Academic Standards:

Pennsylvania’s Academic Standards offer a set of rigorous, high-quality academic expectations that all students should master by the end of each grade level. The PA Academic Standards reflect the knowledge and skills students need to succeed in life after high school, in both post-secondary education and a globally competitive workforce.

We believe that our curriculum must be comprehensive and balanced in order to meet the needs of all students. Deer Lakes' curriculum is research-based, modeled from best practices, and aligned with state and national standards. Within each program of study, students master essential knowledge, skills, and competencies. This occurs by having students participate in a broad range of opportunities both within and outside of the classroom setting. It is imperative that students apply their knowledge, skills, and competencies to real-world issues. In addition to mastering core knowledge, skills, and competencies, the District also believes it is vitally important for students to develop competencies in “21st-century skills” such as those highlighted in our strategic plan. These skills include:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Critical thinking
• Working cooperatively with diverse groups
• Resolving conflicts
• Taking responsibility for one’s own learning
• Producing quality work

Pennsylvania Standards-Aligned System & PA Core Standards
The Pennsylvania Department of Education has adopted the Standards-Aligned System (SAS). This is a comprehensive approach to curriculum and instruction that supports student achievement across the Commonwealth.