Academics
Students at The Gow School attend classes ranging in size from three to seven students. Teachers provide individualized attention and extra help, and communicate regularly with parents. All faculty receive on-going training in teaching methods designed to address language based learning disabilities. Multisensory instruction, organizational skills and study strategies are emphasized throughout the curriculum.
Classes meet six days a week, and students take a minimum of six academic courses. Each student studies Reconstructive Language, Gow's core reading program. A daily tutorial period and supervised two hour evening study hall provide students with time to complete assignments and receive assistance from faculty.
Graduation requirements include four credits in English, three in History, three in Mathematics, three in Science, including two in Laboratory Science, one and a half credits in Visual and Performing Arts, and one half credit in Health. Students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of electives.
Technology plays a central role in supporting student success. Gow continues to develop its laptop program which was introduced in 2006. Additional assistive technology, including Kurzweil text-to-speech software and SMART boards, are incorporated in all course offerings.
The Gow School is permanently chartered and registered as an independent school by the New York State Board of Regents. Gow is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) and the Learning Disabilities Association. The school also is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) and the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC).
A complete overview of The Gow School Curriculum is available in PDF format.
The following is a brief description of course offerings.
Reconstructive Language
English
- Intensive study of grammar and sentence structure through Gow's newly developed Constructive Writing Program
- Yearly portfolios compiled by all students
- Upper school course electives in Journalism and Advanced Writing
Mathematics
- Multisensory approaches include the use of manipulatives, graphing calculators and computer software
- Course offerings range from Developmental Math to Calculus II
Science
- Emphasis on hands-on activities such as balsa wood bridges, bottle boats and dissections
- Course offerings range from General Science to Advanced Physics
Applied Technology
- Application of skills through hands-on projects
- Course offerings range from Basic Applications to Computer Graphics
- Upper School participation in the national BattleBots IQ competition
History
- Variety of instructional methods, including role playing, films, PowerPoint presentations, primary and secondary sources
- Focus on critical thinking and analysis
- Upper school course electives in American Perspectives, Economics and Business Seminar
Fine & Performing Arts
- Course offerings in two and three-dimensional art with emphasis on portfolio development
- Individual voice and instrumental music lessons available
- Multiple theater performances provide real-life experience with acting and production
