The Junior School has been selected to pilot a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiative beginning in September.
Some of the teachers, however, just could not wait until September to get started! Sixth Graders had an introduction into 3-D drawing with Mr. Todd Eisinger, a MCHS art teacher. Seventh Graders benefited from a robotics lab where they assembled a robotic arm while learning the importance of robotics in manufacturing. Even the Eighth Graders have dabbled in design! And, instruction in the Junior School has taken an impressive turn towards the future with lessons designed to teach real-life applications (Thanks for those yummy cookies, Sixth Grade!).
To accompany this paradigm shift in our instructional process, the St. Virgil Academy Campus will invest over $100,000 to improve technology and instruction throughout the entire facility! The administration is in the process of exploring the latest equipment available including digital lab equipment, interactive technologies, software and web-based curriculum tools including tools for intervention and enrichment, and new personal computing technologies.
To ensure that this investment is truly successful and will provide for our needs in the future, I am creating a Technology Round Table to discuss and implement a technology plan that will take the SVA Campus into the future, providing equipment and applications that support a 21st Century learning environment. Candidates for the Round Table are parents and friends of SVA and MCJS who are knowledgeable of IT, have a business and or educational background, and are committed to improving student achievement.
If you are interested in mapping the future for our students, please contact me at deduane.principal.398@patdioschools.org or via the School Office.
THE JOURNEY HAS BEGUN!
Technology was enhanced over the summer months. We are working to improve internet connectivity and add interactive whiteboard technology in ALL the Campus classrooms. A filtering system was added to ensure safe use of the internet by all users, and all computers were evaluated for appropriate capability, and enhancing those that need it.
Classrooms will have access to United Streaming at Discovery Education, Worldbook Online, and Inspiration software. These new applications will allow for student exploration and discovery both in school and at home.
We are pleased to announce that MCJS and SVA will use PowerSchool, a web based grade book which will allow parents to view their child’s progress 24/7. To improve communication between parent, teacher, and student, Edline will be introduced. These powerful tools will allow paperless communication. Homework will be posted as well as important news and communications from teachers, administrators, and parent groups.
The most important seeds to plant are those which directly affect the students of SVA and MCJS. New textbooks were ordered in Literature and Mathematics for all MCJS students, and our 6th graders can look forward to a new Social Studies series as they explore ancient cultures.
Dr. Jeanne Gradone and Mrs. Debbie Duane have met extensively to ensure a smooth transition into the Junior School curricula and have many exciting events planned for your child to have a taste of all Morris Catholic High School has to offer.