Instead of grouping students strictly by age, we assess where each child is along the reading and math continuum and place students in ability-based groups designed to move them forward with confidence.
Our goal in the elementary years is to build strong academic foundations, a love of learning, and the confidence to take ownership of growth. At Lighthouse Learning, we intentionally balance personalized academics with strong peer relationships.
1. Diagnostic Placement & Ongoing Progress Monitoring
Every student begins with comprehensive pre-assessments in reading, writing, and spelling. These assessments allow us to identify each child’s current literacy stage and instructional needs. Each student progresses at their own pace through these stages based on mastery, not age or grade. Students move through six stages of reading development.
2. Ability-Based Grouping & “Walk-to-Learn” Model
Students are grouped by ability rather than grade level for literacy instruction. Through our walk-to-learn model, students move to the instructional group that matches their current reading stage. This ensures growth happens faster and with greater confidence. Students will also be utilizing the Exact Path Adaptive Learning Program through Edmentum to receive their own personalized learning path to work independently at their preferred pace.
1. Phonological Awareness
2. Phonics
3. Fluency
4. Vocabulary
5. Comprehension
6. Reading Extensions
3. Small-Group Instruction Within a 2-Hour ELA Block
Students receive daily literacy instruction within a 2-hour English Language Arts (ELA) block, intentionally designed to support deep learning and skill mastery.
Within this block, students rotate through structured learning stations:
- Teacher-led small group instruction
- Guided reading and targeted skill work
- Hands-on, multisensory learning activities
- Skill-based mastery practice
- Collaboration and discussion
4. Ongoing Monitoring & Fluid Movement Through Stages
Student growth does not stop at placement. All students are continuously progress monitored through formative assessments, observation, and skill-based checks. As students demonstrate mastery of specific reading skills, they are able to fluidly move between stages of the Enhanced Literacy Model—sometimes advancing in one area while continuing to receive support in another.
Visit www.
Lighthouse Learning Microschool
-
Madison Ancel Content Creator
- June 17, 2026
- Send Email
