A Commitment to Academic Excellence & Catholic Formation
At Holy Trinity St. Matthews, our academic program challenges students at all levels of learning while reinforcing Catholic values, integrity, and lifelong service to others. With excellence at the core of our teaching, students are provided with a rigorous curriculum, high-quality instruction, and hands-on enrichments that prepare them for high school and beyond.
Recognized as a 2007 and 2017 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, Holy Trinity is known for academic achievement, strong faith-based learning, and outstanding student outcomes. Each student is guided by an expert faculty member dedicated to fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and character formation.
Who We Serve
Holy Trinity St. Matthews serves Pre-K through 8th-grade students in Louisville, providing a faith-centered curriculum that prepares them academically, socially, and spiritually.
Our developmentally appropriate approach ensures that students receive tailored instruction at every grade level, transitioning from early foundational learning to high school preparatory coursework in middle school.
Our students consistently exceed national learning standards and place into top academic levels at Catholic and private high schools, demonstrating the strength of our academic model.
Catholic Identity & Faith Formation
At Holy Trinity, faith is the foundation of all academic and personal growth. Students actively participate in a Christ-centered learning environment that integrates Catholic teachings into daily life.
- Weekly Mass & Sacramental Preparation – Students attend weekly Mass, engaging in prayer, worship, and reflection while also preparing for key sacraments such as Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation.
- Christian Leadership & Servant-Leadership – Leadership programs encourage students to embody Catholic values, developing servant-leaders who live out their faith through compassion, integrity, and responsibility.
- Service-Learning & Gospel Values – Every student participates in service-learning projects, partnering with local organizations to support those in need, reinforcing the importance of charity, social justice, and Gospel-centered service.
- Catechist of the Good Shepherd and Theology of the Body - Our younger grades participate in the Atrium of the Catechist of the Good Shepherd. This program allows our students to experience their faith in hands-on and meaningful ways. Theology of the Body is taught in our upper grades for students to appreciate the gift that God has given to each of us. The value and respect of ourselves and one another are stressed as an integral part of our Catholic faith.
Through faith-filled experiences, students build a strong moral foundation, deepen their relationship with Christ, and develop a lifelong commitment to faith, service, and community.
Curriculum by Grade Level
Holy Trinity’s curriculum follows the Archdiocese of Louisville Catholic School Standards, ensuring an engaging, faith-based educational experience at every stage.
Holy Trinity provides a faith-based, academically rigorous education designed to foster intellectual growth, personal responsibility, and strong moral character from Pre-K through 8th grade.
Programs that support reading and phonics instruction in the younger grades are UFLI and Heggerty. Handwriting without Tears is used to promote the development and continued improvement of handwriting skills.
Pre-K
- Our Pre-K approach at Holy Trinity offers a structured full-day program that blends hands-on learning and play-based activities to develop foundational academic and social skills, supported by a strong teacher-to-student ratio.
- Weekly enrichment classes, exposure to Kindergarten academic programs, and early faith formation prepare children for kindergarten success.
Kindergarten
- Our specialized Kindergarten program provides a nurturing introduction to formal education, emphasizing early literacy, phonics, math, and independent learning through small group instruction.
- A 5:1 student-teacher ratio in literacy centers ensures individualized support, and special area classes add creative enrichment.
1st Grade
- The 1st Grade at Holy Trinity strengthens academic foundations in reading, writing, and math while fostering independence, critical thinking, and character development.
- Interactive learning centers, technology integration, and community service projects create a well-rounded educational experience.
2nd Grade
- Holy Trinity’s 2nd-grade methodology deepens learning through differentiated instruction in core subjects while preparing students for key sacraments like Reconciliation and First Eucharist.
- Hands-on classroom activities, field trips, and service projects encourage critical thinking and faith-based service.
3rd Grade
- At Holy Trinity, 3rd Grade transitions students toward greater independence with departmentalized afternoon instruction in religion, science, and social studies while reinforcing organizational skills with student planners and homework routines.
4th Grade
- Our 4th-grade approach emphasizes personal growth, responsibility, and academic challenge through Kentucky history studies, cultural diversity lessons, and local traditions like the Kentucky Derby Pet-a-Sus Parade.
- Community service projects reinforce empathy and social responsibility.
5th Grade
- The 5th Grade introduces advanced study skills and independent learning while deepening knowledge in U.S. history, science, and critical thinking.
- Signature projects, like the Poetry Readings and Literature Circles, cultivate literacy and teamwork while service-learning projects build character and leadership.
6th Grade
- Our 6th Grade offers an interdisciplinary curriculum in world geography, earth science, and advanced math, with a strong focus on leadership and personal responsibility.
- A highlight of the year is Camp Carson, where students develop teamwork and confidence through outdoor challenges.
7th & 8th Grades
- Our unique approach to 7th & 8th Grades fosters critical thinking, academic excellence, and high school readiness with hands-on science labs, advanced math opportunities like Algebra I, and in-depth writing and analytical skill-building.
- Spanish becomes a core class, and students have the opportunity to test out of Spanish in their freshman year in high school.
