Programs
Middle 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
Our middle school language arts program is tailored to meet the individual needs of each student through data-driven instruction and small-group learning.
Students are assessed three times a year to determine their current skill levels and are then placed in small academic groups where instruction is targeted and personalized. Using a blend of research-based curricula including IMSE Orton-Gillingham, MyView, and StudySync, we focus on building strong foundations in reading, writing, vocabulary, and comprehension. We continue to emphasize multisensory learning and prepare our students to meet the academic expectations of high school with confidence and skill.
The Diener School’s middle school writing program combines the structure of the Step Up to Writing curriculum with the engaging content of Savvas to support students in becoming confident, organized, and expressive writers.
Instruction is multisensory and highly interactive, using visual tools, graphic organizers, and color-coded strategies to help students plan, draft, and refine their writing across genres. To make learning meaningful and fun, students participate in creative, real-world projects such as Shark Tank-style presentations, where they apply persuasive writing and public speaking skills in a collaborative setting. This approach not only strengthens writing fundamentals but also builds executive functioning, creativity, and communication skills that prepare students for high school and beyond.
Writing
Math
The Diener School’s middle school math program uses HMH Math in Focus, a Singapore Math-based curriculum that emphasizes problem-solving, conceptual understanding, and real world application.
Our multisensory approach supports diverse learning styles by incorporating visual models, hands-on manipulatives, and interactive activities that make abstract concepts more accessible. Students are placed in small, skill-based groups to ensure targeted instruction that meets their individual needs. Through this structured yet flexible program, students build strong mathematical foundations while also developing critical thinking, perseverance, and confidence.
The Diener School’s middle school science program uses the Savvas Elevate Science curriculum, a dynamic and inquiry-based program that encourages students to think like scientists.
Each grade level explores a different core theme, including life science, physical science, and earth scienc,e through engaging lessons, hands-on experiments, and real-world applications. Our multisensory approach supports diverse learners by integrating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities that make complex scientific concepts accessible and meaningful. Students build critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills as they investigate the world around them.
Science
Curriculum Spotlights
Social Studies
The Diener School’s middle school social studies program is built around the McGraw-Hill IMPACT curriculum, which encourages students to explore history, geography, civics, and culture through engaging, age-appropriate content.
Each unit is designed to promote critical thinking, inquiry, and meaningful discussion, helping students make connections between the past and the world they live in today. Our multisensory approach supports diverse learners by incorporating visual aids, hands-on projects, and interactive activities that bring social studies to life. Through this program, students develop a deeper understanding of their communities, the world around them, and their roles as informed, responsible citizens.