Our Program
Program Overview
At Armstrong, we unlock the unique potential of students with dyslexia and related learning differences, changing the trajectory of their lives.
Our Approach
List of 5 items.
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Small Group Instruction
- Students receive one hour each of structured literacy and math in small groups every school day.
- In the Lower School, groups range in size from 3 to 8 students.
- In the Middle School, groups consist of 6 to 10 students each.
- Every grade transitions to small groups simultaneously, ensuring that no one is pulled out of class separately for core academic instruction.
- All teachers are trained in evidence-based programs.
- For Structured Literacy, this includes Wilson Reading System®, Just Words®, Read 180®, CommonLit, and Rave-O.
- For Math, this includes Math-U-See, Illustrative Mathematics, ST Math, and Multisensory Math.
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Highly-Trained Faculty and Staff
All teachers, staff, and administrators are trained in the Wilson Reading System®, uniting our entire campus in serving students with dyslexia.
Ongoing Professional Development:- Instructional coaching and classroom observations
- New teacher training and Armstrong Summer Institute
- Weekly on-campus professional development on early-release Wednesdays
- Access to external conferences and training
As a Wilson® Accredited Training Partner with IDA Accreditation Plus recognition, we maintain the highest standards in dyslexia education. -
Data-informed instruction
We use multiple assessments to place students in appropriate learning groups and continuously track progress to adapt daily instruction. Students are grouped by skill level for core academic subjects and by mixed skill levels for non-core subjects.Key Assessments:- Track My Progress (Math and ELA) - 3x/year
- Oral Reading Fluency - 3x/year
- Wilson Assessment of Decoding and Encoding - upon enrollment and annually thereafter
- Ongoing content-based assessments and progress monitoring in classes
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Multisensory Methodology and Learning Environment
We employ multiple approaches, strategies, and physical tools to ensure that students feel comfortable and their learning is optimized, including:- Flexible furniture like balance stools, wiggle cushions, soft seating, standing desks, and dry-erase surfaces
- Access to fidget tools to support focus
- Incorporating movement into all lesson plans
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Technology Integration
Assistive technology optimizes student learning and fosters autonomy and independence.Our Tools:- 1:1 iPads in grades 2-4
- 1:1 Chromebooks in grades 5-8
- Smart Boards in every instructional space
Our Director of Technology collaborates with instructional coaches and faculty to provide comprehensive tech support for students
Armstrong students receive direct and explicit instruction that best supports their individual learning needs in the following areas:
List of 4 items.
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Acquiring the academic strategies and skills necessary to reach their academic potential
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Developing self-confidence in their ability to achieve success
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Understanding their learning differences and social-emotional needs so they can become effective self-advocates
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Pursuing multiple areas of interest and developing passions and talents
