Blog

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) we are proud of our ability to offer innovative, effective education for elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. 

We also understand that our achievements aren’t ours alone. We rely on the support and involvement of parents and caregivers to reach our educational goals. At PCS, families are first!

Teaching Starts At Home

You may have heard the saying “the parent is the child’s first teacher.” At PCS, we recognize that parents are vital to every child’s learning experience. From creating a home environment that values learning; to listening and respecting children’s opinions; to modeling our school values of Perseverance, Compassion and Self Control; families create a foundation for every child’s education.

Partnering With Parents

RESEARCH SHOWS that students whose parents are involved in their school have better attendance and behavior, get better grades, demonstrate better social skills and adapt better to school. PCS teachers and staff work alongside parents to support our students’ learning. Our small-school setting enables us to build strong relationships with every student – and their family. Teachers and parents partner with each other through frequent communication and discussions about student progress.

Family Engagement Series

Learning isn’t just for enrolled students at PCS. Each year we host a Family Engagement Series for parents and caregivers to attend with their children. Popular events like the Dyslexia Simulation and STEAM Night offer unique experiences to learn more about our curriculum and language-based learning differences. Families of all ages visit our campus to enjoy hands-on curriculum-based events like Frog Day, Cake Decorating, House/Circuits Project, and more. These events are a great way to have fun with your family and get to know the PCS community!

How Can You Get Involved?

There are so many ways to engage in your child’s learning! Here are some ideas:

• Volunteer in your child’s classroom

• Read with your child

• Discuss school events together

• Attend school functions

• Sign up for parent-teacher conferences

Volunteer With Us!

PCS parents and caregivers are encouraged to VOLUNTEER in our schools. We offer a VARIETY OF OPPORTUNITIES that accommodate the schedules of working parents and busy families. Our PARENT GROUP helps with fundraising and is always looking for volunteers to support our school activities. From assisting with in-class activities, attending parent/teacher conferences, book fairs, coordinating graduation or school fundraisers, there are lots of ways to be involved at PCS. Interested in becoming involved with our community? Come volunteer with us!

At PCS, our close-knit community of teachers, parents and families care about each other and work together to support student learning. Interested in finding out more?

CONTACT US and ENROLL TODAY!

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About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

ENROLLING NOW.

FOLLOW US!

INSTAGRAM: PCS Central • PCS West

FACEBOOK: PCS Central • PCS West

LEARN MORE: www.providentcharterschool.org

PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) families often find us when they are searching for a school that specializes in teaching students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. And it’s true – we really move the dial on academic learning for our students. But one thing families are often surprised by when they come to PCS is how well their child can thrive socially. We’re a place where learning happens – and first friendships can bloom!

Take Their Word For It

Sometimes the best way to see the culture of a school is to simply ask students what they love about it. In a recent survey, we asked our learners “What’s your favorite thing about PCS?”: 

• “I like all the kids here and my teacher.”

• “Spending time with my bffs.”

• “I feel like I belong.”

We Understand Each Other

Many students who come to PCS have experienced social challenges in other schools. Some have struggled with social acceptance among their peers or have been bullied by their classmates because of their learning differences. At PCS, because all of our students are facing language-based learning differences, they understand each other’s challenges and can immediately connect without the burden of stigma. Plus, our small school size enables PCS teachers to really get to know each student’s strengths and challenges. PCS students and staff build close, supportive relationships that celebrate success.

Social Skills-Building

From elementary through middle school, PCS classrooms and curriculum are structured to support Social Emotional Learning skills-building as well as academic achievement. These skills encompass the ability to understand and manage emotions, establish positive relationships, and make responsible decisions, crucial for academic success, well-being, and future readiness. At PCS, our school day includes time for both small and large group interactions, so students can get to know each other and enjoy project-based learning that encourages them to work as a team. Instead of focusing on challenges, we emphasize the strengths and abilities of our students to build self-esteem and promote a positive self-image.

At PCS, we understand that language-based learning differences can be challenging to navigate. We support elementary and middle school students with proven, effective tools and methods to help them succeed. Interested in learning more?

