Exceptional Learning

Since its inception in 1976, the Directed Studies program at MPCS has made it a priority to support non-traditional learners in developing a clear and confident understanding of their God-given gifts. Student success advances by applying customized learning strategies uniquely suited to individual strengths. Students increasingly view themselves as highly-capable learners as they accomplish their goals. When discovered, these attributes support the true heart and soul of a Christian education — inspiring young men and women to aspire to all that the Lord has in store for them as lifelong learners and successful students within our challenging college-preparatory program and beyond.

Over the past four decades, the MPCS Directed Studies program has been fine-tuned toward helping all types of learners find academic success. From mild learning differences to dyslexia, the core of this well-established program has unceasingly supported our school mission in the preparation of confident learners and servant-leaders.

To explore more, tap below to read the blog.

Defining Directed Studies

The Directed Studies instructional support program in grades 1-8 is designed to support the unique learner in a small group setting for math and language arts instruction. Grade-level objectives guide what is taught, and a variety of curricular materials and diverse teaching methodologies enhance students’ acquisition of critical concepts and skills.

Students with diagnosed mild learning differences are eligible to participate, and families pay an additional fee for these individualized services.

Additionally, we invite you to tap to read the WingTips blog below.

parented.: Understanding Dyslexia

Individual and small group support is provided under the umbrella of personalized mentoring services in a learning-laboratory setting as part of the school day or A/B rotation. Specifically, student accommodation plans guide the provision of a secure learning space where learners receive course-specific tutoring; advocacy; refinement of social, emotional, and cognitive self-management skills; and focused preparation for the transition to college.

Students with diagnosed mild learning differences are eligible to participate, and there is an additional fee for this program.

Developed by the Directed Studies faculty, personalized plans outline how classroom instruction and assessment will support a student's unique learning profile. Guidance and Directed Studies faculty work together with teachers to design course-specific interventions consistent with the accommodation plans. Once the plans are initiated within the classroom, support faculty ensure ongoing student advocacy and consistent monitoring of student progress.

These supplemental services are provided as part of the classroom learning environment at no additional cost for eligible students.

MPCS offers challenging, hands-on curriculum that is age-appropriate and foundational for our preschoolers. While we don't yet know if our youngest Eagles will be ready for advanced classes in the future, our job as parents and educators at this stage is to inspire curiosity, equip them for innovative exploration, and encourage a love of learning.

To guide you, we encourage you to read this WingTips blog on fostering more "why's" in our youngest learners. 

Why "Why" Matters

In lower school, teachers differentiate instruction to address the needs of diverse learners within the classroom. This allows all students to progress educationally at a rate that fits their learning profile and prevents feelings of boredom and frustration.

Fifth grade also provides advanced mathematics and language arts classes for students who qualify.

The ENCORE enrichment program is a gifted-caliber pull-out class offered to qualifying students in grades 3-5. ENCORE provides opportunities for additional challenge and concentrated project-based learning to facilitate deeper problem-solving skills. There is an additional fee for ENCORE.

In middle school, many students qualify for advanced math and/or advanced language arts courses. In addition, eighth-grade students may qualify for advanced content in science and math with high-school level curriculum. Accelerated math is also offered to eighth-graders who qualify.

MPCS high school provides a wide range of curricular offerings, challenging students to develop analytical abilities and problem-solving skills. With more than 56 Advanced Placement (AP) and honors course offerings spanning the curriculum, students are challenged to pursue course content normally reserved for college. MPCS focuses on AP class offerings because they are universally accepted for course credit at all colleges and universities, unlike some dual enrollment programs. Honors courses offered in every content area (except Bible) provide added academic challenge for students who wish to delve more deeply into a specific content area.

The innovative STEM/STEAM program with Project Lead The Way® (AP-level) curriculum introduces students to the engineering design process, which is in high demand throughout the modern business world.

Seniors achieve 100-percent acceptance to top four-year colleges and universities, and graduating classes have earned more than $9 million in scholarships annually, even before adding the HOPE/Zell grants. Dedicated teachers are highly qualified in their subject matter and committed to providing enriched learning experiences for all learners.

Read the blog about the success of our high school academic scholars.

AP Scholars Soaring and Scoring Higher

Technology adds a completely new dimension to teaching and learning. MPCS is committed to explore academic technology in a developmentally-appropriate way at every level of the school. Preschool students use tablets, computers, SMART Tables, and other age-appropriate devices to enhance curriculum in each subject area. Lower school students use Chromebook and iPads.

Middle and high school students are issued an individual 1:1 Microsoft Surface Pro device each year, which is integrated into traditional curriculum through Google Classroom or Canvas. Students are intentionally taught how to use and care for computers responsibly and what it means to be a good digital citizen. MPCS teachers in many levels have achieved Google Certification.

Most of the preschool day is focused on developing academic skills without technology, instead learning problem-solving, processing and organization, gross and fine motor skills, and social skills that are an essential foundation to the next steps in education.

Our youngest students are born digital-natives, using technology comfortably at an early age. At school, we incorporate certain digital technology through PreK STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) classes in which the students discover, interact, and create in ways that make digital learning fun and engaging.

Kindergarten through second-grade students experience weekly lessons in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) lab, where they learn components of the engineering design process using Apple iPads. Hands-on activities in robotics, engineering, and programming are part of this lab experience. 

Third- through fifth-graders have 1:1 technology devices through our Connected Learning Program. They are introduced to collaborative learning tools such as Google Drive, where groupwork can be digitally accessed and updated simultaneously by different students working on different aspects of the same project. Keyboarding is also practiced in lower school as students use their 1:1 devices.

Upon entering sixth grade, students receive a school-issued Microsoft Surface Pro device to use in the classroom and at home. Instruction on responsible use is embedded in daily lessons, preparing students to form and use Christ-like discernment and habits.

From collaborative writing within Google Docs to creating informational videos, students use these devices as tools to further their learning. Teachers have become more creative and innovative in their lessons, providing students with memorable and impactful instruction. Students may also delve into Project Lead The Way® engineering courses through MPCS STEAM.

Technology alone does not improve student learning — it is simply a tool to help teachers provide students with the necessary skills to succeed in today’s world such: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Technology skills are also enhanced through STEM/STEAM.

The Connected Learning Program includes school-provided devices for all high school students as part of tuition. Working in the Google Classroom environment, this model most closely represents the reality of the college experience with organization, development, and submission of individual and group work.

Google Classroom: Parent/Guardian Emails

Google Classroom: Student View

Google Classroom: Calendar

MPCS offers industry expertise and insight concerning the use of technology for teaching and learning in classrooms. Check out these WingTips blogs. 

• Connected for the Future
• Integration of Art, Technology, and Music
• ParentEd.: "Connect" with Kids' Tech Use
• Connected Learning Program