Aaron School students in grades 8-12 participate in classes that support their academic, social and emotional development. Students engage with curricula that is rooted in the Common Core and College Readiness Standards, while also working to develop essential skills for success after high school, such as problem-solving, self-advocacy and effective communication. Students are instructed by teachers and related service providers who have expertise in both their content area and in instructional strategies and programs for students with learning differences. Student learning is supported by small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios, course content that is geared toward enhancing student strengths and supporting student challenges, and an integrated, hands-on and multi-sensory approach to education.
Aaron School students graduate with a local, private school diploma, which enables them to apply to any post-secondary program. To graduate from Aaron School, students participate in a departmentalized schedule and complete a minimum of 21 credits in English, Science, Social Studies, Math, Foreign Language, Physical Education, Health and elective courses. Additionally, students must also fulfill program requirements pertaining to social development and transition. The Aaron School curriculum builds upon prior skills and content learning in the elementary and middle grades, and critical thinking and problem-solving skills are infused across all subject areas. Student learning is focused on application of mastered concepts with the goals of independence and the development of skills that lead to success in adulthood. Instruction is differentiated to meet the needs of each student, and each child’s progress is consistently assessed, both formally and informally.
In addition to the standard courses, Aaron School also offers a series of Applied courses that parallel each core High School academic subject. Applied courses adhere to the same curricula as the standard courses, but are rooted in factual understanding and provide an introduction to key concepts. Applied courses typically provide more individualized support, utilize less complex vocabulary, and move at a slower pace than the standard courses; these courses enable students to obtain a deeper understanding of course content. Student placement in all courses occurs following the admissions process, during which evaluations and prior school reports are reviewed. Additionally, communication occurs between the administrations at both campuses, so an appropriate class placement can be determined for students who transition from one campus to the other.