CONTACT US and ENROLL TODAY!

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

ENROLLING NOW.

FOLLOW US!

INSTAGRAM: PCS Central • PCS West

FACEBOOK: PCS Central • PCS West

LEARN MORE: www.providentcharterschool.org

You may have heard that PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) is a “charter school”. But what does that really mean? And how does that make us different from other schools? The answers may surprise you! 

We Are Public

That’s right: charter schools are also public schools. Our two brick and mortar charter schools are located in Southwestern Pennsylvania – PCS Central serving 2nd-8th grade students in the Troy Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, and PCS West serving 1st-6th grade students in the borough of Baden in Beaver County. But we enroll students from any district – you don’t have to be a resident of Troy Hill or Baden to attend PCS!

We Are Mission Driven

PCS was founded by a group of Pittsburgh professionals who have firsthand experience with dyslexia and are passionate about providing access to excellent education for students with language-based learning differences. Together, they created our OFFICIAL MISSION STATEMENT that guides us: 

Provident Charter Schools is designed for children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences to access their potential by providing a high-quality, well-rounded education that is delivered through multisensory instructional methods and individual learning plans. Our students move into high school prepared to succeed and confident in their abilities.

We Put Students First

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all learning. Charter schools are usually centered on the needs of the student, often through a personalized curriculum or specialized offerings. PCS is no exception. We offer project-based learning in a small school environment, with effective teaching techniques that inspire all learners. Teachers establish deep connections and understanding of each student’s abilities and needs. Our school counselors and interventionists are on-hand for learners who need extra support.

We Are Free to Innovate

Because of our strong commitment to our mission we are an exciting hub of innovation. At PCS, our highly qualified teachers are able to teach in creative ways. Our innovative teaching model enables students to build skills and connect to their strengths through a unique combination of effective curriculum and innovative classroom models. PCS classrooms have access to two co-teachers, who are trained in multisensory instructional methods and individual learning plans and most are trained in Orton Gillingham-based reading remediation. We adopt cutting-edge curriculum and techniques that are proven to be effective and engaging.

We Keep It Small

Parents looking for a tight-knit school, where everyone knows their name, often look to charter schools to find a greater sense of community. At PCS, community is at the core of our friendly and deliberately small 1st-8th grade charter school. Our school size enables staff to know students – and their families – personally. When students enroll here, they often report that they’ve found a sense of belonging – that they’re understood and known by their peers and teachers.

At PCS, we build language learning skills so every student is equipped to read. Are you ready to unlock your child’s potential and start them on the path to a bright future?

CONTACT US and ENROLL TODAY!

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

ENROLLING NOW.

FOLLOW US!

INSTAGRAM: PCS Central • PCS West

FACEBOOK: PCS Central • PCS West

LEARN MORE: www.providentcharterschool.org

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) our elementary and middle school builds strong reading and writing skills in students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Our innovative curriculum includes low student-to-teacher ratios, small groups paced to individual learners, and a daily remediation block that gives students extra time to build reading skills. As their reading skills develop, we encourage our students to develop an interest in reading on their own. Wondering how you can help develop your child’s reading? Here are 5 ways to make reading fun: 

1. Explore New Interests

Talk with your child about their interests, and give them material that will engage them. Is your child a sports fan? Try nonfiction books that profile sports stars or teams. Or an animal lover? There are lots of kids magazines and books that share fun facts about pets and wildlife. Comic books and graphic novels are often a hit with fans of action movies. Even cooking a meal together and following a recipe counts. The options are endless!

2. Read Aloud…Together

We all have busy schedules, but your child’s reading should be a priority. Try to make the time to read aloud to your child, and let them take turns reading alongside you. That can mean incorporating books into your bedtime routine, sharing a quick lunchtime story, or simply reading signs together when you are in the car or grocery shopping. You may be surprised at how well your child can read aloud to you! 

