Academics and Education Philosophy
The Austine School is led by principal Anne Potter and offers residential and day student programs. The elementary school program uses a combination of the Montessori Method, the State of Vermont Framework of Standards and Learning Opportunities and the VCDHH curriculum to develop within students the foundation of knowledge, communication proficiency, critical thinking and conflict resolution skill, and a level of maturity to transition into middle school and beyond. The middle and high school continue to focus on the whole student and adhere to curricula based on VFSLO. Core classes are English, Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, Art, Health, Keyboarding and Physical Education. Electives are provided.
Austine provides specialized classes for students with multiple disabilities or special learning needs. Each student is encouraged to explore and discover the art of independent and collaborative learning. Additional opportunities take place through a Career Exploration class, a Business Education class, work-based learning, vocational assessment and transition planning. High school students participate in Austine's innovative supported onsite learning program at Brattleboro Union High School and may apply to the Southeast Vermont Career Education Center in Brattleboro for courses that develop specific employment skills in 16 fields.
Striving to prepare students for entry to college and career by making learning relevant to everyday life, the school provides a challenging academic program tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. The ultimate goal for every Austine student is to experience a happy, healthy and successful adulthood.
Austine's idyllic campus provides opportunities for a rich student life, ranging from onsite ropes courses, hiking and swimming, and varsity sports, to participation in Deaf Academic Bowl at Gallaudet University. The mascot is the Arrows.
Austine has a vibrant alumni community, many of whom choose to stay in Brattleboro after graduation.
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