Our Curriculum
“An observant child should be put in the way of things worth observing.” - Charlotte Mason
Math
Right Start Math builds a deep understanding of math through hands-on learning and visual tools, prioritizing reasoning over rote memorization. Unlike traditional programs that focus on quickly forgotten facts, Right Start Math engages students with interactive methods, like manipulatives and games, to reveal the "why" behind concepts. This approach boosts confidence, critical thinking, and lasting math skills for students.
Art and Music and Poetry
At Mercy, creativity and connection are also built through art and music. These subjects spark imagination and deepen students’ appreciation of beauty and their Creator. Through "Picture Study," students observe famous artworks, discuss their insights, and practice drawing, encouraging thoughtful engagement. They also memorize poetry to enrich expression. Each day begins with hymn-singing, grounding students in tradition. On Fridays, a music teacher guides exploration of major composers and diverse cultural music, nurturing a lifelong love for the arts.
Phonics
Strong reading, writing, and spelling skills empower every child. Our phonics curriculum, built on The Logic of English, equips students with top-quality tools tailored to their needs. K-2 students thrive in our Foundations Program, mastering phonograms to shape confident reading and writing skills. For 3rd-5th graders, the Essentials Program sharpens spelling and writing proficiency. Early learners also delight in The American Language Series, a collection of engaging readers. This approach excels for all students, including ESL learners and those with dyslexia, cultivating a love for language.
History
Our history curriculum captivates young minds with many living books: engaging, narrative-driven stories that bring the past to life. Aligned with state standards, our literature-based approach sparks curiosity, strengthens critical thinking, and builds a rich foundation of historical knowledge. Students connect with history through beautifully crafted narratives, making learning joyful and meaningful.
Science
Our Mystery Science curriculum sparks curiosity and inspires young scientists. Three days a week, students explore topics like ecosystems, weather, engineering, and chemical reactions through hands-on experiments, vibrant videos, and engaging read-alouds. Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the program teaches the scientific method: observing, questioning, experimenting, and analyzing to model critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This interactive approach builds a strong foundation in science and a lifelong passion for discovery.
Literature
Our literature curriculum creates a “book flood,” immersing students in a rich variety of stories at MCA. Each month, we spotlight a renowned author’s work, while exploring genres like mystery, historical fiction, graphic novels, and fantasy throughout the year. Aligned with Louisiana ELA Standards, this program builds strong reading comprehension, critical thinking, and a love for literature. As Sarah Mackenzie says, “To instill a love for truth, tell children a story.” Our diverse, engaging books bring joy and ignite a lifelong passion for reading.
Kindergarten - 1st Grade Cohort Book List
Bible
Our Bible curriculum at MCA nurtures faith and understanding through engaging, age-appropriate resources. In K-1, students read The Action Bible, a graphic novel-style storybook, twice by 1st grade’s end, grasping the Bible’s overarching narrative before studying Scripture in 2nd grade. Daily, students sing hymns, pray, memorize Scripture, and explore theological books like Big Truths for Little Kids, Little Pilgrim’s Progress, and Good News for Little Hearts. The New City Catechism grounds students in core Christian doctrines through its 52 accessible questions and answers, such as “What is God?” and “What is sin?” Weekly Socratic circles bring these to life, where students probe catechism questions through guided inquiry, peer dialogue, and logical reasoning. This encourages thoughtful exploration of faith in a classical Christian style. On Wednesdays, Chapel features local pastors teaching questions like “What is the church?” and “Who is Christ?”
The Action Bible | Big Truths for Little Kids | Little Pilgrim’s Progress | Good News for Little Hearts | The New City Catechism