How are we different?

The kids love to learn

Students have a lot to tell us about how they learn, and we listen! When kids experience success every day, their enthusiasm becomes contagious. In small classes (typically 12 or less), students share their personal interests and talents, and we show them how to integrate those strengths into their classroom learning. They might come to TDS with difficulties, but they leave with improved skills, confidence and competence.

The teachers are passionate

Our teachers and staff are carefully selected professionals with the passion, experience and skills to understand, honor and accommodate the learning style of each student. Under the inspirational leadership of Lois Delaney, our staff is prepared to make an impact on students, one child at a time. It’s not what they teach, but how they teach that makes a difference. If a student struggles, it’s the teacher’s goal to find a better way to guide the student towards mastery. Our teachers realize that individual student needs often go way beyond academics, so they use the classroom as an opportunity to have a positive influence on social and emotional issues as well. They are teachers you can talk to, teachers who respond.

We employ a proven educational approach that includes...

• Small classes (8-12 children per class)
• Un-graded classrooms with individualized assignments (K-3rd)
• Working towards mastery of skills, not just an academic grade
• 1:1 tutoring available when necessary
• A speech and language therapist available on site
• An occupational therapist available on site
• Special attention to handwriting improvement
• Encouraging personal responsibility for academic success
• A positive environment for learning and improving self-esteem
• Carefully selected teachers and staff who have the talent, knowledge and sensitivity to effectively teach skills and build self-confidence in children who previously had negative school experiences
• High Level of Parent Involvement

Schedule A Tour to find out how we're different