At Mount Calvary, we are constantly evaluating our curriculum and seeking to develop new and innovative ways to prepare our students and incorporate a Biblical worldview into their education. In recent years, PA science standards have shifted toward technology, engineering, and environmental literacy and sustainability. Assistant Principal, Kory Pruner shared, “We feel these standards present a wonderful opportunity to blend Biblical stewardship with critical thinking skills and uniquely equip students for future service in many industries. In response, we are implementing many new features into our science, media, and technology curriculum.”
Last year, we began raising trout to release into our local streams in our West Campus with 2nd-5th grade students, which we have been doing for many years at our high school. Mount Calvary is also investing in updated robotics and design curriculum, highlighted by purchasing a 3D printer for elementary media and brand new robots for middle school.
This year, funding from a local family foundation has allowed MCCS to purchase two additional 3D printers for our 6th-12th grade media classes. These MakerBot Sketch Sprints have been allowing students to print designed 3D models quickly enough to engage students within our 42-minute class period. We also utilize project-based learning modules known as iBlocks for which help instructors implement these devices into our media program.
This grant funding has also allowed us to dive into the world of Hydroponics and Flex Farming, opening up numerous opprtunities for students, including agricultural studies, entrepreneurship, food supply, and sustainability. In class, students share maintenance roles and are responsible for monitoring and tracking pH and nutrient levels in the flex farms to sustain growth and maximize food production. Currently, students are growing four varieties of lettuce, kale, arugula, and collard greens, as well as herbs.
High school media and science teacher, Jaime Weisser shared about the learning opportunities brought on this year with the hydroponic farming system in her media class,“Students are discovering how to grow fresh food using nutrient-rich water and LED lighting. In class, students are evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of hydroponics versus traditional soil-based agriculture, with a focus on water and land use. Additionally, students are gaining knowledge about sustainability and how technology can help with resource scarcity and environmental impacts.”
More to come on this exciting new venture for our students!