Self Development Academy (SDA) marked the start of a new school year on Aug. 6, its 14th since being founded by Dr. Anjum Majeed, the school’s principal.
SDA consistently has been ranked among the community’s top performing elementary and middle schools. In 2013, SDA was approved as a Cambridge International Examinations school. This year, the school will implement this curriculum, enhancing the already strong academic programs. Science and technology are areas of focus for the 2014-2015 school year.
Leonard Salvatori, a former environmental engineer and college professor, has joined the middle school faculty this year. With his science background and expertise, he is playing an integral role in the incorporation of the Cambridge science materials. Middle school science classes incorporate the subjects of biology, chemistry and physics (classes typically taken by high school students).
Students will have the opportunity to take Cambridge examinations, providing them with an international benchmark and ability to earn International General Certificate of Secondary Education certificates. Many prestigious colleges and universities recognize the course certificates.
Proficiency with technological skills is essential in this day and age. For the 2014-2015 school year, SDA purchased 15 laptop tablets and 60 laptops, as well as seven interactive boards, allowing for one interactive board per grade level.
Kindergarten students will utilize the laptop tablets in the classroom to reinforce phonics, reading and math concepts. By using the new portable laptops, students in grades one through eight will have the opportunity to learn keyboarding and other word processing programs. Outside resources will be available at teachers’ and students’ fingertips with the interactive boards.
Additionally, SDA is excited to pilot two robotics programs this fall. The first is the Lego Mindstorm Robotics program, for students in grades five through eight. Younger students will have the opportunity to participate in the First Lego League. These programs incorporate science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
SDA is excited to begin the 2014-2015 school year. If you are interested in learning more about SDA, please contact the front office at (480) 641-2640.