The Vincent Smith School, an independent school for children with learning disabilities, is adding first and second grades in the fall. The school is also building a new playground, and will offer a transitional program for 11th and 12th grades.
The Vincent Smith School is a private, nonprofit, independent school in Port Washington for children with ADD, ADHD, and learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, nonverbal learning disabilities, auditory processing disorders, and language (expressive and receptive) processing disorders. The school is adding full-time classes for first- and second-graders in the 2015-2016 school year.
After adding third grade last fall, John Baldi, M.S.Ed., head of school, says he saw that it was important to open the school to young kids because learning capabilities are developed at a young age. “My decision was to help build a complete school where they can come in first grade and stay until 12th grade in a nurturing and accepting environment,” Baldi says, adding that teachers design individualized lessons to fit each student’s learning style in small, supportive classes.
For the older kids in 11th and 12th grades, in addition to regular academics, Vincent Smith is creating a transitional program to help students learn skills needed for vocational programs, college, and beyond. The school is in the process of implementing a peer-mentoring program in which older students will help younger kids socialize and become independent, boosting self-esteem and maturity. There will also be a team-building program for the younger kids, in which they will express themselves through writing, speaking, and other activities.
The Vincent Smith School students receive a New York state high school diploma, and more than 85 percent continue their education by a range of post-secondary programs, including 2- and 4-year colleges, technical programs, and vocational programs.
In the fall, students will be able to play on a new playground, which is being installed this summer. The playground will have a climbing wall and slide to encourage physical activity.
The Vincent Smith School will hold an open house on Wednesday, May 6 at 7pm.
Above photo: Students at The Vincent Smith School with Doodles from the Good Dog Foundation
