Library & Learning Technologies
Library Services
Our students are engaged in a bit of detective work to find their way around the newly re-organized library so they can find a “just right” book! We are learning that being able to read the words is only part of whether a book is right for us; having the schema, or background knowledge, to make connections with the characters, themes, and action is just as important. Choosing books in the library is different than in ELA and interest is key. For recreational reading, we don’t always choose books that are at our “challenge” level or “sweet spot.” Sometimes we choose a book below our reading ability and developmental age just because we love it! Other times, we want a book that is well above our reading ability, but one to which we can still make thoughtful connections. Reading these with a parent or sibling help forge strong reading skills as well as a lifelong love of reading.
Technology
Our facilities include an contemporary science lab used by students in all grades, classrooms with flexible seating arrangements, and Smartboards in every classroom. Every middle school student receives a Chromebook, and our expanding 1:1 iPad program ensures that every student in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade has their own iPad. Other students have access to a class set of iPads. Teachers use these tools, along with Google Classroom, to create a 21st century educational experience where students have an opportunity to collaborate, create, communicate and become critical thinkers.
Technology courses are essential to every Catholic school curriculum. In fact, technology is required to be integrated throughout each course of study from Mathematics to Religion. The use of technology in the 21st century is integral to preparing students for college and career success. Technology courses in Catholic schools cover a variety of lessons including Research and Information Fluency, Digital Citizenship, Creativity and Innovation, Communication and Collaboration. All of these units are taught and influenced by the lens of Catholic identity and the dignity of all humankind.
3D Printing
In addition to the core technology integrated curriculum, 3D printing has been added as an activity to enhance instruction throughout many of the schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
On May 5, 2015, Archbishop William E. Lori held a press conference to announce an exciting new initiative that makes a 3D printer available in every Archdiocesan school. The initiative was made possible due to support from the Embracing Our Mission ~ Shaping Our Future capital campaign, a generous donation by Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Croteau, and our technology and curriculum partners, 3D Systems and STEAMTrax.
3D printing is considered a “game-changer” for schools, as they provide children with unparalleled access to innovative technology used by engineers, astronauts on the International Space Station, and medical professionals and scientists.
School of the Cathedral students have access to this same technology and a curriculum that allows our students to become more ready every day for future discoveries and advances we have yet envisioned. Examples of projects our students have completed using 3D printing include:
- Building a community, in conjunction with the 3rd grade Social Studies unit on communities
- Creating parts for a rubber-band car in 5th grade Science class