AcademicsCurriculum
Walker School follows the Commonwealth of Massachusetts core curriculum frameworks enabling our students to learn the subjects taught in mainstream public schools: math, reading (ELA), written language, art, science, STEM, technology, music, social studies, health and physical education. Using the curriculum frameworks as a guide, teachers provide specially-designed classroom instruction to accommodate the range of strengths and needs presented by the students. Educational coordinators also assist teachers with instructional modifications and specialized approaches to teaching and learning. Assessment and Achievement ToolsWalker School utilizes informal DORA (Diagnostic Online Reading Assessment) and Fountas & Pinnell assessments to benchmark and monitor progress in reading and ADAM (Adaptive Diagnostic Assessment of Mathematics) to assess math strengths and challenges. DORA measures high frequency words, word recognition, phonics, phonemic awareness, oral vocabulary, spelling and comprehension and Fountas & Pinnell helps instructors identify each child’s instructional and independent reading levels. ADAM measures numbers and operations, measurement, data analysis, geometry and algebra. Students are benchmarked three times per year on all three assessments. Assistive Technology
Assistive technology, such as computers, smart boards, specialized software (e.g. Lexia Learning Systems) and calculators are used as appropriate to meet individual student needs. Every student has access to an individual iPad or Chrome Book. Enhanced LearningThe classroom instruction is supplemented with a range of therapeutic services and special events designed to enhance learning and provide opportunities for students to share and celebrate their knowledge, enthusiasm and achievements with peers, parents, and special friends. For example, students participate in field trips to museums, historical sites and cultural events related to classroom curriculum. Special on-campus curriculum related events are scheduled throughout the year, including the Career Day, Annual Science Fair, the Walker Olympics, Black History Month, a Poetry Celebration and the Cultural Fair. Physical HealthRecreation, health and exercise are incorporated into student weekly learning through a structured recess program, a physical education curriculum and a range of special events.  Walker School also has a travel basketball team, the
Walker Cows, that competes against other local therapeutic schools. Go Cows!!
 Meet our mascot Brownie |