Cedar Lane Elementary School is most proud of its tradition of excellence in teaching and learning. The school is focused on ensuring that every child is afforded the opportunity to learn at his or her own pace, principal James Dallas said.

At Cedar Lane, Dallas said, teachers use technology as a tool in the classroom, as well as in the computer lab, to implement the Standards of Learning in each curriculum area. As in other Loudoun schools, each student has access to four computers in his or her classroom, as well as a weekly visit to the computer lab.

The computer lab is equipped with 30 networked PCs and two computers equipped with movie-making software. Cedar Lane students and staff are assisted by a full-time technology resource teacher and a technology assistant.

Students can participate in the Kirby Kangaroo club to learn about saving money. There are also seasonal activities, like Field Day and Kite Day. Cedar Lane is planning various clubs and activities for the 2007-2008 school year. Ideas under consideration are a running club, an art club and The Singing Lions Club.

The school boasts an active PTA that is seen as more than simply a fundraising organization, Dallas said. He said it has a clear understanding of how it supports the academic and social needs of the school and is willing to go the extra mile to further the efforts of the school and community.

Other types of parent involvement include daily volunteering, academic tutors and working as members of school committees. Volunteers at the school have a wide range of responsibilities, from copying and cutting to reading in classes to maintaining the butterfly garden. Dallas said Cedar Lane is proud of the level of involvement on behalf of parents and welcomes opportunities to work as a partner in education.