Academics & Classroom Curriculum

Instruction at Riverside is highly specialized.  Our classroom teachers are state certified teachers.  Language Fundamental instructors receive extensive training and mentoring in the Orton-Gillingham Approach and are required to receive certification from the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators.  Our staff has an unequaled commitment to creatively teaching and nurturing each child to his or her fullest potential.

All of the teachers at Riverside School stress the direct teaching of basic skills.  Consultation with outside experts in the field of learning differences  helps the staff to provide current, research-based education.  Riverside School’s teachers attend regular in-service workshops and annual conferences to maintain effective knowledge and enthusiasm in subject matter.

The Core Curriculum

Language Arts
In addition to the one-to-one language fundamental sessions, lower school students receive three additional language arts classes daily, and intermediate students have two.  These classes focus on oral language, reading, and writing skills.  In oral language, students cover a variety of skills including following directions, vocabulary development, and public speaking.  As students progress, their focus in reading class transitions from decoding words to comprehending increasingly more complex narrative and expository texts.  In writing classes, students cover spelling, grammar, and composition skills.  Students begin at the word or phrase level and progress to writing essays and research papers.

Mathematics
The concepts of math, the language of math, and calculation are an important part of our curriculum.  Following the tenets of the Orton-Gillingham Approach, Riverside School uses manipulatives and technology to present new concepts in a visual, auditory, and kinesthetic/tactile manner.  This hands-on, multisensory instruction helps students understand and retain the underlying mathematical concepts.  Topics are presented incrementally and reinforced with continual review.

Social Studies
Riverside School social studies curriculum includes the fundamentals of geography, history, economics, civics, and current events.  Classroom learning is enhanced by hands-on experiences and field trips.

Science
Students study topics from the major realms of science (physical, life, and earth science).  Riverside school uses technology to complement a multisensory approach to the experimental model, promoting effective science literacy.

Physical Education
Riverside School is committed to developing the physical and mental well being of each student.  All students participate in physical education classes three to five days a week.  In addition to these regular activities, students participate in special programs and the Presidential Physical Fitness Award testing each spring.