Let’s be honest: for students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences, school can be tough. From social situations that are hard to navigate to teaching methods that just don’t resonate, young learners often struggle in traditional classrooms. At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOL WEST (PCS WEST), our tuition-free charter school is flipping the script for those kids. Just come for a visit and you’ll see that it’s true: at PCS West, our students love to learn!
A Caring Culture
One of the first things you may notice when you enter a PCS West classroom is a feeling. A feeling of warmth and of being welcomed. By teachers and specialists, but also by students. That’s because the culture of PCS is something everyone participates in creating, and is an important part of our success. New students find that our small school environment can feel like a caring family – one that supports them through academic challenges and celebrates their successes.
Friendships Start Here
PCS West students often comment on how easy it is to make friends at our school. They can relate to the learning challenges that their classmates are experiencing, and work together in small groups that are paced to abilities. Through hands-on learning in our Makerspace toTAE KWON DO instruction for all grades, our students have time throughout the school day to try new things and have fun with their classmates, building friendships in the process.
Teaching That Fits
It may come as no surprise that when students start succeeding in school, they can’t wait to keep learning. Students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences require teachers who appreciate the unique strengths of their students and are trained in methods that fit their abilities. PCS West students may have struggled to succeed prior to enrolling at our school, but our innovative approach to teaching ensures that all students thrive academically. We staff two full-time professional teachers in every classroom and maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio. Students are grouped into small groups paced to individual learning abilities, and a daily remediation block for reading and math gives teachers extra time to address individual learning needs.
At PCS West, we create a nurturing culture so that all students come to school excited to learn! Are you ready to unlock your child’s potential and start them on the path to a bright future?
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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
At PROVIDENT CHARTER SCHOOL WEST (PCS West), we understand that there are many ways to reach 1st-5th grade students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Our unique classroom structure and individualized instruction are just the beginning. PCS West also offers tuition-free 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 young 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!
Come Check It Out!
Interested in learning more about Tae Kwon Do at PCS West? Come visit a student demonstration and see how your child can enjoy this unique opportunity. We offer a free community demonstration at PCS CENTRALeach year, and perform at the Pittsburgh Zoo as part of the PITTSBURGH ASIAN LATERN 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 West, 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 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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
You may have heard that PROVIDENT CHARTER WEST (PCS West) is a great school for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. You may have also heard that we are enrolling tuition-free for grades 1-5 this fall. If you’re looking for a new school for your child, PCS West may be the perfect fit for your family
But don’t take our word for it – come and see for yourself!
When you visit our campus for the first time, there are some things you may want to keep an eye out for as you determine if PCS West is the right fit for your child.
Are the classrooms warm and welcoming?
Are children active and happy?
Were the teachers friendly and willing to answer your questions?
Did you feel a personal connection? Don’t underestimate your gut feeling when you’re making an important school choice for your child!
Next Steps
Whether you’re ready to enroll or have a few more questions about PCS West, OUR STAFFis here to help. Check out our “HOW TO APPLY” page for more information about the enrollment process. We’d love to see you here!
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 take a tour 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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
At Provident Charter West (PCS West), our tuition-free charter school is known for our warm and caring 1st-5th grade learning environment. To get to know more about the people behind our school culture, we recently chatted with PCS West 4th/5th Grade Math and Science Teacher Sandi Slaven.
Here’s what she had to say!
What inspired you to become an educator?
This is my 33rd year teaching elementary students. I’ve always enjoyed working with children. My grandfather was a principal and my grandmother was a special education teacher. I grew-up loving school!
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher was my 8th grade civics teacher, Mr. Charles Hughey. He was my favorite teacher because I learned so much in his class. He had very high expectations for his students. He had high expectations for academics, but also for behavior. He kept students engaged during direct instruction, and he provided fun activities for the students.
How does PCS West’s mission and vision align with your personal values?
I am passionate about every child receiving the best education possible for that child. For a democratic society to be successful, its citizens must be educated, informed, and critical thinkers. The mission of PCS West ensures that students are provided with a high quality, well-rounded education that is delivered through multisensory instructional methods and individual learning plans. At PCS West, every student is met at their level and given the tools to reach their full potential.
What do you love most about your role?
