Academics
Christ the King offers classes from preschool (2 1/2 year-olds) through eighth grade to students who are interested in achieving academic excellence; building a strong, moral foundation in Christian faith; and developing character, decision-making skills, and values to assist them in lifelong success. Students, whether Catholic or non-Catholic, attend religion classes and participate in religious activities conducted throughout the school year.
As a part of the Archdiocese of Denver, Christ the King Roman Catholic School follows an established, academically challenging curriculum. There is one class per grade, with a faculty of twenty-one teachers. The teachers want their students to succeed and are eager to assist them in every way possible. All teachers are routinely and thoroughly trained in the curriculum. All CK students are expected to strive to make steady progress toward mastery of the curriculum presented at each grade level.
Literacy
Our school uses a phonics-based reading program that builds upon itself each year, starting with pre-literacy activities and “pre-decodable” books in preschool. By 5th grade the focus is on vocabulary building, comprehension, symbolism, paraphrasing and exposure to different genres through the use of age-appropriate chapter books and novels. The spelling and writing programs work hand-in-hand with our reading curriculum. Approaching the written word through these different modalities reinforces phonological awareness and produces readers with better comprehension. Lexia, an online reading program, is offered to all students as supplemental differentiated instruction for both gifted and challenged students.
Science
Expanding on children’s natural curiosity about the world around them, age appropriate natural science topics are explored by our preschool and kindergarten through 3rd grade classes. Experimental based science techniques are used in 4th and 5th grade classes. In middle school the curriculum builds on an integrated sciences platform, incorporating chemistry, physics, earth science, astronomy, biology and ecology.
Speech
Our students become comfortable with public speaking at a young age. Microphone systems are used in the kindergarten through eighth grade classrooms. Students regularly use these to present work and read to their class. Beginning in kindergarten, students participate in the weekly Mass where they present the readings to the entire student body.
World Language
Our Spanish language program begins with our youngest students in preschool learning colors, numbers, shapes, animal names, etc. By the eighth grade, our students can read and write compositions and converse in Spanish. Students participate in learning about many Spanish-speaking cultures, Spanish Heritage Month, and projects throughout the year. Many CK graduates test into advanced Spanish classes in high school.
Mathematics
Our math curriculum stresses the principles of arithmetic, geometry and algebra. Singapore Math, which is being implemented in Kindergarten through 5th Grade, builds upon algebraic concepts early on in preparation for advanced Math performance. Rocket Math is used as a supplement to build speed and fluency with basic math facts (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) at an individualized pace. Based on achievement and aptitude, eighth graders take either pre-algebra or algebra during their final year at CK.
Theology
Teaching the meaning of the Liturgy and liturgical participation is a vital part of the overall religion program. Religion is a core subject taught at all grade levels. Age appropriate lessons begin with an inward focus in preschool (God Made Me) and grow to encompass the world at large and Catholic doctrine, history and practices. CK students attend Mass each week and classes participate in Adoration on a rotational basis. Catholic students are prepared for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. ALL students are required to participate in religious instruction. Additional liturgical events are included in the academic calendar, some of which are: Blessing of the Animals, Feast of Christ the King, Ash Wednesday, Seder Meal during Holy Week, May crowning, seasonal celebrations and service to the community. Middle School students participate in the “Theology of the Body” Program which teaches a scripture-based anthropology of understanding our humanity leading to the role of chastity and modesty in living a successful Christian adult life.