Student Life

Instructional Format

Being responsible and accountable for one's learning encourages independence and ownership of one's achievement. The instructional format at St. Cyril of Alexandria School incorporates a variety of teaching methods such as small/large group learning, individualized instruction, and cooperative learning. Effective learning is further accomplished through a contract or unit which organizes reinforcement activities and
assignments.

Departmentalization

Departmentalization is carried out with all subjects and all departments. Each department, grades 1-4, encompasses three classrooms made up of two grade levels. Grades 5-8 encompasses four classrooms. Each teacher specializes in 2-3 subject areas. Kindergarten  has two classrooms.

Student Activities

Communication

St. Cyril of Alexandria School believes that good communication between parents, staff and administration is essential. The communication is accomplished in several ways:

• Weekly School Expresses
• Parent/teacher conferences
• Phone calls/emails from staff 
• Department meetings
• Parent evening meeting
• Mid-trimester reports

• Student work signed by parents
• Written discipline plans signed by parents
• Progress notes
• Online student information through RenWeb
• Parental involvement in the classroom, on the boards and on committees
• Trimester evaluations

Grading System

Student progress is reported three times a year (trimesters) with written evaluations. Students also receive mid-trimester reports. In addition, at least one conference a year is held for each child. Conferences may include student, teacher, parent(s) and/or principal.

Religion

St. Cyril of Alexandria School is a community of faith which believes in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and is dedicated to providing a quality education and to promoting a love for learning. The religious program of St. Cyril of Alexandria School presents the central doctrines and morals of the Catholic faith. All students must participate in the required religion classes in grades K-8.

A. Liturgy

Religion is taught in each grade and is reinforced by a participatory Wednesday Liturgy and Friday community prayer service. All classrooms take turns providing the lectors, altar servers, and gift bearers throughout the year. Preparing the theme is the responsibility of the teacher and the class whose turn it is to prepare the Liturgy.

On Wednesdays the school day begins at 8:00 a.m. with Mass. Students are required to wear a St. Cyril shirt (green or white) with a belt and something other than jeans to Mass on Wednesdays. All students are to attend and show proper respect at all liturgies and paraliturgies throughout the year. Please check the school calendar for any exceptions to the normal Mass day.

B. Project Pride

Project Pride, a curriculum promoting values and decision-making, is taught to students.

C. Discipline with a Purpose

Discipline with a Purpose (DWP) as taught at St. Cyril of Alexandria School, is premised on the Catholic Christian beliefs of the inherent goodness and value of every person. Each student is a child of God and as His cherished creation, deserves our respect and consideration. A further explanation of DWP is found in our discipline policy.

D. Christian Family Life Program (Health Education and Human Sexuality)

Education is the primary right and responsibility of the parents. In the area of family life education studies that are offered in the schools try to complement  the teachings the students receive at home. The school informs and involves parents in this area of the school's curriculum.