St. George, Utah: On April 17, 2019, Clay Smith and Erin K. Smith, English instructors at Spring Ridge Academy, presented their curriculum model at the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs Southwest Regional Conference . The “Student-Driven Individualized Learning Models” presentation was developed over two years on work developing an English curriculum that overcomes the challenges of teaching in therapeutic programs, while embracing the advantages. The strategies presented help teachers who work in therapeutic programs meet the needs of diverse students while maintaining academic rigor.
Using these strategies, teachers can build a differentiated curriculum that engages their students while building intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy for all students. One teacher in attendance noted in an email on April 18: “I was hoping to incorporate some of your strategies into my curriculum starting as soon as next quarter. Please don't feel rushed, I'm just very excited about it and wanted to reach out personally. Thank you for giving such a great presentation.”
Therapeutic schools and programs can benefit from student-driven, individualized learning models that meet the diverse needs of learners with various educational foundations and address the issues innate in rolling admissions. Participants learned research-based strategies and how to apply them to the therapeutic environment. Strategies included
- student choice
- individualized class plans
- one-on-one conferences
- project-based learning
- reflective learning, and
- rewarding growth
Clay and Erin have been invited to present these ideas again at the Southern Utah Teacher Summit in July.
About Spring Ridge Academy
Spring Ridge Academy serves young women ages 13-17. We combine a clinically sophisticated therapeutic approach with a rigorous college prep curriculum and an enriching community life to tend to all realms of the student: emotional, relational, spiritual, intellectual, and physical. www.springridgeacademy.com