CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
Literacy
Reading and writing are taught through structured literacy practices, integrating the Science of Reading, writing development, and culturally responsive texts. Whether analyzing novels or writing original pieces, students grow as readers, communicators, and thinkers — empowered to use their voices for impact.
Phonics/Morphology
Explicit phonics instruction is paired with word mapping and morphology to build decoding, fluency, and vocabulary. We teach spelling rules, root words, affixes, and patterns using multisensory techniques, helping students become confident and accurate readers and writers.
Math
We teach math conceptually — not just procedurally. Using our Hayes Math Block and WGI Model™, students build deep number sense, explore real-world problems, and use manipulatives and visuals to bring math to life. From fluency to reasoning, we meet every learner where they are and stretch them toward mastery.
Writing
Writing is taught through a structured, process-based approach focused on clarity, organization, and voice. Grounded in the Hochman Method, students write across genres, connect writing to their lives and learning, and grow into purposeful communicators.
Social Studies
At DHEAI, Social Studies is more than memorizing dates — it's about understanding identity, community, and systems. We explore history through multiple perspectives, connect civics to real-world issues, and empower students to become active thinkers and global citizens. Through Project-Based Learning, students investigate the past to build a better future.
Science
Science at DHEAI is hands-on, minds-on. From life cycles to engineering design, students explore scientific phenomena through inquiry, labs, and real-world connections. Grounded in STEM principles and critical thinking, science isn’t just a subject — it’s a way to question, test, and discover how the world works.
Our Innovative Time:
Enrichment Block
This daily block is where curiosity meets creativity. Students dive into monthly thematic units that blend STEM, literacy, social studies, and art into meaningful, hands-on projects.
Whether building prototypes, publishing zines, or planning community initiatives, students lead with inquiry and create with purpose. This is where our STEAM and PBL approach shines.
✔ Project-Based Learning
✔ Engineering & Design Thinking
✔ Creative Writing, Visual Arts, & Performing Arts
✔ Real-World Service Projects
✔ Genius Hour-style Exploration
This isn’t an “extra.” It’s the heart of how we make learning stick.
Movement & Music
We believe movement fuels learning. Instead of traditional P.E., students participate in a daily Motion & Meditation Block — a mix of outdoor play, movement-based games, yoga-inspired mindfulness, and student-led activities that support self-regulation, focus, and joy.
These sessions balance the rigor of academic learning with the rest kids actually need.
✔ Indoor/Outdoor Mixed Movement
✔ Brain Breaks with Purpose
✔ Guided Breathing & Mindfulness
✔ Whole-Group Games, Creative Play, and Student-Led Fun
It’s all part of our commitment to nurturing the body, brain, and heart.
