Programs
Elementary School Curriculum
The Diener Difference really shines throughout all of our academic programming. Our small group instruction, multi-sensory learning, and integrative movement supports us in meeting our mission of educating the whole child.
Language Arts
At The Diener School, our Language Arts program is grounded in a structured literacy approach that emphasizes systematic and explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
Students are assessed at the beginning, middle, and end of the academic year, allowing us to group them according to their strengths and areas for growth.
We incorporate multisensory teaching methods that engage auditory, visual, tactile, and kinesthetic learning styles to enhance understanding and retention. Our educators also integrate discovery-based and project-based learning strategies to foster curiosity and active participation.
Our curriculum includes evidence-based programs such as IMSE Orton-Gillingham and Savvas MyView Literacy, which are aligned with current best practices in reading instruction.
Our Kindergarten through 5th grade students build a strong foundation in writing through Voyager Sopris’s Step Up to Writing program.
This structured, multisensory approach supports young writers as they learn how to organize their thoughts, expand their ideas, and write with clarity and confidence. From learning to write complete sentences in Kindergarten to composing well-structured paragraphs and essays by the 5th grade, students are guided step-by-step through the writing process.
Using tools such as color-coded sentence parts, graphic organizers, and visual cues, students develop essential skills for writing narratives, informative pieces, and opinions. Integrated into all subject areas, Step Up to Writing also helps students improve reading comprehension, vocabulary, and oral communication. With engaging lessons and consistent strategies, our students become enthusiastic, capable writers prepared for continued academic success.
Writing
Math
At The Diener School, math instruction is individualized to meet each student's unique learning profile. Depending on a student's needs, teachers use HMH Math in Focus (Singapore Math) and Math 180 to provide the appropriate level of instruction and support.
Using a multisensory approach, students develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts by progressing from hands-on learning with concrete materials to visual models and abstract thinking. Through small-group instruction, differentiated teaching, ongoing assessment, and meaningful real-world applications, students build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop a lasting foundation in mathematics.
Our Kindergarten through 5th grade science program brings learning to life through the MyExperience by Savvas curriculum and a hands-on, multi-sensory approach in the homeroom setting.
Students explore key concepts in life, earth, and physical sciences through experiments, investigations, collaborative activities, and real-world experiences. Our teachers use differentiated instruction and cross-curricular connections to engage all learners, incorporating reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, and creative projects into science learning. Through active exploration and discovery, students develop curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a lasting love of learning.
Science
Curriculum Spotlights
Social Studies
Our Kindergarten through Grade 5 social studies program uses the McGraw Hill IMPACT Social Studies curriculum to help students explore history, geography, civics, economics, and culture through engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences.
Through interactive lessons, project-based learning, and meaningful discussions, students develop critical thinking skills, make real-world connections, and gain an appreciation for diverse perspectives. Our teachers provide differentiated instruction to meet the needs of each learner, encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and active participation as students build a strong sense of citizenship, responsibility, and community.