List of 4 items.

• Language Arts/Library

  At JTD, we use Teachers College Reading and Writing Project’s approach for Language Arts instruction as it is based on best practices for teaching and learning. This comprehensive K-6 skills based program enables teachers to interact with students in whole class, small group, and individual settings. Differentiation can also be achieved effectively within this model as a range of strategies are used to differentiate including content, product, pace, learning style, and interests. Our students are taught key skills that help them to understand themselves as independent lifelong learners and advocate for support when needed, while preparing them to become confident readers and writers.
  
  Learn more about our Library ›

• Math

  We believe that Mathematicians are flexible thinkers and creative problem-solvers and therefore, that the learning of mathematics should be authentic and active, and filled with transferable hands-on experiences that strengthen students’ ability to reason.  Instructional practices and grade level content goals are guided by a Singapore Math text, Math in Focus (MiF).  MIF is developmentally appropriate and balanced, promoting conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, strong number sense, as well as flexible thinking.  Content is presented in a logical order, intentionally building on prior knowledge, while providing students with opportunities to generalize and revisit foundational ideas. Differentiated instruction and resources will ensure that opportunities for support and enrichment consistently co-exist within lessons.

• Science

  Our science program is designed to teach students how to observe, question, and begin to understand how the world works around them. JTD scientists will develop a deep understanding of content learned while developing key skills in collaboration, inquiry, and flexibility that will serve them throughout their educational lives. Students will develop skills and understanding in science across a range of locations, perhaps on our rooftop garden, in a science lab, or down in the JTD canyon, they will engage in rich learning opportunities. 

• Social Emotional Learning

  In grades K - 4, we use the program Second Step to underpin our social and emotional skill instruction as it teaches essential skills for learning that include—listening, focusing attention, using self-talk, and being assertive. Students learn invaluable skills that help them navigate their way through elementary school as well as their community. Second Step has an intentionally planned, age appropriate, learning progression that includes age-appropriate games, activities, and media that provide skill-based learning experiences in the following key areas during in skills for learning, empathy, emotion management, and problem solving.

  
  

  In grades 5 and 6, a hybrid advisory program has been designed to build on skills learned in earlier grades, and begin to identify personal strengths, challenges, and growth areas. Key elements of this program include collaborating in smaller groups of 16 students, engaging in opportunities to show initiative and resilience to complete tasks independently, and responding and interacting respectfully and appropriately with others.