Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School combines traditional curriculum with innovative instruction to create an exceptional and challenging learning environment for all students. While a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy is emphasized at every grade level, creativity and personal inquiry are celebrated in each classroom. Teachers utilize a research-based curriculum, best instructional practices, thoughtful technology integration, and a nurturing environment to promote academic growth and encourage students to take intellectual risks.

The ICSJ curriculum is built around six essential strategies:

Catholic Values
As a parish school, ICSJ is dedicated to teaching the Catholic Faith, fostering moral integrity, environmental stewardship, empathy, acceptance of differences, and promoting peace in our global community.

Differentiated Instruction
Through a unique co-teaching model and robust support team, ICSJ offers differentiated instruction across grade levels. In PreK-3, classrooms benefit from two full-time, certified teachers who use co-teaching methods for small group and individualized learning. In grades 4-5, a dedicated Learning Specialist joins the classroom teacher for math and language arts. Additionally, Learning Specialists and counselors support academic and social-emotional growth at every grade level.

Standards-Based Grading
ICSJ has used a standards-based grading model since 2011, focusing on mastery of concepts and skills. Students receive clear, actionable feedback, and teachers use assessment results to personalize future learning.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
ICSJ promotes the link between academic success and SEL, using the Responsive Classroom program to create a safe, joyful learning environment. Additionally, the RULER approach, developed at Yale, fosters emotional intelligence, enhances school climate, and supports students' emotional growth.

Data-Driven Instruction
ICSJ uses the Data Wise School Improvement Process from Harvard University to analyze student data and guide decisions on instructional practices and curriculum development.

Pursuit of Excellence
ICSJ embraces a growth mindset, with a motto of "Good is not good enough." Faculty and administration collaborate in professional learning communities to continuously refine their teaching practices and strive for excellence in all areas of student development.

ICSJ incorporates 21st-century learning frameworks, blending themes of literacy, life skills, and critical thinking with fundamental subjects. Students develop these skills through project-based learning, flexible grouping, inquiry-based learning, and blended learning programs. Initiatives such as the Rush NeuroBehavioral Executive Function Program, the 1:1 iPad Program, and middle school advisories support the development of essential life skills.