Mission Statement - Queen of Angels Catholic Parish Chicago



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Welcome from Queen of Angels School!

Thank you for your interest in Queen of Angels Catholic Elementary School. We understand the significance of making the right choice for your child’s education. We invite you to discover the rewarding experience of a Catholic School education at Queen of Angels School.

Child, teacher, parents and God are partners in every student’s education here. This partnership forms a powerful community united in the belief that Christian values and excellent academics will best prepare your child for the future. As their faith-based values take root they also grow their knowledge about the world and its people.

We reach out to you and your family to create an educational experience of the highest quality, centered on each child’s individual growth and fostered by an atmosphere of trust and cooperation. Student development through religious, academic and social education is the primary goal of our school.

We invite you to learn more about our school, its future and the difference that a Catholic education can make in the life of your child. This Parent Primer highlights the student, teacher and parent partnership in learning; it includes curriculum and Terra Nova scores by grade level, enrichment programs, extra-curricular activities and admissions requirements. If you have any questions or would like more information, visit our website, , or email us at principal@.

Come experience how an education at Queen of Angels can make a difference in your child’s life.

Respectfully,

Mrs. Julia Byrns Kelly, Principal

Reverend William J. O’Brien, Pastor

Mission Statement

The Queen of Angels Catholic School community, as part of Queen of Angels Parish, the Parishes of Lincoln Avenue, and the Archdiocese of Chicago, believe we are called to proclaim and witness to the Gospel. This will be realized through the complement of prayer, active participation in the Eucharist and service to each other and the community.

We further believe this call requires the formation of a faith-based educational community. We are challenged to accept our own uniqueness and that of our students.

In pursuit of academic excellence, we are committed to a challenging and well-rounded curriculum. We will celebrate our cultural diversity, interests and talents by offering a variety of educational and enrichment opportunities to meet the needs of all students for the twenty-first century. We firmly believe we are called to serve the Church by ensuring the Catholic presence in the academic world and by transmitting life-long Catholic values. As we achieve this goal, we are willing to respond to the unique needs of the people in our school and parish community.

Philosophy

“Queen of Angels School educates our students to have lifelong Christian values and academic skills that will prepare them for the 21st century.”

The goal of Queen of Angels School is the total development of each student through

Religious, academic, and social training. We enthusiastically embrace the gospel values and traditions of the Catholic faith and its reverence for sacred scripture. We strongly encourage in their pursuit of academic excellence. We believe that each child’s moral development must be guided by our example, an informed conscience and loving care.

We believe that each child learns in a unique, faith-based, supportive and interactive environment. Our faculty and administration and are convinced of the value of using positive approaches in the learning process and in student management. We recognize the ethnic diversity in our school population, and will strive to educate students to accept everyone regardless of race, color, or ethnicity.

We believe that the students, faculty, and parents are partners in learning. We recognize the students’ individuality in learning styles, and we address their various needs and strengths through our curriculum. The faculty will utilize a variety of current instructional methods to benefit the individual needs of the students and enable them to be successful members of society. Parents are the primary educators of their children, and we encourage them to continue in that role while they entrust their children to our school.

Queen of Angels School is an important and vital part of Queen of Angels Parish. Students should be made aware of the larger community of the parish and be encouraged to partake in its activities, both religious and social.

Catholic Identity

The school exists to serve the child. The love of Christ for each child is known, felt, and shown at Queen of Angels.

Queen of Angels School is witness to the presence of Christ in children. The school's teachers are strong showcases for Catholic teaching philosophy: each and every child is infinitely more important and significant than anything they will ever do. The warm and nurturing environment at Queen of Angels School embodies this belief.

The daily prayer and its focus on the liturgical cycle is a strong component of the Catholic identity at Queen of Angels. Decorations emphasizing the liturgical season dot our school walls. Hall Advent wreath and Lenten displays are also good reminders. The praise of God comes through Daily prayer and regular Mass attendance at Queen of Angels School. The student Masses are strengthened by a strong music component. Catholic education teaches our children how to praise God -- that is their universal vocation.

A Catholic education teaches children how to know, love, and serve God. That means revealing to the children the beauty, wonder, and mystery of God. Flowing from that revelation of God's love is our response that is embodied in praise and `love of neighbor, particularly the poor.

Educational Excellence

Queen of Angels offers programs for children from Preschool through 8th Grade. Our students develop sound academic skills, critical thinking skills and an ability to learn independently and cooperatively through a rich academic curriculum. Each day is designed to bring new excitement and opportunities to engage in meaningful learning. The school is bustling with activity—our students are lively, energetic and self-confident.

