English
Our English department meets the state standards and follows the Alabama Course of Study with a heavy emphasis on vocabulary, grammar, writing, and reading. Students read novels at each grade level with teachers working together to vertically align the curriculum to eliminate duplication and provide a sequential flow of instruction. Writing proficiency is heavily emphasized to prepare students for post-secondary endeavors.
History
The History Department follows the state course of study for each grade level and our High School follows the Alabama State Course of Study Standards to align with testing needs.
Project-based learning, as well as other instructional strategies, are used to help students understand the importance of history, function of government, budgeting skills, and skills necessary to succeed in a world-wide economy.
Science
The Science Department offers the following courses: Physical Science, Biology, Honors Biology, Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Anatomy, and Forensic Science. These laboratory-based courses emphasize critical thinking skills as well as integrate STEM based practices.
Problem solving skills are heavily emphasized in these courses as well as project based learning following the Scientific Method.
Math
Our math department offers Algebra I, Geometry, Honors Geometry, Algebra II/Trig., Honors Algebra II/Trig, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus.
Students in the 10th and 11th grades are also assigned on-line Algebra I review and are expected to complete portions of this course every nine weeks for a grade in his or her math class.
Electives
Band
Students may choose to participate in the Band Program. Band classes meet daily and work on music theory and performance skills, and Band students perform at the Christmas Concert and the Easter Program Yearly. CSA and parents provide or rent instruments for students.
Band members range from students never having played an instrument to those with a few years of experience, and student progress is evident throughout the year.
Spanish
All high school students may choose to participate in Spanish I , II and III.
Elective courses are offered in Art, Drama, Computer Apps., and Creative Writing.
Students whose academic progress is substandard are assigned to Academic Support. These students are assisted in completing homework as well as working on organizational skills.
Students at the High School also have the opportunity to participate in the Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society, Yearbook Committee, and the Interact club
Dual Enrollment
In 2016-2017 CSA began paying for 2 eligible Juniors to take Dual Enrollment Courses at Jefferson State Junior College. In 2017-2018, 5 students participated in Dual Enrollment Courses with 2 of the seniors graduating with twenty six hours of Dual Enrollment credit. Currently 17 students are taking Dual Enrollment courses and will account for over fifty courses this school year.
Cornerstone is the only school in the Birmingham area that pays for students to participate in Dual Enrollment Courses at Jefferson State Community College. This program provides our students a unique opportunity to experience college and save a tremendous amount of money. Cornerstone students have earned up to as many as 26 hours of college credit. Tuition and books are paid for by Cornerstone Schools of Alabama.
CSA also provides a $1000.00 scholarship to the college of their choice for students who attend from grades 9 – 12.