St. Mark’s is proud to offer a wide range of enrichment programs that complement and enhance our core academic curriculum. These programs include music, physical education, art, library, Spanish, and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, each designed to support the intellectual, physical, creative, and spiritual development of our students.
Music
- Music classes twice weekly for Kindergarten–5th grade
- Two annual performances (Christmas & Spring concerts)
- 4th Grade: Focus on reading music + begin recorder instruction
- 5th Grade: Introduction to violin, viola, or cello (instruments provided)
- Optional enrichment opportunities:
- Student Body Mass Choir (Grades 3–8)
- Advanced Choir (after school)
- Orchestra (after school)
Physical Education and Health
The physical education program at St. Mark’s promotes lifelong wellness by balancing fitness, teamwork, and enjoyment. Students in kindergarten through eighth grade attend physical education classes twice each week, engaging in a variety of sports, skill-building activities, and cooperative games. Middle school students further their understanding of healthy living through an additional weekly health course.
Art
St. Mark’s distinguished art program is a hallmark of our school. Students in kindergarten through seventh grade attend weekly art classes in a dedicated art studio, where they explore creativity through a variety of media and techniques, often integrated with the liturgical calendar. The program is enhanced by access to a ceramics studio, allowing students hands-on experience with clay and kiln-fired projects. Eighth-grade students participate in a daily art course that incorporates art history, advanced techniques, and an increased focus on composition and artistic expression.
Library
The St. Mark’s library program plays an integral role in academic success. Under the guidance of Mrs. Rosania, students visit the library weekly to develop research skills, foster a love of reading, and expand their knowledge across disciplines. Students are encouraged to visit the library throughout the week, and classroom support is provided through regular visits that connect library resources to current curricular topics. Students may also serve as library assistants, developing responsibility and organizational skills while supporting the school community.
Spanish
Our kindergarten through eighth grade Spanish program emphasizes both language acquisition and cultural understanding. Students are immersed in Spanish through instruction that includes vocabulary, conversation, customs, celebrations, and historical context. Graduates of St. Mark’s often demonstrate strong proficiency and are well prepared to advance in their high school language studies, with many successfully testing into Spanish II in high School.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Preschool through second grade students participate in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a Montessori-based, supplemental religious education program offered in the school atrium. St. Mark’s is the only Catholic school in the Treasure Valley to provide this program. Guided by certified catechists, students engage in hands-on learning that deepens their understanding of Scripture, the Mass, and the life of Jesus Christ. The atrium provides a prayerful environment where students reflect quietly and work independently with materials that reinforce liturgical gestures, sacred objects, and Gospel teachings.
Community Service
All elementary and middle school students participate in community service each semester as part of their religious education. While each grade has a set number of required service hours, many students find the experience deeply meaningful and often choose to go above and beyond what is asked of them. Through their time spent serving others in the community, our young disciples gain a broader perspective, grow in compassion, and joyfully live out their faith by becoming the hands of Christ in the world.