Non-Techies Welcome at Saghalie’s Math and Science Academy
The new Math and Science Academy at Saghalie has been labeled as a great fit for kids who like computers and active learning. But students who aren’t especially into computers have just as much to gain at Saghalie. “It’s a wonderful environment for learning for all kids -- not just those with technological interests,” Principal Laura Davis-Brown emphasizes.
The curriculum for the Math and Science Academy at Saghalie is based on a nationally-recognized program called Gateway to Technology (GTT). The program creates opportunities to learn by doing -- in addition to observing, reading or hearing. It provides those opportunities through a variety of devices that are called manipulative teaching tools, a serious name for some seriously cool tools.
Consider the ones best described as oversized Legos.® Few kids (or adults) can pass up a chance to pick them up and, often without realizing what they’re doing, engage in the hands-on learning that GTT is known for.
Up to 200 sixth- and seventh-graders will participate in the academy next year. Even if students aren’t academy participants, they’ll benefit from the emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum. That includes eighth-grade students, who will not be part of the academy next year, but will be able to take GTT classes as electives.
The Math and Science Academy isn’t the only academic enhancement at Saghalie this coming year. Language arts (reading and writing) will be taught through a method called ‘balanced literacy’, which uses authentic literature instead of a text book. Visual technology classes will introduce students to the technology they’ll encounter throughout much of their educational and professional careers. Music (both band and choir), journalism and Spanish will all be available.
To enroll your student at Saghalie, come directly to the school’s office, 33914 19th Avenue SW, Federal Way, WA 98023 beginning mid-August (please call 243-945-5000 first to make sure the office is open). A list and descriptions of documents needed to register can be found at http://www.fwps.org/info/enrollment/.
Questions about the program can be directed to Principal Laura Brown or Assistant Principal Julie Ray at the same number or via e-mail: labrown@fwps.org, or jray@fwps.org.
Updated: July 15, 2011