Elementary
Students in grades 1-5 are ready for more challenging educational experiences! It's a wonderful time of boundless curiosity and budding talents. At Holy Cross, we're here to empower their potential and build on the solid foundations of early learning.
Tech Trailblazers
At this level, tech class isn't just about buttons and screens; it's about empowering our students to become responsible digital citizens and problem solving pioneers of tomorrow. Students dive into the digital realm learning the importance responsible online behavior. They are introduced to working with documents and slides to convey ideas and presentations. And they learning the language of the digital universe through coding activities that spark their imaginations and challenge their problem-solving prowess.
Holy Cross has invested in technology In every classroom to ensure students have the latest tools - smart boards that turn lessons into interactive adventures, Chromebooks and iPads that transform learning into a touch-and-swipe journey
Language Arts
Holy Cross teachers inspire the love for language arts from the very beginning of our students' educational journeys. In the early years, we focus on building strong foundational language arts skills according to Common Core standards.
By the time they reach fifth grade, they've become adept persuasive writers, crafting compelling arguments with eloquence and precision. Comprehension and reading fluency are second nature, enabling them to not only understand complex texts but also to engage with them on a profound level.
Math
Starting in the early grades, our students build strong foundational skills in concepts like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
As they progress to higher grades, the curriculum becomes increasingly challenging, introducing concepts such as fractions, decimals, geometry, and algebra.
By the time students reach fifth grade, they've mastered complex operations with fractions and decimals, developed fluency in multiplication and division, and gained a solid grasp of geometry, including understanding the properties of shapes and working with coordinate grids.
Students not only learn how to solve problems but also develop critical thinking skills, the ability to reason and justify their solutions, and a deeper appreciation for the real-world applications of math.
Faith Formation
At Holy Cross, we are proud of our Catholic identity. We have weekly Mass as a school, and pray in our classrooms. We have religion class every day as part of our curriculum.
Second graders who have been baptized have the opportunity to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist during the school year. This is an important mission of the parish, and we hope to deepen the children's knowledge of Catholicism and put their faith into action.
Parents ask whether they need to be Catholic to attend Holy Cross, and the answer is no. We welcome families of all faiths and beliefs. Parents that are not Catholic or religious have commented on how they appreciate that their children are learning to be kind and caring to others and are excited about the various service projects we do to help our community, even at this young age.
Extra Curriculars & Student Life
As early as first grade, our students have the exciting opportunity to participate in CYO sports like basketball, volleyball, and track, fostering a love for physical activity and teamwork. CYO also builds character and sportsmanship that will last a lifetime.
We understand that kids need more than just academics, so we weave in breaks during the school day and provide two recesses, allowing kids to refocus, recharge, and get those wiggles out.
Beyond the field or court and academics, we also offer a variety of enriching after-school clubs, such as the chess club, where students can explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills.
Physical Education
Our dedicated PE teacher Mrs. Brant is renowned for making every class a thrilling adventure where learning meets laughter. From dribbling in basketball to spiking in volleyball, and even the finesse of hockey, our students not only gain skills in a range of sports but also develop a deep love for physical activity.
Our PE program not only helps students stay active and healthy but also fosters teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. It's a place where kids can be kids, where they discover their physical abilities, and where the joy of movement is celebrated.
The Arts
We recognize the profound impact that music and art can have on a child's development, and that's why we incorporate these enriching experiences right into the heart of our classrooms. Our elementary students enjoy twice-weekly music classes that take them on a global journey through the captivating world of music.
They learn about renowned musicians and composers, discovering the diverse styles of music from around the world. In these classes, they also delve into the language of music, decoding notes and symbols, and exploring the joy of singing.
Moreover, music isn't just an abstract concept here; it's an integral part of our community. Our students actively prepare for Mass by learning and performing sacred songs. And when it comes to celebrating the Advent season, they shine brightly as they prepare and present a heartwarming concert, filling our beautiful church with their voices and the resonance of various instruments. This annual event is a cherished tradition that truly captures the spirit of Holy Cross, as our students' talents and enthusiasm light up the season.
Catholic Education Is Affordable
Holy Cross is a life-changing, unforgettable experience for your child. They will form friendships that last forever and excel academically, spiritually, and in extracurricular activities. They graduate with a lasting foundation that prepares them to excel throughout their grade school years and on to high school college, and beyond.
Holy Cross helps families afford the gift of education through assistance with applying for financial aid, scholarships and other tuition assistance.
It is very important to us to help all families that want a Holy Cross education for their child. We never want finances or other barriers to stand in the way. Please reach out - we have been working tirelessly to make sure every family has support available where needed.
Deb Voker
Business Manager
dvolker@archdpdx.org
503-289-7130
Hear from our families!
Holy Cross is jewel among Portland schools. When I took my son to visit his Pre-K class before enrolling, he was immediately and spontaneously welcomed by a class filled with the sweetest kids. As the year pressed on with the advent of COVID, we saw how lucky we were. The teaching through the pandemic has been outstanding as has been the communication and organization. My child is now in Kindergarten and the teaching quality continues to be excellent with a teacher who genuinely loves the children. Critically, the school is my partner in shaping my child's character along with a strong set of core values. My kiddo embraces kindness and thoughtfulness, is excited about reading, math and science and is having so much fun. The school leadership has created a strong sense of community among staff, students and parents that is welcoming to all. We LOVE being a part of it.
Charli T.
Holy Cross is a wonderful school. I’ve been so impressed by the dedication of the teachers and leadership, especially during the pandemic. Our daughter is loved and nurtured at Holy Cross, as well as academically challenged and enriched. We love that Holy Cross has a family-like, down-to-earth atmosphere. When we joined the school 3 years ago, we felt immediately welcomed and included. Holy Cross has plenty of opportunities for service projects, extracurricular clubs, sports and fun community events. There is so much to love about Holy Cross!
Brittany S.
