Academics Overview
Project-Based Learning (PBL)
Project-based learning (PBL) is an instructional approach designed to give students the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills through engaging projects set around challenges and problems they may face in the real world.
Our fifth and sixth grade students are immersed in project-based learning and work closely with the ASU Innovation Campus to design and construct various projects. Check out the videos below to see some past projects!
Thinking Maps is a set of eight visual patterns that correlate to specific cognitive processes. They are used across all grades and content areas to build the critical thinking, problem-solving, comprehension, and communication skills necessary for academic success in every domain.
Visit the Thinking Maps website for more information.
STEM Lab
Our state-of-the-art STEM lab provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through innovative tools and resources. Students collaborate on real-world challenges to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. This dynamic environment ensures every child has access to engaging, future-focused learning experiences.
Our Mission
To provide students with knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to be lifelong learners and responsible citizens.
The Arizona Department of Education provides the academic standards that we teach. CUSD has broken those standards into performance objectives so that students can demonstrate benchmark competencies. This progress is monitored quarterly. In addition to language arts and mathematics objectives, science and social studies are regular parts of the curriculum. Students receive physical education weekly and participate in general music, library and technology classes. Fifth and sixth grade students may take band or orchestra in lieu of general music.
View CUSD Curriculum and State Standards by content area