Discover Our
Academics
understanding builds confidence
Our teachers’ first goal with a new student is to support and reassure them so their confidence increases. Many new students have become disillusioned and despairing because they’ve been unfairly treated in another educational environment. We understand their learning differences, and know how they can succeed. We champion their strengths, so they can build solid confidence. With confidence comes the ability—and desire—to achieve more.
Understanding builds Academic success
The second goal for our teachers is to understand each new student as a unique individual with a unique learning style. Need alternate approaches to learn the same material? Totally fine. Need a slower or faster pace? No problem. Our classes are small and personal so we can offer each young person the structure and tools that work best for them. Our expertise is learning disabilities and we fine-tune instructional methods to make sure everyone is on the same page.
When students are ready for the next level of academic challenge, we also offer Advance Placement classes as well as dual-credit courses at Austin Community College.
understanding builds leadership
Our teachers’ third goal is to support a new student’s understanding of their unique, authentic path. We see each of our students as the leaders of their lives. The safe social and emotional experience here allows them to shed struggles they’ve had with themselves and academics. Our respected service- learning program anchors our students’ belief in their own positive contributions to society. They develop a self-concept as an intelligent person who has been hibernating inside; one who accepts and appreciates differences—and who is in charge of their learning, their connections, and their futures.
Authentic Assessment
Our process is the complete opposite of “teaching to the test.” We use portfolios, one-on-one discussions, multimedia presentations and ongoing observation to assess student progress. Teachers measure growth and comprehension along the way. Teaching, learning and assessment are one seamless fabric. We know that intelligence, knowledge, skill and effort are expressed in a diversity of ways. Anxiety about failure doesn’t cloud the learning process at Odyssey. Our students have the opportunity to articulate what they’ve learned in different formats—and enjoy demonstrating their knowledge and skill. Separate from grades and class assessments, every student takes the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT) once a year. It is administered in a comfortable one-on-one environment with our Educational Diagnostician. The WIAT provides us with a baseline to understand students’ academic strengths in Reading, Writing, Math and Oral Language—and where additional supports or interventions are needed.
asset-based thinking
For students with learning disabilities, a positive orientation to themselves and their education can make all the difference. Asset-Based Thinking is a program we’re thrilled about. It teaches students strategies to focus consistently on what’s working and what’s possible—and to find the great qualities and strengths in themselves and each other. A positive school climate is the clear result. Odyssey is the first school in Austin to be a certified training school for the Asset-Based Thinking program. Faculty, staff and students are all using its tools. The program integrates seamlessly into our curriculum and has proven to increase student confidence, wellbeing, academic success and leadership!
Discover Our Approach to
learning disabilities & Differences
strengths-based approach
We take a strengths-based approach for our students: we help them recognize what they are good at. Equipped with knowledge of their strengths, students learn to capitalize on them. Confidence and self-esteem are integral to a successful learning process. Our 8:1 staff-student ratio allows our teachers to check for each student’s understanding and comprehension over the course of each lesson in a meaningful and effective way. We closely track performance on key skills and make sure that students achieve measurable progress over time— progress that they can describe and We view students as people, not as diagnoses. At the same time, specific accommodations and adjustments are available to meet each student’s needs. For example, dysgraphia strategies minimize requirements for the student to hand-write assignments and maximize opportunities for typing and dictation. Attention deficit strategies get students in close proximity to instructors, provide as much structure and predictability as possible and allow students to move around the classroom. Autism spectrum strategies allow for frequent breaks to help self-regulate sensory input and improve attention and performance, and build in time for transitions and shifting-of- tasks. For all students, we emphasize quality of work over quantity. These are just a few of the many accommodation strategies we employ to make sure each child can learn successfully.
Project-Based Learning
All classes engage our students in active group projects that keep them moving, keep them curious, and challenge them to integrate different skill sets. In project-based learning, students develop mastery without even noticing, they’re having so much fun.