Curriculum Overview

Our academic strength focuses on an evolving and carefully articulated curriculum. Updated annually for the past 4 years, the curriculum begins with the Kindergarten program and continues to expand in each subject area as students advance in grade levels. A strong hands-on Math program, which begins in Kindergarten, provides the basis for abstract, higher-level thinking skills necessary in the upper grades. The Communication Arts/Literature (Reading, English, Phonics, and Spelling) curriculum is carefully selected to inspire young readers. Classes emphasize verbal and written skills through journaling, language experience stories, beginning research and creative story writing. All students are provided access to and instruction in the use of the school Library’s resources.

An in-depth Social Studies curriculum combines hands-on historical instruction with geography and an exploration of many world cultures. The program allows students to explore who they are and promotes an awareness of other societies, cultures and contemporary world realities. Science instruction is experiential and takes place in the regular classroom for all students. Our 6th, 7th and 8th grade students also meet weekly with our science specialist in the new Science Lab to reinforce and test concepts learned in the classroom.

The Loyola Press Religion program provides continuous learning from year to year and includes learning about church doctrine, Scripture, the church’s liturgy and prayer, feasts and seasons. The comprehensive program—classroom work, Scripture and liturgy, daily prayer service, community involvement (Adopt-A-Family during the holiday seasons), special activities (theatrical performances) and family discussions—work together to give children a well-rounded foundation for their adult faith.

For many of our students technology is or will become an everyday part of their lives. Students receive formal Computer instruction to familiarize them with the many ways in which technology can enrich their curriculum and to prepare them for the role evolving technology will play in their futures. All students (including Preschoolers) attend a computer class 1-2 times per week at our state-of-the art Computer Education Lab. Classrooms at all grade levels are equipped with Internet-ready computers.

All students participate in our Music, Library and Physical Education Programs at various levels appropriate to their age and grade at least once per week. Students are also introduced to art appreciation through participation in the “Art Lovers” program, one of the school’s Enrichment Programs.

Queen of Angels School recognizes the need to develop well-balanced children through a combination of quality academic learning and unique Enrichment Programs. Our students directly benefit from the school’s incorporation of educational programs from the Enrichment Programs into the curriculum. (Some after school enrichment programs require an additional fee.) In addition Extra Curricular Activities also provide students opportunities to enrich their educational experience at Queen of Angels.

The richness and exceptional quality of an education at Queen of Angels may also be demonstrated by the consistently above-average scoring by our students on the standardized Terra Nova tests and also in the placement of our students in some of the best area high schools.

Preschool

Queen of Angel’s Preschool is fully accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and offers programs that are designed to develop a solid foundation for social and academic skills for young children. Our program strives to attain the following goals:

• Meet each child’s needs in order to become a self confident, inquiring learner.

• Promote each child’s growth and well-being through the development of skills, social competence and positive self-image.

• Provide an atmosphere that encourages a love for learning.

• Provide a program that is supportive of the Preschooler's family and communicates effectively.

We believe that Preschoolers learn best by actively participating in an atmosphere designed for young children. Centers of learning and interest will draw children to create, investigate, and problem-solve in a safe, child-centered environment. A warm, cheerful atmosphere will encourage social interaction among children and caring adults. It will enhance the individual's self-concept and ability to get along with others.

Our program provides each child a variety of experiences to meet his/her needs. Activities are arranged for individual and group experiences as well as free choice play. Teachers work with children individually to develop specific needs and with groups to promote social interaction and negotiating skills. Activities are arranged in interest-activity centers.

1. Art-Writing

2. Computer

3. Blocks and Building

4. Housekeeping

5. Manipulatives

6. Library

7. Sand-Water

8. Outdoor/Indoor Gross Motor Skills

Preschoolers have large motor experiences each day. We go outdoors as often as possible and use our Indoor Motor Skills Area when the weather does not cooperate. We have a Gym Class with the school Physical Education teacher once a week.

Preschoolers are also introduced to liberal arts through regular art and music activities in the classroom and a weekly music class with the school’s music teacher. To further enhance their fine arts experience, preschoolers may also look forward to participating in the Art Lovers program.

Preschoolers also visit the Computer Lab once a week.

Enrollment. A child may begin Preschool if she or he has celebrated their third birthday by September 1st of the year she or he is beginning school and can care for her or his personal and bathroom needs.

