Skip Navigation LinksSt. Brendan School > chapter-5-ACADEMICS > section-5-01-Curriculum

​​​​​​​​​​The curriculum at St. Brendan School integrates the mission of Christ to teach the Gospel message to all. The archbishop and archdiocese are committed to providing strong academic experiences for students in school communities that reflect two purposes: the teaching mission of the Church and the need to educate youth for life in a way that relies on academic skills and requires sound preparation.

The curriculum consists of all learning experiences that are planned and organized under the principal's leadership, implementing the school's educational goals in a manner that reflects a commitment to Catholic teachings. The curriculum is consistent with the philosophy of the school, educational policies of the archdiocese, and requirements of the appropriate sections of the California Education Code. The commitment to ongoing academic excellence, personal growth, leadership, and service as components of Catholic identity extends to all aspects of the academic program.

Saint Brendan School curriculum is planned to meet these overall objectives and the particular needs of our school community. The Department of Catholic Schools provides support for curriculum matters. The pastor and principal consult on these matters. The principal reserves responsibility for curriculum matters.

Transitional Kindergarten

The transitional kindergarten program will use a unique, specialized curriculum based on ADLA TK and California standards. The social, emotional, and academic skills children learn in transitional kindergarten will help them to succeed in kindergarten, become leaders in the classroom, and confidently navigate the school day routine.

Kindergarten – 3rd Grade

Students who are accepted into Kindergarten at St. Brendan School begin an exciting journey of discovery where the joy of learning is fostered, new talents and skills are nurtured, and the sense of belonging to a spiritual community is established.  We strive to provide a well-rounded curriculum where children truly develop their spirit, heart, mind and body. The primary grades are dedicated to giving our students the tools necessary to create lifelong learners.  Students master basic skills and learn to read, write and speak effectively.  Our advanced math program encourages students to think analytically, and we integrate technology to enhance the learning experience.  Students in the primary grades begin to understand the importance of sharing the Gospel Spirit with others.  They are encouraged to respond to global and community needs through acts of service.  Respect for others and diversity begins in the primary grades and is intrinsic to the culture of St. Brendan School.

Intermediate 4th - 5th Grades

4th through 5th grade are a time to build upon the core curriculum established during the primary grades and a time to prepare our students for middle school.  During the intermediate years, our students transition from small group instruction to a more student-centered, discussion-based instruction.  Students learn to become more independent thinkers and take ownership of their learning.  These two years are essential in preparing our students not only for middle school, but also the remainder of their academic journey.  

Middle School

The middle school grades at St. Brendan School are dedicated to preparing students to be responsible citizens of the world and lifelong learners.  In the middle school grades, the classes are departmentalized with a designated homeroom, math, language arts, science, and history teacher who work in collaboration with students to develop critical thinking skills, faith-based community involvement and academic excellence. 

Physical Education (P.E.) ​​Program

All students participate in at least one period of P.E. per week.  Boys and girls must wear the designated P.E. uniform to school on P.E. days.  However, when students attend Mass, they must wear formal school uniform, not P.E. uniform.​ (as outlined in section 2-14).

​​​Homework and Class Assignments

A student will benefit if parents can help foster systematic study habits in their children.  Please consider the following for your students' homework:
  • Adequate study space and lighting
  • Proper environment free from distractions, particularly radio and TV
  • A definite place and time for daily independent study​

Homework is assigned to reinforce material already taught and to foster habits of independent study.  Time allotments are as follows:
  • Kindergarten: 1/2 hours
  • ​1st - 2nd Grade: Approximately 1 hour
  • 3rd - 5th Grade: Approximately 2 hours
  • 6th - 8th Grade: Approximately 2-3 hours​​

​St. Brendan School prides itself on a history of producing global citizens, and successful students who are prepared to go out into the world and make a positive impact on the local and global community.