Connected curriculum
Every nine weeks, our teaching team chooses a new unifying theme, chooses partners across disciplines, and builds coursework around that theme and contemporary issues. Recent themes include Ethics, Invention, The Future, Social Responsibility, Technology, Collaboration, and Discovery. For example, with the theme of Discovery, Social Studies students focused on understanding immigration. The Language Arts classroom wrote speeches and hosted a debate on the subject. The Math classroom examined data and statistics, including methods by which data can be skewed and the ethical responsibilities that accompany data analysis. A connected curriculum helps students see the relevance of each discipline and builds on the enthusiasm and strengths of the peer group.
middle school curriculum
Math
Middle School Math classes emphasize hands-on experience and discussion. Students develop and strengthen their skills in the areas of numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data analysis and probability. We explore problem-solving and logical thinking to apply mathematical concepts to the world around us.
Language arts
For middle school and the first two years of high school, Odyssey offers a unique double-intensive language arts program. Students enroll in both a reading class and a writing class. These two distinct classes allow them to focus deeply on skill-building and ensure a balanced, rigorous language arts learning process.
Reading & literature
Reading/Literature Courses expose students to a variety of literary genres. We study fiction, non-fiction, drama, poetry, as well as contemporary texts like graphic novels, news stories and opinion editorials. Students are encouraged to become self-motivated, life-long readers. Our Middle School Language Arts program aligns with the National Council of Teachers of English 21st Century Literacies framework.
English & writing
In Middle School English/Writing, Odyssey students are taught to write coherent, organized prose. They learn research methods and discover how to find credible sources—a key skill in the Internet age. Students complete Middle School Writing with the ability to articulate their thoughts (written and verbal); analyze for meanings, values, and intentions; research and organize information and ideas; and communicate clearly.
social studies
Social Studies and history are all about people—why they do the things they do, what factors influence them, and what consequences or possibilities arise from a confluence of events. We guide our students to see social studies as a global classroom. They learn to make relevant, real-world connections and develop a nuanced understanding of cultures, governments, and human lives.
Science
Odyssey teachers specialize in interactive, hands-on science. Students explore, hypothesize, predict, experiment and test in projects that bring their science books alive. We also create a unique science fair. Students choose a concept, research and learn it in-depth and then teach it to others in a science fair atmosphere. Everyone learns, without the high-pressure competition.
high school curriculum
Math
In high school math, we focus on higher-order abstract numeracy. Odyssey students gain a solid lifetime understanding of math and its applications. Students are prepared to use complex math in college, the work place, and to explore their intellectual curiosity. We also ground the study in areas like real estate or consumer math for students needing a less traditional curriculum.
Language arts
For middle school and the first two years of high school, Odyssey offers a unique double-intensive language arts program. Students enroll in both a reading class and a writing class. These two distinct classes allow them to focus deeply on skill building and ensure a balanced, rigorous language arts learning process.
Science
Through close examination of everyday phenomena, our high school students learn to apply concepts in biology, physics, chemistry, environmental science and psychology. They learn to observe, innovate and experiment as they explore the interdependent relationships that govern how matter and energy, earth and organisms co-exist.
social studies
As our current students become adults, they need the capacity to navigate across cultural barriers. We guide them to understand multiple perspectives, and evaluate the information they encounter with an open mind and a critical eye. Our high school social studies program challenges students to understand diplomatic, economic and cultural issues facing the United States and the world—and to imagine innovative solutions.
pragmatics
A fundamental component of our High School Program is a class called Pragmatics. Pragmatics is a required course for all students at our high school, designed to provide the essential skills needed to navigate life after graduation. The course emphasizes practical, real-world applications that prepare students for a variety of pathways, whether they pursue higher education, vocational training, or immediate entry into the workforce. In Pragmatics, students will engage in activities such as budget planning, meal preparation, and cooking for their peers. They will also gain valuable experience in preparing resumes, learning about insurance and taxes, and exploring vocational programs. For those pursuing further education, the class includes preparation for college entry exams like the TSI and guidance on applying for dual-enrollment credit through community college classes. What sets this class apart is the dedicated, personalized support provided by the teacher. Every student, in partnership with their family, receives individualized guidance to create a clear, actionable plan for their post-high school future. By the time students graduate, they leave with the confidence and skills they need to take the next steps toward the life they envision.
electives
studio Arts
This course focuses on project-based activities like mixed media, painting, ceramics, culinary gardening and crafts. The class also partners with other programs and organizations to broaden the student’s experience with activities such as music, video development and fine arts.
