Dual Immersion programs give children the opportunity to master a second language at a time when they are cognitively receptive to language acquisition. Our students strive to be bilingual and biliterate by promotion to middle school. Moreover, they learn or retain the rich heritage of Latino culture. Students participating in the Dual Immersion program will attain:
»»Academic achievement in all standard curricular areas
»»Fluency in verbal communication and literacy in two languages (Spanish/English)
»»Ability to interact effectively with students of other cultures
ELD/SLD PROGRAM
The English Language Development/Spanish Language Development program at Fairmount provides students a minimum of 30 minutes/day of leveled instruction in their secondary language. Students are organized by language proficiency, with no more than two proficiency levels in one class, allowing teachers to meet the needs of each learner.
INCLUSION/SPECIAL EDUCATION/SPECIAL DAY PROGRAM
Special Education services are provided to students who are experiencing mild, moderate or severe disabilities. Students receiving Inclusion Services are full-time members of the General Education program or Dual Immersion program, depending on their language needs. We have two Special Day classes. Each year, Fairmount serves between 8-11 students in the Pre-K through 5th grade in full inclusion. Each student receives individualized services supported by paraprofessionals that may include adapted or modified work, speech therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION & SPORTS
Playworks provides instruction in schoolyard sports and games during recess, lunch, and bi-monthly class meetings, teaching basic skills, teamwork and good sporting behavior. Capoeira classes build strong bodies through physical activity and strong minds, with opportunities for self-expression and leadership.
LIBRARY
Our library provides outstanding services to our students, teachers and families. The materials in our collection include biographies, easy fiction, juvenile fiction, videos and audio books, games, parenting guidebooks and poetry, all in both Spanish and English.
BEFORE AND AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS
Fairmount offers both before and afterschool programs beginning at 7:00 a.m. and ending at 6:00 p.m. Our privately contracted care provider, GLO, provides homework help, academic enrichment activities, special elective classes and a safe space for creative and active free play. GLO students have a homeroom class with grade-level peers. In homeroom or “group,†students receive an hour of homework help and academic enrichment activities each day. Special grade-level activities include projects like writing “All About Me†books, creating comic strips and reading books as a class.
After homework time, students exercise their independence by choosing what special elective class they would like to attend. GLO offers activities in science, fine arts, crafts, group games and more. Throughout the afternoon, GLO strives to develop the whole child by teaching social skills and providing a space where children can engage in safe creative play. For more information, visit: www.gloinc.org.
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
We believe that by working together, all members of our community will feel respected and valued for their contributions. With the support of an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA), School Site Council (SSC), English Learners Advisory Council (ELAC) and other community-based supports, we involve families in many exciting school-wide projects. Our principal makes himself available to the community through individual appointments and informal chats. We have —and welcome — volunteers in all school activities and venues, including library, classrooms, yard duty and cafeteria monitoring