Math

Math instruction follows a developmental progression in the areas of computation, concept formation and problem-solving. Our teachers and students access a variety of materials that move students from concrete representations of mathematical concepts and computational processes to increasingly abstract understanding. Teachers apply the principles of multisensory instruction as they guide students to develop mathematical thinking. Teachers model the use of precise mathematical vocabulary and consistent language when building conceptual understanding.

Written Language

Written language tasks present many challenges for our dyslexic students.
Our students begin in kindergarten to represent their words, thoughts, and ideas in written form. Instruction progresses as students expand their language skills. Together, our teachers and speech/language pathologists focus on developing two instructional streams:

  • Using written language as a vehicle for creative thought, students learn how to write narratives, haiku, and simple poems.
  • Using written language as a vehicle for sharing knowledge, students learn to write book reports, factual reports, and short essays.

Social Studies and Science Curriculum

Stimulating, age-appropriate content engages the curiosity of our bright students. Historical characters and time periods come to life. Peek into a classroom and you may see an Egyptian pyramid or hear Abraham Lincoln or Harriet Tubman or Albert Einstein speaking about their life’s work. Our older students experience firsthand the sea life of the Georgia Coast and the rich history of Savannah. Our Speech and Language and classroom teachers work collaboratively to address content and language. During most units of study, children develop an oral and a written presentation or report. Children proudly display their projects and share knowledge inviting their parents to join in these celebrations of learning.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy provides consultative and direct support to facilitate language acquisition and learning. Various activities are done as a group in the classroom to help reinforce the necessary foundations for handwriting, visual-spatial awareness, postural organization, sensory-motor skills, and self-regulation. Tools like pencil grips, slant boards, and alternative seating options, are provided on an individual basis to students who would benefit from additional sensory-motor support. Students are also taught to participate in sensory-based regulation activities through access to intentionally designed playgrounds, four OT gyms, and PE classes that are co-taught by an OT and a PE teacher, using best-practices to support the construction of the reading brain.

Handwriting

Many children with dyslexia exhibit difficulties with fine motor tasks. The goal of handwriting instruction is to develop fluency with letter formation in printing and in cursive writing. We use the program Handwriting Without Tears to instruct both manuscript and cursive handwriting. Our goal is to automatize handwriting so that it becomes a tool that can be used across the curriculum.

Keyboarding

Students also learn keyboarding skills to become proficient with the use of current computer-based instructional programs.

Enrichment Curriculum

Our enrichment professionals provide opportunities for creative expression in the arts and in physical education developing strong bodies and minds.

Music

Using the elements of music (rhythm, melody, harmony, form, dynamics, tempo and style) students are introduced to a progression of musical concepts. During each class, students engage in active listening, production of music through singing or playing instruments, and movement to music. Meaningful performance opportunities are offered in the school and the community.

Art

Through studies of artists, students explore artistic conventions to express visual ideas, learn art vocabulary, and develop their own artistic skills.

Physical Education/Occupational Therapy

Using the talents of both a physical education specialist and occupational therapist, our unique program addresses the foundational and motor skills that students need to be successful in a variety of athletic endeavors, including individual and team sports.

Media

Our activity-based media center helps our students learn to use print and digital resources to research and problem-solve.