Academics

AT THE HEART OF OUR CURRICULUM:
OUR CATHOLIC FAITH
St. Mark offers a comprehensive course of study designed to implement our mission of education. At the heart of our curriculum is the study of our Catholic faith. Our Religion curriculum follows that of the General Catechetical Directory. In all other areas of the curriculum, Saint Mark aligns itself with the Standard Course of Study as outlined by the State of North Carolina. 
 

ELEMENTARY CURRICULUM                                                                                                       

Core Subjects
Religion
Math
Language Arts
Science
Social Studies

Specials Classes
Spanish
Computer
Physical Education 
Art
Music
Library
Guidance
STEM
Band is offered beginning in 4th grade, including classes and small group instrument lessons.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

SIXTH GRADE – A combination of required and optional electives complete the Middle school curriculum. 
Core Subjects
Religion
Math
Language Arts
Science
Social Studies

Elective Classes
Art Applications
Computer Applications
Chorus
Physical Education
Spanish
Study Hall
Study Skills
Living in Virtue
Intro to Musical Theatre
Intro to Multimedia
Band (may take the place of other Fine Arts)

SEVENTH GRADE – A combination of required and optional electives complete the Middle school curriculum. 
Core Subjects
Religion
Math
Language Arts
Science
Social Studies

Elective Classes
Living in Virtue
Chorus
Physical Education
Spanish
Study Hall
Public Speaking
Band (may take the place of other Fine Arts)
Yearbook 1
Multimedia 7
Theater 7
Art Applications
Computer

EIGHTH GRADE – A combination of required and optional electives complete the Middle school curriculum. 
Core Subjects
Religion
Math
(Algebra Concepts & Applications or Algebra I)
Language Arts
Science
Social Studies

Elective Classes
Living in Virtue
Physical Education
Research
Spanish (or Spanish I)
Chorus
Band (may take the place of other Fine Arts)
Computer
Iron Lions (physical fitness class)
Art Applications
Journey of Choices (financial literacy and adult preparedness class)
Yearbook II

*In addition to the above middle school curriculum, students in grades 6th through 8th are required to work outside of the school day for service hours.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Grading Scale

K - 2nd    VG  Very Good            3rd - 8th    A  100-90
                 G  Good                                             B  89-80
                 S  Satisfactory                                  C  79-70
                 N  Needs Improvement                 D  69-65
                                                                             F  below 65

Standardized Testing

Standardized tests are used as a part of the student evaluation program. They provide a basis for educational guidance and measure effectiveness of curriculum, teaching procedures, and student achievement. The tests are administered according to the schedule set by the Diocese of Charlotte. Students in second, fifth, and seventh grades take the InView Abilities Test. Grades 1 through 8 are administered the Terra Nova. Additionally, students in fourth and seventh grade take the diocesan writing test which is given in March. The Assessment of Religious Education (ACRE) is given to students in grades 5 and 8 during the month of March.