Educational Program
Educational Program
Mater Dolorosa Catholic School’s mission is to teach as Jesus did through word and deed. We strive to help all students to develop to their full potential spiritually, academically and socially. Our educational program follows the guidelines established by the Springfield Diocese as well as the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for each subject area.
Our teachers ensure that their lessons meet, and oftentimes exceed, the curriculum standards set forth not only by the State of MA, but by the Diocese of Springfield. We are proud of our endeavors to engage in the Diocesan Curriculum Mapping Initiative begun in the 2024/2025 school year. We will continue to do so, as we believe the education of our students is reliant on the constant reflection of our faculty and staff. Educators are learners, and we are passionate about education at Mater Dolorosa Catholic School.
Our educational program is divided into three levels and all grades continue to have a curriculum that is adapted to meet the needs of the:
Primary (K-2)
Intermediate (3-4)
Middle School Level (5-8)
In addition to our standard curriculum, Kindergarten through Grade 8 students also enjoy weekly visits to the Computer Lab, Liturgical Music, Spanish and Physical Education classes. Students in Preschool learn Spanish basics as a class with their classroom teacher.
The Science Lab is equipped with new science lab furniture. In addition, new science lab equipment and supplies have been purchased through our use of the EANS II grant funds for the 24/25 school year. All teachers have the use of the science lab.
Our Kindergarten Program includes a “hands-on” approach to learning, along with the use of curriculum textbooks. This means that children learn through great literature experiences, learning centers, math manipulatives, and “hands-on” science experiments. Children use the learning centers to learn, reinforce, and master skills being taught by the teachers. Our Kindergarten Program is not to be considered an ‘extra Preschool year’. Our Kindergarten students improve their reading, writing, and mathematical skills. They also expand on their knowledge of their Catholic Faith, their world, and God’s Creation (Kindergartener’s love nature). Please contact the school for more information on our Kindergarten Program and Curriculum.
Since we are a Catholic School, religious instruction is at the heart of our curriculum. Religion classes are taught daily in all levels. The Loyola series, “Finding God” is followed through K-8. Our Preschool classes use “Stories of God’s Love” by RCL Benziger. In all academic areas we stress the gospel values in the Franciscan tradition and model the teachings of Jesus in our daily interactions. We teach our students to respect and value the uniqueness of each person. In addition, our Catholic Faith is infused throughout our academic content areas at Dolorosa Catholic School. As we share with our students – God’s handiwork is EVERYWHERE, and we take every opportunity to remind students of HIS awesomeness!
We offer a strong academic program that encourages students to develop to their full potential. Understanding that students have different learning styles and learn at different paces, teaching methods are adapted to meet the various ways that students learn. Extra help is always available before or after school.
Mater Dolorosa Catholic School is fortunate to be able to offer three Preschool classrooms: PK3, PK4, and PK. Please visit our Preschool page for information on our PK3, PK4, and PK Programs.