STUDENTS
Benchmark School supports children who have learning differences like dyslexia or dysgraphia, reading or learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, or executive function skills challenges. These labels provide a starting point for understanding the issues that correlate with the students' progress in school.
Benchmark School believes there is great variability within each label, and that even though these labels can have value, they fail to tell the whole story. Benchmark School’s founder Dr. Irene Gaskins was fond of declaring, “Labels are for jelly jars,” stressing that each child must be considered holistically.
At Benchmark School, bright students who learn differently become confident and strategic thinkers, learners, and problem solvers who meet with success in school and life.
PHILOSOPHY
Benchmark School classes are intentionally small – no more than 13 students per classroom – and there are multiple teachers in all language arts and math classrooms. From the day students begin at Benchmark School, they grow as learners with scaffolded instruction — providing support but no more than is necessary — as they move toward independence.
Benchmark School develops a deep understanding of each student’s particular strengths and challenges, and sets goals to allow them to take full advantage of the instruction. When students experience success at Benchmark, they develop the competence and confidence that will enable them to become successful learners and self-advocates.
Benchmark School’s approach is both unique and holistic for the child. Benchmark School students really come to understand their own learning style, which sets them up to be really successful students and learners, and in turn leads to confidence and strong self-advocacy.
Benchmark School believes each child is a unique individual whose potential has yet to be realized. To help students develop their potential, Benchmark School endeavors to provide an inclusive and supportive environment that is grounded in an appreciation of who each student is as a learner and individual. Since every child is unique and constantly developing, Benchmark School tailors instruction to students' current strengths, challenges, and overall profile as their confidence and competence develops.
STUDENT LIFE
Benchmark School is intentional about cultivating an accepting and supportive climate that allows students the space to flourish as learners and to make lasting friendships.
Beyond the classroom, Benchmark School offers a range of extracurricular activities, athletics, workshops, and special events throughout the year that enrich students’ and families' engagement in the school community.
MISSION
Benchmark School is committed to helping bright students who learn differently, or have yet to reach their academic potential, develop the confidence, strategies, and knowledge to become lifelong learners, thinkers, and problem-solvers.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND BELONGING
Benchmark School strives to build a culture that honors the dignity and value of every race, religion, ethnicity, economic means, family structure, physical ability, age, sex, sexual identity, gender identity, and approach to learning. Individual introspection, open dialogue, and institutional reflection are critical and ongoing elements to building a just, equitable, and inclusive school community.
Benchmark School embraces and affirms diverse beliefs and backgrounds in their curriculum, professional development, hiring practices, admissions, professional relationships, event programming, and most especially, among the lived relationships of our students. Benchmark School believes this work is a responsibility held by all and done for all.
To tour Benchmark School or attend an open house, click here.
Benchmark School
2107 North Providence Rd.
Media, PA 19063
Phone: 610.565.3741
Fax: 610.565.3872
E-mail: mainoffice@benchmarkschool.org
