Principal's Note

At Sylvan Heights Science Charter School, we are very proud of our students.  We believe that they are our nation's next generation of scientists, doctors, nurses, lawyers, and teachers.  It is therefore important for parents, teachers, and community members to work together to ensure that our students are well prepared for this awesome responsibility.

To start this learning process, our teachers build within students a strong foundation in elementary school subject areas such as reading and math.  Our teachers further build students' science knowledge and develop within them a keen interest for scientific ideas and topics using interdisciplinary techniques.  For example, in a second grade unit titled "All Systems Go!", students study the systems of the human body.  They measure and weigh their bodies in Math classes, designing graphs based on pulse rates.  They explore virtual body systems in computer classes.  In Social Studies, students study medicine-related occupations, those that keep body systems healthy, and visit a hospital to speak with doctors and other medical workers.  Students also learn the life lesson that although we may look different on the outside, we are all the same on the inside.  Spelling words are drawn from the science-related words they study.  Students create health posters in Art classes and design "keep fit" bumper stickers on the computer.  As a result of using this thematic approach to teaching, our students gain a deeper understanding of science information.

And to remain knowledgeable about the latest trends in science education, all of our teachers are active members of the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).

We are excited about the new science and technology opportunities that are opening up for students in the Harrisburg area.  Most recently, the city created a state-of-the-art science and technology high school and university.  So, how can you best prepare your children to take advantage of the new opportunities that the field of science and technology hold?  Enroll them at Sylvan Heights Science Charter School.  At Sylvan Heights, THE CITY'S FUTURE IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BEGINS HERE!

Kevin J. Moran, Ph.D.
Principal/CAO