The Diener School Difference

One Child. A Collaborative Community. A World of Difference.

The Diener Difference is a holistic approach to education that nurtures curious and creative minds through engaging, multi-sensory lessons and strong social connections.

Diener provides a solid foundation for academic, social, and emotional growth, all while prioritizing the happiness and well-being of each child. This supportive and dynamic environment empowers our students to build confidence, develop meaningful relationships, and take the next steps in their personal and educational journey with joy and resilience.

Diener Pyramid of Learning for the Whole Child

Drawing on best practices, research, and expert guidance, Jillian Copeland, founder of The Diener School, developed the Diener Pyramid of Learning for the Whole Child—a comprehensive framework that continues to shape The Diener School’s philosophy and programming.

At its core, the Pyramid integrates all the essential elements of a holistic learning environment, supporting academic, social, and emotional growth.

What sets Diener apart is its intentional approach: multi-sensory instruction, individualized learning, the vital connection between movement and cognition, and a deeply collaborative team of professionals.

Students progress through the layers of the Pyramid with the ultimate goal of nurturing the whole child—cultivating confidence, resilience, and healthy self-esteem. This framework is not only embedded in the school’s curriculum but also reflected in the culture and mindset of Diener’s dedicated and highly trained educators.

Top of the Pyramid

Focus & Foster a Whole Child with a Healthy Self-Esteem

Responsible Community Members
a. Global and independent thinkers
b. Virtues Training and Community Service Projects

Confident, Able Learners
a. Building kids who can work independently
b. Understanding strengths and development opportunities, and using tools/strategies for all students to learn effectively

Logical Reasoning and Problem Solving
a. Collaborative Group work
b. Making connections and generalizations in real-life situations through social trips with neurotypical peers
c. Using mysteries, puzzles, riddles, and games to learn to strategize, work together, and solve problems

Social Competencies
a. Weekly Social homework for reinforcement in environments outside of school
b. Application of skills in social situations with typical peers
c. Pen pal opportunities
d. Development of social thinking is infused throughout the day

Creative Arts and Movement
a. Developmental Music and Art activities to encourage creative expression
b. Daily movement opportunities including physical education, sports skills, and body movement

Cognitive Functioning Abilities through a Neurodevelopmental Approach
a. Analyze and interpret data from neuropsychological assessments to help create cognitive goals and teaching strategies for our individual students
b. Use strategies to enhance memory, organization, and cognitive functioning skills

Strong Sensory Based Program
a. Occupational Therapist provides daily sensory stimulation/tools, movement opportunities and Brain-Gym exercises
b. Auditory and visual activities conducive for sensory integration

Behavioral Management and Daily Reinforcement System
a. Visual Schedules
b. Daily contracts
c. Virtues Training
d. Weekly token school-wide system

Strong and Integrated Academic Curriculum
a. Daily and integrated academic periods of reading, writing, science, and social studies
b. Field trips to build episodic memory with opportunities to master skills through repetition and language

Rich Language and Communication-Based Environment
a. Play-based communicative approach for younger students
b. Speech pathologist on staff to facilitate and direct language experiences
c. Daily language-experience approach