Why Villa

4:1 average class size

Small groups of similar learners allow teachers to individualize instruction and develop curriculum to meet the unique needs of each student.

faculty

Our certified classroom teachers and our Integrated Service Team of speech and language pathologists, school counselor, social worker and occupational therapists are compassionate, patient, and skilled problem solvers who employ innovative and effective teaching and learning strategies.

skills focused curriculum

By designing a curriculum that is skills-based, rather than content focused, our students develop the confidence and independence needed to develop a lifelong love of learning.

social emotional development

At Villa, we explicitly teach social and emotional skills through school-wide monthly practices. Each practice is connected to a CASEL-5 competency to encourage whole-child learning. These skills are woven into their classes, supported during lunch and recess, and targeted through all school projects and community building activities.

executive functioning skills

Daily study skills classes explicitly teach students strategies to develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, self-reflection, time management, organization, and goal setting. These skills are integrated and reinforced throughout the day.

social emotional language learning

All students participate in Social Emotional Language Learning classes taught by our integrated service team which focus on building social communication and problem solving skills.

communication

Families receive weekly individualized updates from their child’s team of teachers, have parent conferences three times a year, and are invited into the building for monthly breakfasts led by our Head of School.

physical education and the arts

Daily “special” periods of either physical education, art or music provide an opportunity for the students to move their bodies, take risks and express themselves creatively.

after school and lunch clubs

Lunch and after school clubs allow students to get together based on their interests and practice social and executive functioning skills with the support of our teachers. Examples of clubs include gardening, yoga, pickleball, karaoke and mural making.

"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