The elementary school at Garfield Park Academy provides an academic program geared to the reading levels of the students in each class. Students are grouped according to age first and then by grade equivalent levels. The program provides individualized instruction to the greatest extent possible, remediation when necessary, and enrichment for those students who are above grade level.
Many students come to us with significant delays in reading and math. Our staff are trained to use research-based programs, including Orton-Gillingham®, Lindamood-Bell®, The Language Experience® and other proven strategies to address decoding, fluency, pragmatic language and comprehension. Students learn math through hands-on manipulative activities designed to get them involved.
The elementary schedule includes two reading periods and two mathematics periods giving the students as much time to spend on basic skills as possible. Remedial teachers provide both reading and mathematics assistance at different times during the day, adding to the individualization and additional time spent on academics. The elementary program is research based and uses the very latest materials and resources.
Lower elementary students, Grades K-6, are located in a separate wing of the main building with their own entrance. Teachers are skilled in the latest methods for teaching the youngest students and are supervised by an early childhood specialist who also advises on the curriculum. Within the lower elementary school is GPA’s Exploratorium, an amazing room filled with discoveries that enhance learning. This Exploratorium focuses on “learning to have fun” by allowing students to explore the mysteries of life and providing hands-on projects for each child. Students are assigned to the Exploratorium on a rotation basis and work on many creative projects.