Germain Academy not only prides itself in being a 5-Star School for Advanced Studies but we have also been granted exemplary SAS status by LAUSD and we are a demonstration site for schools seeking to develop their own SAS program. Several of our teachers trained with Dr. Sandra Kaplan from USC emphasizing Depth and Complexity. The Depth and Complexity Icons are visual prompts designed to help students go beyond a surface-level understanding of a concept and enhance their ability to think critically. These critical thinking tools help students dig deeper into a concept (depth) and understand that concept with greater complexity.
In the last few years, Germain has opened an ETK (Extended Transitional Kinder) class and a second Core-Autism class which will help our students remain at Germain rather than being bused to other schools. We are working on increasing the technology available for our students with a goal of a one-to-one ratio of iPads in Kinder-Second grade and Chromebooks in Third-Fifth grades. Our robotics program continues to grow and this year it will be under the guidance of our Technology Coordinator, Mrs. Palacio. Ms. Marshall will continue to provide our students with music classes.
Our wonderful PTA led by Mrs. Katie Dunn provides our students with field trips and seasonal events that bring our school community together. I strongly recommend that all parents join our PTA and participate in their school-wide events as well as their fundraising efforts. It's a great experience that benefits all of our students.
As you can see there are lots going on at Germain. I look forward to another great year working together with you to provide all of our students with the best possible elementary school experience. We want every student to be College and Career Ready and be able to meet the challenges of the 21st Century global economy.
