Core Values and Inclusion
Anti-bias Curriculum
At IDEAL, students learn to recognize and challenge bias and injustice, both personal and systemic. Through discussions, lessons, and projects, they explore the impact of injustice, study historical change-makers, and develop respectful dialogue skills. These experiences empower them to become advocates and problem-solvers in their communities and beyond.
Social justice and anti-bias education are woven into the curriculum, with dedicated Community Time fostering discussion, leadership, and self-advocacy. In the Lower School, students meet weekly to discuss current events and social justice topics, while Middle and High School students engage in bi-weekly, student-led discussions, building confidence and respect for different perspectives.
These themes also shape assemblies, history lessons, and IDEAL’s annual Civil Rights Museum, where students create interactive exhibits on historical injustices and movements. Seniors culminate their studies with a Civil Rights Journey, visiting key historical sites and meeting activists to deepen their understanding of change-making.
At IDEAL, students don’t just learn about justice — they’re inspired to take action.
Inclusion Education
The IDEAL School of Manhattan sets high standards for all learners by using differentiated instruction to meet each child where they are, inspiring a commitment to excellence and leadership in all of our students.
At IDEAL, inclusion is at the core of everything we do, creating a sense of belonging and preparing students for a diverse world. Our teachers know each student personally and design lessons that build on their unique strengths. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, differentiated instruction allows students to explore subjects at varying levels of complexity. With small class sizes, low student-to-teacher ratios, and supportive faculty, every student is heard, valued, and set up for success.
At IDEAL, inclusion is at the core of everything we do, creating a sense of belonging and preparing students for a diverse world.
Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, differentiated instruction allows students to explore subjects at varying levels of complexity.
Differentiation
Every student learns differently, so teaching needs to be flexible. IDEAL teachers plan lessons with clear goals and adjust their approach to engage and support all students. In a differentiated classroom, students might choose their own research topics or projects, ensuring they develop the same key skills in ways that suit their interests. Teachers create small group activities tailored to different learning levels — for example, in algebra, some students might work with simple equations while others tackle more complex problems.
To track progress, teachers use frequent, informal assessments, allowing them to adjust lessons in real time based on student needs. This ensures that every student is challenged, supported, and set up for success
Inclusion in Lower School
Each classroom has a general educator and a learning specialist, ensuring engaging, personalized instruction in core subjects. Associate teachers support small groups and differentiation. Specialists in languages, arts, and physical education collaborate with teachers to promote creativity and problem-solving. The Learning Center is available for 1:1 and small-group instruction. Therapists provide occupational, speech, and physical therapy during elective time so students never miss class. A licensed counselor is also available to support all students’ social and emotional growth.
Inclusion in Middle School
Classes combine co-teaching and small-group instruction for personalized learning. History and science classes are co-taught to develop critical thinking, while small, multi-grade math classes range from foundational to advanced levels. English classes focus on writing, reading, and discussion, with students collaborating throughout the year. Students take Spanish, or, if needed, receive extra support in reading and writing with a learning specialist. Therapists provide services during elective blocks or study halls and may join classes to support learning.
Inclusion in High School
High School is student-driven and flexible, with small, seminar-style classes where teachers nurture each student’s voice, skills, and confidence. Teachers collaborate to create differentiated, project-based lessons using a mix of co-teaching and small-group instruction. Students progress at their own pace in a challenging, supportive environment, exploring diverse perspectives through core courses and electives. Life skills training includes interview prep, résumé writing, and daily living skills. Advanced courses and individualized academic support are available to meet each student’s needs.