At Havern School, Literacy is taught through both small group and whole classroom instruction using a structured literacy approach with a core scope and sequence of skill instruction, specialized instructional materials and a variety of children’s literature. Structured Literacy instruction occurs in small groups. Students are placed according to their specific skills and needs. Teachers provide direct, systematic, explicit instruction in multiple components of reading and writing, and differentiate instruction based on student profiles. Our literacy instruction is rooted in the Orton-Gillingham methodology. We utilize Step Up to Writing as the basis for our writing curriculum.

Mathematics instruction at Havern School is delivered in ability-based small groups. Similar to Structured Literacy, students are placed in skill-based groups using multi-sensory, direct, explicit and systematic instruction to develop understanding of mathematical concepts. With an emphasis on a strong foundation in conceptual understanding, teachers use hands-on methods when applicable. New skills are practiced with the goal of mastery. The focus is on helping students gain the conceptual, computational and strategic knowledge to become effective problem solvers and mathematicians.

All Havern students participate in both science and social studies instruction based on grade-level state standards.

Students explore topics through multiple formats—including classroom presentations and discussions, videos, hands-on activities, on-line resources, guest speakers and field trips.

Philosophically Havern believes the following are essential to neurodivergent student growth:

Fine Arts
Havern’s Fine Arts program—encompassing visual art, music, and drama—helps students develop their strengths while supporting learning through multiple modalities that engage different areas of the brain. Through weekly instruction, students build creativity, self-expression, visual-spatial skills, critical thinking, musical literacy, collaboration, and public presentation skills. Visual arts classes incorporate art journals, art history, design concepts, and a variety of media, while music and drama classes expose students to diverse artistic forms and culminate in annual performances.

PE
Physical Education is an integral part of the Havern program, promoting physical fitness, coordination, teamwork, and self-confidence. Through regular PE classes, students develop fundamental movement skills, sportsmanship, and healthy habits while participating in a variety of individual and team activities. Instruction emphasizes personal growth, cooperation, perseverance, and respect for others, helping students build both physical competence and social-emotional skills. Activities are designed to be engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate, encouraging students to stay active, challenge themselves, and develop a positive relationship with lifelong health and wellness.

Tech/STEM
Students develop a broad range of skills, including coding, digital citizenship, graphic design, keyboarding, and word processing, with an added emphasis on problem-solving and self-advocacy. Each middle school student receives a personal Chromebook loaded with assistive technology tools — such as voice-to-text, text-to-speech, and graphic organizers — that can be individualized to support their unique learning profile. Our lower school students utilize Jot-Its, these create a flexible workspace for students and integrate with Google Classroom.

Library
Students come to the library once a week to check out books and learn library skills. The goal of Havern’s library curriculum is to have students explore and enjoy books, and gain the skills and self-confidence to use the library independently.

In occupational therapy, students work on skills needed to perform the wide range of tasks they perform throughout a school day – in the classroom, on the playground, and in the lunchroom. All Havern students are evaluated by one of our occupational therapists, and, according to determined needs, students may participate in direct small group occupational therapy or benefit from classroom consultation.

Speech-language therapists work with our students to support the development of both functional and academic language skills. Therapy is integrated throughout the school day, ensuring that communication strategies are reinforced across all classroom settings. Students build confidence in expressing their ideas, advocating for their needs, and engaging meaningfully with peers and teachers.

Havern students take part in a weekly social skills class delivered by our School Psychologist and our Speech-Language Pathologists. Social skills goals focus on helping each child develop a personal understanding of his or her own strengths and needs, as well as on becoming a successful member of both the school and the larger community.