Fifth grade at Saint Michael Parish School is the last year in the elementary school.  It is full of memorable moments of learning, faith and service.

As we study American history from the first Americans to the constitution, students engage in simulations, projects and research. It is also the year they memorize all fifty states and their capitals.  Math is team taught with two teachers as students are prepared for the rigors of middle school. In religion we dive deep into the meaning of the Sacraments as our faith deepens with maturity. Each year on Good Friday, the fifth grade leads the school in Living Stations of the Cross in shadows.  

Fifth graders serve the school as safety patrol officers.  They gear up and direct pedestrians and drivers at drop off and pick up. In addition, they honorably raise and lower the flag each day.  They can be counted on in any weather and finish the year by training the incoming officers from fourth grade.

A highlight of fifth grade is the annual production of a Shakespeare play. This tradition began in 1984 and continues today with elaborate costumes, lighting, sound and set.  Students begin with auditions in September and work hard until the spring production in May when our gym is transformed into a Renaissance theater. It all culminates with a trip to the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon where students attend backstage tours, prologues and various Shakespeare and other plays.