Preschool classes are organized in multi-age groups of 3, 4, and 5 year olds. We believe that the older children gain confidence by showing the younger children routines and sharing information. The younger children's curiosity and wonder about the classroom and school motivate older preschoolers to look at things in new ways.

Full day and half-day sessions are available:

• Full-day session - Monday through Friday, 8:10 am–2:40 p.m. (lunch at 11:00 a.m.)

• Half-day morning session -- Monday through Friday, 8:10 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

• Half-day afternoon session – Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon, 12:00 p.m. – 2:40 p.m.

• Extended care is also available

Kindergarten

In Kindergarten children are encouraged to grow and see their own beauty and abilities. Children are successful and their self-esteem flourishes through an age appropriate Kindergarten program that stresses developmental readiness.

Language Arts. A child’s reading abilities emerge in Kindergarten establishing the foundation necessary to develop each child into a successful reader. The children develop phonemic awareness and phonics skills through songs, rhymes and flannel board stories. A phonics workbook is used to reinforce the letters and letter sounds. Big Books and Read Aloud Books are used to develop concepts of print and comprehension skills. Activities that involve oral language, critical thinking and writing are integral.

Handwriting. D’Nealian handwriting is introduced. The transition from D’Nealian manuscript to cursive is easier and less stressful to children than traditional handwriting programs. D’Nealian letters are slanted from the beginning and the basic rhythm of forming the letters is securely established by the time children are introduced to cursive writing.

Science. The Harcourt "hands on" science program develops essential skills that form the basis for lifelong learning and investigation of the natural world. Observation, comparison, classifying, gathering and recording data, measuring, predicting, hypothesizing, and experimenting are some of the process skills used.

Mathematics. The Silver Burdett Ginn Mathematics program helps students develop a math skills foundation they need to succeed in school and for use in their lifetime. The children explore concepts using manipulatives then practice and apply the skills that reinforce those concepts through problem-solving and hands-on activities. The children also take part in the Math Their Way program (patterning, sorting, counting, odd/even numbers, money recognition, graphing, and place value). Manipulatives are often used when adding numbers up to 10.

Social Studies. This program explores the children’s curiosity about the world; it expands their knowledge of the world around them and the world at large. “Who We Are”, “Communities”, “Work”, “Our Earth”, “USA”, and “Family Stories” are the units covered.

Religion. Religion opens children to God’s love through a discovery of the good things God has placed in their world. They reflect on God’s goodness in creation, his presence in their lives, in the wonder of their own unique selves, and in the love of the people around them. Kindergarteners celebrate religious feast days and attend all school liturgies with their fifth grade “buddies”.

Enrichment. The children also participate in numerous art activities in the classroom and in the Art Lovers program. They attend Physical Education, Music, Library and Computer classes each week.

1st Grade

The first grade program incorporates elements from the school core curriculum along with many other topics, themes and skills-building opportunities that may arise during the school year. As in all learning experiences we try to make connections across the curriculum and relate what students learn to our everyday lives making their learning experience more meaningful. In all subject areas, use of various modalities—auditory, visual, tactile and kinesthetic—is included to provide an optimum experience for all types of learners. Topics and skills covered during the first grade include:

Communication Arts. The Scott Foresman reading books, World of Language and the Intensive Phonics Program are used to explore children’s Literature and to develop the students’ spelling, writing (sentences and paragraphs), listening and speaking skills through stories and journaling.

Handwriting. D’Nealian handwriting skills continue to develop.

Mathematics. Silver Burdett Ginn, patterns, graphs, story problems, beginning addition/subtraction, place value, time, money, fractions, odd/even, measuring, probability, solid shapes, fact families, counting by 2’s, 5’s and 10’s, beginning algebra.

Religion. Loyola Press’ Christ Our Life, Family Life Supplement—Benziger, daily prayers, weekly and monthly Mass attendance.

Science. The McGraw-Hill 2000 Series explores Science Skills, the five Senses, plants & animals, our Earth, the weather and seasons, matter, energy and forces.

Social Studies. Students learn about communities and are introduced to government, economics, our country’s history and holidays. Students also begin developing map skills.

Enrichment. The children also participate in numerous art activities in the classroom and in the Art Lovers program. They attend Physical Education, Music, Library and Computer classes each week.

