SECONDARY CLASSROOMS

SECONDARY DEVELOPMENT CLASSROOM

At New Heights Academy, our Secondary Support Classroom is designed for students who are progressing toward greater independence in both academics and behavior. This classroom focuses on preparing students for the next step into the Secondary Academic Classroom by providing a supportive, structured environment where both academic growth and behavioral development are prioritized. Students engage in grade-appropriate academics while learning essential life skills to navigate the school environment with less 1:1 supervision. Key areas of focus include:

• Reading & Writing: Enhancing reading comprehension, expanding vocabulary, and writing structured essays and reports with correct grammar, punctuation, and organization.
• Math: Strengthening mathematical problem-solving skills, understanding more complex concepts in multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and introductory algebraic thinking.
• Science: Exploring topics in biology, physical science, and environmental studies with hands-on experiments, research projects, and collaborative learning.
• Social Studies: Understanding U.S. history, geography, civics, and global awareness through inquiry-based projects and discussions.
• Social & Emotional Skills: Building self-awareness, improving communication skills, learning conflict resolution, and practicing appropriate social interactions in diverse settings.
• Behavior Modification & Classroom Readiness: Developing self-regulation, responsibility, and coping strategies to manage behaviors in a more independent classroom setting.
• Safety & Independence: Learning to navigate the school environment with increased autonomy, including managing transitions like going to the bathroom and returning to class safely without 1:1 supervision. Emphasis is placed on following routines, using safe practices, and demonstrating responsible behavior to prepare for integration into the Secondary Academic Classroom.

By utilizing Unique Learning System (ULS) and other academic tools, alongside targeted behavioral interventions, students in the Secondary Support Classroom are supported in gaining the skills and confidence necessary to transition successfully into the next level of academic and behavioral independence.

SECONDARY PROGRESS CLASSROOM

At New Heights Academy, the Secondary Academic Classroom is designed for students who are ready to engage in more advanced academic work while developing greater independence and responsibility. This classroom emphasizes grade-level academics with a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and group collaboration, all within a supportive learning environment. The goal is to prepare students for future success in high school-level coursework and beyond, as well as for the next phase of their educational journey. This classroom will also prepare students to move forward to either the Secondary Advanced Classroom or the Essential Skills Classroom, depending on their individual needs and academic progress. Key areas of focus include:

• Reading & Writing: Analyzing texts, improving reading comprehension, expanding vocabulary, and writing organized essays, reports, and research papers using proper grammar, punctuation, and structure.
• Math: Exploring advanced mathematical concepts such as algebra, geometry, data analysis, and problem-solving strategies, while working collaboratively to solve complex word problems.
• Science: Studying more advanced topics in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences through group projects, experiments, and real-world applications.
• Social Studies: Investigating U.S. history, world history, government, and economics, with an emphasis on critical thinking, research, and group discussions.
• Social & Emotional Skills: Strengthening self-regulation, communication, and conflict resolution skills, while learning to collaborate effectively in group settings.
• Independence & Responsibility: Encouraging students to take ownership of their learning by setting personal goals, managing time effectively, and working independently or in groups on assignments and projects.
• Group Instruction & Collaboration: Utilizing group-based learning activities to foster teamwork, peer interactions, and collective problem-solving, ensuring that students learn to contribute to and benefit from group discussions and projects.

Using Unique Learning System (ULS) and other academic tools, students in the Secondary Academic Classroom are supported in developing the skills necessary for academic success, independence, and effective collaboration. This class provides the foundation students need to transition successfully into either the Secondary Advanced Classroom or the Essential Skills Classroom, based on their individual growth and educational needs.

SECONDARY INSTRUCTIONAL CLASSROOM

At New Heights Academy, the Secondary Advanced Classroom is designed for students who are working toward earning a standard high school diploma. This classroom focuses on providing a rigorous academic curriculum that prepares students for success in high school and beyond, while fostering independence, critical thinking, and responsibility. The goal is to ensure that students are academically ready for future college, career, and life opportunities. Key areas of focus include:

• Reading & Writing: Analyzing complex texts, enhancing reading comprehension, expanding vocabulary, and producing well-structured essays, research papers, and creative writing projects, with a focus on advanced grammar, punctuation, and style.
• Math: Mastering high school-level concepts in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and advanced problem-solving techniques that prepare students for standardized testing and post-secondary education.
• Science: Exploring advanced topics in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science, with opportunities for lab work, experiments, and real-world applications.
• Social Studies: Studying U.S. history, world history, government, economics, and global issues, with an emphasis on critical thinking, research, and analytical skills.
• Social & Emotional Skills: Strengthening self-regulation, decision-making, and communication skills, while preparing students to collaborate in group settings and navigate more independent work environments.
• Independence & Responsibility: Encouraging students to take ownership of their academic progress, set personal goals, manage time effectively, and complete assignments and projects independently.
• Career Readiness: Preparing students for the transition to post-graduation opportunities, including workforce readiness, vocational training, and higher education, by providing real-world skills and practical experiences.

Using Unique Learning System (ULS) and other academic tools, students in the Secondary Advanced Classroom receive the support they need to meet high school graduation requirements, develop a strong academic foundation, and work towards earning a standard high school diploma. This classroom offers a challenging environment that encourages students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally as they prepare for life after high school. 

At NHA, we use the latest technology to advance the school’s mission, providing our faculty with the technological tools they need to enhance their teaching while making it easier and exciting for our students to learn. The educational technology curriculum encourages our students to meet challenges with logic and creativity using a variety of technologies. Teachers work with Smart Boards to incorporate technology in their classrooms at the appropriate instructional level for each student.  We also have a computer lab  that every child has access to for stimulating and relevant lessons.  Teachers and students use iPads/Laptops and AAC devices during academic instruction, creating a unique learning experience for each student. We believe that technology is a vital tool in the educational process. NHA is equipped with technology which helps bridge learning difficulties, boosts creativity, and makes learning exciting!  

NHA Visual Arts Program develops self-confidence, brings out creativity, and promotes higher-level thinking in all of our students.  

The goal of Music Education at NHA is to learn music through experiencing music. Students learn critical musical concepts while singing, dancing, and playing. The program is designed to be stimulating, challenging, engaging and rewarding. 

Regular, Healthful Physical Activity: Provides a wide-range of developmentally appropriate activities for all children. At NHA we keep moving with our indoor sensory room, Physical Education and Yoga classes during school hours.   

 For students that complete Academics track they may attend colleges inclusive college programs across the state that offer students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) a variety of experiences and opportunities for growth as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. Transition planning should include college and begin as early as possible during their middle and high school years.  Some of these options are:

Kennesaw State University Academy for Inclusive Learning (Kennesaw)

Columbus State University GOALS Program (Columbus)

East Georgia State College CHOICE Program (Swainsboro)

Georgia Institute of Technology EXCEL Program (Atlanta)

Albany Technical College LEAP Program (Albany)

University of Georgia Destination Dawgs (Athens)

Georgia State University IDEAL Program (Atlanta)

Georgia Southern University EAGLE Program (Statesboro)

The Academic programs will prepare students to transition to one of these programs during the transitioning age of (18-22).