Felicia Drake[email protected]
School SummaryCardinal Forest Elementary School is home of the Mighty Red Birds. The parents, staff, and community work together to provide a positive, supportive, and caring atmosphere to assure that every child reaches their potential. Students thrive in the culturally diverse population with general education, special education, and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs. Instruction is provided through a continuum of services integrated for the varying degrees of learning challenges and exceptionalities. The strength of our academic program is coupled with the school-wide behavior initiative called Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) that focuses on positive outcomes of student behavior. Responsive Classroom focuses on building a caring and connected community within the classroom and the school. This blended programming provides a strong foundation for personal citizenship and expectations for developing social skills in preparation for 21st century learning skills and connected to FCPS Portrait of a Graduate.
High academic expectations for student learning are rooted in solid instruction provided through teacher use of researched, best practices and strategies that support the individual needs of our students. Differentiated instruction and problem based learning allows students to explore authentic learning opportunities and take ownership of their learning. Ongoing student assessment and continuing staff development provide a winning combination that keeps student success at the forefront. In addition to classroom instruction, students welcome the opportunities to participate in activities such as Band, Strings, Patrols, SCA Spirit Days, and various after-school clubs. Regular parent communication through conferences, newsletters, Keep in Touch, Parent View, and the FCPS 24-7 Blackboard site keep parents informed as partners in their child's education.
Technological prowess is important for active citizenship in the 21st century. Our state-of-the art computer lab is outfitted with high end computers with the most current applications to facilitate learning. An upgraded infrastructure supports technology integration. SMART Boards enhance teacher instruction and engage interactive student participation in every classroom. Mobile laptop computer labs supplement classroom computer stations, which are used extensively for research, science labs and ESOL classrooms. The library/media center is equipped with computer stations, a closed-circuit broadcasting studio, and computerized checkout. Wireless access to the World Wide Web exists throughout the school building.
An active PTA supports student achievement and the education of the whole child by sponsoring after-school programs as well as cultural and educational assembly programs throughout the year. Tutors and mentors from West Springfield High School support students in all grade levels. Volunteers from the school community are visible in classrooms and workrooms throughout the school day and into the evening hours. The cooperative effort among the involved parent neighborhood, school-business partnerships, extended community, and school staff nurtures the love of learning for all students at Cardinal Forest.
Last Updated: 2019-02-07