2nd Grade

In second grade we believe in using positive approaches to the learning process and in student management to create a nurturing environment that challenges students, builds self-confidence and fosters independence. Topics and skills covered during the second grade include:

Communication Arts. Scott Foresman Reading books—New Beginning and My Time to Shine, Silver Burdett Ginn English book—World of Language. Our reading series uses the Intensive Phonics program and a built-in phonics series with weekly stories to build skills. Word analysis is done through English skills and vocabulary. Reading strategies are also taught. Many different genres—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, folklore—are emphasized. Listening and speaking skills are practiced throughout language arts.

Handwriting. D’Nealian style manuscript is reviewed and practiced.

Mathematics. We build a strong foundation with basic facts and move into regrouping in addition and subtraction. Different areas of math, such as time, money, measurement, fractions, problem solving and place value, are also covered. Students explore all concepts using manipulatives. (Silver Burdett Ginn - The Path to Success).

Religion. Students are prepared to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion. Students also learn the parts of the mass and their place in it. Four community service projects are also undertaken throughout the year.

Science. The scientific information learned in the first grade is the basis upon which second graders study parts of life science, physical science, earth science and health. Experiments coincide with each area of study.

Social Studies. Students learn about communities and are introduced to government, economics, our country’s history and holidays. Students also begin developing map skills.

Spelling. Each spelling unit coincides with a chapter in reading and emphasizes words that are similar; expands on sentence structure, grammar and writing skills learned in the first grade.

Enrichment. Students’ classroom art activities allow them to express their creativity through a variety of mediums. They also participate in the Art Lovers program and attend Physical Education, Music, Library and Computer classes each week.

3rd Grade

In third grade we also strive to create a nurturing environment that challenges, builds self-confidence and fosters independence. Topics and skills covered during the third grade include:

Communication Arts. Our goal is to speak and write using correct and interesting sentences. We work on the use of proper grammatical form, study types and parts of sentences, parts of speech and punctuation. Thoughts are expressed through written work. Fluency and a love of reading are the primary goals of our Reading program. The Intensive Phonics Program is used, along with vocabulary development and teaching comprehension skills. The 2nd graders do a lot of reading! (Scott Foresman Reading books—Imagine That! and Picture This! Silver Burdett Ginn English book—World of Language).

Handwriting. We review and practice D’Nealian style manuscript and cursive handwriting.

Mathematics. We review addition and subtraction with regrouping. We work on place values to 100,000. Our most important new work is multiplication and division. Other topics include: time, money, measurement, fractions, problem solving, estimating (rounding) and an understanding of mathematical processes. Manipulatives are used when appropriate. Problem solving is emphasized in all areas.

Religion. The following topics are covered: faith; Jesus—a part of our life; God’s greatness and goodness; God’s love, and Jesus leading us to heaven.

Science. The science topics explored include the Scientific Method, life science (plants and animals), earth science (weather, climate, water cycle, and the solar system), and physical science (emphasizing matter, heat, light, forces and motion).

Social Studies. Students learn about communities from several viewpoints and further their development in map skills.

Enrichment. The students’ art activities in the classroom allow them to express their creativity through a variety of mediums. They also participate in the Art Lovers program and attend Physical Education, Music, Library and Computer classes each week.

4th and 5th Grades

Your child is now in the intermediate grades. There are many wonderful activities that occur in 4th and 5th grade. Topics and skills covered during the fourth and fifth grade include:

Communication Arts. (Scott Foresman Reading/Spelling books and Silver Burdett Ginn English book). In Reading, students focus their skill lessons on the elements of reading and literature. The students focus on word study, phonics, spelling, speaking and listening skills. Literature and monthly reading projects are used to develop reading interest and independent reading skills. In English, students work on parts of speech, punctuation and grammar. Students also use dictionaries, thesaurus, encyclopedias, and technology to enhance their writing skills.

Handwriting/Spelling. Spelling and correct letter formation is emphasized across the curriculum.

Mathematics. The emphasis is on addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers. Students learn to use these four operations with fractions. All skills are explored, practiced and applied.

Religion. The Bible, text and Family Life Series are the core of the Religion program. Emphasis will be on Bible study, the Commandments, Beatitudes, Liturgy and Eucharistic celebrations.

Science. Topics explored include physical science, life science and earth science. Field trips and visits to the school’s Science Lab reinforce topics introduced in the classroom.

Social Studies. Students learn about history (from the Ice Age to the present), geography and the current make up of the five regions of the United States. Students practice geography and citizenship skills through their studies. A variety of vocabulary, research and Internet projects are used to enhance this program.

