Academics in Victoria | Trinity Episcopal | Elementary and Middle School
The academic success of our current and former students is one of the hallmarks of Trinity Episcopal School. Great care is taken to ensure that our students receive a well-rounded education, knowledgeable in math and science as well as art history, poetry, and multimedia. Individual attention and high expectations are the key to our students’ success.
Individual attention begins early. Our students in kindergarten through third grade are assessed at least three different times annually using the nationally-normed DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) assessment tool. Students who show a decrease in progress are sent to an onsite reading specialist for individual attention to correct the issue before it becomes a hindrance to learning. This constant observation of academic progress is what leads to school reading scores in the 99th percentile.
Differentiated instruction and a variety of teaching methods are used to address all learning styles and abilities. Students may engage in kinesthetic learning while practicing spelling words or create concrete poems about a recent field trip experience. Students often have options when selecting a project to demonstrate learning to allow some individual choice.
Homework is given to reinforce learning and is an important part of the education process. Parents are kept aware of activities in the classroom through the use of RenWeb ParentsWeb. RenWeb ParentsWeb is an information portal where families can view homework, track grades, order lunches, and pay bills. Students also track their homework and upcoming exams daily in a planner that is shared with family members at home. Family members are considered Trinity partners in their child’s education.
At Trinity, enrichment field trips are considered an integral part of the learning experience. We believe that learning doesn’t only happen within the four walls of a classroom. Students learn about the world around them by visiting educational sites throughout the area to enhance classroom learning. Experts are also invited to visit the classrooms to talk to students about the practical applications of classroom learning.
Our school year is divided into four 9-week grading periods. Students in K5 through second grade receive letter grades as this is a time of great individual developmental growth and students may be learning at a different pace. Beginning in third grade, students receive numerical grades. Students in middle school (grades 6-8) take mid-term and final exams in the core curriculum areas of English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish
The level of academic difficulty increases and the student grows and matures. Academic success is achieved by challenging students to learn more complex concepts and develop advanced writing skills. Students are encouraged to participate in academic contests, testing their skills and abilities against others. Competition provides students the opportunity to enjoy success through hard work and discipline, teaching students to both win and lose with grace.
Teaching personal responsibility and respect for each other is the constant mission of the school. Bullying and fighting are not tolerated in our Christian learning environment. Discipline is fair and consistent, and love and careful thought is employed to teach students self-control and respect for others.
When students graduate from Trinity Episcopal School, they do so with a sense of self awareness. They leave us as individuals, fully aware of both their strengths and weaknesses. A Trinity graduate understands the important role that discipline and character play in academic success.