Horizons provides a safe, nurturing learning community where students are exposed to integrated theme-based academics that support their success in school. Our experiential model of teaching focuses primarily on reading and math, with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) infused into the curriculum for all grades. The program is designed to meet the developmental needs of students in each grade through experiences that enhance confidence, foster awareness of community responsibility, build problem-solving skills, and encourage a lifelong interest in learning. Regular events such as weekly all-grade assemblies, annual Harvest & Field Day Celebrations, and the annual Closing Ceremony foster a sense of belonging to a community and encourage students to shine.

Each classroom is staffed with two experienced, certified teachers and one classroom assistant. Teachers come from the Rochester City School District, suburban school districts, and The Harley School. In addition to a Reading Specialist on the Horizons staff, personal literacy tutors from SUNY Geneseo work with our students who have the greatest reading challenges. A majority of teaching staff and classroom assistants return each year. In 2011, six classroom assistants were our own Horizons graduates who are now attending college. Specialists teach art, music, drama, health education, conflict resolution, organic gardening, and physical education including swimming. High school aged and adult volunteers provide additional support as classroom helpers, field trip drivers, library assistants, and guest speakers.

In addition to regular programming, Middle School students can choose among a variety of Expeditions designed to allow students to pursue their passions and explore new areas of interest. Expedition offerings have included such classes as solar-powered go-cart building, hospice training, Poet’s Café, fishing, zumba, yoga, volleyball, lacrosse, college and careers, and local foods.

Each grade level participates in a community service project chosen by the class. The community service initiative is designed to teach students that everyone has something to give back to the community. Project Wisdom and Voices of the Community are additional initiatives introduced to promote character development and good citizenship among our students.

In 2012 Horizons is launching a new Mentoring Program to pair Horizons graduates with mentors from the community who will provide support and encouragement as the students enter high school. The primary focus of the program is on academic success and college matriculation.

All of our students learn to swim from certified swim instructors. Swimming is an important life skill that saves lives and builds confidence.

Summer 2012 Themes by Grade:
K – All About Us
1st – The Five Sense
2nd – Animals
3rd – Water
4th – Habitats
5th – The Universe
6th – Civilizations & Cultures
7th – Self & Community
8th – Future of Promise & Possibility