Extracurricular Academic Enrichment

Junior and Senior DECATS

• Junior DECATS is sponsored through the DeBusk Enrichment Center for the Academically Talented Student. This three-week summer program takes place in June. It targets students in grades 3-5 who are identified as the top 5% academically. Students are nominated in the fall by Saint Paul staff based on IOWA results. The determination of admission to the program is made by DECATS.
• Senior DECATS is a summer program targeting students in grades 6-8 who are identified as in the top 5% academically. This three-week summer program takes place in June. Students are nominated in the fall by their Saint Paul teachers based on IOWA scores as well as achievement in art, drama, or music. The determination of admission to the program is made by DECATS.

Math Programs

• IXL Math Program

  For all Grades PreK3 through 8th, the math curriculum includes a supplemental online program called “IXL.” This online program provides reinforcement for the math concepts being taught in class and math enrichment in a wide range of age-appropriate topics. 

National Junior Honor Society

• National Junior Honor Society is a co-curricular opportunity that recognizes middle school students who demonstrate outstanding performance in each of the following areas: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. This program provides the school an opportunity to recognize the academic, service, and leadership characteristics of students and, more importantly, engage participants in further leadership and service experiences aimed at nurturing and, in some cases, enhancing the spiritual, academic, and social goals of the school.

Academic Competitions

• Spelling Bee

In November, each homeroom or English class (Grades 4-8) will conduct a classroom spelling bee. Two winners from Grades 4-8 which is a total of 10 students will compete in the school-wide bee in mid-December. The winner of the school spelling bee will represent Saint Paul School in the Diocesan bee in January. The alternate will also attend as a spectator as well as receive the study guide. The spelling bee coordinator will administer rules, study lists, and a suggested word list for in-class bees. The coordinator will also provide the winner with the necessary lists to study for the Diocesan bee.  

•  Religion Scholars Bowl

Reverend Thomas Cloherty Religion Scholars Bowl
One student from each grade level (5th-8th) is nominated annually to participate on the Saint Paul Religion Bowl team. These students are well-versed in the Bible and Catholic teachings. Teams compete against other Catholic schools in the diocese.

• TriCore Foundation Academic Competitions

The Tri-Core Foundation sponsors a series of academic competitions. Schools are invited through invitation only and contests are open to 6th-8th grades. Students are eligible to win cash prizes.

• Poetry 
• Art (Painting, Sculpture, Drawing)
• Math (A series of 3 exams during the year for total score)
• Trivia (Individual and team competitions)