The Ideal School Emphasizes Inclusion for a More Diverse Education

Name of school: The Ideal School

Grades: K-12

Size of student body: 182

Educational approach or philosophy: The academic program at The Ideal School is based on the belief that students learn best when the bar is set high. The faculty at IDEAL believes that true learning is only possible when students feel understood and celebrated. The faculty is made up of dedicated, highly skilled, committed teachers who aim to know their students in and out of the classroom. Through various programs, IDEAL provides time for conversation, reflection, and leadership. The arts, STEAM, and athletics are integrated into the school’s program, fostering creativity and a healthy mind-body balance.

IDEAL graduates are equipped not only with outstanding critical thinking and academic skills, but also with voice, self-assurance, and empathy. The Ideal School will be graduating its first class this spring and Audra Zuckerman, founder and parent of one of the graduating seniors says, “It’s exciting to see the first graduates, exciting to see the school succeed the way we imagined it would. To see each student at his or her own personal best and ready to take their next step, whatever it may be, is very rewarding.”

What makes the school unique: In the Lower School (Grades K-5), general educators and learning specialists co-teach in the classroom using a research-based, differentiated curriculum. In the Middle School (Grades 6-8), small, seminar-style classes cultivate the lifelong learning skills students need to be independent thinkers. The unique High School model is based on a rotating curriculum that brings students in Grades 9-12 together in intentional groups designed to inspire and challenge all learners to achieve personal and academic excellence. “At IDEAL, all individuals are honored and celebrated for their full identity and all students are encouraged to strive for personal and academic excellence,” says Janet Wolfe, Head of School.