The River School

Elements of the Model

Class Size

  • Small (10 - 14 children in each classroom)
  • Inclusive: Children with hearing loss educated alongside hearing peers

Faculty

  • Master's level educator and speech pathologist in each classroom
  • Commitment to professional development
  • Trans-disciplinary support teams (Occupational therapy, audiology, psychology) 

Class Make-Up

  • One or two children with hearing loss in each classroom (15% students have hearing loss in the school)
  • Hearing peers must be strong language model

Curriculum

  • Progressive, conceptual, and developmental curriculum with individualization
  • Theme-based curriculum provides context for learning

Special Focus

  • Language and literacy programs (e.g., Mouth Time, Sound Spot)
  • Arts and Sciences (drama, art, music, library, physical education, science)
  • Emphasis on social cognition, collaboration and responsibility