At ECS our Junior High program is designed to prepare students for success in high school and byond. As students grow in independence and responsibility, they are challenged academically while continuing to develop spiritually, socially and emotionally. Our teachers foster a culture of high expectations, encouraging students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, effective and respectful communicators, and faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
Religion – Faith remains at the center of everything we do. Students deepen their understanding of Scripture, Catholic teaching, prayer, vocations and the sacraments through daily Religious instruction, Education in Virtue© and opportunities for both Lectio and Visio Divina. Students are formed to not only learn about their faith but to live it out through service, virtue, and authentic Christian leadership.
English Language Arts – Students strengthen their reading, writng, speaking, listening, grammar, vocabulary, and research skills while learning ot think critically, communicate clearly and engage thoughtfully with a variety of literature and informational texts.
Mathematics – Students develop conceptual understanding, mathematical reasoning, procedural fluency, and real-world problem-solving skills. Advanced learners have opportunities to accelerate their studies in Math, including enrollment in Honors Algebra I at Central Catholic High School during 8th grade, for qualifying students.
Science – Students investigate God’s creation through inquiry, experimentation, engineering design, laboratory experiences, and scientific reasoning. Rather than General Science, our Junior High curriculum introduces students to foundational concepts in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, while building upon understanding of life, physical and earth sciences. We aim to provide students this broad exposure to strengthen their analytical skills to best prepare them for success in high school science coursework.
Social Studies – Students examine history, geography, civics, economics and cultures while developing informed perspectives on the world around them. Coursework includes preparation for the Illinois Constitution exam and emphasizes responsible and virtuous citizenship, historical perspectives, and civic responsibility.
Academic Skills & Study Habits – Junior High is intentionally designed to prepare students for the expectations and demands of high school. Across all subject areas, students develop organization, note-taking, learn study strategies, time management, personal responsibility, collaboration, and more. These habits, combined with rigorous academic expectations, help students to become confident, independent learners.
Specials – Junior High students enjoy a wide variety of enrichment opportunities throughout the school year. Courses for all students include Art, Music, STEM, Spanish Physical Education, Health, Education in Virtue© and Life Skills. General Music explores music history and appreciation, digital music production, and an introduction to guitar, using classroom sets of acoustic guitars. PE and Spanish are offered several times each week for an ongoing wellness and linguistic experience. Other enrichment courses are experienced through six-week rotations, allowing students a chance to dig in to a variety of interests and ways to develop new skills, and discover new and hidden, God-given gifts.
Students also participate in a daily Study HAll, providing dedicated time to develop organizational habits, complete assignments, seek extra academic support or challenge/stretch opportunities, and strengthen independent learning skills.
Band and Choir continue to be offered during the school day at the Junior High level, allowing students to participate in one – or both – all while still taking advantage of athletics and any of our other many extracurricular opportunities (Chess, Speech, and more). These programs provide meaningful opportunities to grow in friendships, collaboration, teamwork, and leadership while sharing their talents through performances throughout the year.