Mrs. Kathleen Sullivan began teaching at SSJ in 1989!  This is her 19th year!!  The highlight of her year is when the first grade students sing “Shine, Jesus, Shine” in the Christmas pageant. 

I have been privileged to teach First Grade at SSJ for the past twenty years.  That's over 600 kids who have blessed my life!  It is truly amazing that each year, each class, and each day brings new and different adventures!

 

I am a product of local Catholic Education.  I graduated from Most Holy Trinity Elementary School, and St. Mary' High School  After graduating from Golden West Community College in Huntington Beach, California, I returned to Arizona. Upon graduation from ASU with a degree in Special Education, I worked for the Alhambra School District.

 

Both of my children attended SSJ.  They received an excellent education and spiritual foundation.  Both are now beginning their careers, one with a Master's Degree in Education , and one as an Attorney.

 

My husband is also a local, and graduated from St. Francis and Brophy.  HOWEVER, he began his education with the wonderful Loreto Sisters at SSJ!

 

First Grade at SSJ offers religious education and formation, high academic standards, DWP Skills, and LOTS of opportunities for fun and enrichment!

 

Religious Education

All-school Masses

1st and 2nd Grade Masses

special "Saints" Mass

Advent wreath/candles and Advent chains

Ash Wednesday services

classroom prayer services

May Crowning

Participation in efforts to help the less                                 fortunate in the community, ie. by collecting food, toiletries, money, blankets, clothing, etc.

Making cards for soldiers, shut-ins, etc.

DWP Skills

Academics

Spalding:  Phonograms, Spelling, Handwriting,Writing and Reading

Open Court Reading

Math:Basic Addition and Subtraction, Time Tests, Problem Solving, Time, Money, Geometry and Fractions

6-Traits of Writing Skills and Grammar

Social Studies

Science

IOWA Basic Skills Testing (in January)

Special Classes:

Music

Spanish

Art Masterpiece

Library

PE

Fun Stuff!

8th Grade Buddies:  art projects (Johnny Appleseed, Thanksgiving turkey, Leprechaun,Valentines, Ressurection/Butterfly;  Halloween party;  Graduation Mass and Breakfast;  St. Nicholas' Day

Xmas Pageant: First Graders sing "Shine, Jesus, Shine"

the visiting "Violin Ladies"

on-campus theater productions and puppet shows

Jog-a-thon

St. Patrick's Day Carnival

Thanksgiving "popcorn Party"

Halloween costume and Saints parade

Annual AR (Accellerated Reader) promotion