The Barry Upper School: 4th through 8th Grade

Team teaching is at the heart of the SBS upper school program. This approach facilitates the focus on the physical, intellectual, emotional, social and moral needs of its unique students. At a time when middle scholars are asking, "who am I?" our team's approach brings about a sense of belonging at SBS and thus creates positive relationships with peers, faculty and parents.

The upper school program at School of the Blessed Sacrament (SBS) is designed to meet the challenges that are unique to upper school students. With this in mind, all programming is aligned with the Archdiocese of New York standards and New York State Common Core standards "which establish clear guidelines as to what students should be able to do in math, English language arts, social studies, science" and religion. Technology is infused in the core subjects and students from 4th through 8th grade collaborate with teachers and fellow students through their SBS Google accounts. Through the use of Edgenuity, "each student receives differentiated instruction for non-fiction reading and writing that is precisely tailored to each student's Lexile® reading level."

In addition to core curriculum studies, students from 4th through 8th grade participate in enrichment classes of art, theater arts, Latin, library, physical education and computer science.  While students are engaged in enrichment activities, team teachers and administration are afforded the time to collaborate and analyze student performances, adjust assessments, consult with parents and schedule time for extra assistance for students ensuring that the needs of each student are meet. Students also have the ability to join after school activities: SBS school choir, Saints basketball team, SBS CYO Cross Country and student council.

6th, 7th and 8th grade students participate in retreats which are conducted in a casual setting with their teachers.  The purpose of a retreat is to prepare our students to grow in their Catholic faith, to learn more about God and one another.  Students learn to appreciate the world around them and realize their role of service to others.

This unique and comprehensive SBS upper school experience prepares students for what lies ahead in high school and beyond.