Blog

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS) we know that strong reading skills can change a child’s future—especially for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Our elementary and middle charter school offers small class sizes, personalized instruction, and daily reading support to help our students thrive. But learning doesn’t stop in June! Summer is the perfect time to nurture a love for reading in a relaxed, joyful way.

Here are four simple strategies to help your child make the most of summer reading:

2. Make Reading Social

Reading together can be a powerful bonding tool. Take turns reading aloud, share a chapter before bed, or listen to audiobooks as a family on road trips. Reading signs, menus, or maps during outings can also turn everyday moments into learning opportunities. When kids see reading as a shared activity, it becomes something to look forward to.

3. Keep It Low-Stress

Summer is for relaxing, so encourage your child to pick books that feel easy and enjoyable. Rereading favorite stories or choosing books below their school reading level is totally okay. The goal is to build fluency and enjoyment, not pressure them to “catch up.” When kids feel successful with reading, they’re more likely to stick with it.

4. Use Tools That Work for Them

Many children, especially those with dyslexia, benefit from technology. Audiobooks are a fantastic way to engage with stories without the frustration of decoding. Check out free options from your public library or apps that highlight text while reading aloud. These tools can make reading more accessible and enjoyable for every learner.

At PCS, we help every student become a confident, capable reader, at school and beyond. Want to give your child a summer full of growth and fun? Start with a great book, and a great school. Are you ready to unlock your child’s potential and start them on the path to a bright future?

Contact us and ENROLL TODAY.

PCS Central Interventionist

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS), charter schools are known for their warm and caring learning environment. To get to know more about the people behind our school culture, we recently chatted with PCS Central Interventionist Brittain Flatt.

Here’s what she had to say!

Who was your favorite teacher and why?

My most cherished teacher, Mrs. Weyant, my first-grade educator, stands out for her extraordinary patience, caring nature, and joyful spirit. Early in the year, when my mother gave birth to my sister, I struggled with separation anxiety, fearing I was missing out on special moments at home. Mrs. Weyant’s understanding and compassion were remarkable; she allowed me to call my mom every day before lunch for about a week, providing the reassurance I needed. Her kindness created a safe and supportive environment, leaving a lasting impression on me.

How does the PCS mission and vision align with your personal values?

PCS’s mission to empower children with dyslexia and language-based learning differences through multisensory instruction and individualized plans deeply resonates with my personal values. I believe every child deserves access to a high-quality education tailored to their unique needs, and I’m committed to fostering their potential in a supportive and inclusive environment.

What do you love most about your role?

I deeply value my role as an Interventionist because it allows me to work closely with small groups and enables me to truly understand their individual learning styles and needs in reading and math. This personalized approach allows for targeted support and celebrates each student’s unique progress.

What was your favorite book when you were young?

As a child, I was captivated by the Babysitters Club series, drawn to its relatable characters and heartwarming stories of friendship and growing up.

Tell us a little about your life outside of PCS!

I’m a dedicated mother of two daughters, a passionate entrepreneur who has run my own photography business for 11 years, and a weekend event coordinator at a wedding venue where I am able to meet a lot of people. I cherish opportunities to travel and immerse myself in the beauty of the outdoors. My favorite place to go is the beach.

Are you interested in learning more?

Talented, caring Provident Charter School staff serve struggling readers with top-notch whole child education in a caring school environment.

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

PCS West 2nd Grade Teacher & Wilson Reading Specialist

At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOLS (PCS), we are known for our warm and caring learning environment. To get to know more about the people behind our school culture, we recently chatted with PCS West 2nd Grade Teacher and Wilson Reading Specialist Michelle George.

Here’s what she had to say!

Who was your favorite teacher and why?

My 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Ratai. I remember she was always smiling and made learning fun. She was very respectful and kind. I looked up to her so much.

How does the PCS mission and vision align with your personal values?

I am a strong believer that every child can learn, no matter what. When provided with the right teachers along with a multi-sensory approach, any child can learn.

What do you love most about your role?

Seeing my students explode in their reading! Seeing that progress is priceless. I also love to have fun with the students while engaged and learning at the same time. A couple of my favorite memories are when my 2nd graders celebrated their learning by putting together note cards and a poster to present to families and laughing with my students as we learn.

What was your favorite book when you were young?

I loved the Junie B. Jones series and the Goosebumps books.

Tell us a little about your life outside of PCS!

I love to exercise: walking, hiking, playing tennis. I also love a good road trip with friends with the windows down and music playing. My favorite color is pink, I love tacos, and I have 2 cats: Pierogi and Nash.

Are you interested in learning more?

Talented, caring Provident Charter School staff serve struggling readers with top-notch whole child education in a caring school environment.

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) 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!

••••••••••••••••••••••

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.