CHS unveils 2019-20 program of studies

The Canton School Committee has enthusiastically approved a new Canton High School program of studies for 2019-2020, which includes the formation a “Seal of Biliteracy” program, the introduction of new classes such as Project Teammate and Spanish Language & Culture, the reintroduction of Political Science, and the restructuring of the Math Seminar course. On a disappointing note, the school’s Mandarin courses, recently added as a World Language offering, will be phased out over the next few years due to continued low enrollment.

CHS Principal Derek Folan expressed excitement about the implementation of the Seal of Biliteracy but acknowledged that the process is a complicated one, involving a series of state-mandated requirements administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Introduced as part of the LOOK Act of 2017, the Seal of Biliteracy is a voluntary program that recognizes students who have studied and attained proficient and advanced levels in English and a second world language. Those who meet the requirements would have an official state insignia affixed to their diplomas and a statement of accomplishment would be shared with college admissions offices and future employers.

Folan said MCAS scores and proficiency levels established by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages will be the criteria for attaining the seal or a “seal with distinction.” Folan is expected to provide more information at the committee’s next meeting on February 28.

Regarding the elimination of Mandarin, those currently enrolled in Mandarin 2 will have an opportunity to continue on to Mandarin 3 and 4 but no new introductory courses will be offered. Students who are interested in studying Mandarin can explore enrollments in online classes offered by other communities.

As for the new Spanish Language & Culture courses, CHS will offer both a level 1 and 2, enabling all learners to experience Spanish culture, authentic experiences and fluency development. Completion of both classes will satisfy the two-year world language requirement for CHS graduation but not the two-year language requirement for most colleges.

In the Science Department, Physics 2AP will replace Physics 1AP and students will be required to take Physics Honors as a prerequisite. Physics 2AP focuses on the authentic application of physics and supports students who are looking to pursue careers in engineering.

Math Seminar will be removed from the program of studies but will still exist in a restructured format that will allow for independent academic growth during the day and practice at night. Many members of the CHS math team are expected to participate in this program.

Political Science, a popular elective previously offered by the Social Studies Department, is slated to return as a full-year course with a heavy emphasis on civics.

Project Teammate is a new unified course that will be offered by the Wellness Department. Participants and partner athletes will both have the opportunity to take this class and share in the learning experience. Students will be engaged in learning about disability rights and awareness.

In other academic procedural changes, students will now be permitted to seek a course change after …

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Posted by Mike Berger on Feb 15 2019. Filed under News, Schools. Both comments and pings are currently closed.