Academics

Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA)

We use the Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) curriculum as the foundation of our literacy program. CKLA builds early reading and language skills through high-quality children's literature and rich content knowledge. Each unit is designed to promote critical thinking, a sound-first approach to reading, and strong listening and comprehension skills.

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Heggerty Phonemic Awareness

To strengthen foundational reading skills, we incorporate the Heggerty Phonemic Awareness Curriculum, which helps children develop essential early literacy skills such as rhyming, blending, segmenting, and manipulating sounds. All critical for future reading success.

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Second Step: Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

In our EPK and UPK Pre-K classrooms, we implement Second Step, a research-based Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program that teaches children how to identify emotions, manage strong feelings, build friendships, and solve problems in healthy, respectful ways.

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Mathematics Instruction

We offer hands-on, inquiry-based math experiences that build number sense, problem-solving abilities, and early math vocabulary. Our math curriculum varies slightly by location:

• North Syracuse Classroom: We use Eureka Math, a comprehensive early math program that builds a deep conceptual understanding of numbers, patterns, and operations through real-world application and playful exploration.

• Liverpool Classroom: We implement EngageNY Math, which focuses on foundational numeracy and mathematical thinking through structured, developmentally appropriate lessons that encourage curiosity, reasoning, and confidence in math skills.