Academics

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School falls under the oversight of the Diocese of Harrisburg. Our curriculum is consistent with the requirements of the academic standards of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, while also being Christ-centered, providing spiritual formation for each child’s body, mind, and soul. St. Francis Xavier Catholic School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member of the National Catholic Education Association.

Diocesan Elementary Curriculum

Our diverse community and curriculum helps put your child on the path to extraordinary!

Imagine what you child can become with an education at St. Francis Xavier School – a child grown in faith, values, academics & community!

the Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Pre-Kindergarten

Pre-Kindergarten is much more than just organized playtime — it’s a critical stage in your child’s early development. At this age, children are rapidly building the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills that will shape their success in kindergarten and beyond.
In a high-quality Pre-K program like ours, children begin learning foundational academic concepts such as early literacy, basic math, and problem-solving — all through age-appropriate, engaging activities. They also develop essential social skills like cooperation, sharing, listening, and following directions in a structured environment that fosters curiosity and confidence.
Pre-K also helps children adjust to the routines and expectations of a classroom setting. It nurtures their independence, encourages positive relationships with peers and teachers, and supports emotional growth through guided interaction and play.
By the time they reach Kindergarten, children who attend Pre-K are more prepared academically, socially, and emotionally. They’re more likely to start school with a love of learning, stronger language skills, and the self-regulation needed to thrive.

Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum

A Nuturing Environment for growing minds & faith

Elementary (K – 4rd Grade)

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School offers more than just strong academics — it provides a foundation rooted in faith, character, and community. In this supportive and values-driven environment, children not only learn how to succeed academically, but also how to live with integrity, compassion, and purpose.
Small class sizes ensure that each child receives personalized attention and guidance. Teachers are able to truly know their students — understanding their strengths, challenges, and unique potential — and adapt their instruction to meet individual needs. This close-knit classroom experience fosters confidence, encourages participation, and strengthens student-teacher relationships.
Beyond the classroom, large open spaces and well-designed playgrounds offer students the freedom to move, explore, and grow. Outdoor time is an essential part of the day, promoting physical health, social interaction, and creativity. Whether it’s playing, learning through nature, or simply enjoying fresh air, these spaces are an extension of the learning environment.
Within this safe, spacious, and faith-filled setting, students not only gain a solid academic foundation — they develop spiritually, emotionally, and socially.

Grade Level Specifics

Middle School
(5th – 8th Grade)

engaged learning, elevated potential

Our middle school program is designed to challenge and inspire students during this critical stage of growth. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, students move beyond textbooks to actively explore concepts through experiments, projects, real-world applications, and collaborative problem-solving. This interactive approach deepens understanding, encourages curiosity, and fosters a love of learning.
For students who are ready to go further, we offer advanced placement opportunities in Mathematics, as well as a Spanish 1 curriculum. These classes, coupled with extracurriculars such as Speech & Debate, Student Council, Junior National Honor Society and more, provide higher level content and deeper challenges, allowing students to work at a more rigorous academic level while remaining supported by experienced educators.
In every classroom, we aim to meet students where they are — helping them build confidence, discover their passions, and develop the critical thinking skills they’ll need in high school and beyond. Our middle school is more than preparation — it’s a launchpad for academic success and personal growth.

Grade Level Specifics

Specials

In a Catholic Liberal Arts educational tradition, “specials” are not merely another box to check on the list of subject areas to study. These are treasured subjects like Music, Spanish, Art, Physical Education, and Technology which help form a well-rounded student. At St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Music, Art, Physical Education, and Technology are offered for all students in Pre-Kindergarten through 8th Grade. Spanish is offered once a week for Pre-Kindergarten – 6th Grade. In an effort to start our older students on their journey to being fluent in more than one language, Spanish is offered 3-4 times a week for students in Grades 7 and 8.

Music

Students explore music through singing, movement, and a variety of classroom instruments including xylophones, drums, recorders, and ukuleles. Students also prepare music for Masses and special events such as Veterans Day, the Christmas Program, and Catholic Schools Week.

Art

Students explore the elements and principles of art, art history, and use to art in community outreach throughout the year. They participate in technology based projects, cross-curriculum projects, and projects integrated with Christian values through exploration of cultures.

Physical Education

Students learn about wellness, proper nutrition, and the importance of regular physical activity as part of the total learning experience. Phys. Ed. classes emphasize cooperation, teamwork, respect, safety, good sportsmanship, participation and skill acquisition.

Spanish

Students explore the Spanish language and culture through song, movement, dance, routine conversations. Older student also practice reading, speaking, listening, and writing using the Spanish language. Students become familiar with different cultures, and cultivate an appreciation and celebration of similarities and differences between these cultures.

Technology

Students are taught internet safety, digital citizenship, as well as real world computer skills. Students are introduced to keyboarding, technology vocabulary, and the use Google applications. Middle School students also learn about online research and use apps that are applied cross-curriculum.

Technology

Speech, Counseling & Remediation

At St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, we are blessed and extremely pleased to offer additional support to our students who need it, a blessing sometimes unavailable at other private schools. At St. Francis Xavier, we offer speech, counseling services, and remedial math and reading services which are provided by staff from the Lincoln Intermediate Unit 12.
Additionally, our school has two instructional support specialists who can work with students in a one-on-one or small group setting to ensure that no child falls through the cracks. Throughout the year, teacher’s identify if a student has learning, emotional, or behavioral needs within their classroom. The Student Support Team, in cooperation with the parent(s), draft a plan of action to help the student be successful. These accommodations are outlined in a learning plan that will be reviewed on a regular basis.