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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! 

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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

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.

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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.

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! 

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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.

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! 

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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.

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! 

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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.

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! 

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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.

Parents often seek out PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOL ((PCS) for one reason: their child is struggling to read at grade level. But they may have had other challenges too: from difficulty learning in traditional classroom settings; not fitting in with friend groups; or simply hating going to school. So by the time their child enrolls at PCS, many parents aren’t sure what to expect from a new school. 

Our response: “Get ready for success!” 

Bringing Joy to Learning

“The first day of school I waited patiently for the bus and when (my son) got out he was all smiles – I have never seen him so happy after school. He talked to me about his day and shared everything. It has been the same every day since.” (PCS parent)

Reading results start on Day One at PCS. For students who haven’t seen a lot of academic success, this can be a revelation to them – and their families. It’s a first step in connecting learning with joy – something our students feel as they build their learning skills, find confidence as valued members of their classrooms, and join supportive friend groups.

A Toolbox For The Future

“The way that the teachers build their lessons allows (our son) to access material without his reading disability getting in his way. He can explore grade-level concepts and master standards in all of his academic courses because his teachers understand how he learns and how his disability affects his access to information. He feels like a valuable part of the learning community.” (PCS parent)

The journey from being labeled by dyslexia to creating a bright future is nurtured by PCS. We give students a toolbox of skills that they can take with them after they leave our school. These skills can be as small as harnessing the speech-to-text function on phones or as big as self-advocacy and the confidence to take academic risks and try new things. Our students move into their next educational setting prepared to succeed!

At PCS, our skilled, knowledgeable teachers help your child succeed starting Day One. Interested in learning more? Contact us and ENROLL TODAY.

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About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter Schools are public, 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 model and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 7 counties and 52 school districts in the Pittsburgh area.

3. A Space for Makers

Our MAKERSPACE is where PCS students integrate hands-on learning into daily curriculum. Following the engineering design process, we use design-level thinking and project-based lessons to enable students to test their skills and develop ideas. From using scissors and tying a knot to 3D printing and coding, our students are developing problem-solving skills and age appropriate tool fluency.

4. Finding Friends

When students come to PCS, they are welcomed and understood by caring teachers and staff. But our school community doesn’t end there. Our young learners often report that they are accepted here – sometimes for the first time – by classmates that can relate to their learning challenges and want to be friends. Strong friendships are so important to a healthy learning experience, and a big reason why our students thrive!

5. Our Parents Are Partners

PCS sees families and teachers as crucial partners in student success. Our teachers and parents support each other through frequent communication and classroom feedback, ensuring that students are always at the center of our school’s caring climate. Got some extra time? Our PARENT GROUP is always looking for volunteers to support our school activities – we would love to see you there! 

6. A Holistic Approach

PCS teaches more than reading and math – we also support the unique needs and emotional development of all learners. Making mistakes is integral to learning, which is why we encourage questioning and problem-solving for all ages. Our staff establish safe and trusted relationships with students, empowering them to collaborate and communicate with others in meaningful ways. Counseling staff, speech specialists, and OT services are available on site as needed.

7. Safety First

School safety and a positive, inclusive climate is prioritized at PCS West.  Teachers and staff are trained in situational awareness related to school safety, and they also receive training in de-escalation strategies and crisis prevention.   Social emotional learning is part of our curriculum.  Our small school allows our staff to truly know our students and their families personally; this results in a deep sense of belonging.

8. Values Matter

Our school values of Perseverance, Compassion and Self Control help staff engage students with character education that they can apply to their lives both inside and outside the classroom. We incorporate opportunities for every student to optimize their potential by making good choices and treating one another with respect.

9. Taekwondo

Every PCS student can access our unique TAEKWONDO PROGRAM, which helps develop self-confidence, self-discipline and respect while providing physical fitness. Students earn belts based on our school values, and perform Taekwondo demonstrations for their peers, families, and during special events.

10. Lots of Ways to Learn

PCS offers so many ways for students to build on their strengths – our Related Arts classes allow students to shift gears from traditional academics into classes that explore imagination and self-expression. Every student accesses a rotating schedule of classes in art, digital media, music, and PE. In addition, we take our learning outside the classroom and explore the world through engaging field trips for every grade. 

These are just some of the ways that Provident Charter Schools serve students with language-based learning differences in a caring school environment. Are you interested in learning more about how PCS can be a fit for your child? Contact us.

