Upper Division

Our Upper Division helps students deepen their independence, leadership, and self-advocacy as they prepare for high school.

UPPER DIVISION (AGES 13-14)

Launching Leaders for High School and Beyond

In the Upper Division, students deepen their academic skills and expand their independence as they prepare for the transition to high school and future success. Individualized instruction continues to challenge students at their own pace, while building advanced critical thinking, organization, and self-advocacy skills that support them both in and beyond the classroom.

Through a rigorous, personalized curriculum in literacy, math, social studies, and science—along with electives, project-based learning, and leadership opportunities—students explore interests, collaborate with peers, and develop the confidence to express their voice. With guidance from teachers, specialists, and our dedicated Placement team, students and families work together to identify high school options that align with each learner’s strengths and goals, ensuring every graduate is ready for the next chapter.
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“In our Upper Division, we are not indebted to any one program or philosophy. We are indebted to the child and ensuring that their education is tailored to meet individual needs by building the specific skills needed to be successful. This allows our alumni to be prepared as they move forward on their academic path.”
— Christine Karamanoglou, Director of Upper Division

THE UPPER DIVISION PROGRAM

Academic Independence
and Personal Growth

Our Upper Division program emphasizes both academic challenge and personal growth. In addition to continued individualized instruction, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, set goals, and advocate for their needs.

Core Curriculum

Reading & Writing

Students refine advanced reading comprehension and analytic skills while writing complex essays, research pieces, and persuasive work that prepares them for high school expectations.

Math

Building on problem solving and algebraic reasoning, students tackle increasingly sophisticated concepts with confidence and precision.

History

Through inquiry and exploration, students build an understanding of history, culture, and human experience. Lessons emphasize storytelling, critical thinking, and connections between past and present, helping students make meaning of the world around them.

Science

The science curriculum challenges students to think like scientists through hands-on experiments, lab work, and presentations. Students learn to write lab reports and present findings, fostering inquiry and analytical thinking.

Applied Learning and Leadership

Students participate in collaborative projects, real-world tasks, and structured opportunities to practice leadership — inside and outside the classroom.

Placement and Future Readiness

Our comprehensive Placement program is a cornerstone of the Gaynor experience, thoughtfully preparing students for a successful transition to high school. Through a structured, individualized process, students build the academic skills, self-awareness, and self-advocacy needed to thrive in their next school.

The Placement Office partners closely with families to identify schools that align with each student’s strengths, goals, and learning profile. With ongoing guidance, clear communication, and deep knowledge of schools, we ensure that every student moves forward with confidence and a strong, well-matched next step.

Ready for What's Next

By the end of the Upper Division, students leave Gaynor with the academic foundation, self-awareness, resilience, and confidence needed to thrive in high school and beyond.

START YOUR JOURNEY

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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