The thing I love most about my role as a teacher are the “ah-ha” moments. There is always a point in time, an event or an experience that creates an “ah-ha” moment for a student. One of my favorite moments is when a student (who did not like math) said that she never understood long division – then, she GOT it! At that moment she started to love math and she wanted to solve long division problems all the time!
Tell us a little about your life outside of PCS West!
Along with teaching, I served 21 years in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. I am a veteran of the Persian Gulf War and I retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. I have had many great experiences and adventures and I am looking forward to many more! Talented, caring Provident Charter School West staff serve struggling readers with top-notch whole child education in a tuition-free charter school environment. Are you interested in learning more about how PCS West can be a fit for your child?
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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
Did you know that caregivers can make a big difference in a student’s academic success? 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. At PCS West, our teachers and staff work alongside parents to support our students’ learning.
Here’s how!
Close Connections
Our small 1st-5th grade charter school setting enables us to know every student – and their families – by name. Teachers and parents partner with each other through frequent communication and classroom feedback, reaching out if they see a need for additional academic support or enrichment.
Personalized Learning Prioritized Here
Because PCS West serves students with language-based learning differences, many of our young learners have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). An IEP is a document which outlines a student’s personalized educational plan, including specifics around specialized instruction and related services. Many PCS West parents report challenges implementing IEPs at other schools, feeling defensive and anxious discussing with staff and having to advocate for their child. At PCS West, we partner with parents to create and implement IEPs, and conduct formal conferences twice each year to provide feedback on learning. In addition, our teachers and staff are very accessible to families who would like to check in about their child or answer questions about the IEP process.
Family Engagement Series
Learning isn’t just for enrolled students at PCS West. 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 West community!
Volunteers Wanted
PCS West parents and caregivers are encouraged, but not required, to VOLUNTEER in our school. 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 reading support and field trip chaperones; attending teacher conferences or book fairs; or coordinating our Health & Wellness Fair, Dyslexia Simulation and other events; there are lots of ways to be involved at PCS West. Interested in spreading the word about PCS West? Come volunteer as an ambassador! As guest speakers and as resources for prospective families, our ambassadors talk first-hand about the benefits that PCS West has provided for their learners. It’s a great way to give back to our school!
These are just some of the ways that Provident Charter West families and teachers are crucial partners in student success. Are you interested in learning more about how PCS West can be a fit for your child? 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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
Provident Charter West (PCS West) is a tuition-free charter school designed for 1st-5th grade children with dyslexia. But that’s only part of our story. Because at PCS WEST, we truly believe that dyslexia doesn’t define us!
A New Definition of Dyslexia
According to the OXFORD DICTIONARY, dyslexia is “a condition of neurodevelopmental origin that mainly affects the ease with which a person reads, writes, and spells, typically recognized as a specific learning disorder in children.” The most common learning disability, dyslexia can also affect social skills, listening comprehension and time management.
At PCS West, we are experts at understanding dyslexia – both what it is, and what it is not. Dyslexia occurs across the range of intellectual abilities, meaning that there is no correlation between intelligence and the disability. Curtis Kossman, the founder of Provident and president of our SCHOOL BOARD, says “kids come to us humiliated” after years of struggling in traditional schools. But when they arrive at PCS West, they find a culture of learning that embraces the many unique strengths of children with dyslexia. Instead of a challenge to be overcome, dyslexia is seen as a hidden superpower for our learners!
Potentials Unlocked Here
Dyslexia doesn’t determine potential. In fact, one of the many strengths of people with dyslexia is AN ABILITY TO SEE DIFFERENTLY. Leonardo DaVinci, Albert Einstein, Muhammad Ali, Magic Johnson – some of the greatest minds and talents in history were dyslexic learners. From pattern perception to artistic talent, many PCS West students discover interests and abilities that they never knew they had prior to coming to our school. Our teachers honor the unique strengths of our students, while using expert understanding of the reading brain to work on weaknesses – and unleash potential.
PCS West students build skills and connect to their strengths through a unique combination of effective curriculum and innovative classroom models. Each classroom has two co-teachers with Orton Gillingham based reading remediation, multisensory instructional methods and individual learning plans. Students have the same teachers for two years in a row, enabling our staff to establish deep connections and understanding of each student’s abilities and needs. And counselors and a behavioral specialist are on hand for learners who need extra support.
Our Futures Are Bright
The journey from being labeled by dyslexia to creating and sustaining a bright future is nurtured by PCS West. Beyond the fundamental ability to read and write, 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 and ready to soar to new heights!
