_edited.png)
Elementary
First Grade - Fifth Grade
At Augustus Tolton Catholic Academy, our Elementary Program uses an engaging, modern curriculum designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and support the whole child. Students develop strong academic foundations while growing socially, emotionally, and spiritually in a nurturing, faith-filled environment.
Through hands-on learning, small class sizes, and strong relationships with teachers, elementary students are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
STEM Learning
Hands-on projects that inspire problem-solving
Our STEM curriculum is powered by Defined Learning, a digital, project-based program that engages students in real-world challenges. Through longer-term projects, students collaborate, think critically, and apply science, technology, engineering, and math skills in meaningful ways.
Elementary students learn by doing—designing solutions, experimenting, and discovering how things work—while building creativity and perseverance.
Mathematics
Building confidence and a love for math
Tolton’s math instruction is grounded in Everyday Math, providing students with strong conceptual understanding, problem-solving strategies, and real-world application.
Through our partnership with the University of Chicago, teachers receive ongoing math coaching and professional development to ensure instruction reflects best practices and meets the needs of all learners.
Reading & Language Arts
Developing strong readers, writers, and thinkers
Our reading and language arts curriculum follows the Schoolwide approach, offering comprehensive instruction in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students build literacy skills through structured lessons, guided reading, and engaging texts that promote comprehension and critical thinking.
This program ensures students receive consistent, high-quality literacy instruction while allowing teachers to support individual growth.
Student Support & Partnerships
Working together for student success
We are proud to partner with organizations that strengthen our academic program and support our students, including:
Big Shoulders Fund
University of Chicago
Student Savvy Counseling
EYA Reading & Math Interventionists
Sacred Heart Tutors
These partnerships allow us to provide additional academic support, enrichment, and social-emotional resources—ensuring every child has what they need to thrive.