Enrichment. The students’ art activities in the classroom allow them to express their creativity through a variety of mediums. They also participate in the Art Lovers program and attend Physical Education, Music, Library and Computer classes each week.

6th, 7th and 8th Grades

The Queen of Angels Middle School Staff is dedicated to providing an effective and challenging learning experience to our students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. Among the goals is to provide an atmosphere where each student can maintain a positive attitude towards school and towards him or herself. As part of our commitment to excellence, we work to develop an atmosphere where each student can also express his or her individuality. By providing a comfortable and thought-provoking setting, our middle school students strive to reach their full potential as productive, competent, and healthful young adults. The Middle School Staff consistently promotes new and successful learning experiences through a balanced curriculum and interactive interdisciplinary studies. We also look to build self-esteem and individual confidence in each student, helping to foster independent minds capable of meeting goals through the use of disciplined study and work habits. Topics and skills are drawn from the school’s core curriculum, including the following:

Communication Arts. The textbook for 6th Graders is World of Language, Silver, Burdett, and Ginn. This program focuses on essential language skills such as listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the mechanics of grammar, as well as spelling and vocabulary. In the 7th and 8th Grades, the Scott Foresman program and practice books are used to cover the elements of literature, vocabulary, comprehension and cultural literacy, and novel reading. The Glencoe Literature series introduces students to Shakespeare. The Silver Burdett Ginn World of Language series is used to learn and develop skills in the following areas: analogies, creative writing, expository writing, grammar, and speech/oral presentation.

Math. The 6th Grade Math program uses Mathematics - The Path to Math Success, Silver, Burdett, and Ginn. The 7th Grade Math program uses Mathematics – Applications and Connections. The 8th Grade Math program uses Pre-Algebra – An Integrated Transition to Algebra & Geometry and Algebra I, Glencoe/McGraw Hill.

Religion. The 6th Grade Religion program is focused on the study of the Old Testament. In Units 1 and 2, students are taught the value of reading the Old Testament and are encouraged to develop an attitude of trust and an awareness of God’s plan in their lives and in the world around them. In Unit 3, students are made aware of God’s powerful presence among his people through the history of the Israelites. In Unit 4, students learn how God led, protected, and united his people through the judges and kings. Unit 5 introduces students to the role of the prophets and to their messages.

Religion. In 7th Grade, the program revolves around the New Testament and outlines Matthew, Mark and Luke, the Beatitudes, and the Commandments. Time is spent on the life of Jesus, both historically and symbolically. In 8th Grade, the program explores the Church as an institution and as a living body. John’s gospel, the Acts of the Apostles and other readings in the New Testament are discussed.

Science. The main emphasis of 6th Grade Science is biology, beginning with cell structure and cell reproduction. In the second half of the year, the students move into earth science, the study of matter and energy, force and machines; and lastly, astronomy. In 7th Grade, the students focus on biology, environmental studies, and the human body. Physical Science is taught to the 8th Graders. Topics include atomic structure, waves and sound, mirrors and lenses, and magnetism.

Social Studies & History. Sixth graders study World History, geography, history of cultures, individual & group projects, book reports. Seventh graders complete studies in American History from Native Americans to the Civil War covering development of the Colonies, American Revolution, expansion and industrialization. Focused studies include conducting a mock trial of British soldiers from the Boston Massacre. Eighth graders continue study in American History from Civil War through modern times, explore the role of slavery in U.S. history, use works of literature as resource materials, increase knowledge of the Constitution through Law Related Education, and economics education in the form of product research leading up to the Stock Market Game. During the fourth quarter students receive workbooks and review materials in preparation for the Constitution Test in the spring.

In addition students have weekly Current Events assignments, participate in a “Geography Bee” authorized by The National Geographic Society, and go on educationally based field trips.

Enrichment. The students’ art activities in the classroom allow them to express their creativity through a variety of mediums. They also participate in the Art Lovers program and attend Physical Education, Music, Library and Computer classes each week.

Accelerated Reader

This program is designed to encourage children in grades 1 through 8 to expand and further develop their reading skills. Students experience pre-qualified books on their own for enjoyment, understanding and information. For the Program, nearly 1,000, wide-ranging book titles are available at all reading levels to students—from beginning readers to challenging classics for junior high students. Books are assigned point values based on difficulty level and length. Upon completion readers take the computerized Accelerated Reader Quiz at school and are awarded points for successfully passing. Students receive recognition for achieving different point totals and levels.

