HABITS OF SCHOLARSHIP DESIGNING FOR DEPTH HOW CATHEDRAL PUTS ACADEMICS FIRST
By Jenny Cals, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
AT CATHEDRAL SCHOOL FOR BOYS, how we use time reflects what we value, and we value deep learning. Our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan calls on us to sharpen our academic focus, invest even more in our faculty, and nurture the intellectual lives of our students. That vision is now taking shape in how we structure our days, design and coordinate professional development opportunities for faculty, and strengthen the essential academic foundations across the school.
This is the work of academic leadership: designing systems that deepen student learning, strengthen consistency in instructional best practices, and support continual growth. A SCHOOL DAY THAT REFLECTS OUR PRIORITIES The shape of the school day has a powerful impact on learning. This year, we’ve made several adjustments — especially in the Upper School — to prioritize core academics and expand opportunities for faculty collaboration. Upper School students now have more instructional time in English, math, and history. Every other week, they receive an additional math period and a dedicated reading block tailored to grade-level needs. Core classes have been shifted to the morning, when students are most focused. During recess, they can opt into enrichment time in the STEAM Lab or library, providing space to follow their curiosity. We’ve also introduced monthly Advisory lunches inspired by the boarding-school
model. These seated gatherings strengthen relationships within Advisory groups, which are central to helping students feel seen, supported, and challenged. INSTRUCTION THAT DEEPENS LEARNING Our academic review cycle focuses each year on one area: standards, instruction, or
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CATHEDRAL SCHOOL FOR BOYS
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