Academics

HCA is proud to present a curriculum that provides our students with the building blocks for lifetime learning and faith development. We offer a strong, traditional curriculum that seeks knowledge and practice of the Catholic faith, academic excellence, and moral courage. Our curriculum meets all the requirements of the New Jersey Department of Education, follows the recommended curriculum of the Trenton Diocese, and gives special attention to the integration of Gospel values. 

In addition to a rich curriculum, students enjoy an articulate and caring faculty, an intimacy with the church and parish, and a variety of special subjects, enrichment programs, extracurricular activities, athletic programs and community service activities.

The academic coursework at HCA is designed to be both challenging and intellectually fulfilling. Core classes of Religion, English/Language Arts, Math, Science and History/Social Studies are linked closely with Art, Character Development, Music, Physical Education, Spanish, STEM, and Writing. All exercises, teaching methods, homework and discussions are grade appropriate and tailored for individual abilities through differentiation. Instruction in technology and computer literacy is integrated throughout the core subjects. We have a 1:1 Chromebook program for all students starting in Kindergarten. 

By using integrated, interdisciplinary teaching strategies, HCA promotes academic excellence and sound character development within a nurturing environment, ensuring that each child is treated as an individual. Auxiliary services are available to qualifying students and are provided to HCA by the public school district. At Holy Cross Academy, we are committed to helping every child reach his or her fullest potential.

Collaborative Learning

Collaborative learning is incorporated into all facets of academy instruction. Children are grouped heterogeneously and are instructed to work cooperatively in small groups on multifaceted learning tasks. Collaborative learning provides a structure for group work based on three elements:

• Positive Interdependence - the success of the group depends on the success of each member
• Individual Accountability - each student is responsible for learning the material
• Social/Emotional Skills - the interpersonal and communication skills that are necessary for effective group interaction