Academic Programs

Art/Languages/Music
Immersion in the arts and languages is integral to the Saint Gregory’s experience.

Art
Art is enjoyed by all students, and every child is challenged to be imaginative and to think through his or her idea. Across the board, drawing is the “vocabulary” of art and many projects begin with a drawing. The thought process involved in making a piece of art varies at each developmental level and from project to project. The basic elements of art and the principles of design are discovered and put to use on a regular basis in the art studio. The students view art from a variety of artists for inspiration. Kindergarten students look at the work of Paul Klee when designing a “plate of their favorite food,” while the 6th graders look at photographs of the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial by Maya Lin when learning about one-point perspective. Themes and materials vary at each grade level, as well. The pre-kindergarten students work in crayons and 8th graders work in mixed media. A shape in 1st grade becomes an action figure in 7th grade. Drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture are a few of the ways students express themselves. The wonderful process of looking, learning and creating is ongoing in the art room. Displays of artwork throughout the School celebrate the students’ creativity and reinforce the good work they have accomplished.

French
In pre-kindergarten, students are introduced to the French language, including the alphabet, numbers, and simple phrases. French rhymes, expressions, poems and songs are added in the 1st grade, reading and writing in 3rd grade, and competency in the language develops in ensuing years. The French culture comes to life in the classroom over the years and culminates with the 8th grade trip to Montreal and Quebec.

Spanish
Spanish begins with the kindergarten class and continues through the 8th grade. In Lower School, students sing songs and do hands-on activities to help them learn about colors, numbers, feelings, and family members, just to name a few. In the Upper School, students learn about the Spanish language through a variety of vocabulary words, verb structures and grammar. Both culture and language are emphasized in the Spanish program.

Latin
In the 7th and 8th grades, the study of classical Latin is coordinated with the study of Ancient Rome and mythology. The students cover the basic elements of the language including vocabulary, declensions of nouns, and verb conjugations. The roots of modern languages are studied in depth, with a concentration on the foundations of English and the influence of the Romans on today’s world.

Music
In Music, students are provided with a hands-on musical experience that includes rhythm instruments for the youngest students, recorders in grade 3 through grade 6 and Choir and English Bell Choir in the upper grades. We also offer individual instrument lessons and band practice for the older boys. The students participate in concerts and programs throughout the year and are active and joyful participants in our monthly Mass.