Our Academics

Literacy

We develop and nourish a love of reading through Language Arts classes. We use the Creative and CLI Engage® curriculums, which are multisensory, structured phonics-based, language arts instruction programs. We also teach a literacy program that is aligned to the Common Core Standards balancing work in narrative, informational and persuasive texts. Students develop explicit skills in reading comprehension, word analysis, and writing mechanics.

Arts

Students work on projects that delve into aspects of global culture, studying the work of artists around the world while integrating the study of art techniques. Across all grade levels, the arts play a crucial role in our educational model and figure significantly into our interdisciplinary curriculum. For every project they undertake, students begin with their own concept and are encouraged to gradually reveal it through a series of drafts. In the music program, students learn to express themselves through weekly musical experiences designed to enkindle an intrinsic motivation for music.

Mathematics

Exceptional Foundation Academy students uses a proven program that focuses on problem-solving and learning the language of math. Students gain a flexible understanding of math concepts developed through a sequence that uses concrete manipulatives, pictorial representations, and then abstract representations. This sequence helps students acquire a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Students are challenged to understand the “why” and “how” of number manipulation in addition to learning procedures and computations when problem-solving. Frequent group work allows students to understand the importance of discourse, collaboration, and diverse methods of solving problems.

Science

Our science program includes experiments, predictions, and hands-on learning experiences that cultivate a curiosity for science. We use the ScienceStart and FOSS Next Generation curriculums as a launching point for our units. While scientific concepts and skills are integrated into the units of study, we also use supplementary resources to enrich the learning experiences of our students in science. Specific units of study include life, physical, earth science and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Each year, students will participate in a Science Fair conducted at our school.

Social Studies

Social Studies provides the context for cultural awareness and civic participation. Our teachers provide authentic knowledge and cultural understanding that helps students broaden their perspective of the world. Children learn about values, families and communities. They understand the power of symbols and the passage of time. Students begin to understand economic forces and vocabulary, individual rights and responsibilities, and the causes and effects of conflict.

Physical Education

Our PE program teaches team and individual sports through a building-blocks approach in which students practice sport-specific movements and drills to develop competency and instill confidence. Difficulty and intensity progress by grade level and ability level of the cumulative group. Program priorities include promoting team building and group solving skills, building confidence and self-esteem, fostering characteristics of good sportsmanship and teamsmanship, and explaining how rules and proper techniques contribute to a fun and safe environment.