Programs
- Physical Education
- 1:1 Device Program
- The Learning Center
- Global Languages
- The Zenith and Dylan Programs
Physical Education
At IDEAL, we believe in the connection between a healthy mind and body, and thus all IDEAL students participate in physical activity at least four days a week. Our physical education program develops skills and practices that foster a lifelong appreciation for physical fitness, emphasizes good sportsmanship and teamwork, and highlights the significance of health and wellness. As in academic classes, we adapt our physical education classes to accommodate activities for physical and motor challenges. Whenever possible, physical education classes are held outdoors.
Learn about APEX after-school sports for students in Grades 5-12
Lower School
In Lower School, physical education classes include units such as pickleball, basketball, volleyball, and group fitness. Students are taught to take responsibility for their bodies, minds, and actions. They develop spatial reasoning and critical thinking skills as they learn to be more aware of their bodies, problem-solve physical challenges, and collaborate as a team. Instructors inspire creative leadership and emphasize the importance of accountability for behavior and healthy competition.
Middle School
In Middle School, students strengthen basic skills in team sports including volleyball, soccer, track & field, pickleball, and basketball, while also trying individual activities such as dance and golf. The program helps students see how daily movement benefits both their current and future health, and furthers their understanding of what it means to be a member of a team. Beginning in Grade 5, students can join the after-school APEX sports program.
High School
IDEAL’s High School physical education program helps students stay active by focusing on their individual interests. Students work with the PE team to create a personalized fitness plan. They can earn PE credit through classes, joining a season of APEX after-school sports, or following a personal training program with a PE instructor.
1:1 Device Program
IDEAL is a Google School, which means students and teachers use a range of digital tools to support learning. In Lower School, students use iPads and Chromebooks in a safe, structured environment. Teachers use smartboards and apps to make learning more interactive and creative. By fifth grade, students start using Chromebooks to build research and tech skills for Middle School.
In Middle and High School, every student gets a Chromebook to help with organization, research, and digital learning. Students use tools like Google Docs, Canva, and Prezi to create presentations, videos, and other projects. They collaborate, edit each other’s work, and access class materials online through our Learning Management System.
Technology is part of everyday learning at IDEAL, and we teach students how to use it responsibly. Our Acceptable Use Policy and Honor Code guide these efforts. We also partner with Common Sense Media to offer resources on digital citizenship for students, families, and teachers.
The Learning Center
The Learning Center is a hub of academic life at The IDEAL School of Manhattan. It provides a comfortable space for one-to-one and small group work. Here, teachers and three dedicated learning specialists expand upon typical classroom instruction by providing additional academic support and resources.
PAF, an Orton-Gillingham based reading program, is used to provide intervention for students who need additional reading and phonics support.
Learning Center staff members meet regularly with teachers to support differentiation and to develop student-centered learning activities.
The Learning Center also houses the school library, where students can read for pleasure in a quiet, comfortable setting.
Global Languages
The Global Languages program at IDEAL helps students become global citizens by introducing them to new languages and cultures. Learning a language early makes it easier to pick up, builds cultural understanding, and helps students appreciate diversity. Students focus on improving their skills in one or more languages.
All Lower School students learn Spanish. Classes are flexible and tailored to student needs and interests, using different projects to show what they've learned. Students are also introduced to the culture of the Spanish-speaking world, and enjoy celebrating holidays in class.
Global language learning is also part of the arts. For example, students learn the Spanish alphabet through art and music. Spanish-speaking students are sometimes invited to help teach, which builds confidence and leadership.
IDEAL students can also take American Sign Language (ASL). All students in Grades K-3 learn ASL, and High Schoolers can take the class as an elective.
The Zenith and Dylan Programs
The Zenith and Dylan Programs
A Supportive and Inclusive Learning Environment
At The IDEAL School of Manhattan, we are committed to providing a high-quality, individualized education for every student. As one of the leading special education schools in Manhattan, we offer small class sizes, a low student-teacher ratio, and a co-teaching model designed to support diverse learning needs. Every student benefits from a customized academic plan tailored to their unique strengths, interests, and challenges.
The Zenith Program: Inclusive Support for Diverse Learners
As a fully inclusive private school for ADHD in Manhattan, The IDEAL School embraces students of all abilities, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to thrive. Our Zenith Program is designed for students who require enhanced academic, behavioral, and related services support within an inclusive classroom setting. With a team of dedicated learning specialists and general educators, Zenith students benefit from:
- A co-teaching model that ensures students remain engaged in whole-class instruction
- Small-group and one-on-one sessions for speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and academic tutoring
- Individualized counseling, play groups, and embedded services throughout the academic day
- A collaborative approach that brings together educators, therapists, and families to support each child’s success
The Dylan Program: Personalized Support for Students with Autism and ADHD
For students who need additional, full-day support, the Dylan Program provides an ideal solution. As a specialized school for students with autism, the program ensures that children receive continuous guidance from an associate teacher throughout the academic day. Each student benefits from:
- Personalized learning, social, and behavioral support
- Increased weekly therapy sessions tailored to individual needs
- Small-group and one-on-one instruction while participating in full IDEAL program courses
At IDEAL, we believe that every child deserves a learning environment that nurtures their potential. If you are searching for a special education school in Manhattan, a private school for ADHD in Manhattan, or a school for students with autism, we invite you to explore how our inclusive programs can support your child’s educational journey.
Related Services
Unique to The IDEAL School of Manhattan is our elective program that includes enrichment classes and related services that are carefully chosen to meet the needs of our students. Related services include counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech and language therapy. These services are provided during our elective periods in the Lower School, supporting our “no pullout” policy where students in the Zenith and Dylan Program are not separated from their peers or pulled out of whole class academic instruction in order to ensure the connection between all students.