Lower School
Knowledge and Character
The Lower School years are a time of tremendous academic and personal growth. As students become more independent learners, they strengthen core academic skills, develop critical thinking, and gain the confidence to apply their learning both in the classroom and beyond. Guided by caring teachers who know each child holistically, students grow in knowledge, character, and faith as they are challenged to reach their full potential.
OMC’s Lower School serves students in grades 1–4.
Lower School Program
Learn more about OMC’s academic program for Grades 1–4 and how we develop strong learning habits. OMC follows the Archdiocese of Philadelphia curriculum, providing a strong foundation for every child.
Math
Students build a strong mathematical foundation by developing fluency in number sense, operations, multiplication, division, fractions, geometry, measurement, and data analysis. As they progress through each grade, they strengthen problem-solving skills and apply mathematical thinking to increasingly complex concepts and real-world situations.
ELA
Students strengthen their reading, writing, and communication skills through engaging literature, purposeful writing, and thoughtful discussion. Across the Lower School years, they learn to analyze texts, express ideas clearly, conduct research, and write with increasing organization, creativity, and purpose.
Religion
Students deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith through prayer, monthly Mass, Scripture, the sacraments, the liturgical year, and the lives of the Saints. As they grow, they learn to apply Christ’s teachings and the Gospel’s values to their relationships, decisions, and everyday lives.
Spanish
Students build on their foundational Spanish skills through reading, writing, conversation, and interactive learning experiences. As their confidence grows, they expand their vocabulary and strengthen their ability to communicate in Spanish.
Music
Students strengthen their musical literacy through singing, movement, instrument play, and ensemble performance. As they learn to read music, explore rhythm, pitch, composition, and musical vocabulary, they develop confidence, creativity, and a lasting appreciation for music.
Science
Students investigate the natural world through hands-on exploration, observation, experimentation, and scientific inquiry. From life science and ecosystems to Earth science, the solar system, engineering design, energy, and electricity, students develop the critical thinking skills that inspire lifelong curiosity.
Social Studies
Students explore history, geography, government, civics, economics, and cultures around the world while deepening their understanding of their communities. Through meaningful lessons and discussion, they learn how people, places, and ideas shape societies and how to be informed, responsible citizens.
STREAM
Students explore innovation through hands-on projects that develop creativity, engineering, problem-solving, and computational thinking. From engineering challenges like Egg Drop and Pinwheel Planning to coding, keyboarding, Microsoft Office, and digital citizenship, students gain the skills to confidently navigate an increasingly digital world.
Art
Students develop creativity and artistic confidence while exploring drawing, painting, sculpture, and three-dimensional design. Through a variety of techniques and materials, they strengthen artistic skills while learning the principles and possibilities of visual art.
Physical Education
Students participate in a variety of individual and team activities that develop physical fitness, coordination, and athletic skills. Through friendly competition and teamwork, they learn perseverance, sportsmanship, and the importance of leading an active lifestyle.
Learning Support
In Grades 1 and 2, classroom teacher assistants provide an additional layer of individualized support, while students in all Lower School grades have access to targeted academic interventions and enrichment opportunities. OMC offers a variety of academic support services to help students strengthen foundational skills, build confidence, and reach their individual potential.
- Reading intervention
- Math intervention
- Speech and language services
- School counseling
- School psychology services
- Seasonal homework support through the Mount St. Joseph Academy Education Team
- Summer tutoring opportunities (offered as available)
Many specialized services are provided in-house in partnership with trusted educational organizations, including CORA Services and Catapult Learning.
Enrichment Opportunities
Learning extends well beyond the classroom through a variety of programs that encourage students to discover new interests, strengthen their talents, and connect with the world around them.
- Advanced Math (Grades 4+)
- Band (Grades 4+)
- Connelly Foundation Access Program field trips
- EcoPhilly education program (CARES)
- Field trips and special projects
We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a welcoming and supportive community here at OMC. We’ve watched our children grow academically, socially, and personally and are grateful for our experience here. We hope to see the school continue to flourish in the years to come.
– D. Ross, Parent of two OMC Students