Parents choose a St. Raphael Catholic education not only for the academic excellence, but also for the religious instruction that is offered each day, which is integrated across all curricular areas each day.  While our curriculum is aligned with the Illinois State Learning Standards, it is infused with Catholic Identity.  This makes instruction consistent with what is expected throughout Illinois, as well as specific to the Diocese of Joliet.  Our Eighth Grade graduates have an outstanding record of being accepted into the high schools of their choice. 

Daily curriculum includes reading, language arts, math, science, social studies, and religion.

Throughout the primary grades each classroom has a dedicated teacher’s aide to assist with smaller group learning.  Upper grade instructors have part-time classroom aides.  Teachers utilize small group learning, whole class activity, and peer tutoring, paired learning, and individual work methods, and coordinate curriculum among grade levels and subject area collaborative learning.  This ‘whole learning’ approach is balanced with traditional teaching methods and allows St. Raphael to maintain a teacher-to-student ration of 17:1.

Phonics is introduced at the Kindergarten level and is continued throughout the primary grades.  Regular physical education, music, art, Spanish, library, and technology enhance the curriculum.

Very recently, St. Raphael School took part in an extremely comprehensive school evaluation by the Diocese of Joliet and the State of Illinois.  Here are just some of their findings:

Faculty
“The faculty is exceptional.  All staff is state certified and many teachers have masters degrees and beyond.  The faculty also includes many auxiliary staff including resource teachers, classroom aides, and a school counselor.  All teachers use techniques that are varied and effective.  The longevity of service of the teachers and principal reflects dedication to the school and to their ministry.”

Curriculum
“All textbooks are current, evaluated on a rotating schedule, and aligned with state and diocesan standards.”

Test Scores

“Terra Nova scores, the standardized test used by the Diocese of Joliet are consistently higher than National and diocesan norms at all grade levels.  The school enjoys an excellent working relationship with the public school district in helping with special needs.”