Saint Matthew School

Experience the Saint Matthew difference

Our program consists of the core subjects of religion, language, literature, math, science and social science.  These core subjects are supplemented by enrichment classes consisting of art, band, chorus, physical education, technology, Spanish, library, science lab and guidance.  Saint Matthew is known for its commitment to academic excellence. The school follows a rigorous curriculum that is designed to engage all students while addressing the diverse needs and capabilities of each individual.  The school follows a curriculum that is vertically aligned in order to ensure that each student will complete a sequence of academic courses based on national standards.  To this basic framework, the school enhances and expands the curriculum with extensive additional resources and challenging learning strategies.  The school maintains high expectations for each student, and there is a system in place for students who need additional support.

Combining the expertise of a learning specialist, extended learning sessions before school, and a diversity of teaching methods, all students can advance successfully.  Teachers consistently use instructional strategies that require students to apply their knowledge, integrate their knowledge with other disciplines and use technology as a learning tool.  From 3D Printers, to robotics, to iPads, students continually perfect their skills.  Interactive textbooks are also used to familiarize students with digital learning.

Standardized test scores such as the Iowa Assessment  show that Saint Matthew students are performing at a very high level and are well-prepared to be successful at the next stage of their academic development. These results are affirmed by the recent announcement by the U.S. Department of Education naming Saint Matthew School a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School. Out of 130,000 public and private schools in the country, only 342 schools received the 2017 Blue Ribbon Award, placing Saint Matthew in the top 0.3% of schools who received this coveted award.

Additionally, anecdotal evidence from area high schools, and other schools to which Saint Matthew students apply, reflects favorably on the academic preparedness of Saint Matthew students.  They note that Saint Matthew students are always among their best students and can be immediately identified by their polite and respectful behavior, their organizational and study skills and their academic proficiency.