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Curriculum and Methods

1. Curriculum

   Cardinal Wright Regional School implements Pennsylvania State Standards and Diocesan Guidelines in all subject areas. The teachers and staff use a variety of research based methodologies and a variety of testing formats to meet the needs of all students. Our scope and sequence based curriculum provides each student the opportunity to reach his/her potential. Classroom portfolios are being developed to showcase student progress.
   
   1. Religion - At Cardinal Wright Regional School, each classroom teacher provides religious educational experiences for the students. Gospel values, respect for life, and classroom devotions are the foundation to building moral character within our students. In addition, weekly school/class Masses are offered to enhance the religious experience. Participation is extended to students of all religious affiliations. The 5^th and 8^th graders participate in the Diocesan sponsored Acre Test. The Religion program is integrated into the Fine Arts program. Seasonal liturgical activities enhance the Religion program.
      
   2. Language Arts - An open-ended curriculum consisting of English, Spelling and Reading, students working cooperatively and are engaging actively in the writing-reading process. With the integration of English/literature, students are introduced to creative writing, and illustrate their essays/stories, with original drawings/illustrations. Spelling is integrated into all these major curricular subject areas. As with all subject, accommodations and adjustments are made to meet those students with special needs. Support continues for students qualifying for I.U. services. New reading program in place - 2006-2007
      
   3. Math - A new Math series was implemented. The strengths of this new series include: strengthening basic facts and skills, developing problem solving skills, as well as ongoing test preparation for Diocesan testing and Terra Nova testing programs. Support continues for students qualifying for I.U. services.
      
   4. Social Studies - Basic social studies concept are enriched through drawings, dioramas, and research activities. Computer databases reinforcing concepts are introduced such as timelines on the Internet. The value of diverse cultural understanding is reinforced through the Fine Arts program.
      
   5. Science - The science program strives to provide a developmental hands-on approach to scientific investigation. This includes hands-on activities, cooperative learning, library research and intense teaching methods. The use of technology greatly enhances the learning experience. Interdepartmental activities provide for sharing of student presented projects.
      
   6. Computer - The school building is fully networked. In addition to a computer lab, each classroom contains at least one computer. The "Future Kids" curriculum is implemented during computer class and integrated throughout the curriculum. When the lab is not being used for computer classes, it is available for use by classroom teachers. Tech support is provided by trained teachers. A Web site promoting the school and its activities can be accessed by parents and other interested parties. (http://www.cardinalwrightregionalschool.org)
      
   7. Fine Arts - Grades 1-5 were introduced to a hands on program for the 2004-2005 year; however, the program is flexible and adapted to include grades 6-8. Mixing artistic pieces/paintings with classical, jazz and modern music selections, hands-on and exploratory concepts are presented to these students. Children are afforded the opportunity to appreciate the works of Michelangelo, Renoir, Degas, etc., while exploring the sounds of Mozart, Beethoven and Bernstein for background enjoyment. This comprehensive program is sponsored by the Diocese of Pittsburgh. The Cardinal Wright Regional Children's Choir will be showcasing performers at the Benedum Center prior to the performance of the Nutcracker. This year's Art theme is: "Exploring Art from Africa." Students are designing mask, knit cloth, and various art pieces with an African motif. These pieces are displayed year-round on the walls as an on-going Art Exhibit.
      
   8. Physical Education - The physical education provides a variety of activites aimed at meeting the needs of students of all ability levels. Skills test and physical fitness tests are administered regularly. Each student is encouraged to become as physically fit as possible. Safety education is integrated into the curriculum. In addition to regularly scheduled physical education classes, the gym is utilized for practice sessions for the basketball teams and the cheerleading squads. Health topics are addressed through the Science program.
      
   9. Spanish - Multimedia support such as videos and computer programs reinforce the curriculum being taught by each classroom teacher in grades K through 8.
2. Homework Policy
   Students at Cardinal Wright Regional School are expected to devote a regular portion of at-home time to school studies. Homework reinforces what has been learned in class, prepares students for upcoming lessons, teaches responsibility, and helps students develop positive study habits. Homework may include written assignments, work not completed in class, reading assignments, study and review assignments, and long-term projects or reports. Each student should average the following amount of homework each evening:

   	Primary Grades (Kindergarten through 3)	30 Minutes
   	Intermediate Grades (4 and 5)	1 Hour
   	Upper Grades (6 through 8)	1.5 Hours

   Students are expected to enter assignments as they are given into a school approved assignment book.