3. Use Technology

Don’t forget that there are many wonderful books that are available as audiobooks. Your LOCAL PUBLIC LIBRARY has audiobooks that you can check out at no cost, and there are online apps that have large selections of children’s audiobooks available for a fee. Some book apps even highlight sentences so that your child can read along with the narrator.

4. Be A Role Model

Learning starts at home, and that means that every caregiver can be a role model as a reader. Take books along to the beach or park. Going on a family vacation? Bring a book for the whole family to read and discuss. If you are dyslexic, let your child see you reading or listening to audiobooks. Talk about how you overcome your own difficulties with reading. Your attitude towards reading can be a positive influence on the next generation of readers!

5. Take It Easy

Want a good rule of thumb when helping your child select books? Give them easy reading. Reading at home should be a relaxing experience for kids. Let them experience the joy of reading without having to work hard on decoding words. It’s an easy way to help them get absorbed in books!

At PCS, we build language learning skills so every student is equipped to read. Are you ready to unlock your child’s potential and start them on the path to a bright future?

CONTACT US and ENROLL TODAY!

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

ENROLLING NOW.

FOLLOW US!

INSTAGRAM: PCS Central • PCS West

FACEBOOK: PCS Central • PCS West

LEARN MORE: www.providentcharterschool.org

Many Provident Charter Schools (PCS) students enroll with us during their elementary years. That’s a time when children are most likely to be diagnosed with dyslexia and other language- based learning differences – and a time when parents are looking for solutions. 

But the PCS educational model doesn’t stop after 5th grade. PCS Middle School, located on our Central campus, is a great alternative for students who are thriving in our elementary school environment and want to keep growing, or are looking for a new school home before they head off to high school. 

If you are considering PCS Middle School for your child, here are 3 things you need to know!

1. Reinforcing Learning

PCS Middle School academics build on the foundation of our elementary school curriculum.  From Orton Gillingham-based reading remediation, to multisensory instructional methods, 1:1 teacher time and individual learning plans – there are many tools and supports that help PCS students succeed. By the end of elementary school, students are familiar with our methods and our teachers know each child’s strengths and challenges. Middle school is three more years to reinforce the learning that has already happened, with personalized plans that effectively reach older learners.

2. Getting Ready For High School

Middle school prepares students for high school in so many ways. At PCS Middle School, our older students work on essential academic skills like independent learning, time management and effective study habits. We also support Social Emotional Learning skills through small and large group interactions.  Middle schoolers enjoy supportive connections with friend groups and peers that face similar challenges. We chart academic growth through regular sensitive assessments, so our PCS Middle School students graduate confident and ready to transition into a high school learning environment.

3. Having Fun!

PCS middle school students love coming to school for lots of reasons – including to have fun! We incorporate more flexibility into their school day, so our older students are able to learn and grow. Middle schoolers participate in electives and activities, including student council, musicals and an academic extension block that builds independence and leadership skills. They also enjoy in-school Tae Kwon Do lessons, hands-on learning experiences in our STEAM lab and greenhouse, and grade-specific field trips.

At PCS, we understand that language-based learning differences can be challenging to navigate. We support elementary and middle school students with proven, effective tools and methods to help them succeed. Interested in learning more?

CONTACT US and take a tour today! 

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

ENROLLING NOW.

FOLLOW US!

INSTAGRAM: PCS Central • PCS West

FACEBOOK: PCS Central • PCS West

LEARN MORE: www.providentcharterschool.org

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) we are proud of our ability to offer innovative, effective education for elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. 

We also understand that our achievements aren’t ours alone. We rely on the support and involvement of parents and caregivers to reach our educational goals. At PCS, families are first!

Partnering With Parents

RESEARCH SHOWS that students whose parents are involved in their school have better attendance and behavior, get better grades, demonstrate better social skills and adapt better to school. PCS teachers and staff work alongside parents to support our students’ learning. Our small-school setting enables us to build strong relationships with every student – and their family. Teachers and parents partner with each other through frequent communication and classroom feedback.

