Middle School Program

The Middle School program at St. Laurence Catholic School, which includes grades five through eight, offers a blend of challenging academics, faith and character building activities, and many extra-curricular opportunities. Throughout the school day, SLCS middle school students travel to six core classes which consist of Religion, English, Literature, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Honors-level courses are available for those students who meet the criteria. Health and Physical Education classes enhance the curriculum along with elective course offerings such as Art, Band, Spanish, Digital Media, Choir, Teen Leadership, and Theater Arts when possible.

The basis of the Middle School program focuses on instruction in Catholic beliefs and traditions. This, coupled with human sexuality catechesis and required community service projects at each grade level, completes the components of the Religion curriculum. Middle school students attend an annual day-long retreat that takes place during Advent.

Students attend both English and Literature classes daily. Vocabulary development, spelling, writing, and research are incorporated into the instruction that exceeds ELA state requirements. Both textbook readings and novels are included as requirements in Literature classes, as well as, visits to the school’s library. Students participate in classroom level spelling bees and winners go on to participate in the school-wide, archdiocesan, and regional competitions. Students also participate in an Oratorical Competition.

A challenging Math curriculum is designed to address individual learning needs. Emphasis is placed on building a solid foundation of mathematical skills and the application of these skills to “real world” situations. At each grade level, students are encouraged to investigate, analyze, and problem solve. Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Honors Algebra are offered to seventh and eighth-grade students who are developmentally ready for the challenge.

Science instruction offers a balanced curriculum of earth, life, and physical sciences. The development of scientific reasoning by incorporating the scientific method and laboratory investigative skills is promoted through instruction, hands-on lab activities, and participation in school and archdiocesan science fairs. Students also have access to specialized programs, such as a local media-linked WeatherNet, which provides area weather pattern information and reporting. We are proud to have a STREAM Lab and program and have been recognized as a STREAM Synergy School by the Archdioceses of Galveston-Houston.  

Students examine geographical, historical, and economic development in three specific areas of study: World, U.S., and Texas. Students experience history through the History Alive program which utilizes a hands-on approach to instruction and learning. All students are required to participate in the classroom level of the National Geography Bee in January.

Middle school students have many opportunities to be involved in extra-curricular activities such as a wide range of sports, fine arts, student clubs, and organizations. SLCS has a chapter of the National Junior Honor Society, the Leo Service Club (sponsored by the Lions Club International), Student Council, Spanish Honor Society, and the Thespian Club.  Students have the opportunity to participate in academic competitions sponsored by local Catholic high schools and universities, local public middle schools, the National Spanish Society, the National Scripps Spelling Bee, and the National Geographical Society.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum

We have a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum facilitated by our school counselors and reinforced in our classrooms.  Social-Emotional learning helps to build a culture of connectedness and empowers students with skills they need to succeed in school and in life.