Academics, Curriculum and Instruction

The John Ireland School curriculum reflects the mission, philosophy, goals of the school community, needs of the learners, and positive educational practices that enable all students to be confident and competent learners and citizens. Using a variety of strategies which have been modified for the learning abilities of each individual child, the teachers use the student's personal interests, current textbooks, and resources available. John Ireland has written outcomes for subject areas.

Recognizing the gifts and talents of each child allows the teachers to teach to the whole child. The curriculum is structured to allow the child to set goals, experiment and experience hands-on activities, work in cooperative groups, present projects, and show responsibility by doing homework and meeting deadlines. We strive to develop a love for learning, the acceptance of ideas, openness to customs and cultures, and to create habits for life-long learning.

Our curricular programs are based on the philosophies of each subject, the continuous updating of subject-based outcomes, state and diocesan mandates, scope and sequence of textbooks, and high teacher expectations. The teacher is held accountable for the curriculum taught and for learner assessments. The assessment process is aided by standardized testing.

Through the awareness of current events, teaching trends and ideas, the administration and teachers stay current with curricular issues. The school community makes use of state and federal programs. Teachers utilize the resources available within the region and community. Our open door policy invites parents and volunteers to visit and view curricular instruction, as well as, become involved in our programs.

Recognizing the importance of technology in the students' lives, we identify the current needs in a constantly changing world of technology. Using available resources we have added computer programs, and enriched lessons through the use of Internet.

At John Ireland School, we understand that each child learns in a different way. Therefore, it is essential to provide for varied learning styles in our teaching. We provide visual, auditory, spatial, tactile and kinesthetic experiences.

John Ireland Catholic School has been blessed with quality instructional teachers who are dedicated to giving students spiritual and academic guidance. Each is responsible to know the curriculum and to use a variety of teaching methods and resources. Teachers are required to keep their license current. Each student is challenged to reach their highest potential. Teachers access available resources for students. These include assessment, testing, special education services, and social services. Exposure to books, videos, technology and other resources is an important part of a student's education. The library is continuously adding new books and resources.

Through observations and assessments, teachers are able to identify individual and special educational needs of students. Students who are having difficulties are provided with one-on-one assistance and assignment modifications. Through the use of state and federal programs, students benefit from Title 1, Speech, and Learning Disability programs. Students are challenged at every ability level. We recognize that each student has individual needs and gifts which are addressed through various opportunities.

The students at John Ireland have many educational opportunities beyond the normal school day, which encourages them to reach their full potential. Science Fairs, poetry writing, art contests, and athletic events at the school and in the community allow students chances to explore talents not used everyday in the classroom. Enrichment activities, such as field trips, are used in conjunction with classroom teaching.

Our community provides a wide range of resources which aids our educational program. Gustavus Adolphus College students, parish members, fire and police officers volunteer their time and talents to educate and assist our students. The Treaty Site History Center, Arts Center, Cox House, and Gustavus Adolphus College are a few places we utilize to enhance the students' education.