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Carmichaels Area operates one
elementary building housing kindergarten through sixth grade. The building was
completed in 1991 and houses approximately 615 students. The building has its
own gymnasium, cafeteria, playground area, library, music suite and computer
labs.
The elementary curriculum provides a complete program of studies in
Reading, Mathematics, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Health, Library
Science, Music, Art, Computer, and Physical Education for all students.
The use of technology and computers is a high priority in
the Carmichaels
Area. There are two primary computer labs in the elementary school. The first is
a 30 station state of the art Dell lab. This lab uses learning software called
"Tomorrows Promise" which analyzes each student's ability and designs a
curriculum tailored to their individual needs. After taking a test, the software
assigns prescriptions for the students to work on until those skills are
mastered. The other lab, a
30 station "state of the art" mobile laptop lab, is used primarily for all
students for computer instruction. A mini Dell lab is operated in the library
and supports the Accelerated Reading program, a supplemental program to enhance
the regular reading curriculum.
The reading program consists of DI
(Direct Instruction) for grades K,1,2 and 3. Because the district has gone to an
all-day Kindergarten program, the DI approach to reading has been very
successful. When students reach grade four, they are entered into the Heath
series. The elementary math program is an effective program and incorporates
cooperative learning, hands-on activities, and guided discovery.
Primary teachers in the district have been trained through staff development
in a concept called DAP (Developmentally Appropriate Practices). DAP presents
curriculum that is age appropriate as well as educationally appropriate
for all individual learners. By using Developmentally Appropriate Practices,
teachers create a learning environment that provides a variety of learning
experiences for each student that match the student's developing abilities,
while at the same time, challenging the child's interests and understanding.
Carmichaels Elementary Center is known for its outstanding concerts
and musical productions. This foundation and appreciation for music begins
early in the primary grades and instrumental music instruction begins in
the fifth grade.
An active parental involvement program is in place in the elementary
school. The Parent/Teacher organization meets at least monthly and is very
active. Students are able to enjoy various assemblies, holiday activities,
equipment, etc. by the efforts of our Parent Council. Elementary Parent Teacher Evening
is held annually in November and is always well attended. Additional conferences
can be scheduled when necessary by either the teacher or the parent.
We schedule an open house early
in September to afford parents an opportunity to meet their child's teacher and
to familiarize them with the operation of the elementary school. Additional
conference are welcomed and can be scheduled when necessary by either the
teacher or the parent. The philosophy of Carmichaels Area is that all children can learn and
that our teachers are well equipped to implement various instructional
strategies and modify teaching styles to match students' learning styles
to allow this philosophy to come to fruition. |