At Provident Charter Schools, there are so many reasons why 1st-8th grade students are thriving at our campuses. Here are our top 10!
1. We Understand Dyslexia
PCS 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 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!