INTERMEDIATE DIVISION (AGES 10-13)

Becoming Independent,
Confident Learners

The Intermediate Division at Stephen Gaynor School empowers students to take greater ownership of their learning while preparing for the academic and personal responsibilities of the Upper Division. Students collaborate with teachers to set meaningful goals, reflect on progress, and advocate for themselves with increasing confidence and independence.

Each student’s program is individually designed to challenge them academically and personally, building self-awareness, executive functioning, and study skills that support long-term success and prepare them for the next phase of their education.

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“The Intermediate Division is a bridge between foundational learning and greater independence. Our goal is to help students grow academically, emotionally, and as confident self-advocates."

— Rebecca Felt, Director of Intermediate Division

THE INTERMEDIATE DIVISION PROGRAM

Individualized and Engaging Academics

Instruction in literacy, math, and social studies continues to be tailored to each student’s strengths, learning style, and pace. Students work in small groups and one-on-one with teachers who emphasize mastery, confidence, and intellectual curiosity.

Core Curriculum

Reading

Reading groups are formed based on decoding and comprehension levels. Students continue Orton-Gillingham-based instruction with age-appropriate texts that expand vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.

Math

Students progress from foundational problem-solving into more advanced concepts, including pre-algebra. Through small-group and individualized instruction, students build a strong mathematical foundation that supports Upper Division learning.

Writing

Building on Gaynor’s Writing Program, students tackle increasingly complex assignments—such as research projects and persuasive essays—developing systems for organizing ideas and expressing themselves clearly.

Social Studies

Students explore global cultures and ancient civilizations, then turn to American history. Through projects and discussions, they learn how societies evolve and how historical themes connect to today’s world.

Science

Students engage in hands-on, inquiry-based learning that builds curiosity and scientific thinking. Through observation, experimentation, and problem-solving, they explore key concepts while developing the skills needed to investigate and understand the natural world.

Exploration, Identity, and Leadership

Intermediate Division students participate in electives that encourage exploration and self-expression, including clubs, project-based learning, and student advocacy initiatives. These opportunities promote creativity, curiosity, and collaboration while helping students discover their personal interests.

Affinity groups give students supportive spaces to connect around shared identities and experiences. These groups nurture belonging, confidence, empathy, and leadership skills that carry forward into the Upper Division and beyond.

Placement and Future Readiness

In the Intermediate Division, students solidify academic skills and deepen self-awareness, confidence, and independence—all essential foundations for success in the Upper Division. With strengthened executive functioning strategies, growing self-advocacy skills, and a readiness for increased academic responsibility, students are positioned to thrive in the next phase of their educational journey.

TAKE THE NEXT STEPS

An Exciting Future

Stephen Gaynor School Intermediary students are well prepared for success in the Upper Division, high school, college, and life.

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148 West 90th Street,
New York, NY 10024

(212) 787-7070

At Stephen Gaynor School, students with learning differences develop essential academic and critical thinking skills through individualized and evidence-based approaches, empowering them to reach their full potential. Students learn to advocate for themselves and others while actively building an inclusive community, a sense of belonging, and a belief in their own possibilities.

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