NAPS is a small school with a low teacher/instructional aide to student ratio which allows for individual attention. The small class size allows teachers and faculty to create lessons, activities and assignments that meet the needs of types of learners.
- Classroom teachers differentiate instruction based on students' assessed skills in reading and math.
- Pre-Kindergarten through Fourth grades have instructional aides available to support students and teachers.
- Aides are utilized to assist with one on one or small group review and reinforcement.
- Ipads are provided to grades 1-5 and laptops are provided to grades 6-8. Programs are included for extra reading and math practice.
- Classrooms provide scaffolding through visual aides (maps, focus walls, word walls, visual cues) posted around the classrooms.
- Slant board desks are used for students who need support when writing.
- Headphones are available for students who need to listen to books and texts.
- SmartBoards are in classrooms for lessons, class activities, homework assignments and classroom expectations.
- Epic digital library is available to students starting in Pre-K. Students can explore their interests with instant access to thousands of books.
- Students get individual or small group instruction from two full-time resource teachers after observation and assessments indicate additional learning time is necessary.
- NAPS also has on site an Occupational Therapist, a Speech Therapist and an Orton-Gillingham private tutor. These are independent contractors that parents organize and prepare for their child.
- Math manipulatives are available during instruction.
- For tactical learners, Touch Math can be implemented with the resource team and classroom teacher.
- Mindfulness classes are part of the curriculum for all grades, PreK through 8th. These classes provide students with strategies to manage their emotions at school or while participating in school activities.
LEARNING SERVICES
The administration, teachers and the resource team work together to identify and address the needs of students working below grade level or who are facing academic challenges in the classroom. NAPS aims to provide interventions that help bridge the gap between where students are and where they need to be. NAPS offers in-school interventions and supports until it is evident that the student’s learning issues need a more in depth approach.
NAPS also pledges to address any physical or mental health issues that may affect a student’s progress in school and will make accommodations for them until outside resources are needed.