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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
At Provident Charter West (PCS West), there are so many reasons why 1st-5th grade students are thriving at our TUITION-FREE CHARTER SCHOOL. Here are our top 10!
1. We Understand Dyslexia
PCS West was founded to educate children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. We are experts at what we do! A daily remediation block for both reading and math, called “What I Need” or WIN, allows teachers to address individual learning needs in small groups. This is in addition to daily Orton Gillingham based reading remediation. Specially trained and experienced teachers are just one way we improve language arts and math skills in our learners. PA standards aligned instruction in grade level content, combined with project based and experiential learning opportunities, ensure that our students are prepared to thrive in their next educational setting when they leave our school.
2. We Reach All Learners
Our innovative teaching model features two full-time professional teachers in every classroom and a low student-to-teacher ratio. We engage our students with small groups paced to individual learning abilities, multimodal teaching, and all students have access to assistive technology.
3. A Space for Makers
Our innovative teaching model features two full-time professional teachers in every classroom and a low student-to-teacher ratio. We engage our students with small groups paced to individual learning abilities, multimodal teaching, and all students have access to assistive technology.
4. Finding Friends
When students come to PCS West, 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 West 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. Interested in getting involved? Check out our SCHEDULE OF EVENTS to sign up for our Health & Wellness Fair, Dyslexia Simulation and more – we would love to see you there!
6. A Holistic Approach
PCS West 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 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.
10. Lots of Ways to Learn
PCS West 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 West serves students with language-based learning differences in a caring school environment. Are you interested in learning more about how PCS West can be a fit for your child? 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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
It’s a busy time of year at Provident Charter West (PCS West). We are partnering with our teachers and community to offer free educational events for our 1st-5th grade students and their families. Here’s what we’re tackling:
Want to learn more about dyslexia?
Would you like to check out the unique ways that PCS West is teaching STEAM curriculum?
How about connecting with the many resources that are available to support health and wellness in our community?
Mark your calendar and attend an upcoming event – we can’t wait to see you here!
Join us for an evening of community, fun and learning. The Health and Wellness Services Fair is an engaging and informative event dedicated to promoting overall well-being and fostering a healthy lifestyle. Held in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, the fair brings together a range of health professionals, wellness experts, and community members – all from Beaver County. Local vendors will be on hand to answer questions, provide healthy habit tips for the whole family, and share some fun giveaway items too!
This powerful simulation will open your eyes to the daily struggles children can experience. It starts with a brief discussion of dyslexia, including the neurological basis, demographics, warning signs, and interventions. Participants will then take part in simulated activities which mimic the experiences and processing of those with dyslexia. A variety of topics are covered including: reading, spelling, auditory processing, visual motor, and challenges with math computation.
Presented by Provident Charter School & the Pennsylvania Branch of the International Dyslexia Association!
STEAM Night
Date: Thursday, May 16, 2024
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Location: Provident Charter School West
Admission: Free (Appropriate for all ages)
Come learn about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math) education at PCS West! Families of all ages will be able to participate in fun and educational hands-on activities.
Our busy calendar of events welcomes the greater PCS West community to our campus to celebrate and educate. Are you interested in learning more about how PCS West can be a fit for your child?
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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today!
Charter school enrollment is growing. Since the first charter school opened in 1992 in St. Paul, Minnesota, charter schools have served over 12 million students. Charter schools’ uniqueness makes them a popular choice with many families.
If you are looking for a different approach to education, a charter school might be the answer for you and your family. This article will help answer the following questions about enrolling at a tuition-free public charter school:
Charter schools are publicly funded institutions that operate independently of the traditional school district structure. They are established through a “charter,” which outlines their mission, educational program, goals, and methods of assessment. Unlike traditional public schools, which are governed by local school boards and district policies, charter schools are managed by independent governing bodies, which can include parents, teachers, community members, or nonprofit organizations. This governance structure allows charter schools to respond more flexibly to the needs of their students and communities.
Charter schools are held accountable for their academic performance and must demonstrate results in order to remain open. They are subject to state academic standards and requirements, and their charter can be revoked if they fail to meet these standards or violate the terms of their charter agreement.
What is the Difference Between a Charter School and a Public School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
Charter schools are public schools! They are tuition-free public schools open to all students. Similar to traditional schools, public charter schools are funded with taxpayer dollars. A charter school operates under a performance contract with either the school district it will serve or the state’s authorizing agency.
