What Makes TCCES Special
Twin City Catholic Educational System (TCCES) administration, faculty and staff are dedicated to educating the whole child - in faith, academics, service and personal development. But TCCES is about more than just educating students; it is also about being a community of believers who are brought together by a common purpose and a common faith.
The integration of faith into the daily lives of TCCES classrooms and activities can be both seen and felt. Visible signs of our faith and the character traits it promotes permeate our facilities. Frequently scheduled liturgies, prayer time and services, sacraments, retreats and service opportunities are an integral part of the school day; faith-inspired, student-created projects decorate the hallways; and behavior codes founded in respect, love and discipline guide expectations.
The TCCES community is committed to the concept of differentiated instruction - the idea that every child learns in a unique way. Consequently, TCCES teachers have been trained to tailor their instructional methods, learning specialists are present in the middle and high schools, and standardized testing that is designed to follow students' progress both as individuals and as classes has been implemented. These measures help teachers to provide extra assistance to those who need it and, just as importantly, to allow those who are ready and capable to move at a faster pace to do so. TCCES faculty members are committed to meeting the needs of every student at all points on the learning spectrum.
From preschool up, TCCES students are given many opportunities to participate in a variety of service projects, and are encouraged to do so. Whether it is collecting food or personal care items, donating their allowance or earned dollars or helping to rake a lawn or wash windows, TCCES students show their love and concern for the community. TCCES feels strongly that we must share the love of Christ by helping others, and that our communityís future leaders must have a foundation of humility and service.
TCCES is very proud of the co-curricular activities, clubs and opportunities that allow students to explore many areas of interest. An important aspect of this commitment to personal development is that students are encouraged to try new things and to participate in several activities at the same time rather than being relegated to one particular area early in their school years, as can happen in larger schools. For example, it is not uncommon for an eighth grader to try a new sport for the first time or an SMC student to letter in several sports during the school year, while still participating in band, the technology club and theater. By nurturing a variety of interests and abilities, TCCES helps students to grow into well-rounded young adults.
At TCCES, the dedicated administration and faculties strive to address the ever-changing education and technology needs of their students, while remaining committed to a solid academic program. Each elementary school has plans to implement an individualized technology plan including interactive whiteboards, wireless capabilities, automated response systems, audio/visual enhancements and enhanced curriculum. Seton Catholic Middle School has wireless access throughout the building and the two portable laptop labs, making technology easily accessible to all students and faculty. Several interactive whiteboards enable teachers to use the most current instructional tools and to individualize lesson plans.
The 2010-11 school year was a turning point for St. Mary Central as the school took a leading role in the community as the first laptop-centered learning community, with every student receiving his or her own laptop. As of the 2011-12 school year, the program has been successfully implemented. It is St. Mary Central’s belief that technology must be integrated into all areas of the curriculum in order to enhance learning for its students.
