the villa way

Villa is designed to encourage meaningful relationships and promote life-long learning through skill development. Our students find success and confidence by engaging in meaningful work. Our curriculum is skills-focused and individualized to meet the needs of each student.

4:1 ratio

Our average classroom has four students working with one teacher. Students benefit from a small class environment as it allows for frequent check-ins, modeling and explicit instruction by the teacher, while continually reinforcing self confidence and supporting independence.

intentional design

Students are grouped in classes based on their learning profile to allow teachers to individualize their curriculum to meet the specific needs of each student.

integrated language + social support

All students receive language instruction with a speech and language pathologist and social emotional learning with a social worker or school counselor built into their daily schedule. This allows us to meet the needs of the whole student, not just their academic skills.

slsp

Starting in the admissions process, we are working to fully understand the learning profile of each student. Through review of previous evaluations and our own assessment, each student receives a thorough Student Learning and Support Plan (SLSP) which outlines specific goals for each subject area.

dynamic + responsive approach

Formative assessment is an ongoing part of a Villa education and allows for evaluation and creation of new goals. Using a metacognitive approach, teachers provide strategy based instruction to build independence across skill areas. Progress is formally reported to families twice a year through midyear and end of year narrative reports.

community + connection

Villa is a place where students feel accepted. This strong, intentional sense of community allows students to feel comfortable, which makes them more available to engage in challenging work. Community building activities, including monthly weekend social events, allow students to build these relationships beyond the school building.

"I cannot stress enough how much I appreciate everything you have all done throughout this year. The progress our child has made in each course, the confidence and self esteem gained with the support and guidance of each of you as well as collectively as a team of teachers, has exceeded all my expectations!"

happy villa parent
“Villa transformed our son's life. As a student with apraxia of speech, an auditory processing disorder and a significant learning disability, our son has blossomed. The school's structure, including small class sizes and tailored academic and support programs, combined with strong leadership, has profoundly influenced his academic, social, and emotional growth. Villa provides a secure haven for diverse learners like our son, fostering a true sense of community. Despite a long commute, he eagerly anticipates school each day, fully engaged in the Villa community. The school excels in involving parents, with student events and regular meetings with leadership. We can't emphasize enough the positive impact Villa Maria School has had on our son and on us as parents.”

happy villa parent
"My son joined Villa's extended school year program last summer and his transition was seamless. Within days, he felt welcomed, understood, and supported by teachers and staff. Unlike his overwhelming past experiences, the small class size, OG trained teachers, and like-minded classmates at Villa Maria have led to his remarkable progress. The IEP goals are focused, progress is well-documented, and collaborative communication ensures his ongoing success. Sending him to Villa Maria School brings me joy, knowing he's thriving in a supportive environment. Being part of Villa is life-changing, and I hope more students can experience its transformative impact."

happy villa parent
Villa has been the best place for my child. He has made tremendous strides, especially socially and emotionally. He has become extremely self aware and made phenomenal progress. Academically, he couldn't be doing better. His ability to manage himself and thrive is incredible.

happy villa parent