Art Lovers

Exposure to art greatly enriches our children. Since 1990 a dedicated group of parent volunteers have been introducing works of art to our students in the classroom. Each month parent volunteers display and discuss a print in each classroom reviewing the work, subject matter, artist, technique, and the relevant artistic period. Students then create art projects relating to the featured work of art. The school’s Art Lovers program is affiliated with the Art Institute of Chicago. Our parent volunteers participate in the Art Institute’s semi-annual “Art Volunteers in the Classroom” seminars where they review art topics and art presentation teaching packets.

Computers and Technology

To live, learn, and work successfully in an increasingly complex and information-rich society, students must be able to use technology effectively. The Computer program adheres to National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) for students of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). NETS provides a set of grade level profiles and performance indicators describing the technology that students should master by the completion of their grade level. These profiles and standards provide a framework for preparing students to be lifelong learners who make informed decisions about the role of technology in their lives. These standards require students to be proficient in the following areas of technology:

• Basic operations and concepts.

• Understanding the social, ethical and human issues related to technology.

• Utilizing productivity tools to enhance learning and promote creativity.

• Utilizing technology as a communication tool, a research tool, and a problem solving and decision making tool.

The school’s state-of-the-art Computer Lab provides the ideal setting for students to become capable and informed technology users as this program readies them for an increasingly technological and information-based world.

Foreign Language

Elective, after-school Spanish language classes are offered to our 1st through 8th grade students for an additional fee.

Music

The Orff-Schulwerk Music Program provides students the tools to explore their innate love of music within a classroom setting. This program allows students to actively participate in a wide variety of music activities forming the basis for further exploration of the ways that music is organized, written, performed and appreciated. Students also participate in the Church choir, other liturgical music activities, school concerts and plays that are presented to school families and parishioners. This encourages students to share their talents in a group endeavor displaying school pride, personal pride, and in ways that magnify the values of our Christian community.

Other Music Programs

• Band Instrumental Program

• String Program for Violins & Cellos

• Children’s Voice and Handbell Choir

• Irish Dancing & Irish Instrument Program

Special Events & Activities

Our students participate in many events and programs. A few examples are:

• Field trips to area museums and cultural institutions.

• 8th Grade Student plays (have included Guys and Dolls and Grease).

• Theatrical productions by American Eagle Productions (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, Jonah and the Whale).

• Theatrical productions at local universities.

• Musical productions at Old Town School of Folk Music.

• In-house residency program for 3rd graders at Old Town School of Folk Music.

• Catholic School Week.

• “Spirit Week”.

• “Red Ribbon Week” to promote drug awareness.

• Catholic Schools Opposing Racism “Commitment Day”.

• Chicago Police Department “Great” and “DARE” programs on drug awareness and self-esteem building for students in the 3rd through 8th grades.

• “Dads Love to Read Day”.

• “School Buddy”.

Principal’s Council II 4A Learning Resource Lab

This small and individualized program is available to students in Grades 3 through 8 who experience learning challenges. A solid partnership between parents, classroom teacher and the Learning Resource Lab’s full-time teacher and its part-time teacher is integral to the success of the child. Working towards establishing a delicate balance in which the child can see him/herself as a contributing class member while at the same time recognizing his/her unique needs is a key goal. A child participating in this program takes a battery of tests and an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed to facilitate their learning success.

Chicago Board of Education Title 1 Reading Program for Students at Risk in Reading

This program is offered through the Chicago Public School System and is available to students in Grades 1 through 8 who experience difficulty in reading and are 1 to 2 grade levels below in reading. One teacher specializing in reading instruction is available to work with students 3 days per week. Students enter this program based upon observation/ recommendation by their classroom teacher, Terra Nova test score results, or upon parent request.

Title 1 Tutoring in Reading

and Math

This after-school program is available to students in Grades 1 through 8 who experience challenges in reading or math. Our own teachers are available 3 days a week for one-hour sessions to provide individual and focused tutoring instruction. Students enter this program based upon observation/recommendation by their classroom teacher, Terra Nova test score results, or upon parent request. This program is fully sponsored by the Chicago Public School System. There is no additional fee for students to participate.

Summer School

This program is available to students in Grades 2 through 8 who experience challenges in reading and/or math. Our teachers staff the four-week program for half-day sessions each morning, Monday through Thursday, to provide individual and focused instruction in these areas. There is an additional fee for students to participate. Students attending Summer School may also participate in Summer Camp.

