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Academic Philosophy and Curriculum

Christ-Centered

As children of God, we know and recognize that the Word of God is relevant to every aspect of life. Our teachers are trained in contemporary educational practices to teach a modern curriculum while integrating God's Word into all disciplines of the curriculum.

Multi-Age

At St. John our students benefit in many ways from being part of a multi-age classroom. The multi-age philosophy is represented through various curriculums that are taught with the grades combined. The multi-age classroom:

  • Encourages children to learn cooperatively rather than competitively.
  • Provides a setting that is student-centered and rich in diversity.
  • Allows for peer teaching and flexible learning opportunities. (Children can find satisfaction in their accomplishments as well as in their peers.)
  • More closely resembles real life situations and encourages children to develop their own expertise while becoming skilled nurturers. (Older students often assume the role of more knowledgeable, experienced, and responsible learners. In that role, they are continually reinforcing their knowledge while being challenged to advance to a new level. Younger children in a mixed age group have opportunities to learn from their older peers and to teach their “elders.”)
  • Allows students who remain in the same class for two or more years to benefit greatly from being with a teacher who knows each child's learning style, strengths, and weaknesses.
  • Enables students who are working at their grade level to be challenged by being included in a class above their grade level.

Multiple Intelligences

As the educators at St. John create their lesson plans, instruct, and assess students' abilities, they make sure that they incorporate the use of multiple intelligences including: verbal linguistic, musical rhythmic, logical mathematical, visual spatial, bodily kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal. When applicable, teachers will teach with a thematic and integrated curriculum.

The principles of education at St. John Lutheran School were developed through a study of educational best practices understood in the light of Christian belief. By combining time-tested core principles together with up-to-date teaching practices, we offer a quality Christian education to our children.

Performance-Based Assessment

Because all students learn differently, students are assessed using multiple means, other than just paper and pencil tests. Some examples of these alternative assessments may include student demonstrations, writing projects, drawing or building projects, developing portfolios, and giving oral presentations.

Technology

Just as the role of computers has changed life in the workplace, computers have also changed life in schools. Technology has now become as much of an essential tool for learning as paper, pencils, and textbooks have been in the past. Chalkboards of the past are now interactive “CleverTouch” screens connected to the internet. As age-appropriate, our classrooms are set up to provide one-to-one technology with newer computers, Chromebooks, up-to-date programs, and limited and controlled internet connections. Perhaps more importantly, students are also taught to be discerning with information and data found on the internet.

Parental Involvement

Parents and caregivers are the most influential people in a child's life. We offer a variety of opportunities for parents and caregivers to volunteer both in and outside of their child's classroom.

Family Environment

Children learn best when they feel that they are loved, safe, and accepted. For this reason, we value the family-like atmosphere that we have within the classrooms and throughout the school here at St. John. Not only do we have the students gather for activities, but we also encourage parents and families to be active and involved in the school, church, and other various activities.

Differentiated Instruction

Teachers at St. John differentiate their instruction to ensure that what students learn, how they learn, and how they demonstrate that knowledge is a match for their readiness level, interests, and preferred style of learning.

Contact IconCall: 847-362-4424
Fax: 847-367-9858

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM

Map Icon501 West Park Ave
Libertyville, IL 60048
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On the corner of 176 and Garfield.