Paladin Academy has a unique, proven approach to helping students with mild learning differences such as dyslexia and attention deficit disorder.
The program is designed for students with average- to above-average intelligence who may be functioning below grade level or who need a more structured and individualized approach in order to meet their educational goals. Our classes and clinics are small, our environment is structured, and our academic pace may be slower, if necessary.
The Paladin Academy program is available at our main Paladin campus in Pembroke Pines, FL, serving students full-time from grades K-12. Paladin Academy clinics are also available in selected Chesterbrook Academy Elementary Schools in Virginia and North Carolina. The clinics are designed to enable students to pursue some of the regular elementary classes while also obtaining additional support, with the ultimate goal to leave the Paladin program ready to fully participate in grade-level classes. To see if there is a Paladin clinic near you, use the school finder, and select the Paladin program.
Both the clinics and the full-time programs share a basic approach to identifying and meeting each student’s needs.
It all starts with developing the right plan for each student.
We begin with an initial evaluation, featuring carefully structured assessments, as well as interviews with the child, parents and current or past teachers. Academic records are reviewed and, if possible, the student is observed in the classroom. Once a student is accepted, the Paladin Academy clinician/teacher develops an Individual Program Plan (IPP) to address each student's specific needs. This document includes a student profile, annual goals, short-term objectives and assessment criteria. Paladin Academy then implements the plan, coordinating the learning activities with other teachers, and with parents.
The student’s progress is assessed both formally and informally, at regular intervals. Assessments include formal review of student work, standardized tests, and teachers’ observations. Parents are updated weekly on their child’s progress.
Paladin Academy builds both academic skills and the confidence that comes with success.
The Paladin approach to success includes focus on the following ingredients:
- Reading comprehension
- Reading and writing fluency
- Multi-sensory approach to learning
- Study skills
- Concentration and memory
- Organizational skills
- Following directions
- Social and emotional skill support
- On-going assessment
- Constant parent communication