You can apply and enroll your children in a tuition-free, public charter school, even outside your school district. Pittsburgh area charter schools do not have to comply with boundary school rules. Thus, families can choose the charter school of choice and not worry about breaking district rules. Pennsylvania charter schools can admit any child residing in the state.
Unlike public district schools, seeing your child’s name on the school’s waitlist is possible, especially if you applied to a sought-after charter school. Many charter schools receive more applications than their capacities allow. Schools with more applicants than they can take in usually employ a random selection process or lottery system.
Are charter schools free in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania’s charter schools are tuition-free, public, and open to all students. Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate independently of the traditional public school system. They do not charge tuition fees, making them free for students to attend. However, they differ from typical public schools in that they often have more flexibility in curriculum, hiring practices, and management structures. Despite this autonomy, charter schools must adhere to state academic standards and regulations to receive public funding. This unique blend of independence and accountability allows charter schools to offer diverse educational approaches while remaining accessible to all students without cost.
How are charter schools funded in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
Charter schools are funded primarily through public sources, similar to traditional public schools. While district schools receive funding from federal, state, and local governments, charter school funding comes mainly from the state and a small amount from the local government. Funding is based on the number of students enrolled, much like district schools. However, unlike district schools that receive funding directly from local property taxes, charter schools typically do not have access to those funds. Instead, they may receive funding or additional grants from various sources, including philanthropic organizations.
Are charter schools better in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
It depends on the school. When it comes to standardized testing, charter schools and traditional public schools perform similarly. Charter schools show much improvement for low-income students, in fact, better than conventional public schools.
Charter schools shine when you look at what makes them distinct. Each charter school started to offer something different than local district schools. It may be in the classes offered, class size, educational philosophy, or a focus on fine arts or engineering. Each charter school is unique, and you can find out what makes the charter schools local to you so special.
What Tuition-Free Public Charter Schools are Available in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
We suggest Provident West as a great option for your family. Provident West is a tuition-free public charter school in Baden serving students in grades 1-5, specializing in educating children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.
Each classroom features two co-teachers and a low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for small-group instruction and personalized attention. Our daily reading remediation block and WIN (What I Need) time help develop language arts and math skills. Using multimodal teaching methods and assistive technology, we engage students and regularly assess their academic growth to ensure they are ready for their next educational step.
At PCS West, we view parents as partners in education and prioritize strong communication through conferences and one-on-one interactions. Our secure environment, combined with staff trained in crisis management, provides a safe space for learning. We offer counseling, speech, and occupational therapy services and build social-emotional learning skills through classroom discussions and a holistic approach. Students enjoy a no homework policy, access to art and music, engaging field trips, and hands-on projects in our Makerspace. Our unique Taekwondo program fosters values like perseverance, compassion, and self-control, helping students build confidence and strong community connections.
What is the Process of Enrolling my Child in a Tuition-Free Public Charter School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
The enrollment process of charter schools is similar to that of other school types. They require an application providing basic information about the child, such as name, address, birth date, ethnic background, and the last school attended.
Families are responsible for checking the charter schools’ application and enrollment deadlines and specific enrollment rules, policies, and requirements. Charter schools may have different rules and processes, but all their admission rules must comply with state laws. According to Pennsylvania laws, charter schools cannot implement policies that unlawfully discriminate against their applicants.
Do Public Charter Schools Offer High-Quality Education in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
Parents want the best for their children, so ensuring their child is getting the best education is a must. People have long wondered how charter schools compare to public schools in Colorado.
Charter schools are held to the same academic standards as conventional public schools. They excel in their ability to design programs that meet the unique needs of their student bodies. Their flexibility allows them to swiftly adapt to changing educational demands, ensuring students receive a tailored and relevant education. This nimbleness enables charter schools to implement innovative teaching methods and specialized programs to allow students to succeed academically and personally.
Why Choose a Charter School?
Exploring charter schools in Pennsylvania opens up a world of educational possibilities for your child. Whether you’re drawn to a specialized program, a unique educational philosophy, or simply a different approach to learning, charter schools offer diverse options. By researching and visiting schools, you can make an informed decision that supports your child’s academic and personal growth.
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 caring teachers, staff and engaged families in Beaver County. Join PCS West today! Enrolling now.
