Lower School Curriculum

Reading - A multi-sensory phonics program assists students in learning basic phonics skills (Sounds and Syllables) for reading, spelling and handwriting, while literal and inferential comprehension skills are taught daily through story reading, strategy skill teaching and group discussion.

Math - A comprehensive, manipulative math program specifically designed for students with learning differences (Everyday Math) and accompanying teacher directed activities are used daily to teach math. Students acquire knowledge and skills, and develop an understanding of mathematics from their own experience.

Writing - Writing skill development occurs daily in the classroom through the use of Step Up To Writing Program. This program has effective, multisensory writing strategies and features research-based, validated strategies and activities that help student proficiently write narrative, personal narrative, and expository pieces; actively engage in reading materials for improved comprehension and demonstrate competent study skills.

Science - A hands-on, experiential approach to science is offered with a focus on understanding of the scientific method.

Social Studies - Students learn about local and statewide communities through an experiential, multimedia approach.

Art - While art is incorporated in class activities and projects, students receive specific art instruction that introduces art theory and appreciation through various hands-on art experiences using a variety of mediums including ceramics.

Music - While music may be used in the classroom, students receive specific music instruction that teaches music theory and appreciation through various playing and listening experiences.

Students will have an introduction to reading, writing, and performing music. Basic music skills, note reading, and rhythms skills will be learned using the voice, recorder, keyboard, and various percussion instruments. Students enrolled in this course will receive foundational skills in preparation for the upper school music courses.

P.E. - Students receive specific physical education instruction to improve fine and gross motor skills, learn game rules, develop lifelong exercise habits and practice cooperation skills with peers.

Social Skill Development - Students receive ongoing support for pragmatic and problem solving skill development as well as enhancement of self-advocacy skills from the teachers and counselor. Both behavior management and choice theory techniques are used to foster these skills.

Character Education - Specific values are reinforced for students on a daily basis through teacher modeling, behavioral expectations and a school wide value of the month program.

Computers - Students use computers in the classroom and in the computer lab to practice word processing and learn Internet research skills.

Upper School Curriculum

Secondary curriculum standards meet Nevada State Secondary Framework. The required curriculum includes:

Students may earn dual credit for college courses,community service and work experience taken while attending NHA. The experience must meet the requirements of NHA.

Music

Strings - This course is designed for students with and without prior music experience. Students are able to learn the violin, viola, or cello in a group setting. Instrument care and maintenance as well as performance etiquette will be taught in this course. Tone production, posture, tuning, note reading, and basic theory will be introduced. To demonstrate their talents, students will perform during the winter and spring programs. Students must provide their own instrument.

Guitar - This course is designed for students with and without prior music experience. Students will learn how to tune a guitar, read tablature, play chords, progressions, and different playing styles. This course will also include note reading and basic music theory. To demonstrate their talents, students will perform during the winter and spring programs. Students must provide their own instrument.

Choir - This course is designed for students with and without prior music experience. Singing, vocal technique, posture, breathing, and tone production will be introduced. Students will develop sight reading and ear training skills as well as keyboard proficiency. To demonstrate their talents, students will perform during the winter and spring programs.

Curriculum for SPFI Students

In our core program for bright students with processing or focusing issues, we provide an academic setting specifically designed for this learning different student. The basic components
of this program include a teacher with specific training and experience working with students who have learning disability or ADD issues and a very small class size. With a small group of students the learning specialist develops and implements a personalized educational plan for each learner. The written individualized educational plan (IEP) clarifies the annual goals and objectives for each student. A variety of multi-sensory traditional and nontraditional techniques are used to help the student learn strategies for achieving academic success.

The core program is not appropriate for students whose major issues are behaviorally or emotionally based. The program is also not designed for developmentally delayed students who need a functionally based learning program.

Strong emphasis is placed on the core subjects of language (reading, composition, spelling
and oral communication) and mathematics. Quality and success are stressed over quantity of
work. Small groups and individualized instruction in the student's difficult areas receive special priority. This program emphasizes skills acquisition and remediation of learning - difficulties, while building on student strengths, a development of respect and - responsibility for self and others and strategy instruction for independent learning. Classes are offered to students in kindergarten through high school.