Sports Programs

The Queen of Angels’ Sports Programs are based upon the belief that participation in competitive sports contributes to achieving the goals of a Catholic elementary education.

The philosophy of the Queen of Angels’ Sports Program is to provide a variety of physical activities that train young Christians to develop a healthy body, acquire the skills of the sport in which they participate and teamwork spirit. The sports program strives to help children build a sound body and also a strong Christian attitude toward life. Our coaches and staff stress the child’s formal education as a first priority; they also emphasize that training their minds and bodies and developing their skills is a more important goal than winning any competition. Programs are designed to teach the fundamentals of good sportsmanship, and that winning/losing are natural parts of life.

The sports program strives to:

• Provide opportunities for participation in various sports to all students.

• Encourage enjoyment of sport activities.

• Encourage personal discipline.

• Instill good sportsmanship.

• Instill a desire to excel.

The programs follow the policies and procedures set by the Archdiocese of Chicago, the principals of Council II 4A governing athletic associations and local athletic handbook directives. Volleyball and basketball are offered for boys/girls in the 4th – 8th grades.

Clubs & Organizations

• Student Council

• Scouting programs (Daisies, Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cub and Boy Scouts)

• Altar Servers (open to boys and girls in the 6th through 8th grades)

• School Newspaper (open to students in the 6th through 8th grades)

Before and After School Care

The school offers an extended day program for before and after school care under the direction and supervision of the school principal and a designated coordinator. The After School program is a structured environment allotting time for homework, learning activities and indoor and outdoor recreational activities. Before and after school care is offered to all school families when school is in session. The schedule is as follows:

• Before School care is available from 7:00 a.m. to 8:10 a.m.

• After School care is available from 2:40 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Refer to the Registration Packet for Before and After School Care fees.

Summer Camp

Play, Laugh, Discover & Create. Whether your camper likes sports, arts, nature or a variety of activities, our summer camp has what you’re looking for to help make your child’s summer safe and enjoyable. Each week hosts a special theme with theme-coordinated activities making camp a fun and happy summer experience. Activities include: art, music, sports, computers, water play, other outdoor activities, field trips, and just plain fun!

Summer Camp is staffed by teachers and college students. The Camp is open to children from Preschool age through 8th grade. Although space is first reserved for school families and returning campers, everyone is welcome—you do not need to be a school family to participate in our summer camp. Our summer camp program also offers flexible schedules.

Hot Lunch

Our school participates in the Archdiocese of Chicago Hot Lunch Program. Our Foodservice Manager is certified by the Chicago Department of Public Health. The foodservice program is evaluated annually by the Chicago Department of Public Health. Varied lunch menus are offered monthly. Children who do not participate in the Hot Lunch Program bring a bag lunch from home and are welcome to purchase milk through the Hot Lunch Program.

Terra Nova Tests

Queen of Angels students consistently exceed the national average in Terra Nova test scores in every subject. More importantly, our test scores also show that our students improve dramatically over time. The longer the child’s enrollment at Queen of Angels, the more his or her test performance improves.

Along with all Catholic elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago, Queen of Angels participates in the Terra Nova standardized testing program each year. Although the Terra Nova program only requires that 3rd, 5th, and 7th Grade students take the tests each year, Queen of Angels is among the few area schools that tests all students each year. Tests are administered in March of each year to students in Grades 1 through 7 and families receive their individual student profiles in early May.

Refer to Terra Nova Test Results on our website --- -- for a comparative look at compiled scores over the last three school years for each of the required grade levels.

High School Placement—Where Our Graduates Go

Our students go on to succeed at high schools all over Chicago. When a student reaches middle school, we help families both formally and informally to choose the high school that is best for them. We sponsor a high school fair; provide entrance test information and guidance with financial aid programs and other forms of assistance. We also foster an informal network of parents of former Queen of Angels students who have graduated to area high schools so that they can be contacted by parents of graduating students and learn valuable information about daily life at the high school.

