Cushman Teaching Methods are Nationally Recognized

1. FACT ONE:
   Brain research has determined conclusively that compared to an adult brain, the immature brain has a heightened ability to change itself (i.e. high plasticity), from birth through the first four years of life, and in a greater capacity through the first ten years.  During this "window of opportunity" certain types of input in the areas of the arts, math, language (and world language) development, etc. allow for the creation and long-lasting learning structures to become entrenched.  Recognizing this fact, The Cushman School continues to expand and deepen its specialized programs especially in the primary grades to ensure student's learning is maximized.
   
2. FACT TWO: 
   The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) has continuously proved that Singapore Math students lead in math proficiency, specifically in the areas of reasoning, problem solving, and place value with strong computation and procedure skills as the foundation.  The Cushman School has implemented The Singapore Math Program in grades kindergarten - 6.
   
3. FACT THREE:
   Open Court Reading is a leading Pre K - 6 language arts program developed from nearly 50 years of intense study and field-testing.  It incorporates sound teaching practices as determined from scientific research.  It is multi-sensory in nature and provides students with the exposure to classical literature while developing in them critical thinking strategies.  While the anthologies provide wonderful literature, children also read a variety of genre through other meaningful contexts.  For the past thirty years, Cushman has used Open Court as the foundation of the reading program beginning with the multiage classrooms in the Primary School through grade six.
   
4. FACT FOUR: 
   Sensory motor activity supports the development of functioning necessary to be able to learn and demonstrate understanding.  In order for the higher levels of the brain to work (executive functioning), the brain must be able to sort information acquired through exploration which enables the child to become a more mature, efficient organizer of sensory information.  The delivery of Cushman's program, with its incorporation of movement, focuses on motor development and daily physical activity. Multi-sensory experiences in all grades continues to ensure that our students have the advantage of full-body experiences which lead to academic success.