Family Engagement Series

Learning isn’t just for enrolled students at PCS. Each year we host a Family Engagement Series for parents and caregivers to attend with their children. Popular events like the Dyslexia Simulation and STEAM Night offer unique experiences to learn more about our curriculum and language-based learning differences. Families of all ages visit our campus to enjoy hands-on curriculum-based events like Frog Day, Cake Decorating, House/Circuits Project, and more. These events are a great way to have fun with your family and get to know the PCS community!

How Can You Get Involved?

There are so many ways to engage in your child’s learning! Here are some ideas:

• Read with your child
• Discuss school events together
• Attend school functions
• Sign up for parent-teacher conferences
• Volunteer in your child’s classroom

Volunteer With Us!

PCS parents and caregivers are encouraged to VOLUNTEER in our schools. We offer a VARIETY OF OPPORTUNITIES that accommodate the schedules of working parents and busy families. Our PARENT GROUP helps with fundraising and is always looking for volunteers to support our school activities. From assisting with in-class activities, attending parent/teacher conferences, book fairs, coordinating graduation or school fundraisers, there are lots of ways to be involved at PCS. Interested in spreading the word about PCS? Come volunteer as an ambassador! As guest speakers and as resources for prospective families, our ambassadors talk first-hand about the benefits that PCS has provided for their learners. It’s a great way to give back to our school!

At PCS, our close-knit community of teachers, parents and families care about each other and work together to support student learning. Interested in finding out more?

Contact us and ENROLL TODAY.

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) we are often contacted by parents whose child has recently been diagnosed with dyslexia, and they have questions about what it means, and how it will affect their child. So we thought we would take a little time to dispel some myths about the learning difference – and share some facts too!

Myth #1: Dyslexia is rare

Fact: In the US, research has shown that dyslexia affects up to 20% of the population. It is the most common learning disability in school-aged children.

Myth #2: Kids with dyslexia just need to try harder in school

Fact: Research shows that the brain functions differently in kids with dyslexia. With skilled instruction and practice, including the MULTISENSORY APPROACH that PCS uses, kids with dyslexia can make significant and lasting gains in reading.

Myth #3: Children can grow out of dyslexia

Fact: Dyslexia is a lifelong learning difference. That doesn’t mean that reading skills can’t improve over time. But it is a difference that continues through adulthood.

Myth #4: Dyslexia is a vision problem

Fact: Kids with dyslexia are no more likely to have eye and vision problems than other kids.

Myth #5: Children with dyslexia have low IQ

Fact: There is absolutely no relation between dyslexia and IQ. In fact, some of history’s most famous scientists, authors, athletes and inventors had dyslexia – including Albert Einstein, Muhammad Ali, Magic Johnson, and George Washington.

At PCS, we understand that language based learning differences can be challenging to navigate. We partner with families and support our young learners with proven, effective tools and methods to help them succeed. Interested in learning more?

CONTACT US and take a tour today! 

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS), our elementary and middle school students benefit from our proven methods for developing language arts and math skills. But that’s only part of what we do! PCS education includes unique opportunities to learn new subjects and skills, both inside and outside the classroom. Our students are encouraged to try new things, explore their interests, and maybe discover a new passion along the way!

STEAM Opportunities

Students who are interested in STEAM can test their skills in our Design to Make A Difference and robotics competitions during the school year. Our students design and build projects through our popular Makerspace, which integrates hands-on learning into daily curriculum and includes opportunities to build entrepreneurial skills.

Building Character

PCS’ unique Taekwondo instruction enables students in all grades to earn belts based on the values of Perseverance, Compassion, and Self Control. For students who want to pursue more training and skills, our Team Storm competition group practices regularly and performs in our community.

Just For Older Students

PCS middle schoolers access unique opportunities to learn that are geared towards their age and abilities. They can participate in a variety of electives and activities that are exclusive to middle school, including Student Council and an Academic Extension Block that builds independence and leadership skills.

Ready for your child to explore new interests? At PCS, we are here to help your child succeed – beyond reading and math.

CONTACT US and come take a school tour today! 

