Curriculum

Literacy

Our balanced literacy program integrates reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  Classroom libraries feature a plethora of reading material with a vast number of genres and literary works.  Literacy block is scheduled for 100 minutes of instruction every day in every classroom. Embedded into the pacing calendar is an allocation of time for assessment and re-teaching, as well as an integration of the arts.  

As a phase two school, we will gradually introduce the “Into Reading” curriculum. Into Reading will be utilized by K-5th grade. The program integrates reading, writing and listening, into a blocked literacy period. Embedded into the pacing calendar is an allocation of time for assessment and re-teaching. The Heggerty Phonics program will be used in grades K-2nd as well as Fundations.

Additionally, Acadience diagnostic will be used in K-2 & iReady will be used in grades 3-5 and will be administered three times per year to track student progress and to identify areas in need of support. Teachers are trained to interpret and utilize the results of these assessments to inform their instruction. In addition to Into Reading, teachers will also use Teachers College Reading and Writing Units of Study.

 

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Math

Savvas Envisions will be used by grades K-5. The focus of our mathematics program will be problem solving, the utilization of manipulative, and the promotion of reasoning skills, divergent thinking and the communication arts as part of mathematics. To support instruction classes use manipulative kits, calculators, books and pacing calendars. Included in the schedule is the Problem of the Day.  In addition, math centers are used so students can demonstrate knowledge in content specific areas.

 

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Social Studies

Our Social Studies program is focused around the NYS and city curriculum. Instruction is delivered through a project approach and class trips supporting topics of study. Students are involved in projects emphasizing analysis, synthesis, and critical judgment using the “Five Forever Factors.” One example of our thematic units is an in depth study of the Harlem Renaissance.  Students' work is presented in a living museum-style production known as “A Night at the Apollo”. 

 

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Science/S.T.E.A.M.

Our Science program is centered around an “inquiry process / hands on approach”. All teachers engage in STEAM challenges and students from K-5th also have additional STEAM lessons with Ms. Vasilakis. Students in the ECC (Early Childhood Center) building use Harcourt Science kits and science trade books.  Our students from 2nd- 5th grade are using Amplify Science. 

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Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success. At AEA, we use Sanford Harmony, a social emotional learning program for Pre-K-6 grade students, designed to foster intergender communication and understanding, connection, and community both in and outside the classroom and develop our children into compassionate and caring adults.