Elementary
The elementary is comprised of nine classes, targeting students from kindergarten through sixth grade. Classes offer a low student-teacher ratio (8:1:1), which facilitates a nurturing and productive learning environment. The Kindergarten class offers a ratio of 6:1:1. We use curriculum which meets New York State standards. Each class has a clearly defined environment geared to the group's emotional and academic needs. Emphasis is on cognitive development, critical thinking and written/expressive language skills. Teaching is supported by Sensory-Motor Integration techniques and our unique related services program for Psychology, Speech & Language, and Occupational Therapy. The development of appropriate learning behaviors, improved comprehension and socialization are a goal in every lesson.
The Elementary curriculum includes Readiness Skills, Reading, Math, Language Arts, Fine and Perceptual/Motor Skills, Social Studies, Science, Critical Thinking, Computer Lab, Daily Living Skills, Study Skills, Feelings, Music, Drama, Visual Arts. Of particular importance in the special needs community, our students have Physical Education every day which helps them work off extra energy allowing for improved focus. In addition, being on Roosevelt Island allows our youngsters access to 8 parks and playgrounds and they enjoy outdoor recess after lunch.
In academics, the development of specific writing skills, novel read-alouds, author studies, and teaching through concepts in the expository areas build memory, comprehension and thinking skills. The Barbara Wilson program is used school-wide to help students with remediation in reading. We encourage interdisciplinary efforts by promoting interactive learning through trips and the integration of visual art, music and drama to enhance the learning experience.
Teachers develop a portfolio of students' learning strengths and needs to create the best learning program for each child. The teacher's focus is to discover the way each child learns and to accommodate that child's learning style. Classrooms are ungraded. Students are grouped for subjects according to developmental, functional and emotional strengths and needs in order to ensure optimal learning, as well as a comfort zone.
A special aspect of Elementary is our "Teach It, Project It, Trip It" (TPT) program that every teacher uses. First a concept is taught. Then the teachers create a project to reinforce the learning matter. To further solidify understanding of the concept, a trip adds movement to the learning experience.
The Child School offers a wonderfully enriched environment for helping youngsters with special needs to learn. Our team of educators works cohesively to assess each youngster's situation and collaborate on strategies in order to provide youngsters with an optimal learning and emotional environment.
The Elementary School | The Middle School | Legacy High School |