The high schools to which Queen of Angels students have been accepted in the past three years include:

• Admundsen

• Ravenswood

• Good Counsel

• Regina

• Gordon Tech

• Resurrection

• Lakeview

• St. Benedict

• Lane Tech

• St. Gregory

• Lincoln Park

• St. Ignatius

• Loyola Academy

• St. Patrick

• Luther

• St. Scholastica

• Mather

• Walter Payton College Prep

• Mother Guerin

• Whitney Young

• North Side

• College Prep

• William Jones

• Notre Dame

• Von Steuben

• Quigley

School/Parent Interaction & Communication

Sharing Information is vital to the success of the student, parent, and teacher partnership. There are many opportunities for parents and members of the school to work together. The school encourages all parents to take advantage of the following communication/information sources:

• September “Back to School Night”

• Weekly Family Folders with information on school happenings

• Monthly Preschool Newsletter/Activity Calendar

• Fall and Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences

• One-on-One appointments with Teachers/Principal (upon request of parent or teacher)

• Annual Parent Handbook

• Principal’s Coffee With Parents—3 times per year

• Parent Mentor Group, established to help ease the stress of joining a new school community by pairing each newly registered family with an experienced school parent.

Parent Volunteerism

The spirit of volunteerism is alive and thrives at the Queen of Angels School and Parish. Parents are encouraged to participate in the school community through direct involvement with the child’s teacher and classroom or through various parent organizations. Parent organizations enhance and support the academic, religious and social environment of the school. They help achieve:

• Positive communications between parents, teachers, students and the parish.

• Building a strong community.

• Joint coordination of school-sponsored activities and services.

• Promoting a spirit of volunteerism as part of Catholic Education.

• Supporting a quality and affordable education program.

School parents are encouraged and welcomed to serve the larger parish through various liturgical ministries and by joining parent organizations and clubs. Parents wishing to participate in the classroom experience can lend teachers and students a “helping hand” with holiday preparations, field trips, or Art Lovers. Parents desiring regular involvement may wish to consider a role in one of many school or parish organizations, committees and clubs.

• The Queen of Angels School Board

• Technology, Development or Communications Committee

• The Athletic Board

• Mother’s Club and Men’s Club

Queen of Angels School Board. The Queen of Angels School Board is an important organization on the local school level. Its primary concern is the intellectual and spiritual development of our students. The School Board is comprised of the Pastor of Queen of Angels Parish, the Principal and elected members from the Parish and school community. School Board meetings are open to the members of the parish and parents of children attending the School. The role of the School Board is as follows:

• Develop and define policies governing the operation of the school.

• Promote the implementation of policies.

• Provide counsel and advice for the improvement of the educational program.

• Make recommendations for the planning, operation and maintenance of the educational program.

• Review and advise on the annual budget.

• Act as the public relations arm of the school.

• Marketing of the school.

Please contact the School for more information about joining the Board or about any of the other school organizations, committees and clubs mentioned above.

Fundraisers

The school, parent organizations, parents and students together help raise additional funds for the school and its programs. Participation in the school’s fundraising activities is a great way to demonstrate support for the school and it students and to socialize with other school families. Various fundraisers are held throughout the year: Raffles, Steak Night, Annual Fund, Fall Wine Festival, Art & Craft Fair, Christmas Tree Sales, Track-A-Thon, Angels Ball.

Admissions, Tuition & Enrollment

Admission is contingent upon the agreement that parents or legal guardians and the child agree to abide by the policies, rules, and regulations of the Archdiocese of Chicago and Queen of Angels School. The school is operated under the auspices of the Catholic Bishop of Chicago and a Corporation Sole, in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Queen of Angels admits students of any race, color, and sex, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, national or ethnic origin in administering education policies and other school administrative programs.

Preschool students must be 3 years old on or before September 1st of the school year in which they are enrolling. Kindergarten students must be 5 years old on or before September 1st of the school year in which they are enrolling. New First grade students must be 6 years old on or before September 1st.

A physical examination and up to date immunization is required when a student enters school for the first time or transfers to Queen of Angels School. Ages must be verified by a birth certificate and immunization records must be complete.

Each student must be registered each year he or she attends Queen of Angels School. Please refer to the Registration Packet for detailed information.

Our acceptance priorities are as follows:

• Children of Parishioners of Queen of Angels Parish, including parishioners families with children currently enrolled and children now reaching school age;

• Transfer students from other Catholic schools not offering full programs or parishes without schools;

• Children of non-parishioners, including families with children currently enrolled and children now reaching school age; and

• Public School Transfer students

Administration

The school is administered by the Principal according to the policies established by the Illinois State Board of Education, the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Queen of Angels School Board.

Contact Information

Queen of Angels School

4520 North Western Avenue

Chicago, Illinois 60625

Attention: Julia Byrns Kelly, Principal

773.769.4211

principal@



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