Curriculum

A PMHS education is based upon a traditional secondary school curriculum combined with sound, up-to-date education principles, including the encouragement of multiple learning methods, an alternative school calendar, block scheduling, standards-based instruction, an integrated curriculum, and inclusive classes. Educational program includes:

    1. Standard PA Curriculum Multiple Learning Styles
    2. Calendar Block Scheduling
    3. Standards Based Instruction
    4. Integrated Curriculum Service Learning

We meet all the secondary education curriculum requirements established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and includes additional curriculum elements which enhance the development of sound moral growth, well-rounded scholarship and preparation for working with modern technology.

Math (4 years)
English (4 years)
World Language (2 + years)
Science
Religion
Computer Science
Physical Education
Social Science
Various electives

PMHS offers an education over and above the minimum PA Department of Education requirements, including two years of a modern world language and two years of computer technology.

Standard PA Curriculum Multiple Learning Styles
A multiple learning approach addressing multiple learning styles is at the core of our unique education program. We at PMHS recognize that students attain knowledge individually through different learning styles and at different rates of speed. We are not subjected to a single method of understanding academic subjects. Instead, students are encouraged to approach the academic disciplines using their respective learning strengths. Students are exposed to oral, visual, tactile, and written learning modes, and encouraged to study and learn in any combination which they find most effective for the mastery of each subject. This teaching and learning approach reduces frustration by creating a friendly educational environment. Students at PMHS are given the opportunity to learn according to their individual capability without penalty. A multiple learning approach avoids the trap of pre-determining who will be classified as “academic”, “general” or “other”.

PMHS teachers assume that all students can achieve at a high level if they are taught in a manner which coincides with their individual method of understanding and appreciating knowledge. This unique approach is intended to expand the educational outlook and career options for every student. Students completing PMHS will be better prepared to face challenges with self assurance developed over four years of careful, individualized, academic preparation. PMHS develops habits conducive to cooperation and a strong sense of Christian identity based upon the conviction that each person is created in the image of God and worthy of ultimate respect. PMHS graduates will be prepared to offer civic, educational, moral, spiritual, and economic leadership to the Philadelphia region and beyond.

Block Scheduling
The use of block-scheduling allows educators to teach in a manner which results in greater student achievement, generates higher levels of both student and teacher interest, and generally exceeds the performance of traditional single period scheduling, with classes held every other day. Block scheduling allows for doubling of class time for each subject, allowing concentration on specific subjects each semester for intensive periods of study. The block scheduling method allows all subjects to be covered in a school year, but with greater attention to each during the semester. Combined with the integrated curriculum, block scheduling allows students more time to develop a deeper understanding of each subject. This approach allows for greater concentration and subject mastery through intensive exploration. Students see the various subjects as inter-related disciplines, more readily understood and appreciated.

Standards-Based Instruction
Standards-based instruction requires that all students achieve a comprehensive mastery of each subject, based upon performance assessments to document proficiency. In this inclusive system all students are taught the same subject material. A standards based curriculum insures that quality learning is available to every student. There are no simplified courses or social promotions at PMHS. Students advance subject-by-subject and grade-by-grade, based upon an objective assessment of proficiency for each subject . Students must obtain a minimum of 80% proficiency in each subject before proceeding to the next higher course level.

Integrated Curriculum
The integrated curriculum is used as a learning tool to help students perceive how each subject fits into a wider scheme. The relationship between academic subjects and actual working applications are brought together through team taught classes. Team taught classes bring multiple teachers and specialties into the classroom providing meaningful exchanges of ideas and a smaller ratio of students to teachers.

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