Curriculum Overview
Curriculum Overview
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At Schenectady Scholars Charter School, our curriculum blends proven, research-based programs with the Montessori method, creating a learning environment that is rigorous, hands-on, and responsive to each student’s needs. We open with Kindergarten–1st Grade and grow each year to eventually serve Grades K–4.
Opening Year: Kindergarten–1st Grade
Opening Year: Kindergarten–1st Grade
English Language Arts (ELA)
English Language Arts (ELA)
We follow the Science of Reading approach, building strong foundations in:
Phonemic awareness
Systematic phonics
Fluency
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Our core program is Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA), which provides:
Explicit phonics instruction
Oral language development
Comprehension-based read-alouds
This program is aligned with National Reading Panel research and supports closing early achievement gaps.
Montessori integration: Sandpaper letters, moveable alphabets, and multisensory literacy activities to promote self-directed reading and writing skills.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Support
English as a Second Language (ESL) Support
Recognizing that Hamilton Hill and the greater Schenectady area have a high population of students whose first language is not English, Schenectady Scholars Charter School is committed to providing robust ESL support.
Our program integrates language development into every subject, ensuring that students build both academic and conversational English skills while accessing grade-level content. Using research-based strategies such as sheltered instruction, vocabulary scaffolding, and visual supports, we create an inclusive learning environment where multilingual learners can thrive. Bilingual support staff, culturally responsive materials, and targeted small-group instruction ensure that every student—regardless of their language background—can fully participate, achieve, and feel a sense of belonging in our school community.
Mathematics
Mathematics
We use Eureka Math (EngageNY)—a sequential program aligned to the Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards (NGLS)—to develop:
Mathematical fluency
Conceptual understanding
Problem-solving skills
Montessori integration: Golden beads, number rods, and place value boards provide hands-on experiences that make math concepts concrete.
Science
Science
Our science instruction uses Amplify Science, a hands-on, phenomena-based curriculum aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
Students learn through:
Inquiry-based lessons
Real-world problem-solving
Experiments and investigations
Montessori integration: Botany, zoology, and physics materials that encourage exploration and discovery.
Social Studies
Social Studies
Aligned with the New York State Social Studies Framework, our youngest learners study civics, history, geography, and economics.
Montessori integration: Timelines, geography puzzles, and primary source analysis that build global awareness and historical thinking skills.
Future Growth: Grades 2–4
Future Growth: Grades 2–4
As we expand, our curriculum will grow to challenge students with deeper literacy, advanced math concepts, and more complex scientific inquiry.
English Language Arts
Transition to EL Education for close reading, text-based discussions, and structured writing.
Continued Montessori-inspired independent book studies and literacy materials.
Mathematics
Continued use of Eureka Math for coherent progression through advanced problem-solving.
Montessori materials remain central for conceptual reinforcement.
Science
Expanded Amplify Science investigations with experimental design and higher-level inquiry skills.
Montessori science tools for hands-on reinforcement.
Social Studies
Students will deepen their understanding of history, geography, civics, and economics with more complex primary source analysis, project-based learning.
Our Philosophy in Action
Our Philosophy in Action
Our approach blends:
Structure – Data-driven, standards-aligned programs to ensure academic excellence.
Hands-On Learning – Montessori materials for tactile, meaningful engagement.
Holistic Development – Nurturing independence, curiosity, and confidence alongside academic achievement.
We prepare our students not only for academic success but also to become compassionate, capable, and confident contributors to their communities.
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