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About Provident Charter Schools

Provident Charter School 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 model and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of caring teachers, staff and engaged families from 7 counties and 52 school districts in the Pittsburgh area. Enrolling now!

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOL WEST (PCS West) we are proud to inspire our 1st-5th grade students with top tier academics in a fully taxpayer-funded, charter school setting. But we also recognize that not all students are alike. So we have developed an engaging curriculum, a warm culture of learning, and hands-on opportunities to reach all students. Here are 4 ways that we are reaching our learners!

2. Innovative Tools

The curriculum that we use at PCS West incorporates innovative tools that are not present in traditional classroom settings. These strategies work with the unique and different ways that our students’ brains process information, helping every student engage with their classwork, and include multisensory learning tools like sand writing, blending boards, assistive technology and more.

3. Integrated Accommodations

Unlike many traditional schools, PCS West teachers are trained to work with students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and often integrate them into their daily classroom settings. From quiet study spaces to classwork checklists, step-by-step instructions, and alternatives to written tests, we have creative ways to take the stress out of learning and maximize student success.

4. Something For Everyone

PCS West’s commitment to engaging learners doesn’t stop with reading and writing. We offer a wide variety of programs and extras to inspire curiosity in all ages. 

• Does your child like to move? Every PCS West student can access our unique TAEKWONDO PROGRAM, which helps develop self-confidence, self-discipline and respect while providing physical fitness. Students earn belts based on our school values, and perform Taekwondo demonstrations for their peers, families, and during special events.
• Like to explore? Beyond the classroom, we take our learning outside the classroom and into the world around us through engaging field trips for every grade. 
• Creative thinker? Our Related Arts classes allow students to shift gears from traditional academics into classes that explore imagination and self-expression. Every student accesses a rotating schedule of classes in art, music, PE and a Makerspace.

At PCS West, our skilled, knowledgeable teachers are reaching struggling readers with effective tools and curricula that work. Interested in learning more?

Contact us and ENROLL TODAY.

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About Provident Charter West

Provident Charter West is a tuition-free brick and mortar charter school serving 1st-5th grade students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom model and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of specially-trained teachers, staff and engaged families within Beaver, Allegheny, & Butler Counties. Join PCS West today – ask about free transportation!

The school year is underway, and it’s time to check in about learning. How is your child feeling when they return home at the end of the day? Have you received any communications from their teachers about their academic performance? Are you worried about their success in school this year? 

If any of the above applies to you: take a deep breath. At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOL WEST (PCS West), we hear lots of stories from parents who are concerned that their child is struggling to thrive in a traditional classroom setting. We get it! We are experts in educating children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. But before you make a move to a new school, here are 5 questions you can ask your current classroom teacher to find out more about your child’s learning.

2. What are the areas of strengths and weaknesses that you notice with my child’s learning?

How is their comprehension and vocabulary? Are they participating actively in the classroom compared to their peers?

3. Can you show me a book my child has read recently?

It’s important to understand what level your child is reading at, so you can assess if intervention or other services may be beneficial to bring them to grade level.

4. What kind of resources are available to help my child?

Are there decodable books in the classroom? Are students working in small groups? Are there tiers of support or interventions for students to access?

5. How is my child fitting in socially?

Do they have classroom friends? Do they appear happy to come to school each day? Students with learning differences can often struggle to fit into a traditional classroom setting. Are they thriving socially?

Do the answers to those questions concern you? We can help.

At PCS West, we communicate frequently with parents about their child’s learning. If you are considering a switch, reach out to Julie Ewing, Director of Enrollment, at 412-709-5160 ext. 121 or JEwing@providentcharterschool.org. Julie will take the time to discuss your child’s current learning environment and help you determine if our school is a better fit for their learning needs. We’re here for you!

Dyslexia doesn’t have to be seen as a challenge to overcome. At PCS West, our skilled, knowledgeable teachers are ready to unlock your child’s potential and start them on the path to a bright future. Interested in learning more?

Contact us and ENROLL TODAY.

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About Provident Charter West

Provident Charter West is a tuition-free brick and mortar charter school serving 1st-5th grade students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom model and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of specially-trained teachers, staff and engaged families within Beaver, Allegheny, & Butler Counties. Join PCS West today – ask about free transportation!