Twenty-first century learning environment
The literature on academics indicates that the schools of today must be geared toward the principles of 21st century learning. Some of these principles include: creative and critical thinking, problem-solving, opportunities for collaboration in the acquisition of new knowledge, and using technology as a learning tool in various applications.
Seven-credit, rotational daily schedule
Also unique to Chaminade-Madonna is the daily rotational schedule of classes. Students meet in each class every other day for seventy-five minute class periods. All students carry seven credits of classes each year. In the middle of the day is a 90-minute block where no classes meet but rather students are scheduled into a lunch period, a study period, and a period for standardized test preparation. This schedule assists the students in becoming efficient managers of their time while emphasizing thoroughness and depth of instruction as opposed to a more cursory treatment.
Focus on learning objectives
Curricula are organized utilizing a “backwards design” method which focuses on essential questions and understandings as opposed to the rote memorization of facts and/or concepts. This method enables teachers to be reflective practitioners and challenges each department to make conscious decisions about content, course sequencing, and most important what types of assessment will be used to ascertain the students’ grasp of concepts.
Advanced learning opportunities
The Academic program at Chaminade-Madonna is designed to challenge all students and expose them to a learning environment that will prepare them for their next level of study. Within its liberal arts curriculum, CMCP offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Enrollment, and Honors courses.
College Acceptance
100% of our students graduate and are accepted to at least one postsecondary institution. Ninety-six percent of students go on to a college or university, and four percent continue their education in the U.S. Armed Forces, service-related academies (fire, police, etc.), or vocational schools.