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

Are you wondering if your current school choice is right for your child? Thinking of making a switch but not sure if the timing is right? At PCS WEST, we welcome new elementary school students throughout the school year. Here are five reasons to make the switch today!

1. Your child is not making progress at school

Is your child struggling to read? Not learning at grade level compared to their peers? Our teachers are experts at reaching students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. We use Orton Gillingham-based reading remediation, multisensory instructional methods and individual learning plans so students can succeed.

2. Your child is struggling socially

Does your child look forward to going to school each day? Are they finding friendships and developing social and emotional skills? At PCS West, we support every child as they find confidence as valued members of their classrooms, and join supportive friend groups. Surrounded by peers that face similar challenges, PCS West students learn in a welcoming and caring environment.

3. Your child needs more academic support

A PCS West education is not one-size-fits-all. We offer individualized support and small group learning so each student has plenty of 1:1 teacher time. Each classroom has two co-teachers who get to know their students’ abilities and needs. Our school counselor and interventionists are on hand for learners who need extra support.

4. You want to participate in your child’s learning

PCS West parents are often more hands-on and involved in our classrooms than in other schools. Our teachers partner with parents and caregivers to support student learning through frequent communication about student progress. Families are encouraged to volunteer through our parent group, as reading helpers, and at school events. We value our families!

5. You’re ready for a fresh start

Switching schools guarantees new opportunities for healthy friendships as well as an academic reset. At PCS West, you’ll find that our students have so many reasons to love coming to school. From in-school Tae Kwon Do lessons, to hands-on learning experiences in our Makerspace and greenhouse, choosing a PCS West education is going to be an exciting and positive change for your child.

Why wait to make a switch to a school that will help your child thrive? At PCS West, we are here to help your child succeed – starting right now. Interested in learning more?

CONTACT US and take a tour today! 

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS, we understand that there are many ways to reach 1st-8th grade students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Our unique classroom structure and individualized instruction are just the beginning. PCS also offers school-day instruction in Tae Kwon Do – a martial art form that has been around for over 2,000 years. So how can breaking a board benefit your child? The answers may surprise you!

Science-based Benefits

There are so many benefits to learning a martial art form like Tae Kwon Do – especially for elementary and middle school aged children. From social-skills’ boosting aspects of increased confidence, individual achievement, positive feedback, to just being a fun way to connect with peers outside of a traditional classroom setting. Tae Kwon Do helps build brain skills too! Students learn to recognize and perform patterns and sequences, work on large and fine motor skills, and practice self control in their bodies while focusing their minds. All skills that translate into language learning!  

Something for Every Body

At PCS, we recognize that every student is unique, and not every child has a natural interest in athletics. But Tae Kwon Do engages all learners – regardless of ability. Master Huang teaches during the day at PCS. Students progress at their own pace through levels named after our school values of Perseverance, Compassion and Self Control – helping them connect more closely to our school. For students who are anxious about trying out for team sports or who struggle with the aspect of losing during team sports, Tae Kwon Do removes those barriers while still offering healthy physical activity. And did we mention that everyone gets to break a board by the end of their first year? Each student also has the opportunity to test for a new belt after the end of each trimester, and in 2024 we’ll be awarding our first black belts! 

Come Check It Out!

Interested in learning more about Tae Kwon Do at PCS? Come visit a student demonstration and see how your child can enjoy this unique opportunity. We offer a free community demonstration at PCS CENTRAL each year, and perform at the Pittsburgh Zoo as part of the PITTSBURGH ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL. In addition, motivated students can join our “Team Storm”, which hosts two competitions each year and performs at Duquesne University basketball halftime shows!

At PCS, there are so many approaches to unlocking a child’s potential – including Tae Kwon Do! Are you ready to start your child on the path to a bright future?

CONTACT US and take a tour today! 

••••••••••••••••••••••

About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are brick and mortar charter schools with two campuses serving elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom models and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 8 counties and 50+ school districts in Pittsburgh, Beaver and surrounding areas.