St. Vincent de PaulElementary School
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Overview
We provide a novel-based, integrated History and English languages curriculum along with leading programs in math and science. Our small class allows for personal attention for every student. Our program integrates technology, utilizing 1:1 Chromebooks for class projects and assignments through Google classroom, research, and in a dedicated technology class. Students learn Google docs, sheets and slides while applying their knowledge and skills to complete projects with real world applications. Our block schedule model allows for coordinated offerings at St. Vincent High School in areas such as advanced math and physical education.
Academics & Enrichment
The new Junior High in Petaluma with a 130 year history, featuring a safe environment, exceptional instructors, high expectations, opportunities to develop leadership skills, and a unique experience in the historic, now renovated, original St. Vincent’s Academy Building.
Academics
World Languages
The core curriculum for junior high students at St. Vincent de Paul Elementary School includes Spanish courses. Interactive classes focus on vocabulary development and pronunciation, preparing students for high school foreign language requirements.
Math
The junior high math program builds the algebraic foundation essential for all students to solve increasingly complex problems. Higher order thinking skills use real-world applications, reasoning and justification to make connections to math strands. The curriculum focuses on algebraic thinking and multiple representations -- verbal, numeric, symbolic, and graphical. Advanced Math courses are available for seventh and eighth grade students.
Language Arts
Using literary analysis to examine short stories and novels, students identify the central themes, points of view and author’s purpose through citing evidence and drawing inferences from the text. Writing instruction focuses on informational, persuasive, narrative and creative composition, utilizes the writing process. Grammar instruction supports students in using complex sentences and ensures proper conventions. The study of Latin and Greek roots is the foundation of the vocabulary and spelling program in junior high.
Religion
Daily religious education classes, prayer, and attendance of Mass as a school community monthly provide a foundation in faith formation. Students at each grade participate in leading morning prayer and planning and hosting a First Friday Mass. Junior high students provide active service to others through our community service program and reflect on the impact of their service to the community and to themselves.
The curriculum focuses on an overview of world religions and the preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Students receive Confirmation in eighth grade with St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Parish.
Science
The junior high science curriculum focuses on an in-depth study of life and physical science. Comparing and contrasting plant and animal cells, students identify the structures of cells and their functions. Students learn how organ systems work together and the role that physical principals play on living things. Students also conduct experiments and investigations, exploring position, motion and forces as well as chemical and physical reactions.
History
Beginning with a study of the major events preceding the founding of the nation and the development of American constitutional democracy to World War I, the Great Depression and the rise of fascism in Europe, the junior high history curriculum provides a strong foundation and opportunities for students to connect the past to the present.
Educators
8th Grade HomeroomLiterature and History
(Junior High)
Ms. Caitlin Carciere
Ms. Caitlin Carciere
8th Grade HomeroomLiterature and History
(Junior High)
My Teaching Philosophy
I believe students learn best when actively engaged with curriculum through a variety of group, individual and project based learning.
Why SVES?
I love the sense of the community at St. Vincent’s. I love that the faculty, parents and students all work together as a team.
I Remember...
My 8th grade US History teacher, Mr. Van Atta started my love and interest for US HIstory. He was really loud and did voices for all the important historical figures we studied.
Education
- California Single Subject, Social Studies, Teaching Credential, Dominican University
- Bachelor of Arts, History, Dominican University
Advanced Math Grade 8
Dr. John Svitak
Dr. John Svitak
Advanced Math Grade 8My Teaching Philosophy
First, I want to convey my enthusiasm for the subject and my excitement about learning in general. If I am not excited, they’re not excited. Second is listening and knowing my students. They need to be engaged in learning and that can only happen if we are working together.
Why SVES?
It’s great to see that energy and enthusiasm of the kids. It’s infectious and I feel rejuvenated.
I Remember...
Collecting tree leaves for 8th grade science in the autumn with our teacher, Mr. Moses rekindled my love of science. It was not just collecting and classifying leaves but also looking at the soil and proximity to streams and other trees that awoke in me a deeper perception of the multidimensionality and interconnectedness of the world.
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy, Physics, University of Oregon
- Master of Science, University of Oregon
- Bachelor of Arts, Chemistry and Mathematics/Minor, Philosophy, Rutgers University
Cleary Care DirectorInstructional Assistant Mrs. Dolores Cuneo
Mrs. Dolores Cuneo
Cleary Care DirectorInstructional Assistant
My Teaching Philosophy
First we work, then we play!
Why SVES?
I love the family and community feeling. This is my fourth year working full time at SVES. My two daughters attended SVES and SVHS.
I Remember...
When I attended Catholic grade school in San Francisco, I played on the 4th grade kickball team. I still love to watch the kids here play kickball.
Education
- Masters, Computer Science, California State University, Sacramento
- Bachelor of Science, Computer Science, California State University, Sacramento
World Language Spanish(Grade 7-8) Dr. Adriana Rios
Dr. Adriana Rios
World Language Spanish(Grade 7-8)
My Teaching Philosophy
I have been teaching Spanish since 2004. My philosophy as a teacher is to help my students learn Spanish in a pleasant and interactive way and also to be their guide and mentor in their own human development in order to strengthen their education, their personal foundation, and their life coping skills to succeed.
Why SVES?
I am a very proud teacher and a parent of two students currently enrolled at St. Vincent High School. The school offers the greatest environment and curriculum for our children in preparation for their future. The quality of the staff members and the families make the school stand out as one the best in our community.
I Remember...
I remember studying in a school with nuns. My first grade teacher was Sister Gabriel García Márquez, a very famous writer, a novelist, and the winner of the literature Nobel award in 1982. She had a great impact on my education during my years in elementary school. I also remember being involved with all the dance performances that the school offered.
Education
- University of Carabobo/Venezula, Medical Doctor, Family Practice
Accrediation
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