Curriculum
MCSD challenges all schools to "Move Each Student to the Next Level" by:
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Analyzing multiple sources of data.
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Using the data to guide instruction.
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Providing quality, differentiated instruction to meet the needs of every learner.
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Coaching teachers for effective teaching within a differentiated learning environment.
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Developing professional learning communities to sustain learning.
MCSD has embraced a 3D Approach to accelerate student achievement. Schools are expected to:
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Differentiate instruction for the learners based on readiness, interest, etc. to prevent learning gaps;
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Teach to the appropriate Depths of knowledge to prepare students for higher order thinking;
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Study a concept of backwards planning, based on the principles of Understanding by Design.
Elementary schools are encouraged to implement a balanced literacy approach to teaching reading and content areas. Where appropriate, science, social studies, and math are integrated into the reading curriculum for building background knowledge and making connections across the disciplines. Developmental Reading Assessments are used to differentiate the levels of the learners for appropriate instruction in small guided reading groups. Hands-on mathematics and problem-solving are a daily part of the elementary classrooms in order to develop confident critical thinkers.
Middle schools have adopted reading programs that also incorporate assessments to determine the levels of the learner and provide appropriate instruction. Voyagers and Read 180 are essential parts of these balanced reading programs that guide students to be better readers. All subjects are focused on building better thinkers and problem-solvers who can apply knowledge in new situations.
High Schools have studied ways to differentiate instruction by interests and learning styles. Variation of instructional delivery is required and students are challenged to become analytical thinkers. Many accelerated courses are offered, along with dual enrollment.
