If there is one thing that is true about The Joy School’s curriculum, it is that there is no “one size fits all” program.

We believe students should be taught in a way that makes the most of their strengths while addressing their learning differences. All children need to feel successful before being asked to face challenging tasks.

Therefore, we work to discover the level at which a child can be independently successful and work systematically to move them forward from that point.

Teachers continually evaluate the effectiveness of their programs and adjust the pacing and presentation as necessary to help students progress as quickly as possible through the curriculum in preparation for mainstreaming. While the pace of our instruction, size of our classrooms and methodologies of our teachers may be ever-changing, our goal is always to assist students in developing the necessary skills to navigate school successfully.

At all levels, students focus primarily on the skills of reading, writing and mathematics. Students also receive instruction in science, social studies, health and fitness.

One key component to our success is our small class size. Core classes range from four to eight students per teacher creating an intimate environment where students are more willing to take risks and teachers are able to observe successes and failures up close. Another key component is the individualized teaching and implementation of strategies and accommodations based on unique profiles. Our teachers show our students how to "do school" better. The third key component is our focus on growing good humans. Our Keys to Success guide us in intentionally developing students with a strong sense of self.

 

To best meet the needs of our students, The Joy School has two divisions: Lower School (K-5th) and Middle School (6th-8th).