The future is now at Central Public School

The future is now at Central Public School
Central Public School principal Darryl Beck

CORNWALL, Ontario – Central Public School is using technology to mass communicate not only in the classroom, but on the street as well.

The school uses so-called SMART boards (think of an an electronic blackboard) and other modern learning tools to support students with specialized programming.

In an address to the school board recently, principal Darryl Beck added the school has a strong communications program in place using Twitter, Facebook and other modern methods which are serving to enhance the reputation of the school within the Cornwall community.

“A positive and active Facebook and Twitter feed provide two-way communication with many families that Central serves and also builds further public knowledge and confidence in our school,” Beck said.

“We’re using text messaging to send and receive messages to parents without regular phone service. This innovation has had a good reception with our parents and supports our safe arrival program.”

The principal told trustees his school is actively working to improve an already strong special education program. The school has created a new multipurpose and sensory room.

A construction project now underway will further enhance Central’s kindergarten program, adding two new kindergarten rooms on top of two already created this summer.  

The school promotes good classroom teaching through a quality “assessment” process – reviewing teaching practices and letting teachers and students know the steps necessary to improve student learning. Central also has professional learning communities and other professional development in place for its staff.

The focus on professional development is having an impact. Results in standardized testing from the spring have risen this year in Grades 3 and 6 reading, writing and mathematics.

The school operates a strong Wellness program including: a Quality Daily Physical Education Program, a vibrant fitness club, intramurals, and a chess club.

The next steps to be taken by the school to improve student performance include: focusing on math improvement; enhancing supports for students who struggle socially, emotionally and academically; and engaging students through enhanced use of technology and social media.

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