Academics
Curriculum, Testing and Tutoring
Saint Isaac Jogues follows a course of academic
instruction prescribed by the Catholic Schools Office
of the Diocese of Joliet.
Methods of instruction include individual focus,
smaller groups and total class involvement, at the
teacher’s discretion, based on subject matter and
classes. In this way we can employ the most effective
methods – as needed – for the intellectual, emotional
and social advancement of all our students.
As much as possible, we strive for each Saint Isaac
Jogues student to work at his or her level of ability. To
promote positive self-image, we encourage children
to compete only with themselves in their class work,
as well as other areas.
In other words, don’t compare – simply do your
personal best.
In addition to study of the Catholic faith, Saint Isaac
Jogues’ core curriculum includes: art, language arts,
math, music, physical education, reading, science
and social studies. Instructors in our two computer
labs teach information technologies. Foreign language
study is included for grades 5-8.
Examinations include: teacher-developed tests, quizzes
from school textbooks, readiness tests and standardized
tests (including high school placement tests for 8th
grade students).
Diocesan standardized testing – each Fall – is
provided to students in grades three through seven.
Results, in December, are shared with parents.
Please note: Parents may be asked to obtain private
tutoring for a child who is having difficulty keeping up
with class work. (Tutoring is not the responsibility of
a teacher.)
Parent-Teacher Communications and Conferences
We encourage open, direct communication between
parents and teachers. Regular parent-teacher
conferences are held after the first grading period.
Dates will be posted in the school newsletter.
At any time of the year, parents with questions about
assignments, procedures or discipline should arrange
an appointment and discuss these issues with the
classroom teacher. To schedule a confidential meeting,
simply call the school office.
The Principal will meet with parents however we
encourage that questions and concerns be discussed
with the teacher first.
Report Cards and Interim Reports
Report cards are issued quarterly. Parents are asked
to sign the report card envelope and return it to school
(except in the fourth quarter).
Our grade scale is defined by the Catholic Schools
Office of the diocese. Honor roll status may be achieved
only in grades seven and eight. The customary A-B-C
system is used for grades 4-8. Grade 3 uses an alpha-
abbreviated system: “O” for outstanding, “VG” for
very good, etc. K-2 uses a separate system: “E” for
“exceeds expectations,” “M” for “meets expectations,”
and so on.
Progress reports are issued midway through a grading
period. They should be signed and returned to school
the next day.
For more details, please see your printed handbook.
Promotion and Retention
Generally, students who complete a grade-year’s work
to the extent of their ability will be promoted to the
next grade.
To retain a child at the same grade level for another
year, the teacher must demonstrate 1) retention is
warranted and 2) it will benefit the child. When it is
likely or certain a student will not be promoted, parents
will be notified and a written record kept on file.
Special Education Services
Saint Isaac Jogues has on staff a professional resource
teacher, speech pathologist, social worker and a
special education teacher. But we do not provide
comprehensive special education services.
Parents may request these services from the public
school district. For more information, please click here
or go to “Learning Resources” on this site.
Math Guidelines and Advanced Curriculum
Saint Isaac Jogues ascribes to the Illinois State
Standards for mathematics in grades K-7, pre-algebra
and algebra. Students who progress through our
advanced math curriculum will conclude with algebra
in 8th grade.
Beginning in the 2nd grade, students are evaluated
each spring for placement in the appropriate math
class the following school year. Criteria may include a
child’s report card grades, diocesan math scores,
proficiency exam scores and the teacher’s personal
recommendation.
As grade level increases, the criteria for advanced
math placement increase commensurately. Beginning
in sixth grade, students accepted in the advanced
program must complete a summer program prior to
the next school year.
For complete, grade by grade details, see your printed
handbook.