Academics

 

Our curriculum is founded upon research and evidence-based best practices in the areas of reading, writing, and executive function support. Our Orton-Gillingham approach to reading instruction is applied across all divisions, and its multi-modal approach informs instruction across departments.

 

Our expectations of our students are high and our course content is consistent with a strong college preparatory curriculum–with extra time devoted to building the skills needed for students to become independent learners.

 

Our lower school program focuses on closing the gap in basic, foundational skills (grades 1-5), and creates the framework for continued skill development and content-rich courses in the middle school (grades 6-8). Our upper school program (grades 9 - 12) expands upon the core curriculum with a diverse offering of electives and emphasis on self-advocacy and progression toward independent work in preparation for college or other post-secondary programs.

 

Our teachers draw from an array of proven technologies to help each of their students access content, produce work, and stay organized.

 

DVFriends provides a well-rounded educational experience for all students with a rich arts program, inclusive physical education and athletics, service learning, adventure-based and travel experiences, student leadership opportunities, a variety of student-led and initiated clubs and activities, and a warm, welcoming community founded on Quaker principles and practice.