Curriculum
THE HEART OF WESTLAWN
Who We Teach & How They Learn
Our learners are bright, curious, and capable– often with unique learning profiles. Some students may need support with attention, regulation, social skills, executive functioning, or sensory integration. At Westlawn, we meet each child where they are through individualized support that helps them grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORT
The 10 Core Elements of Westlawn’s Curriculum
- Highly Skilled and Specialized Teachers
- Individualized Instruction & Pedagogy
- Learner Achievement Plans (LAPs)
- Adaptive, Evidence-Based Curriculum Tools
- Experiential Learning, Outdoor Integration & Interdisciplinary Connections
- Structured & Supportive Environment
- Intentional Character & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Positive Behavior Supports & Token Economy
- Continuous & Multi-Level Assessment
- Assistive Technology, Resources & Curriculum Evaluation
“At Westlawn, we don’t ask students to fit the system–we build the system around a nurturing and intentional environment, inside & out, to fit the student.”
— Kara Holden, Founding Head of School
CURRICULUM
Three Pillars of Curriculum at Westlawn School
At Westlawn, our curriculum is designed around core principles that shape not just what students learn, but how they learn it and why it matters. These principles guide instruction across the school, ensuring learning is purposeful, engaging, and tailored to each student’s strengths and growth.
1
Robustness
Learning is interdisciplinary, adaptable, and rooted in the real world.
2
Consistency
Shared structures and clear expectations across classrooms reduce anxiety, build independence, and ensure equity of experience.
3
Rigor
Rigor is about depth, not difficulty. Students are challenged to think critically, apply learning authentically, and pursue mastery with support and feedback.
INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORT
Mastery Learning in Action: The Cycle of Growth
Westlawn’s curriculum connects curiosity to mastery, creating a learning experience where every student is truly seen, supported, and challenged. By fostering exploration and inquiry alongside skill development, students build confidence, resilience, and the ability to apply what they know in meaningful ways.
Westlawn’s Mastery Learning Model is a continuous cycle that guides learning, practice, and assessment– supporting personalized growth, skill mastery, and confidence.
EXPLORE
Students build understanding through direct instruction and curiosity-driven, hands-on discovery
PRACTICE
Students strengthen skills with individualized support in small groups and one-on-one instruction
REFLECT
Students set goals, self-assess, and use feedback to grow
APPLY
Students connect learning to real-world projects and authentic experiences
DEMONSTRATE MASTERY
Students document growth through portfolios, progress tracking, and reflection
EXTEND
Students deepen learning through leadership and peer mentoring
At Westlawn, our goal is to provide a learning journey that honors each student’s individuality while ensuring every learner experiences meaningful growth, appropriate challenge, and true mastery.
“We measure success not by how fast students move, but by how deeply they grow.”
— Kara Holden, Founding Head of School
Our Impact
Start the Journey
The greatest success comes when the right students find the right resources. Whether you are ready to enroll a student or invest in our mission, your action ensures a 2e learner can thrive.