- Faith development, leadership activities, and Confirmation preparation strengthen students’ moral and spiritual foundations.
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This comprehensive approach ensures that students graduate with the knowledge, independence, and character needed for success in high school and beyond.
MAP Growth Testing & Student Outcomes
Holy Trinity uses MAP Growth assessments in math and reading to track student progress and personalize learning. These adaptive tests, taken three times a year, adjust to each student’s skill level and provide insights into mastered concepts and areas for growth.
Students receive a RIT Score in math to help guide instruction, while the MAP Reading Fluency test evaluates literacy skills like comprehension and vocabulary. These results, along with classroom performance and teacher observations, help ensure steady academic growth.
Rather than focusing on a single test score, Holy Trinity takes a holistic approach, using MAP data alongside other assessments to support each student’s individual learning journey and long-term success.
Faculty & Student Academic Support
Highly Experienced Faculty
- 83% of our faculty hold Master’s Degrees.
- Experts in differentiated instruction, classroom innovation, and learning support.
Academic Support Programs
- Reading Teachers & Math Specialists for targeted learning interventions.
- Two Directors of Student Achievement assist students who may need modifications and accommodations during their academic journey. Our Directors of Student Achievement ensure our teachers are utilizing data-driven instruction & best practices in reaching all students.
- Counseling services & student mentorship to support emotional and academic growth.
The Holy trinity experience
Special Areas and Extracurriculars
Each child can reach their full potential through a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
Special Areas
Art
Students explore a variety of artistic mediums and techniques, including painting, ceramics, textiles, digital drawing, and pottery. The program fosters creativity, fine motor skills, problem-solving, and self-expression through hands-on projects.
Computers & Technology
Beginning in 2nd grade, students develop keyboarding skills and learn to navigate technology, including online research, digital collaboration, and file management. The program emphasizes both technical proficiency and responsible internet use to prepare students for a digital world. Students learn a variety of twenty-first century skills that include coding, robotics, and 3D printing.
Music & Drama
Students engage in singing, dancing, instrumental music (xylophones, piano, recorders, ukuleles, and guitars), and theater activities such as improvisation and scriptwriting. Special events, including Christmas Nativity and the Festival of the Arts, provide opportunities for performance and creative expression.
Physical Education
Through structured play, team sports, and fitness activities, students develop physical coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Annual highlights include Field Day and the 8th Grade vs. Faculty Volleyball Game.
Spanish
Students begin learning Spanish in Pre-K, with increasing class frequency as they progress through the grades. The program blends interactive activities and cultural studies to develop speaking, reading, and writing skills while fostering global awareness.
Library
Weekly library visits encourage a love for reading while teaching research skills, book care, and literary appreciation. Students explore a variety of genres and participate in highlights to enrich their literary experience. Students and families can access the Library database at home to see what resources are currently available.
Clubs and Activities
Many Clubs and Activities are offered after school to our students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade. All of these activities involve not only our teachers and students but also our parents.
- Quick Recall academic teams are open to students in 4th through 8th grades.
- 6th Grade Showcase and Governor’s Cup for 7th and 8th-grade students encourage students to showcase their academic excellence in various competitions.
- KYA (Kentucky Youth Assembly) works to teach students a better understanding of our government system in regard to the legislative branch.
- KUNA (Kentucky United Nations Assembly) works to teach students about the needs of individuals living in other countries, as well as educate our students about various cultures.
- Book Bee is open to students in 3rd through 8th grades.
- Student Council leaders in 6th-8th grade serve our school and parish with “Leadership Through our Faith, Academics, Community, Environment, and Service activities”.
- School plays and musicals are offered to students of all grade levels at various times throughout the year.
For more information on any of these activities, please contact our Director of Student Activities, Ashley Davenport, at [email protected].
Developing the Whole Child
Academic, Social & Emotional Growth
At Holy Trinity, we emphasize developing the whole child through academics, extracurriculars, and community involvement.
- Service Learning: Students gain real-world experience through participation in local service organizations.
- Athletics: Over 95% of students participate in our no-cut sports programs, including soccer, basketball, and more.
- Performing Arts: 40% of students engage in music and drama programs, showcasing talents in live productions.
Apply Now
Please follow the steps below to complete Holy Trinity's St. Matthews Campus online application.
Note: Application Procedures for CLIFTON can be found HERE
For Current Families
- Click on the Apply Now button below.
- Please enter your myHTCS username and password when asked.
For Prospective Families
- Click on the Apply Now button below.
- Select the blue "Create Account" link to create a myHTPS username and password.
- After entering your basic information, select the "Create Account" button.
- Here's the good news; our system may recognize you by your email address!
- If the system recognizes your email address, your email address will be highlighted in red after you press submit.
- If this occurs, select the "Forgot Login?" button. You will then be prompted to enter your email address to receive an automatic reply containing your myHTCS username and password.
- Once you receive a myHTCS username and password you will have access to complete the online application, monitor your child's progress through the admissions process and learn more about Holy Trinity.
If you have questions, please contact the school office at (502) 897-2785.