BRAD SMITH (from 2017 blog, republished for the 2024 eclipse)

"This most beautiful system of the sun, planets, and comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent and powerful being." — Isaac Newton, General Scholium to the Principia Mathematica, 1713

As many in America prepare for the impending total eclipse taking place on Monday afternoon, the phenomenon provides an opportunity for more than just an education in science and astronomy. It is a chance to focus on the wondrous Creator who has set in motion even the unperceived features of our universe.

Ellis Island. Bees. Computers. Bats. What could these possibly have in common? They are the winning ideas proposed to MPCS administration for the inaugural year of the Innovation in Teaching Grant. Funds raised each year from the PTF auction are typically used for classroom needs and technology. However, this year a unique approach to the use of these funds was established. PTF contributed $10,500 toward “innovation grants.”

Innovation. We hear and see it often. It’s the latest buzz word in the field of education. What does this mean for Mount Paran Christian School? And more specifically, is STEAM truly beneficial for our younger learners?

Some of the most profound and enlightening experiences a student can have in high school involve authentic encounters with industry professionals. On rare occasions, a partner-in-education extends its influence far beyond a surface effect — and the results for students can be life-altering. One such opportunity has unfolded for the students in the Concepts of Engineering class at Mount Paran Christian School.

What's new in middle school science? STEAM collaboration and research through interdisciplinary subjects. Not only are MPCS students grasping difficult concepts in mathematics and physical science, they are having fun while doing it. 

Through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math

In Kathleen Cushman’s book entitled Fires in the Mind, from the perspective of learners she explores what inspires, what engages, and what leads to the development of exceptional mastery. At Mount Paran Christian School, similar explorations dominate our conversations with students and faculty. Specifically, we continue to reflect on the following: 

CO-WRITTEN BY KRISTY DODSON

The lower school at Mount Paran Christian School is always a fun and busy place, but this past spring it was especially exciting in second grade. The second grade teachers along with the help of Lower School Head, Dr. Davis, embarked on a six-week pilot program to introduce project-based learning to their students. 

 

CO-WRITTEN BY KATY ROGERS

All children are uniquely created with distinct strengths upon which they can build. Children should not be not categorized as more able or less able to learn; the focus should be on understanding and developing each child’s capacity for learning so that he or she can become a confident, self-directed, and resourceful student.

Why is personal creative expression beneficial to young minds? How can engagement in the arts influence overall capacity for learning? Research shows that aside from the obvious aesthetic and entertainment value that comes with the arts, arts education can be linked to improving academic achievement, among other things. 

As parents, we are constantly teaching our children, modeling behavior, and doing our best to help shape them into responsible Christian citizens. We take them to church, Sunday school, youth groups, and summer camps. We enroll them in arts, clubs, and sports teams, looking for teachable moments at every turn. We pray they develop relationships with role-models that develop their character. How can we ensure that our children are being influenced by godly people that will help to “train up a child in the way he should go?”

CO-WRITTEN BY SHAUNDA BROOKS AND SUSAN LATON

Inside the quaint and cozy Sewell Cottage at Mount Paran Christian School, the preschool staff works enthusiastically to provide an exemplary instructional program which sets MPCS students up for success as they advance to kindergarten. We are often asked how MPCS preschool differs from other early-childhood programs offered in the community.

Matthew 5:14 — “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”

In the classroom, on the field, during lunch, and in the quiet moments in between, special things are happening at Mount Paran Christian School. There is more to the school day than just science labs and math facts.

Girls in the fifth grade took the initiative to participate in a Bible study during lunch on Thursdays with the lower school counselor. One student, Peyton E., expressed a desire to study the book of Ruth with her classmates. Teachers obliged and have encouraged the girls to engage in the study in addition to their academic load. What has followed has led to fruitful discussions and a sweet time of fellowship for these tweens.