Mater Dei School welcomes the challenge of meeting each of our students where they are academically, socially and emotionally.
Academic Focus
We champion reading as the foundation for all learning and scholastic progress and work to develop strong reading skills in all students. Our teachers review how students are meeting standards in literacy, mathematics, science, social studies and 21st century learning. We work to enhance the progress of each student.
Our teachers engage students using instruction with various types of technology, one-on-one or small group assistance during WIN (What I Need) time and throughout the day. By holding our students to the highest standards, we are ensuring that this tradition of excellence in education continues.
Higher Test Scores
Our student test scores are higher than local, state and national averages.
Individualized Instruction
Students' needs are met through small group or one-on-one instruction through resource help, Title I reading services, WIN (What I Need). Students who excel are pushed to continue to achieve at high levels through differentiated instruction.
Faith, Formation and Service
We begin each school day with student led prayer and end the day with prayer. There is a strong tradition of spiritual formation and academic achievement by our students as they progress from PK through 8th grade. Students attend Mass each week and have opportunities to be actively involved in the liturgy. Students are involved in community service projects during Homecoming Week, Advent, Lent and other times of the year. Middle school students are invited to be part of the LIFE Team which works on special service projects and takes part in mission trips.
Guidance and Counseling
A full-time school counselor regularly visits classrooms to promote positive attitudes, choices, and interpersonal relationships among students. In individual and group interactions, our counselors focus on the personal and academic needs of students. By helping students deal with classroom and personal challenges, they help students succeed in school.
We offer trained volunteer mentors to interact with select students through our TeamMates program which works to enhance the success of our students.
Academic Competitiions and After School Programs
Our middle school students participate in Quiz Bowl, math competitions, Book Bash and student-led Chess Club that culminates in a year-end competition.
LIFE (Living Instruments of Faith Everyday) Team
LIFE Team consists fo a group of students in grades 5-8 who put their faith into action by working together on community service projects created and led by students. Mater Dei School has developed a close relationship with the Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque. Students are able to plan and lead prayer opportunities throughout the school year.
Middle School Fine Arts
Art
Art is offered once a week and students are encouraged to enter their work into local contests.
Middle School Athletic Opportunities
"We Are Heelan" is a program developed in 2019 to help unify our schools. "We Are Heelan" is the sole fundraiser for Bishop Heelan Youth Athletics. Our youth athletic program currently offers third through seventh graders the opportunity to participate in football, volleyball and basketball.
7-8 Graders: Football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, cross country, track and soccer are all offered. Eighth grade boys and girls may try out for freshman-level baseball and softball.
Before and After Care Program
The program is offered at the Little Saints Day Care, located across the street from Immaculate Conception Center. Students in grades 5-8 are offered an After School Study Hall on Tuesday-Thursday from 2:45-3:30.
Administration
Principal: Mary Fischer
Phone: 276-6216
Class Hours
Immaculate Conception Center
Monday: 8:15 a.m..-2:15 p.m.
Tuesday-Friday: 8:15-3:15
Nativity Center
Monday: 7:45-1:45
Tuesday-Friday: 7:45-2:45