PROGRAMS

INDIVIDUALIZED HIGH-TECH PROGRAM

Computers
One of the goals of Manchester Academic Charter School is to have every student and teacher develop the confidence and competency needed to use the computer as an instructional tool for more efficient and productive learning. Computers are located in the School's two Computer Labs, which all have Internet access. The students' first experiences with the computer are designed to show the proper way to interact with hardware and computer programs. These programs correlate to specific curricular areas such as mathematics, language arts, and science.

As students become more skilled, they use the computer to present and manage problem-solving experiences. Special age-level word processing programs are used for students in Kindergarten through Third Grade, after which more involved word processing programs are introduced and become a major focus for the remaining years of elementary school. The students use the computer to type, edit and print their reports and compositions.

Robotics
MACS is committed to using robotics to excite children about science and technology and to help create a more technologically literate society. Our students learn to design and program full-functional robots that carry out life-like automated tasks.Utilizing math, science, physics, and problem solving skills students learn to work as a team developing the programs and mechanics of their robots.

MACS also participates in the First Lego League (FLL). FLL introduces students to real-world engineering challenges by building LEGO-based robots to complete tasks on a thematic playing surface. FLL teams, guided by their imaginations and adult coaches, discover exciting career possibilities and, through the process, learn to make positive contributions to society.

FLL sponsors what some would call “competitions”, but FLL has coined the term “Coopertition”.  Coopertition means competing always, but assisting and enabling others when you can. The MACS robotics program has been involved since 2006. Over that time period we have won several awards:

• 2006 – “Data Loggers” May Madness Competition Performance Award
• 2006 – “Data Loggers” May Madness Competition Judges Award
• 2007 – “Mr. Rogers Robotics Adventure ” May Madness Competition 3^rd Place Performance Award
• 2008 – First Lego League “Climate Connections” State Competition 1^st place Teamwork Award

SPECIAL SUBJECTS

Theater Arts & Performance
The Theatre Arts Program will not only develop a child’s performance skills, but will also teach cooperation, teamwork and commitment. Classes are taught in dance and movement, music, and acting. Our goal is to create well-rounded artists by the end of the program experience. Students learn the history of theatre and participate in a full-length play.

Art
All students in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade have classes in Art with exposure to the art of painting, drawing, and photography. The students are also exposed to an appreciation of art through classroom instruction, field trips, and art exhibits.

Spanish
The Spanish Program focuses specifically on teaching the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. Students enjoy making and trying foods from different cultures, learn about Latin American culture through internet research, media and hands on activities.

8th Grade Graduation Project
Beginning with the MACS graduating class of 2008 all students must complete a graduation project in order to graduate. Work on this project will begin in the 6th grade and will continue throughout their middle school years. The focus of this project is to increase students’ awareness of their community and their future. The project consists of college and career exploration, community service, creating a digital portfolio and an independent research assignment. Work on this project will be done both in school, during block periods, as well as out of school on students own time. Parent, teacher and student cooperation is needed to make this project a success. The completion of this project will put MACS students at the forefront of their high school class, giving them an advantage over their peers.

STUDENT SERVICES

Special Education
Manchester Academic Charter School is responsible for locating, identifying and educating children who are in need of special education programming.

Each year, Pennsylvania school districts are required to publish the following information. Please read carefully. Click here.