Study Skills
Study Hall provides additional study time for students to complete homework and other class assignments. Work in the class supports and reinforces the organization and study skills taught in Odyssey Classrooms.
Technology
Dive into the exciting world of technology with this fun and engaging course! Our technology class equips students with essential skills to understand and use computers and other technologies for creativity, communication, and innovation. This survey course introduces a wide range of technologies, fosters media literacy, and promotes good digital citizenship. Students will use their newfound skills and imagination to build company branding, create websites, design ads, and edit photos and videos. Get ready to explore, create, and innovate in a dynamic and supportive environment!
Spanish
Odyssey offers high school students Spanish I and Spanish II. Both emphasize listening, speaking, reading and writing. They also employ role-play, class presentations and communication in real-life situations. Students examine language structure, acquire a good accent, working vocabulary and set of verb forms, and explore the cultures and peoples of Spanish-speaking countries.
Physical Education: Theatre & Movement
Discover the dynamic world of theatre through movement in this engaging and fun elective class! Taught by an experienced children's theatre educator, "PE: Theatre and Movement" emphasizes the physical aspects of theatrical performance. Students will delve into stage directions, character physicalization, and other essential theatrical techniques all while developing their physical and creative skills. This course also emphasizes mind-body awareness through activities like yoga and meditation, fostering a holistic understanding of movement and presence on the stage. This class is perfect for students eager to combine physical activity with the arts, developing both their performance skills and overall well-being.
college & Career preparation
At Odyssey, we understand the importance of educating your child beyond today. Each step of the way, we guide them to imagine, articulate, and reach for their highest dreams. Our Pragmatics and Dual-Enrollment programs provide a springboard for college and careers. Through college counseling over two years, we strive to achieve an excellent match between student and college. Teachers, parents and student consider academics, aptitude, personality, independence, financial resources, geography and goals. With wrap-around support, students find this important decision less confusing and more rewarding.
Pragmatics
Pragmatics is a 2-year course entirely dedicated to helping juniors and seniors prepare for their transition into post-high school endeavors. We start early so that students have time to integrate their skills and ideas. Students visit university campuses, tour dorms, make plans for college application, prepare for and schedule college testing together. They write resumes, take personality tests and skills assessments and explore a variety of careers through shadowing, light internship and meet-and-greet interviews with professionals. Last but not least, they practice independent living and practical life skills like keeping a budget spreadsheet, understanding car maintenance, and cooking for one. Every Pragmatics class is tailored to help young people envision their futures with confidence.
Dual Enrollment
Odyssey offers dual-enrollment at Austin Community College through our College Connections program. For eligible juniors and seniors, we rearrange student schedules and do tutoring to support their enrollment. In our first two graduating classes, 40% of students had taken at least one ACC class by the end of their Odyssey careers!
College Boards & College placement testing
We work with students and parents to plan for college placement testing and can host that testing for students, providing accommodations for those who qualify.
Alternate Paths
We encourage all students to attend a two-year or four-year college, and most do! We also acknowledge that for some students, college is a long-term goal and the right path begins with professional school, apprenticeship in a trade, or beginning a career path. Those students are equally supported in their journeys.
Commonly used technology
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Odyssey school
Odyssey School is an accredited, independent, non-profit middle and high school dedicated to providing a positive learning environment for students who learn differently.
Contact Information
- Phone: (512) 472-2262
- mail: info@OdysseySchool.com
- Address: 3557 Derek Drive, Orlando, Florida