Academics

Computers

We have two computer/technology instructors.  In addition we have a co-curricular computer program brought in to add additional learning for those parents who desire it.  We have high-speed broadband internet access throughout.  All behind a sophisticated Cisco Firewall and content protection system to ensure a safe internet experience.  All student internet usage is monitored directly by faculty as well.

Computer Lab

Our Computer Lab has 16 computers and a computer instructor. In addition to teaching computer and other technology skills, integration with the curriculum is essential. In light of this, Sacred Heart’s technology literacy goals are combined with goals for integration of technology with the curriculum. The goals for our students are:

• Grades Pre-k and Kindergarten learn to use the keyboard and mouse.
• Grades 1 -3 continue to learn to use the keyboard and use graphing and word processing software in conjunction with the curriculum.
• Grades 4 - 6 use software programs to enhance the study of geography, social studies, and science. Increased word processing expertise is an expected outcome.
• Grades 7 and 8 learn to use presentation, multimedia authoring, and spreadsheet software as part of the requirements for class projects in specific content areas.
• Co-Curricular additional computer classes are now being introduced by an outside company specializing in computer education.

Coming soon this website will have content sections updated by each grade which will include a homework page, periodic curriculum updates and where applicable, a student section.

More and more parent/teacher communication will be done through a "push" based email system rather than paper being shuffled (and potentially lost) by students.

We envision a school where our students gain the education in technology needed to function in the third millennium. These skills will enable our students to better pursue their academic goals, to be prepared for life in a technological age, and to better do God's work in the church and the world.

Specifically, we plan for our students to develop skills with word processing, presentation software, and using the internet for research of topics relevant to the curriculum with the goal of preparing students for higher education.

Our technology plan is developed by the Technology Committee and is reviewed and updated annually. The Technology Committee is comprised of parent volunteers, administration and faculty. The goal is to continue staff training, provide as many up-to-date computers as possible, as well as to keep the software library current.

Classrooms

Each individual classroom has several computers that the teachers employ as part of their daily instruction. The teachers work with the Computer teacher to coordinate their lesson plans, and make sure that students employ those skills they are learning in the lab into real projects. Each classroom is also equipped with high-speed internet access, large TV monitors, VCR/DVD's for whole class viewing and presentation of projects. It is our plan to purchase ar least three (3) additional PC s each year, assuring that each classroom will have at least one PC that is no more than 2 years old.

SmartBoards

Over the last few years, we have added four (4) Interactive SmartBoards along with projection units for use in the classroom. These are digital whiteboards that interact with the programs on the teachers' PCs. Consultants have been brought in to provide tips and techniques to the teachers as to how best to use the SmartBoards. Additional SmartBoards are on order.

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