MISSION STATEMENT- The faculty and staff of Saint Clare School believe that every aspect of life is important; spiritual, physical, intellectual and emotional. We believe that every child is unique and valuable, because their life comes from God. We believe in the importance of improving the quality of life for everyone, everywhere.
It is our belief that if we have helped a child to become more human, non-racist, more able to believe in the ultimate value of life, more helpful – then we have prepared them for life.
OUR PHILOSOPHY- We believe in developing the five aspects of the nature of the student:
Intellectual | Personal | Social | Physical | Affective
Nature of the Student - Intellectual
In guiding the intellectual development of students, we endeavor to encourage students to develop to their greatest potential, believing that each student has strengths that when explored can spark learning success. Our commitment is to a learning environment which encourages academic excellence and develops an inquisitive mind which meets individual needs. Promoting the development of the whole child insures that all students enjoy some degree of success. Vital to this success is a classroom atmosphere where students are encouraged to express themselves, and teacher-led instruction builds on prior knowledge. A variety of developmentally appropriate teaching techniques and materials unlocks learning strengths. Recognizing the potential of each child, we are dedicated to reaching all students, regardless of learning modalities. As stated in Teach Them-Statement on Catholic Schools, “teachers implement methodologies which are responsive to the individual needs of students”.
Nature of the Student - Personal
In guiding the personal development of our students, we endeavor to form within them positive mental attitudes towards self, others and the world in which they live. Acceptance of each child as unique, with different inborn characteristics, temperament and potential, and respect for the dignity of each student is paramount to personal development. We focus on the strengths of each individual, instilling a level of confidence and determination, continually striving towards self actualization. Encouraging high standards and fostering independence contribute to the students’ growth toward maturity.
Nature of the Student - Social
In guiding the social development of our students, we endeavor to instill the acceptance of ourselves as individuals who make a unique and important contribution to this world, as well as to recognize the uniqueness of those around us. It is the school’s responsibility to guide students not only in academic skills, but also in the necessary life skills for living and working within society - such as honesty, cooperation, pride, respect and tolerance. We must prepare youngsters for life, teaching them standards of conduct and holding them accountable for appropriate behavior.
Nature of the Student- Physical
In guiding the
physical education of students, we endeavor to refine human motor
performance, as well as the development of healthy, vigorous
students who possess creativity, problem-solving abilities,
initiative, leadership, self-confidence, a positive self-image and
an ability to become fit in our world.
Personal commitment to follow the Fifth Commandment, by caring for
their lives and the lives of others, should reflect students’
respect for God’s gift of life. Time and teacher-directed discussion
must be devoted to respect for the human body and for God’s gift of
sexuality, healthful habits, the effects of substance abuse and
violence in our society.
Nature of the Student- Affective
In guiding the spiritual growth and formation of students, we endeavor to assist them in the development of a personal relationship with the Lord which will influence life choices and decisions for themselves and others.
To know that religion is not something isolated and apart from everyday life, but woven into everything we do, say or feel is of primary concern. As stated in To Teach as Jesus Did, “Participation together in the liturgy and in paraliturgical activities and spiritual exercises can effectively foster community among students and faculty”. Children must understand that as members of the Church community, we are active witnesses whose morality is built upon the Ten Commandments and expressed in the Beatitudes. Growing in awareness that they are important to God’s plan, students serve others by responding in faith, hope and love to God, family members, neighbors and the world.
THE PURPOSE OF THE SCHOOL- We endeavor to create believers in the Gospel values of Jesus Christ. We seek to assist them by facilitating spiritual, moral, social, intellectual and physical growth, always being aware that each child is a unique creation of God with abilities to be developed and shared. Knowledge of Catholic doctrine is acquired in an environment where students and staff emulate Jesus through their words and actions, benefiting the school, the parish, the community, and the world.
