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Specials

Spanish

At St. Michael’s, every student from Early Childhood to Sixth Grade has Spanish every day. This early and consistent exposure to the language, builds a lifelong comfort and ability to access the phonemes specific to Spanish pronunciation. Our Spanish classes are deeply interactive, bringing the language to life through songs, games, stories, and interactive activities designed for each developmental stage. Students learn through connection and creativity. They move beyond vocabulary and grammar to the cultural richness of the Spanish-speaking world. They use Spanish cross-curricularly – for example, 3 and 4-year-olds learning about the parts of a tree in English might also learn about the parts of a tree in Spanish, reinforcing learning across disciplines. Students experience a joyful, dynamic environment where every student feels confident exploring Spanish from day one. 

 

girl in pink shirt drawing with a black marker

Studio Art

At St. Michael’s, the Studio is a place where imagination knows no bounds and creativity comes to life in countless forms. Whether mixing colors, sewing, woodworking, sculpting with clay, painting, drawing, printmaking, or crafting handmade books, students dive into rich artistic experiences that spark joy and self-expression. We view art as a powerful language—another way for students to communicate ideas, explore academic concepts, and make sense of the world around them. From our youngest learners building motor skills to older students refining technique and developing personal voice, every artist is encouraged to take risks, collaborate, and reflect. Through an integrated approach that weaves together art history, theory, design, creativity, and craftsmanship, students grow as both creators and critical thinkers. Their connection to the broader art community is deepened through Learning Journeys to the many vibrant museums and galleries throughout St. Louis, where inspiration and real-world engagement meet.

student playing an instrument and singing into a microphone

Performing Arts

At St. Michael’s, music and the performing arts are woven into the rhythm of daily life—sparking joy, creativity, and confidence in every student. Throughout the year, students share their talents during vibrant all-school performances.

Infants and toddlers experience hands-on, imaginative music-making through movement, singing, and play. In Kindergarten and early elementary, students explore rhythm, melody, and teamwork through the Kodály method and movement exercises. They experiment with instruments such as hand bells, keyboards, percussion, and ukuleles. Singing, songwriting, and creative collaboration help connect musical concepts to the body and emotions.

As students progress into upper elementary, they apply these skills through ensemble work, performance, and music technology. With an arts-integrated, student-centered approach, our program nurtures confidence, creativity, and connection—helping every child find their voice through music.  

students ready to ride bikes looking at a map

Physical Education

At St. Michael’s, physical education is about more than sports—it’s about joy, confidence, and lifelong well-being. Our PE program encourages students to discover the connection between physical activity, health, and happiness through play, skill-building, and teamwork. We foster an inclusive environment where all students, with a wide range of abilities, can participate with confidence. Our staff also comes at PE from a developmental perspective, making sure motor milestones are being met. 

Here’s what a week in PE looks like. On Mondays, the week kicks off with activities that build strength, fitness, and body awareness. Students participate in fun workouts, agility drills, and movement games that get their bodies ready for the week ahead. Tuesdays are all about trying something new, such as new sports, skills, and activities – from pickleball to bocce, to cup stacking. This gives students a chance to learn, practice, and discover what they enjoy. On Wednesdays, the focus is on mind and body wellness. This might include yoga, mindfulness, stretching, cooperative games, or health lessons that support students’ social-emotional growth, balance, and regulation. Thursdays are for applying skills and friendly challenges. We’ll engage in fun competitions, skill-based games, and mini-scrimmages that emphasize sportsmanship, perseverance, and teamwork. We end the week with games and activities students love most. Fridays are about movement, laughter, and enjoying being active together as a community.