classes, students are introduced to foundational Spanish vocabulary, phrases, and conversational skills through songs, games, stories, and interactive activities. Lessons focus on building listening and speaking skills while also introducing basic reading and writing in Spanish at developmentally appropriate levels.

Students also explore cultural traditions, holidays, and customs from Spanish-speaking countries around the world, helping them develop global awareness and an appreciation for diversity. Instruction is designed to be interactive and supportive, encouraging students to take risks and communicate with confidence.

Throughout the year, students build language skills progressively while reinforcing connections to their everyday experiences and classroom learning.

Our goal is to foster curiosity about world languages and cultures while helping students develop a strong foundation in Spanish that can grow in the years ahead.

Our Technology Elective is an engaging, hands-on program designed for students from Junior Pre-K through 5th grade. Each class attends once per week, where they build age-appropriate technology skills in a supportive and creative environment.

Students develop proficiency with the Google Suite of tools, build essential research skills, and learn the foundations of digital citizenship through Google’s Be Internet Awesome curriculum. They also explore emerging technologies, including an introduction to artificial intelligence, helping them better understand the digital world around them.

Computational thinking and coding are key components of the program. Using platforms such as Code.org and tools like Cubetto, students learn to problem-solve, think logically, and create through hands-on experiences tailored to their grade level.

In addition, students explore how computers work by learning about key components and concepts such as hardware, software, operating systems, RAM, and ROM. This foundational knowledge helps students understand not just how to use technology, but how it functions.

Projects in Technology Elective are thoughtfully designed to both strengthen core technology skills and support classroom learning. Some activities focus specifically on building digital skills, while others reinforce grade-level curriculum, allowing students to apply technology in meaningful and creative ways.

Our goal is to empower students to become confident, responsible, and innovative users of technology—skills that will serve them well both in school and beyond.