Our mission comes to life through our approach to academics.

We educate students, including those with learning and attention disorders, whose potential may only be realized through an individualized academic program.

What is an individualized academic program?

First, teachers and administrators create an individualized academic plan that identifies specific weaknesses to be targeted, specific academic strengths that need to be accelerated, and accommodations needed for effective learning. Second, teachers use individualized teaching methods to meet each student's needs. Teachers vary instructional strategies, provide direct instruction, implement creative techniques, and help students reach levels of achievement commensurate with their abilities. While each division has specific, proven programs unique to their student body, the philosophy of individualization permeates the entire school.

How do we empower students to transition successfully from the separate lower, middle and upper school divisions to the next most appropriate educational setting?

In the Lower and Middle Schools, a combination of direct instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, social and learning skills, and positive reinforcement in a safe environment sets the foundation for a student's success after transition. In the Upper School, the accredited, SOL-based curriculum paired with targeted reading and writing support classes prepare students for successful transition to college, the workplace, or both. All divisions foster positive student-teacher relationships; in the Lower School, the classroom teacher directs and monitors a student's progress and day-to-day performance, while the Middle and Upper schools enjoy a successful Advocate program in which teachers monitor and support a small group of students with whom they meet daily.