Academics at Park School

Our Core Approach

We believe that dyslexia is a learning difference and a strength with inherent advantages that are vital to our community and the world at large.

Everything we do is tailored to the dyslexic learner profile, including the way our teachers are trained and the way our day is scheduled.

Intensive Reading Intervention

Delivered in an emotionally-sound environment that prioritizes trust and safety.

Grade-Level Curriculum

Presented with appropriate accommodations and support tailored to each learner

Dyslexic Advantages

Opportunities to develop and celebrate the inherent strengths of dyslexic learners

Built on Evidence and Empowerment

With small class sizes and curriculum grounded in evidence-based practices, we empower students to build strong foundational skills, deepen critical thinking, and grow into confident, independent learners.

Where Safety and Trust Come First

Environment and relationships take precedent at Park School. Safe spaces for our students and families begin with us and our relationships with each other as a collaborative team. Our students witness kindness, communication, and laughter throughout their school day.

We know that many of our students come to us with difficult school experiences. Building trust and ensuring emotional safety is essential for learning to take place.

All staff members, whether they're in a classroom role or not, are trained in Orton-Gillingham. This is intentional, so that every adult a student interacts with on campus has a deep understanding and appreciation of the dyslexic learner profile.

Our educators and students build strong, trusting relationships that foster mutual respect and support. Students come to know they can trust their teachers to understand how they learn best, that they will be supported through academic and social challenges, and that their teachers believe they are capable of great things.

Meaningful Learning Through Purpose and Challenge

We know our students crave purpose and challenge, and we also know that motivation and resilience only work when we experience reward. Meaningful academics led by teachers who understand and appreciate the dyslexic profile allows students to regularly experience success, and the satisfaction of accomplishment.

We offer a collaborative and engaging environment where students actively construct their own knowledge through exploration, experimentation, and real-world application, while simultaneously receiving the intervention and support needed to close academic gaps. By shaping learning experiences around each class community, we create meaningful classroom experiences within a structured program that supports intellectual, social, and emotional growth.

We prioritize happiness, personal success, creation, and curiosity, while still holding students accountable for academic success.

Movement, Play, and the Natural World

As a school for dyslexic learners, we understand the importance of flexibility and movement. Students begin and end the day outside with unstructured play, in addition to daily recess. Our physical education program, SPARK, provides an additional opportunity for students to move throughout the school day, as well develop essential teamwork and social skills.

We believe direct experience with nature enhances the richness of the human experience and is a necessary component of childhood development.

Developing Essential Life Skills

Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in high-level problem-solving, with the goal of developing their inherent dyslexic advantages. Through group projects and community engagement, learners also develop essential skills such as collaboration, communication, and empathy.

Learn more about our Portrait of a Graduate