Aquinas Program
Click here for important Aquinas Program announcements.
Faculty:
- Director of Aquinas Program
- Jeanine Kandrac - B.A., English, Art, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, M.A.T., Secondary English, John's Hopkins University, M.A. in Contemplative Education from Naropa University, CO.
- kandracj@archbishopspalding.org
- 410-969-9105 x264
- Resource Coordinator
The Aquinas Program at Archbishop Spalding High School is designed to provide alternative academic instruction and assessment within a supportive, structured environment. This Program offers support for high school students who display characteristics of mild learning disabilities in the areas of reading and language.
The Program provides students with basic strategies, academic skills, and knowledge necessary for them to realize their full potential in our school community and society at large.
Aquinas students are placed in classes with a lower pupil-teacher ratio. Experienced faculty who receive in-service training and education in the area of learning disabilities teach the Aquinas classes. Lessons and assessment methods are designed to meet students’ individual needs and learning styles. Flexible class placements address academic strengths and weaknesses.
Courses offered through the Aquinas Program meet the academic standards for graduation from Archbishop Spalding. The Aquinas Program faculty works with the Guidance Department to monitor student progress, academic performance and plans for post-secondary education. Many students transition out of the Program into the general high school courses because of the skills and learning strategies they have acquired.
Admission to the Aquinas Program is limited in each grade level in order to provide a supportive academic environment. Students admitted to the Program have average to above average intellectual abilities and need additional support in the area of language arts. Aquinas students pay an additional fee.
The enhanced services of the Aquinas Program are designed to provide a supportive, challenging environment to students with unique learning differences. Course instruction includes strategies for time management, personal organization and specific academic study skills. Students formulate individual learning profiles to better understand the nature of their academic studies and success. Self-advocacy with the faculty is fostered to facilitate course success and self-esteem. The enhanced services and flexible class placements permit Aquinas students to integrate into the Spalding community and benefit fully from their high school experience.
TECHNOLOGY:
• Access to “Alpha Smart” processors and Kurzweil Reader
• Multimedia presentation equipment and software designed for individually paced instruction
• Audio and Video enhanced presentations to augment classroom instruction
• Access to computers in all academic courses in which Aquinas students are enrolled
RESOURCES AND MATERIALS:
• Manipulative and laboratory equipment for multi-sensory instruction
• Reading-age level appropriate textbooks and supplementary materials
• Resource consultation services for students, teachers, and parents
• Learning differences library materials available for students and parents
• Assistance in obtaining study aids such as taped textbooks, electronic recording devices, and word processors
• Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic materials
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS:
• Low pupil-teacher ratio
• Transitions courses for Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior year
• After school support programs
• Strategic career and college planning services
• Program-specific academic advising and course scheduling
Special Aquinas Links