Enhanced Technology
We believe traditional classroom instruction is enriched though technology, and our expanded tech offerings includes flat-screen computers, software, and Internet access.

As stated in the school philosophy, the professional staff “integrate[s] technology into the curriculum to help students develop the skills necessary to meet the challenges of the modern world.” The use of technology is an important part of St. Sebastian’s curriculum, and student engagement is high because students are actively involved in the learning process.

Smart Boards in each classroom (Grades K-8)
SMART Boards are interactive, computerized versions of dry erase boards. The SMART Board and SMART Notebook Software connect the students to many useful resources and provide interactive activities in many subject areas. For example, students can manipulate shapes and lines on the SMART Board for math, connect to interactive math and grammar games, and watch science video simulations.

Classroom Computer Labs (Grades K-8)
Each classroom also has 6-8 computers for student use. This technology provides students with a variety of resources and up-to-date information to conduct research for a written report, oral presentation, or group project. Classroom computers are also used for online-activities, audio recordings, simulations, and videos help students gain a better understanding of a particular topic.

Interactive textbooks with internet applications (K-8)
In grades K-5, students use the Scott Foresman series. The series has a comprehensive interactive component, which is set up on classroom student computers. This on-line program includes videos, vocabulary practice, leveled books on each chapter, and interactive extension activities. Any of these can be read aloud if students need the extra support. Teachers give students opportunities to use the interactive computer programs to enhance student learning for the audio, visual, and kinesthetic learners in the classroom.

K-1 students benefit from use of the Faith First website while middle school science students view online science demonstrations and science videos on the SMART Board.

At home, middle school students can also perform interactive science demonstration from the Prentice Hall website using key codes given in their science books.

At home, Algebra 1 students can also perform practice quizzes and tests that were developed in conjunction with our textbook series (using the Glencoe series website).

Podcasting in the New Middle School Recording Studio (Grades 6-8)
In the middle school Social Studies classes, St. Sebastian students learn to make Podcasts (i.e. audio broadcasts that can be sent over the internet) that are based on the California state standards. Podcast making is a collaborative process in which students learn to incorporate dialogue and music into an audio recording. Through the Podcast projects, students learn to work together in small groups and communicate more effectively. While working on these Podcast projects, student engagement is high; furthermore, the projects enhance student learning for audio, visual, kinesthetic, and collaborative learners.

Technology Curriculum (K-8)
The professional teaching staff integrates technology “to help students develop the skills necessary to meet the challenges of the modern world.” Teachers give students learning opportunities and teach them to use word processing, and presentation programs. For example, students learn how to create and format documents using Microsoft Word. Students also learn to give presentations using Microsoft Power Point. When students give Power Point presentations, they learn to provide to present information and develop their speaking skills. Students also learn to navigate the internet to find and analyze data.