The goal of CJR's academic education program is to enable students to return to their public schools with a stronger work ethic and improved skills and study habits.
Academic education at CJR focuses on four major subject areas, including English, mathematics, social studies, and science. All students receive instruction in core subject areas during every school day. Students who enter CJR functioning significantly behind grade level are provided with intensive remedial instruction to improve their performance in the classroom. An advanced class is provided for students who are functioning at a higher level than the average student. All students participate in weekly computer, life skills and art classes in addition to core academic subjects.
English - Students improve their written and spoken language skills through an intensive reading, writing and vocabulary program. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, completeness of thought expressed orally and in writing, and the organization of material into major presentations and projects.
Mathematics - Students receive a thorough review of basic mathematics. Depending on ability level, they proceed through decimals, fractions and pre-algebra. Algebra I and II, as well as geometry, are included in the curriculum of high school level students.
Social Studies - Cultural geography, civics and government, world history and American history are taught on a rotating basis. Current world and national events are explored using news magazines, newspapers, and the Internet.
Science - The CJR science curriculum includes ecology, biology, environmental science, and anatomy and physiology. Highly individualized programming takes into account students' ability levels and maximizes their understanding of the material. A fully-equipped science lab is used on a weekly basis to encourage hands-on learning.
Art - Students participate in art class twice a week. Various media, including oils, pastels, watercolors, paper mache, clay and crafts, are introduced. Student projects are displayed throughout the campus and used for publications, stationery, and external communications.
Computers - All students participate in computer classes twice a week. Classes are conducted in a modern, up-to-date classroom, specially equipped for teaching computer skills. Keyboarding skills and word processing are emphasized during lab time, and are reinforced in academic classrooms, where students use computers to complete projects. Controlled access to the Internet is available in the Media Center.
Life Skills - Students learn skills critical to independent living and to being responsible citizens in their families and communities. Health and sex education are taught, with particular emphasis on the prevention of substance abuse and sexually transmitted diseases. Students also learn how to apply and interview for a job, prepare a resume, and the basics of money management, including budgeting and banking. Family issues are also addressed.
